My vice? Coffee. We all have a secret ingredient that adds spice and harmony to our souls. Coffee is my secret ingredient, not only does it soothe my soul, but it also creates the perfect cup to spill tears, bitch and laugh over. And what better city to work, people watch, gossip and sip than NYC? Here you can indulge alongside your fellow walk-of-shamers, Wall Street all-nighters and gossip girls, surrounded by concrete trees. I measure the best coffee shops by taste, ambience and location.
1. Kobrick Coffee Co.
Kobrick Coffee Co.’s environment evokes an inviting space with rustic, industrial touches. Exposed brick, metal fixtures, and warm lighting create a cosy yet edgy vibe. This coffee shop is in the heart of the meatpacking district, minutes away from the Hudson and right by the entrance to the Highline. The menu features a wide variety of speciality drinks, including cold brew on draft and unique latte variations.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✔
Vegan Options ✔
Wifi ✔
2. Rosecrans Florist & Cafe
Picture the mythical rose garden from your childhood—but reimagined for grown-ups, complete with caffeine, and tucked away in Greenwich Village. Down the rabbit hole we go, where lattes the size of your head pair perfectly with dainty bear-shaped cakes. Welcome to Wonderland, Alice! Be careful not to trip over the stunning blooms that surround you, teasing your senses with hints of rose, lavender, and freshly brewed coffee. Seating is limited, but the charming curbside spots are worth the rush to snag a seat.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✔
Vegan Options ✔
Wifi ✘
3. ad hoc : cafe
Tucked away in the basement of a red-brick New York building, hidden from the naked eye, only known by locals and particularly favoured by NYU students, I am sharing this little gem with you. You will find a quaint little cafe down a few iron black steps, serving up a good cup of joe and small bites to eat. Submerge yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city, sit back and observe the students, locals and occasional tourists fluttering in and out of this cozy cafe.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✔
Vegan Options ✔
Wifi ✘
4. Ralph's Coffee
I have to ask—can anything top the combination of coffee and shopping? The next spot on the list masters this pairing flawlessly, located just steps away from the iconic 5th Avenue. Upon entering, you’re greeted by Ralph Lauren’s timeless designs on your left and the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee on your right. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance on the glossy black grand piano, making you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Carrie Bradshaw daydream. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Central Park to walk off those croissant calories.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✘
Vegan Options ✘
Wifi ✘
5. SEY Coffee
Crossing the water, we arrive in Brooklyn—the cultural heart of New York City. For me, SEY Coffee might just take the top spot, hitting every mark to create the ultimate coffee-drinking experience. Conveniently located near the L train and surrounded by thrift shops, pizza joints, and lively bars, it’s a gem in the neighbourhood. With the perfect blend of natural light, quirky greenery, spacious seating, and a crowd of quintessential Brooklynites, SEY offers an ideal setting. Whether you’re looking to read, people-watch, bitch with a bestie, or simply savour an exceptional cup of coffee, this is the spot
Vegetarian Options
Milk Alternatives
Gluten-Free Options
Vegan Options
Wifi
6. Jack's Stir Brew - Tribeca at The Roxy Hotel
An iconic landmark for good reason, The Roxy Hotel boasts many captivating features, and one of its standout gems is a charming coffee shop tucked into a cozy corner of the vibrant hotel lobby. Bathed in warm lighting and surrounded by retro-elegant décor, the café offers an inviting space to pause and soak in the unique atmosphere. Large windows frame a lively view of Sixth Avenue, making you feel like a tiny fish in a grand castle, watching the bustling fishbowl of city life unfold. Time your visit right, and you might be treated to a live performance, a signature feature of The Roxy’s timeless charm.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✔
Vegan Options ✔
Wifi ✔
7. Devoción - Williamsburg
Known for carefully sourcing coffee directly from Colombia, this beloved chain has a few locations across the city. However, its Brooklyn outpost stands out for its unmatched aesthetic and ambience. Step inside, sink into a luxurious leather sofa and enjoy a meticulously brewed cup of coffee. The space is bathed in natural light, thanks to a massive skylight, and features a breathtaking wall of lush greenery that adds to its charm. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply seeking a serene spot to relax, this location is a standout.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✘
Vegan Options ✘
Wifi (only on weekdays)
8. Maman - All locations
Maman is another gem on my list—and for good reason! With multiple locations scattered across the city, Maman has earned a reputation for its consistently excellent coffee, delightful floral-inspired ambience, and delectable food. It’s the kind of spot you can always count on to deliver both charm and quality. Feeling indecisive or too tired to search? Simply type “Maman” into Google Maps, find the nearest location, and let the magic of this enchanting café brighten your day.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✔
Vegan Options ✔
Wifi ✘
9. Starbucks Reserve Roastery New York
Can you even have a list of coffee shops in America without mentioning Starbucks? I know what you’re thinking—Starbucks, really? But hear me out: this isn’t your average Starbucks. This location is the Rolls-Royce of coffee shops, complete with all the bells and whistles. Immerse yourself in the art of crafting the perfect cup of coffee as you watch the process unfold, grab an espresso martini at the bar, or indulge in one of their delectable baked goods. It’s an elevated experience that any coffee lover in NYC should try.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✘
Vegan Options ✘
Wifi ✘
10. Intelligentsia Coffee High Line Hotel Coffeebar
Last but certainly not least, here’s a little taste of London right in the heart of the Big Apple. This charming spot is the perfect stop during a stroll on the High Line, offering delightful outdoor seating that’s especially lovely in the summer. For a truly unique experience, take your coffee to the top of their iconic double-decker bus and enjoy your latte with a view. Pro tip: pair your perfectly brewed coffee with a playlist featuring The Smiths for the ultimate experience.
Vegetarian Options ✔
Milk Alternatives ✔
Gluten-Free Options ✘
Vegan Options ✘
Wifi ✔