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The 16 Best Specialty Coffee Shops in New York City

When it comes to finding the perfect cup of specialty coffee in New York City, the options can seem overwhelming. With so many cafes and roasteries scattered throughout the city, it can be challenging to know where to start. That's where this list comes in, highlighting the top specialty coffee shops in NYC.

Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just looking to try something new, this guide will help you navigate the diverse and vibrant coffee scene in the Big Apple. From cozy neighborhood cafes to sleek minimalist spaces, there's a specialty coffee shop in New York City to suit every taste and preference.

Get ready to embark on a caffeine-fueled adventure as you explore The 16 Best Specialty Coffee Shops in New York City.

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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#1
Coffee Project New York | East Village
4.7727 reviews
#2
SEY Coffee
4.6734 reviews
#3
Solid State Coffee
4.7411 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Coffee Project New York | East Village#1
What stands out

  • Good variety of pour-over options

  • Excellent espresso drinks and pastries

  • Delicious seasonal lattes

  • Unique offerings like deconstructed lattes and nitro flights

Coffee Project New York | East Village

4.7727 reviews
239 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Coffee Project New York | East Village is a cozy coffee shop in New York City, offering a variety of services and amenities to its customers. The business provides outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its great coffee and great tea selection, this spot is popular for breakfast, solo dining, and working on a laptop.

Customers have left positive reviews highlighting the following key points:

SEY Coffee#2
What stands out

  • Loved the warehouse/loft vibes of this cafe with high-end service and delicious drinks.

  • Great place to catch up with friends over flavorful coffee in a refreshing and clean ambiance.

  • Top-notch coffee experience with a beautiful location and excellent recommendations from baristas.

  • Best coffee shop in New York with fruity beans, perfect milk, and a relaxing setting.

SEY Coffee

4.6734 reviews
18 Grattan St, Brooklyn, NY 11206, United States

SEY Coffee is a trendy cafe located in Brooklyn, New York. They offer a range of services to their customers, including takeaway and dine-in options. Known for their great coffee and tea selection, SEY Coffee is a popular spot for solo dining.

Customers have raved about their experiences at SEY Coffee, leaving glowing reviews. Some key points from these reviews include:

With a rating of 4.6, SEY Coffee stands out as a top choice for coffee lovers in the area. Visit them for a delightful coffee experience!

Solid State Coffee#3
What stands out

  • This is my favorite neighborhood cafe, I've been coming here since the day I first moved into UWS and has been a regular ever since for over 1+ year. Great-tasting and beautiful coffee with a cool vibe, lots of seating area to get some work done (though there's no WiFI) and has a good food options as well.

  • Wonderful shop in the UWS, ample outdoor and indoor seating. Nicely dosed espresso to go along with a delightful offering of bites. If I lived in the neighborhood I'd be here every day.

  • Came for the cold brew and was not disappointed! The coffee had very good flavor and it was very easy to drink. They also have a good assortment of pastries that were very tempting.

Solid State Coffee

4.7411 reviews
104 W 71st St, New York, NY 10023, United States

Solid State Coffee is a trendy coffee shop located in New York City, known for its great coffee and great tea selection. Customers rave about the stellar coffee and food, with one reviewer mentioning that it became their favorite spot during their trip to NYC. Others praise the cozy atmosphere and the ample seating area, perfect for solo dining or working. The shop offers service options like outdoor seating and takeaway, making it convenient for all types of customers.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters#4
What stands out

  • One reviewer mentioned the exceptional quality of the unsweetened latte and the variety of non-dairy milk options available.

  • Another customer highlighted the efficient service and the convenience of a flat cost for milk.

  • A visitor praised the woodblock mocha and expressed a desire to return to the cafe.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

4.41,298 reviews
30 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Stumptown Coffee Roasters is a cozy coffee shop located in New York, offering a variety of services such as Outdoor seating, Takeaway, and Dine-in. They are known for their great coffee and tea selection, making them a go-to spot for many customers. This cafe is popular for breakfast, solo dining, and working on a laptop, catering to different needs.

