New York City is a hub for coffee and tea lovers, with a plethora of unique and cozy shops offering some of the best brews in the world. From classic coffee shops to trendy tea bars, there’s something for every taste and mood. In this blog article, we’ll take a closer look at the best coffee and tea shops in New York City, highlighting their specialty drinks, atmosphere, and overall experience. Whether you’re a coffee or tea aficionado, or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, this guide will help you discover the best places to sip and savor in the city that never sleeps.
Alimama Tea
Address: 89A Bayard St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: +1 (212) 235-7288
Details: $$, Dessert shop
Alimama Tea is a great bakery located in Chinatown, New York, that specializes in Asian-inspired desserts. Their mochi donuts are a standout item, with a chewy texture that’s not too heavy. The yuzu flavor is particularly popular, as it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Their cream puffs are also a hit, with a light and fluffy cream filling that’s not overly sweet. The service is quick, and the staff is super friendly, making it a great grab-and-go spot.
Alimama Tea also offers a wide selection of drinks to complement their desserts. Their Earl Grey Milk Tea and Royal Milk Tea are both made with butterfly pea flower, which gives them a beautiful blue color and a unique taste. Their Hibiscus Cooler with Boba is also a refreshing option, perfect for warmer days. The self-ordering stations equipped with touchpad screens make the ordering process a breeze.
Overall, Alimama Tea is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their mochi donuts and cream puffs are delicious, and their drink selection is excellent. The quick service and friendly staff add to the overall positive experience, making it a perfect destination for a quick snack or dessert on the go.
Frisson Espresso
Address: 326 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
Address: 405 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (646) 850-3928
Details: $$, Coffee shop
Frisson Espresso is a charming and cozy coffee shop located in the theater district, with two locations just few blocks west of Times Square. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with delightful and welcoming baristas. The coffee is smooth and delicious, and the latte art is impressive. The menu offers a variety of non-dairy products, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The service at Frisson Espresso is fast and efficient, making it a perfect stop for a quick coffee fix. The bakery items are tasty, though there are minimal options available. The location is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of New York, with spots to recharge batteries and plug-in. The shop also offers Wi-Fi, making it a great spot to catch up on work or study.
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Overall, Frisson Espresso is a gem in the heart of New York City, with amazing coffee, friendly staff, and a positive energy that makes it stand out from the big chains. It’s a cool little coffee shop off the beaten path, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a more unique coffee experience. Whether you’re a coffee snob or just looking for a delicious latte, Frisson Espresso is a must-visit spot in Hell’s Kitchen.
Breads Bakery
Address: 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003
Phone: +1 (212) 633-2253
Details: $$, Bakery
Breads Bakery is a popular bakery and café located near Union Square that offers a wide range of freshly baked goods, savory items, and coffee. The atmosphere is cheerful and inviting, with a friendly staff that offers samples of their delicious treats. The bakery is known for its legendary Babka and Cinnamon rolls, which are always flavorful and tasty.
The service at Breads Bakery is fast and efficient, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite or a cup of coffee. The menu offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and salads that are fresh and tasty. The almond croissant is a standout item, flaky and almondy-good, and the burekas with spinach and feta are a must-try. The coffee is good, though not the standout item on the menu.
Overall, Breads Bakery is a great place to visit for a quick munch and a cup of coffee. The bakery offers fresh and delicious food in a cheerful environment, and the staff is friendly and helpful. With several branches dotted all over the City, Breads Bakery is a great option for anyone looking for a tasty treat in New York City.
Schmackary’s
Address: 362 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (646) 801-9866
Details: $, Cookie shop
Schmackary’s is a quaint little bakery and coffee shop located near Broadway that offers a variety of freshly baked cookies, brownies, and other sweet treats. The cookies are the highlight of the menu, with a great variety of flavors like chocolate chip, funfetti, maple bacon, and s’mores. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or a milkshake.
The atmosphere at Schmackary’s is cozy and inviting, with friendly staff and customers. Although the shop is small, it has a great selection of cookies and drinks, and customers are never rushed out the door. The bakery is also known as a hangout spot for Broadway folks, making it a great place to people-watch and soak up the vibrant energy of the area.
Overall, Schmackary’s is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sweet treat and a good cup of coffee near Broadway. The cookies are fresh and delicious, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. With a great selection of flavors and a cozy atmosphere, Schmackary’s is the perfect spot to relax and indulge in some tasty treats.
Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe
Address: 342 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
Phone: +1 (212) 674-7070
Details: $$, Bakery
Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe is an East Village institution that has been serving up delicious Italian pastries, cookies, and cheesecakes for over 125 years. The bakery is particularly known for its ricotta cheesecake, which is a must-try for anyone visiting. Customers can also enjoy a variety of other sweet treats like eclairs, windmill pastries, and rainbow cake slices, as well as a selection of beverages including espresso, cappuccino, and Irish coffee.
