Looking for the best coffee near the Empire State Building? Discover the top local and specialty coffee shops in Midtown Manhattan, including a unique spot right inside the iconic skyscraper!
1. Starbucks Reserve Empire State Building
The Ultimate Landmark Coffee Experience
Yes, it’s a chain, but this is no ordinary Starbucks. Located within the Empire State Building itself, this three-floor Starbucks Reserve location is a unique, immersive coffee destination that is a tourist attraction in its own right.
- Why Choose It: It’s the most convenient and offers an exclusive experience. You can watch the coffee being roasted and try unique coffee cocktails in the Coffee & Cocktail Lounge.
- Specialty: The Empire State Building Microblend, an exclusive, locally roasted coffee. For a unique nightcap, try the Hot Honey Espresso Martini or a Roastery Old Fashioned.
- Website: Starbucks Reserve Empire State Building
- Social: @starbucksreserve (Instagram)
2. Culture Espresso
The Midtown Favorite: Coffee and the Cookie
Culture Espresso is a beloved local New York fixture with multiple Midtown locations, including one very close to the Empire State Building. They focus on high-quality espresso and a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere.
- Why Choose It: Known for consistently excellent espresso drinks and arguably the best chocolate chip cookie in all of NYC. Grab your coffee and cookie for the perfect Midtown treat.
- Specialty: A perfectly pulled Flat White and their famous Chocolate Chip Cookie (get there early—they sell out!).
- Location Near ESB: 72 W 38th St (Just a few blocks north)
- Website: Culture Espresso
- Social: @cultureespresso (Instagram)
3. Devoción
The Freshest Brew: From Farm to Flatiron
Located a short walk south of the ESB near Madison Square Park, Devoción specializes in ultra-fresh Colombian coffee. They source their beans directly from farms in Colombia and fly them to their Brooklyn roastery, ensuring the absolute freshest product.
- Why Choose It: Their stunning cafe near Flatiron is an Instagrammable architectural gem, and their commitment to freshness makes a tangible difference in the taste of the coffee.
- Specialty: Their Drip Coffee or a Pour Over highlights the unique, vibrant flavor of their fresh Colombian single-origin beans.
- Location Near ESB: 25 E 20th St (Walkable to/from Flatiron)
- Website: Devoción
- Social: @devocionusa (Instagram)
4. Little Collins
The Aussie Vibe: Excellent Espresso and Brekkie
Little Collins brings a bit of Melbourne’s famous café culture to Midtown. The small, efficient space (a short walk east of the ESB) is perfect for a quick takeaway of expertly crafted coffee and quality breakfast options.
- Why Choose It: Great spot for those who appreciate Australian-style coffee like a Flat White or Piccolo. Their staff is known for being friendly and fast.
- Specialty: The Piccolo (a small milk drink), and for food, their delicious Brekkie Sandwich (Breakfast Sandwich).
- Location Near ESB: 667 Lexington Avenue (Nearest their original location)
- Website: Little Collins
- Social: @littlecollinsnyc (Instagram)
5. Patent Pending
The Hidden Gem: Coffee by Day, Speakeasy by Night
A true hidden gem just steps from the ESB. By day, it operates as a small, non-descript coffee counter. By night, it transforms into one of NoMad’s best speakeasies, known for creative, inventive cocktails (many of which feature coffee!).
- Why Choose It: It’s a great “secret” spot that feels like an authentic NYC find. The coffee is solid, and the atmosphere is cool and low-key.
- Specialty: In the morning, try their standard Espresso drinks. In the evening, look for their creative, coffee-infused cocktails like the “Jump Start” (inspired by Nikola Tesla, who was once a tenant in the building).
- Location Near ESB: 49 W 27th St
- Social: @patentpendingnyc (Instagram) (Speakeasy side)
☕ Tourist Pro-Tip
To escape the biggest crowds, remember that most of these top-tier coffee shops are a short, pleasant walk just a block or two off the main Empire State Building. This slight detour is all it takes to find a moment of peace and a truly exceptional cup of coffee to fuel your NYC adventure. Tag roastcoffee.ai in your coffee photos!