Overall, despite a few minor setbacks noted by some patrons, Stumptown Coffee Roasters stands out for its great coffee, cozy atmosphere, and convenient location.

Variety Coffee Roasters#5
What stands out

  • An amazing cafe with great taste and a cozy atmosphere

  • Reasonable prices starting at $3 for coffee

  • Perfect for studying, working, or catching up with friends

  • Friendly service and a variety of pastries and baked goods

Variety Coffee Roasters

4.4772 reviews
261 7th Ave, New York, NY 10001, United States

Variety Coffee Roasters is a cozy café located in the heart of New York City, offering a great coffee selection that keeps customers coming back for more. With a 4.4 rating and 772 reviews, this coffee shop has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to work on your laptop or a place to enjoy a delicious espresso, Variety Coffee Roasters has got you covered. Don't miss out on their almond croissants and oat milk espresso drinks!

Variety Coffee Roasters#6
What stands out

  • Enjoyed a decaf iced latte with great amenities and atmosphere.

  • Cute coffee bar with all the essentials for a true coffee experience.

  • Chai was not outstanding, but the area is cool for a quick stop.

  • Favorite oatmeal cookie and decent latte in the area.

Variety Coffee Roasters

4.4477 reviews
1269 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Variety Coffee Roasters is a bustling coffee shop located in New York City that offers a variety of service options like Outdoor seating, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy great coffee and a great tea selection in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. This coffee spot is popular for solo dining and is good for working on a laptop.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Experience a lovely coffee break at Variety Coffee Roasters like many other satisfied customers!

Everyman Espresso#7
What stands out

  • Seriously delicious coffee with friendly and great service.

  • Great coffee, nice atmosphere, and wonderfully made cappuccino.

  • Unassuming little coffee shop that satisfies with flavorful coffee and good espresso pulls.

Everyman Espresso

4.4434 reviews
136 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

Everyman Espresso is a delightful coffee shop in New York offering a range of service options such as outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. They are known for their fast service and excellent coffee, with a wide selection of teas as well. Popular among customers for solo dining and a good spot to work on a laptop, this cozy and trendy cafe also provides vegan options along with alcoholic beverages like beer and wine. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, attracting both tourists and university students.

Some key reviews from customers include:

Coffee Project New York | Chelsea#8
What stands out

  • Customers praise the nitro coffee and delicious food options available for breakfast.

  • The latte art is highlighted as superb, making the coffee experience unforgettable.

  • Visitors enjoy the cozy interior with a variety of seating options, perfect for relaxing or getting work done.

  • Customer reviews often mention the friendly staff and the overall calming atmosphere of the establishment.

Coffee Project New York | Chelsea

4.5222 reviews
155 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States

Coffee Project New York | Chelsea offers a variety of services and features that make it a standout cafe in New York City. Known for its great coffee and great tea selection, this cozy spot is popular for solo dining and working on a laptop. The business provides fast service and offers delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options for customers. The atmosphere is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, catering to a family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly crowd.

Afficionado Coffee Roasters#9
What stands out

  • Smooth gentle roast coffee with a superb mocha and a nice selection of baked treats.

  • I was in NYC for spring break and visited a half dozen espresso bars. Afficionado Coffee was one of my favorites.

  • Coffee here was amazing! Would definitely recommend if in the area. Staff was super friendly.

  • A super cute interior with plenty of varied seating options. Good coffee with hints of chocolate, and the barista is super sweet!

Afficionado Coffee Roasters

4.5219 reviews
750 11th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States

Afficionado Coffee Roasters is a cozy coffee shop located in New York City. They offer a variety of services to their customers, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The shop is known for its great coffee and great tea selection, making it a popular spot for breakfast, solo dining, and working on a laptop.

Customers have raved about their experience at Afficionado Coffee Roasters, leaving positive reviews such as:

With a rating of 4.5 and 219 reviews, Afficionado Coffee Roasters is a top choice for coffee lovers in the city. Make sure to stop by for a delicious cup of coffee and a cozy atmosphere!

Gotham Coffee Roasters#10
What stands out

  • I loved how warm, tiny, and cozy this place was. The decaf latte with almond milk was perfection! The baked goods selection was incredible!