The atmosphere at Veniero’s is cozy and welcoming, with a vast selection of fresh, tasty baked goods on display. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the service is fast and efficient. Although the bakery can get quite busy, customers never feel rushed or crowded, and there is always a great selection of treats to choose from.
Overall, Veniero’s is the perfect spot for anyone with a sweet tooth looking for delicious, authentic Italian pastries and desserts. With its vast selection of treats, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this bakery has been a New York City institution for over a century. Whether you’re in the mood for a slice of ricotta cheesecake or a cup of espresso, Veniero’s is the place to go.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Address: 18 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: +1 (855) 711-3385
Details: $$, Coffee shop
Stumptown Coffee Roasters is a must-visit spot for coffee aficionados looking for a change from chain coffee shops like Starbucks. Located in a small but crowded space, this coffee shop is known for its delicious coffee and friendly staff. The service is quick and efficient, and the baristas are knowledgeable and professional, explaining the different coffee blends and preparation methods to customers.
The coffee at Stumptown is consistently delicious, with rich, bold, flavorful, and smooth blends that are sure to satisfy even the most critical coffee drinkers. The shop also offers a variety of tasty pastries to pair with your coffee, including blueberry scones, salted caramel donuts, and PEC breakfast tacos. However, there is no seating available, so customers will have to take their coffee and treats to go.
Overall, Stumptown Coffee Roasters is a great spot to stop for a morning java fix. Whether you’re in the mood for a cappuccino, decaf espresso, or iced coffee with a unique flavor like peach vanilla syrup, Stumptown has it all. With its friendly staff, consistent coffee, and delicious pastries, it’s no wonder that this coffee shop is a go-to stop for many coffee lovers in New York City.
Wafels & Dinges
Address: 15 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009
Phone: +1 (646) 257-2592
Details: $$, Cafe
Wafels & Dinges is a must-visit spot in New York for anyone looking for delicious Belgian waffles and great coffee. With several kiosks located throughout the city, including one in Bryant Park, the friendly and helpful staff serve up fresh and tasty waffles with a variety of toppings to choose from. Customers can enjoy the waffles while sitting in the beautiful park or take them to go for a quick breakfast or snack on the go.
The coffee at Wafels & Dinges is outstanding, made with a perfect blend that pairs perfectly with their waffles. The staff is always happy to make the coffee exactly as you specify, and the service is outstanding. The prices are reasonable, and the breakfast specials are a great deal. With a fun and lively atmosphere, Wafels & Dinges is a great place to grab a bite and people watch.
Overall, Wafels & Dinges is a top-rated spot for waffles and coffee in New York. With several locations throughout the city, customers can enjoy fresh and delicious waffles with a variety of toppings and great coffee at a reasonable price. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is fun and lively, making it a great spot to start your day or grab a quick snack on the go.
MarieBelle Cacao Bar and Tea Salon
Address: 484 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: +1 (212) 925-6999
Details: $$, Chocolate shop
MarieBelle Cacao Bar and Tea Salon is a beautiful and charming spot in New York, offering a variety of tasty treats and drinks. The atmosphere is nice and has a Parisian feel to it, making it a great place to sit and chat with friends while enjoying the delicious food and drinks. The staff is friendly, polite and extremely helpful, with the waiter, Charley the Troublemaker, being especially noteworthy for his funny and delightful service.
MarieBelle Cacao Bar and Tea Salon is renowned for having some of the best hot chocolate in the world, with the dark, “Aztec” heavenly drink being a must-try. They also have a great selection of chocolates, including upmarket chocolates that are not fattening and have high cocoa content and low sugar content. In addition to the hot chocolate and chocolate treats, they offer herbal teas, gourmet coffee, and a variety of different chocolate drinks. The menu includes soups, sandwiches, and other tasty treats.
The experience at MarieBelle Cacao Bar and Tea Salon is made all the better by the excellent and friendly service. The owner and her sister are often there to chat or make recommendations for the perfect gift. The store has a great selection of chocolate creations, perfect for indulging yourself or your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to relax and unwind, MarieBelle Cacao Bar and Tea Salon is a must-visit spot in New York that will satisfy your cravings for coffee, cocoa, and tea.
Zibetto Espresso Bar
Address: 1385 6th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Phone: +1 (646) 707-0505
Details: $$, Espresso bar
Zibetto Espresso Bar is a charming Italian cafe located in midtown Manhattan, offering an excellent selection of coffee, limited pastries, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is cozy, with a few tables outside and ledges to stand at inside. The staff is fast, professional, courteous, and friendly, making it a great place to grab a quick breakfast or lunch.
