It took me less than a year living in NYC to realize just how seriously New Yorkers take their coffee and café culture. Before I graduate I’ve made it my mission to understand the hype and discover the best cafés the city has to offer. There’s nothing I love more than sinking into the cozy ambiance of a café, accompanied by a captivating book or my class notes while being surrounded by some of my favorite songs — it’s truly my idea of a perfect day. If you are looking for a similar experience, here are my top three spots I highly recommend you check out.
Courtesy of Sharon L from Yelp, Karunya Jothimani
Rosecrans Florist and Cafe
7 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
With a book in hand, I visited Rosecrans on a sunny afternoon and fell in love the moment I stepped in. Right when you enter this West Village coffee shop, expect to be greeted by a blend of soft pastel hues that bring a sense of warmth and ambience. The interior provides a rustic yet elegant vibe, with freshly cut flowers adorning the wooden chairs and tables that offer a sense of natural beauty and tranquility. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, along with the fragrance of the flowers, creates the perfect environment for both caffeinators and anthophiles. I recommend the avocado toast, along with their iced latte. The bread was toasted to perfection, and had a perfect layer of creamy avocado on top. Slices of tomatoes and a balsamic glaze accompanied the toast, which was also topped with a hint of sea salt. Even though I did not order it, the smoked salmon toast on the table next to mine looked mouth-watering as well. The space is the ideal vibe, where you truly will feel cozy and welcome to wind down. It provides a tranquil escape that you might need from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are looking for a leisure-filled sunny afternoon or just a place to enjoy a read, Rosecrans provides that perfect setting.
Courtesy of Snoffeecob from Melbourne Coffee Sucks , NYC foodie
Abraço
81 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
Moving over to the East Village, you should definitely consider visiting Abraço if you are a fan of an old-school vibe- be it the lighting, interior, or music. The lighting in the coffee shop is warm and soft, resembling that of traditional café and diners. The 80’s and 90’s music that plays in the space adds to the sense of nostalgia and comfort. I went with my friend, who ordered an iced latte, and I ordered an espresso. Upon my first sip, I was met with unexpected notes of chocolate and caramel, which was pleasantly surprising. I craved more after the drink, and even considered ordering another! The café also has a wide selection of baked goods to choose from, and I suggest trying a slice of the olive oil cake. A bite in, and you will experience how moist the cake is, along with flavors of citrus. I went in with the plan to enjoy good coffee and quality time with my friend, and I was thoroughly satisfied.
Courtesy of Kat Odell from Eater, New York
% Arabica
20 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
With locations all around the city and world— including countries in the Middle East, Africa and Europe — % Arabica is a Japanese-based café that has a unique take on the lattes. I visited the Brooklyn Branch located on Old Fulton Street where you can view the magnificent and gorgeous Brooklyn Bridge. I tried the caffe latte, which had a rich taste of espresso, along with a smooth tone of milk, overall creating the perfect blend of a very satisfying beverage. What really won me over was the delicate balance between richness and sweetness in the coffee flavor. The neighborhood at Old Fulton Street is known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings that simply enhance the backdrop. So, if you need a place for a quick getaway, like I did, or you simply want to try a unique latte, then % Arabica is the place for you.
Exploring the café scene in New York City can be an enriching and enjoyable experience. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the cozy corners of Brooklyn, the city offers a diverse range of cafés, each with their own unique charm and character. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern ambiance or a quaint and cozy atmosphere, there's a café in New York City to suit every taste and mood. So grab your favorite book or class notes, put on some comfort music, and embark on a journey to discover the perfect café for your next perfect day in the city. Happy exploring!