  • Great stop with a good oatmilk cappuccino and friendly barista. Would definitely come back!

  • Neat little coffee shop, but the coffee was cold and the walnut bread was hard.

  • Disappointing espresso, bitter and sour. I would recommend another place for a better shot of espresso.

Gotham Coffee Roasters

4.5204 reviews
23 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Gotham Coffee Roasters is a cozy and trendy coffee shop located in the heart of New York City. They offer a variety of services to their customers, including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a cup of great coffee or choose from their great tea selection while indulging in breakfast or solo dining.

PROOF Coffee Roasters#11
What stands out

  • Excellent espresso, airy space, and tasty pastries.

  • Great place for espresso or latte with unique flavors.

  • Small cafe with good vibes, kind staff, and dark roasted coffee.

  • Peaceful place with great quality coffee at a reasonable price, outdoor seating available.

PROOF Coffee Roasters

4.5199 reviews
ENTRANCE IN PARK AREA, 335 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016, United States

PROOF Coffee Roasters offers a cozy atmosphere for coffee lovers in New York City. With a rating of 4.5, customers rave about the high-quality espresso and tasty pastries. The cafe provides several service options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The great tea selection and welcoming ambiance make it a popular spot for both solo dining and working on a laptop. Here are some summarized reviews from customers:

Felix Roasting Co.#12

Felix Roasting Co.

4.3571 reviews
450 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016, United States

Felix Roasting Co. is a trendy coffee shop located in New York City that offers a variety of services and features. Customers can indulge in delivery, takeaway, or dine-in options while enjoying fast service and a great selection of coffee and tea. The cozy and casual atmosphere welcomes all, making it a popular spot for solo dining or a relaxing breakfast.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Oslo Coffee Roasters#13
What stands out

  • Cute little spot with gluten-free options for those with allergies

  • Kind and spirited staff create a welcoming environment

  • Delicious coffee and breakfast sandwiches perfect for a quick bite

Oslo Coffee Roasters

4.5158 reviews
620 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036, United States

Oslo Coffee Roasters is a cozy coffee shop nestled between apartment buildings in New York City. The shop offers a variety of services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy great coffee and a wonderful selection of teas in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

One reviewer mentioned the local feel of the shop despite its glass building location. The owner's suggestions, locally roasted beans, and thick, tasty chocolate chip cookies were highlights of their experience. Another customer praised the friendly atmosphere and neighborhood vibe, especially noting the warm welcome from the staff. Others have raved about the fresh egg sandwiches and excellent coffee offerings at this hidden gem in Hell's Kitchen. So, if you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in a welcoming environment, be sure to visit Oslo Coffee Roasters.

Gumption Coffee#14
What stands out

  • A top contender for the best cappuccino in NYC

  • Fresh and fruity drip hot coffee

  • Exceptional, delicious coffee with a personal touch from friendly staff

  • Robust and fruity brewed coffee with a peaceful atmosphere

Gumption Coffee

4.5158 reviews
106 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States

Gumption Coffee is a cozy coffee shop located in the heart of New York City. Offering a variety of services like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, this spot is perfect for a quick coffee fix or a leisurely morning meal. Known for their great coffee and tea selection, Gumption Coffee is a popular choice for breakfast or solo dining.

Customers rave about their experiences at Gumption Coffee, with many leaving positive reviews. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Whether you're in the mood for a quick cup of joe on the go or want to sit back and savor your coffee in a cozy setting, Gumption Coffee has you covered. Visit them today for a delightful coffee experience!

drip coffee makers#15
What stands out

  • Incredible pour overs and espresso! The fruit snacks blend from Black and White was unique and delicious. Staff provided valuable tips for home brewing.

  • Lowkey spot with a good vibe to chill with friends or do work.

  • Great flavors, attitude, and information. A solid spot filled with passionate coffee lovers.

  • Excellent coffee with a beautiful setting in the lobby of a fancy office building.

drip coffee makers

4.750 reviews
75 Varick St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Drip Coffee Makers is a charming coffee shop located in New York. They offer a variety of services including Takeaway and Dine-in options for their customers. The atmosphere is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trendy, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Highlighted Features: - Great coffee - Great tea selection

Customer Reviews:

Patent Coffee#16
What stands out

  • Loved the coffee and friendly staff, best in NYC.