Zibetto Espresso Bar is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers looking for that authentic cup of coffee Italian style. The coffee is excellent, and the presentation of the latte is outstanding. The cafe serves the real Italian espresso, and the Marocchino is highly recommended. The service is fast and friendly, and the staff pays a lot of attention to the details of each cup of coffee, making sure it is perfectly crafted.
Zibetto Espresso Bar is a small local coffee shop, mostly frequented by locals in the area. The prices are reasonable, and the service is excellent. The panini and pastries are so-so, but the coffee is seriously worth the stop if you’re in midtown. The feel and flow of the place are exactly like Italy, from ordering and drinking at the counter to the glass of water with your coffee. With its cozy atmosphere, excellent quality coffee, and friendly staff, Zibetto Espresso Bar is the real thing, just like in Italia, and a destination for coffee lovers visiting NYC.
Alice’s Tea Cup
Address: 102 W 73rd St, New York, NY 10023
Phone: +1 (212) 799-3006
Details: $$, Tea house
Alice’s Tea Cup is a charming tea house in Manhattan, offering a delightful selection of scones, sandwiches, pastries, and teas, with a quirky Alice in Wonderland theme. The staff is super friendly, efficient, and accommodating, going out of their way to make customers feel welcome and comfortable. The decor is casual and whimsical, with drawings on the walls and mismatched plates and teacups, adding to the unique and charming atmosphere.
The menu has a small but good selection of breakfast and lunch items, with a focus on scones, eggs benedict, crepes, and sandwiches, all of which are delicious and made with high-quality ingredients. The teas are brewed properly, with a ton of good choices, and the coffee is adequate. The berry crepes, French toast, and scones benedict are all amazing, and the buttermilk, pumpkin, and strawberry cream cheese scones with raspberry preserves and clotted cream are a must-try.
Alice’s Tea Cup is a great place for all ages, especially the little ones, with glitter sprinkled on the kids and cupcakes for birthday celebrations. The tea house is tiny inside, so it’s best to come early to avoid the crowds, and the breakfast menu turns to lunch quickly. The prices are a little expensive, but the food is worth it, and the relaxed and unique experience is well worth the visit for anyone looking for a proper tea or a delightful breakfast or lunch.
Birch Coffee
Address: 21 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (212) 686-1444
Details: $$, Coffee shop
Birch Coffee is a cozy coffee shop located near Madison Square Park, offering some of the best coffee in the area. The staff is friendly and efficient, making the long lines move quickly, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a cozy reading nook and small wooden tables and chairs, making it a great place to set up shop and enjoy a long coffee break. The cafe has a neat vibe, with an old soul feel combined with a young vibe, and many Instagrammable coffee cups.
The coffee is full-bodied yet very crisp, with a deep flavor, and is served in a large ceramic cup if ordered for stay. Birch Coffee also offers a great buffet of sweets and pastries, making it a perfect breakfast spot. Although the seating is limited, and the cafe can be somewhat of a tourist trap, the baristas are personable and helpful, elevating the overall experience. Birch Coffee is worth a stop for anyone looking for a consistent quality cup of coffee and a unique atmosphere.
Birch Flatiron is a favorite coffee spot in NYC, with an iced hemp latte that is to die for. The cafe is clean, and the baristas are super friendly and helpful, making it a great place to enjoy a nonfat mocha and chat with other customers in line. Birch Coffee also offers a loyalty program, with the 10th drink on the house. If you want a good cup of coffee, Birch Coffee is definitely worth a visit, even if the seating is limited.
Amy’s Bread
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Phone: +1 (212) 462-4338
Details: $$, Bakery
Amy’s Bread is a gem located inside Chelsea Market, offering a wide range of bakery items, including cakes, pastries, sandwiches, and bread. The quality and freshness of the bakery items are unique, and the prices are reasonable. The coffee and fresh juices are also highly recommended, making it an ideal spot to start the day. The staff is amazing, making customers feel welcome and satisfied.
Despite the long lines, Amy’s Bread is worth the wait, with some of the best cakes and pastries in NYC. The dark chocolate cake with white chocolate frosting is hands down one of the best cakes ever tasted, and the carrot cake is moist and heavenly. The muffins are incredible, stuffed with fruit, while the lemon cornmeal cookie is flavorful and chock full of good ingredients. The yellow layer cake with just the perfect pink frosting is a must-try.
The atmosphere is warm and comfy, with a cozy feel and artisan breads and home kitchen-style cakes. Although the seating can be limited, the staff is friendly, and the service is prompt. The place is always busy, but the line moves quickly, and there are plenty of tables to eat just around the corner. Amy’s Bread is a must-visit spot in NYC, offering sweet treats, coffee, and hearty breads, much more reasonably priced than other bakeries.
