Madam Bonte Cafe brings a little piece of Paris to the Upper East Side with its charming ambiance and incredible coffee. The ham, egg, and cheese croissant is a must-try, pairing perfectly with their expertly made cortado. Whether you're stopping in for a quick espresso or lingering over a French pastry, the cozy yet refined setting makes this spot a favorite.
Gotham Cafe has been a neighborhood staple for over 20 years, and it’s easy to see why. This no-frills spot offers strong coffee, a variety of bagels, and an impressive selection of vegan treats. The matcha here is a standout, and their pastries and cookies make for the perfect afternoon snack. The space itself is welcoming, with small tables and plenty of seating, making it a great place to relax with a book or catch up with friends.
Le Reveil is a small but stylish coffee shop located right in front of the Q train escalators, making it the perfect pit stop for your morning caffeine fix. The atmosphere is rustic yet modern, offering a cozy space to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and their famous Dubai chocolate. Their pastries are always fresh, and if you’re looking for a laid-back place to sip an early-morning espresso, this is it.
If you’re on the hunt for a great cappuccino and some seriously good pastries, Colomba Bakery is a must-visit. Their almond croissants are flaky and rich, while the savory croissants stuffed with sausage and eggs are the perfect breakfast on the go. The warm, inviting space makes it a great place to linger, whether you're sipping on a creamy oat milk latte or grabbing a quick espresso at the counter.
Ella’s Cafe is the kind of spot that keeps regulars coming back. Their pancakes are fluffy, the shakshuka is rich and flavorful, and the smoked salmon sandwich is a generous portion that won’t disappoint. The vibe is relaxed, and the staff is always friendly, making it a great place to stop by for brunch or grab a latte to-go. The atmosphere feels effortlessly cool, perfect for a laid-back weekend morning.
Cositas Cafe is a gem for those who love Colombian flavors and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Their empanadas are a standout, packed with bold flavors, and their rollito de jamón y queso (ham and cheese roll) is the perfect balance of flaky and savory. The coffee is always fresh, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. It’s the kind of place where you stop for a quick coffee and end up staying longer than expected.
PlantShed is the ultimate cozy café, offering not just great coffee and pastries but also an aesthetic backdrop of lush greenery. With plenty of seating, soft music, and an airy, relaxed vibe, it’s an ideal place to unwind. Bonus points for the fact that it’s dog-friendly and even offers dog treats—so bring your pup along while you sip your latte and admire the plants.
Orwashers is a New York classic with a rich history in bread making. Their baguettes are a standout, with a satisfying crust and rich flavor. The service is warm and welcoming, adding to the charm of this bakery. Pair your bread with a strong coffee or one of their sweet pastries for a complete bakery experience.
Bagel Shop delivers on all fronts, from their flavorful bagels to the welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of toppings and sandwiches to suit every craving. The warm and friendly service is a standout feature, often complemented by delightful surprises like free pumpkin bread. Pair your bagel with great coffee and enjoy the shop’s upbeat vibe.
Tucked away on 97th and 2nd Avenue, Perk Coffee is a neighborhood gem that offers a laid-back atmosphere with fast Wi-Fi and charging stations—a rarity in the city. The almond croissant and scones here are perfect companions to your cup of coffee. It's the ideal spot to get some work done or relax before hopping on the crosstown bus. Customers rave about the friendly service and the quiet vibe that make this small café feel like home.
Matto Espresso on East 68th Street offers some of the best value for coffee on the Upper East Side. At just $3.50 for an iced cappuccino with cold foam and oat milk, you won’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. The vegan bread pudding muffin is a popular treat, and the outdoor seating gives you the option to enjoy the sun while sipping on a perfectly made espresso drink.
If you're looking for a unique coffee experience, Hex & Company offers more than just caffeine—it’s NYC’s most sophisticated board game café. Located near the heart of the Upper East Side, this spot pairs high-quality espresso drinks with an extensive library of board games. Pay a small flat rate and you can play games with friends all day, all while enjoying delicious sandwiches, ice cream, and well-crafted lattes.
Kafe Neo is the quintessential neighborhood café with its authentic European vibe, high-quality coffee, and incredible Greek pastries. Locals swear by its seasonal espresso drinks, and many declare it the best coffee on the Upper East Side. The minimalist space adds to its charm, creating an inviting environment for both casual hangouts and focused work sessions. Don't miss out on their buttery pastries, and if you’re into espresso, this might just become your new favorite spot.
For a more intimate setting, head to Picky Barista, a cozy family-owned café serving Stumptown coffee. This shop is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to work during the week, or a social hangout on weekends (when they encourage conversation over laptops). The drip coffee is particularly beloved, and the homey vibe makes it easy to see why this place is a neighborhood favorite.
Nestled in the low 70s, it’s the perfect café for breakfast or brunch. The cozy interior, window seating, and friendly staff make it feel welcoming whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go or hanging out with friends. Inès also serves wine and beer, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the neighborhood looking for good vibes and excellent service.
Located in an intimate basement space, 787 Coffee delivers bold, unique coffee flavors, including horchata and tres leches lattes, all sourced from Puerto Rico. With its trendy atmosphere and artisanal brews, this café stands out for its fun and flavorful drinks. The eco-conscious approach—serving coffee in biodegradable pouches—adds an extra feel-good factor.
A Brooklyn transplant to the Upper East Side, Green Lane Coffee keeps it simple with a focus on excellent espresso drinks and fresh pastries. Though small in size, this café makes a big impression with its warm and welcoming baristas. Whether you’re grabbing an iced Americano or a latte, the quality of the coffee shines through. Outdoor seating adds to the charm, making this a great spot for a quick coffee run or a leisurely afternoon with a good book.
A staple in Manhattan’s coffee scene, Gregorys Coffee is more than just a quick caffeine fix. Their menu features a variety of vegan options and a selection of wellness-focused drinks that are as delicious as they are guilt-free. The spacious seating and cozy decor make it a great spot to relax or get some work done. Whether you’re craving a specialty latte or a classic espresso, Gregorys is known for its consistency and quality.
Dan Jones Café, located in a snug corner of the Upper East Side, offers a warm, trendy vibe with an all-day menu featuring croissants, bagels, and their famous avocado toast. Using La Colombe beans for their coffee, they serve some of the best iced lattes and cappuccinos around.