  • Great coffee shop with unique flavors and helpful baristas.

  • Simple coffee shop offering delicious pastries and efficient service.

  • Nice atmosphere, friendly barista, and amazing cardamom latte.

Patent Coffee

4.5144 reviews
49 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001, United States

Patent Coffee is a beloved coffee shop in New York City known for its exceptional service and delightful drinks. Customers rave about their experience, with many praising the friendly and knowledgeable baristas who go above and beyond to create the perfect cup of coffee. The shop is popular for its great coffee and unique flavors, such as rosemary oat, honey oat, and vanilla fig lattes. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of joe, Patent Coffee is a must-visit destination in the bustling city.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Coffee Project New York | East Village 4.7727
#2SEY Coffee 4.6734
#3Solid State Coffee 4.7411
#4Stumptown Coffee Roasters 4.41,298
#5Variety Coffee Roasters 4.4772
#6Variety Coffee Roasters 4.4477
#7Everyman Espresso 4.4434
#8Coffee Project New York | Chelsea 4.5222
#9Afficionado Coffee Roasters 4.5219
#10Gotham Coffee Roasters 4.5204
#11PROOF Coffee Roasters 4.5199
#12Felix Roasting Co. 4.3571
#13Oslo Coffee Roasters 4.5158
#14Gumption Coffee 4.5158
#15drip coffee makers 4.750
#16Patent Coffee 4.5144

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Map of Specialty Coffee Shops in New York City

New York City is a haven for coffee lovers, with countless specialty coffee shops just waiting to be discovered. From trendy cafes in Brooklyn to hidden gems in Manhattan, there's no shortage of options for those seeking the perfect cup of joe. Check out the map below to find the best spots for a truly memorable coffee experience in the Big Apple.

How to choose Specialty Coffee Shops in New York City

  1. Wide variety of single origin beans.
  2. Expertly crafted espresso drinks.
  3. Cozy atmospheres for relaxing or working.
  4. Knowledgeable baristas to guide you through the menu.

Frequently asked questions

What makes speciality coffee in New York different?

Speciality coffee in New York stands out due to its focus on quality beans sourced from ethical and sustainable farms around the world. These beans are expertly roasted by skilled roasters to bring out their unique flavors and aromas. In addition, the coffee shops in New York that serve speciality coffee often have a passion for providing exceptional customer service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts to enjoy their brew. Furthermore, the diverse and innovative coffee culture in New York continues to inspire new trends and techniques that shape the way speciality coffee is brewed and enjoyed in the city.

Where can I find the best speciality coffee in New York?

New York City is known for its vibrant coffee scene, with numerous cafes and roasteries dedicated to serving top-quality speciality coffee. Some popular spots to explore include: These establishments are acclaimed for their commitment to sourcing and serving exceptional coffee, making them a must-visit for any coffee lover in New York. Blue Bottle Coffee. Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Joe Coffee Company. Devoción.

What sets speciality coffee apart from regular coffee?

Speciality coffee differs from regular coffee in several key aspects. Firstly, speciality coffee is made from high-quality beans that are carefully grown, harvested, and processed to ensure optimal flavor. Additionally, speciality coffee is often roasted in small batches by skilled artisans who meticulously control the roasting process to bring out the unique characteristics of the beans. Moreover, speciality coffee is brewed with precision and care, using methods such as pour-over, AeroPress, or espresso to highlight the nuanced flavors and aromas of the coffee.

Why is speciality coffee becoming increasingly popular in New York?

Speciality coffee is gaining popularity in New York due to a growing appreciation for high-quality, artisanal products among consumers. People are seeking out unique and flavorful coffee experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Additionally, speciality coffee represents a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices, resonating with environmentally-conscious consumers who value transparency in the coffee supply chain. The vibrant coffee culture in New York, with its diverse range of cafes and roasteries, also plays a significant role in driving the demand for speciality coffee in the city.

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