Cafe Lalo
Address: 201 W 83rd St, New York, NY 10024
Phone: +1 (212) 496-6031
Details: $$, Cafe
Cafe Lalo is a European style cafe located on the Upper West Side of NYC, offering a large variety of delicious desserts, coffee, and a range of food choices for breakfast and brunch. The atmosphere is gorgeous, with cute decor and a European feel, particularly with the large open windows on the front side of the restaurant. The staff is friendly, helpful, and prompt in making suggestions based on their favorite menu items.
The pastries and coffee at Cafe Lalo are excellent, with a superb collection of sweets and coffee selections. The avocado toast with a fried egg and the Irish oatmeal with fruit are just some of the many options for breakfast. The apple crumb cheesecake, cannolis, pies, and ice cream are all delicious, making it a sweets-lover’s heaven. The coffee, cappuccinos, and espressos, both regular and decaf, are all served, along with a choice of tea.
Cafe Lalo is a clever neighborhood restaurant that serves meals, drinks, and desserts, making it a perfect stop for a meal, a snack, or a cup of coffee. The wait staff is always hopping and has all been there for years. The cafe was even pictured in the movie, You’ve Got Mail, making it a nostalgic spot for movie fans. The place can be crowded, but when the weather is nice, they open all of the front windows, giving it an almost French/foreign vibe. Cafe Lalo is a must-visit spot for those who love dessert and coffee.
Culture Espresso Bar
Address: 72 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
Phone: +1 (212) 302-0200
Details: $$, Espresso bar
Culture Espresso Bar is a lovely little coffee shop located on West 38th St in NYC, offering great coffee and amazing cookies. Two locations are pretty close to each other. The coffee is outstanding, and the almond croissant is excellent. They offer alternative milk options, including oat milk. The black and white cookies are particularly awesome and are by far and away the nicest cookies around. The chocolate chip cookies are rich, gooey, full of chocolate, and almost have toffee overtones. They’re award-winning and the best cookies ever.
The staff at Culture Espresso Bar is friendly and engaging, and the service is excellent. The atmosphere is buzzing and has a friendly vibe. The indoor seating is limited, and it’s not a good place to do work because it’s pretty loud and crowded. You pay first and receive your order, and they do take credit cards. It’s a great place to stop by and grab a good coffee to go while exploring the city. It’s worth walking past Starbucks, etc. to get to this place.
Culture Espresso Bar is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers. They make espresso drinks that wake you up and taste good at the same time. The flat white is a good rendition and easy to transport on your walking commute. It’s one of the favorite midtown coffee places for many. They have long lines, but the friendly staff serves excellent coffee. Overall, Culture Espresso Bar is a great spot for those looking for local coffee versus the chain places, and it is sure to impress with its exceptional coffee and chocolate chip cookies.
Caffe Reggio
Address: 119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: +1 (212) 475-9557
Details: $$, Cafe
Caffe Reggio, located on MacDougal Street in the heart of Greenwich Village, is a historic cafe that has been consistently top shelf since the 1960s. The decor is unique, with dark wood panels, small tables, and ornate fixtures, creating a cozy and charming atmosphere. The walls are filled with renaissance paintings and figures, and the original cappuccino machine, the first in the United States, is still there. The clientele is sophisticated and hip to fine traditions in this Italian-American enclave.
The food and drinks at Caffe Reggio are excellent, with great coffee and Italian pastries and desserts, including cannoli and pecan pie. The avocado toast with eggs sunny side up is outstanding and plentiful for reasonable prices, and the scrambled eggs are sensational. The menu is not pretentious, and the service is great. The coffee supplier is excellent, and they serve basic coffee drinks that taste really good, not the over-roasted, burnt stuff of Starbucks.
Caffe Reggio is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers and those looking for a cozy and charming atmosphere with rich traditions. It’s a great place for a light meal before or after the theater or for a cozy date. The indoor and outdoor spaces are delightful, and the world’s smallest bathroom is adorable. The eclectic decor creates a comfortable and fun atmosphere, and the service is warm and welcoming. Overall, Caffe Reggio is a great experience that you wouldn’t want to miss.
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best coffee and tea shops in the world, each with its unique atmosphere, specialty drinks, and overall experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to read a book, catch up with friends, or simply indulge in a delicious cup of coffee or tea, the city has something to offer for everyone. From classic coffee shops to modern tea bars, this guide has highlighted some of the best places in the city to sip and savor. So go ahead and explore the diverse and vibrant coffee and tea scene in New York, and find your new favorite spot to relax and recharge.
