New York City’s coffee scene is a true reflection of the city itself: fast-paced, incredibly diverse, and always on the cutting edge. From the light, nuanced roasts of a Scandinavian-inspired cafe to the dark, classic espresso of a local institution, the city offers an unparalleled variety of experiences. This list is a curated guide to the spots that locals and visitors can’t stop talking about, featuring roasters and cafes that are as unique as the neighborhoods they call home.
- Devoción (Williamsburg, Brooklyn) Known for their farm-to-cup philosophy, Devoción brings beans directly from their own farms in Colombia to New York. Reddit forums and travel blogs consistently praise them for having some of the freshest coffee in the city, thanks to a roasting process that happens just 10 days after the beans are harvested. The Williamsburg location is particularly popular for its spacious, light-filled environment.
- Address: 69 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
- Website: https://devocion.com/
- La Cabra (East Village) Hailing from Copenhagen, La Cabra has brought a minimalist, light-roast style to NYC that has garnered a loyal following. Coffee enthusiasts on social media often rave about their perfectly crafted pour-overs and the “best cardamom bun” in the city. Their East Village spot offers a clean, serene escape from the city hustle.
- Address: 152 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
- Website: https://lacabra.dk/
- Sey Coffee (Bushwick, Brooklyn) Referred to by many as one of the best roasters in the entire country, Sey Coffee is a destination for coffee purists. The cafe is celebrated on Reddit forums for its incredibly clean, bright, and delicious light-roasted coffees. Its Bushwick location with ample space and beautiful natural light makes it a quiet, intentional space for a truly great cup.
- Address: 18 Grattan St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
- Website: https://www.sey.coffee/
- Coffee Project New York (East Village) This cafe is a beloved spot for coffee nerds and casual drinkers alike, known for its friendly baristas and creative, deconstructed lattes. Travel blogs often highlight their unique approach to espresso, and locals praise their rotating selection of high-quality beans from various roasters.
- Address: 239 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003
- Website: https://coffeeprojectny.com/
- Black Fox Coffee (Financial District) Black Fox is a favorite in the Financial District, known for its expertly curated multi-roaster menu. Social media reviewers consistently praise the quality of their espresso and the meticulous care they put into every drink. It’s the go-to spot for many a coffee enthusiast working downtown.
- Address: 72 Pine St, New York, NY 10005
- Website: https://www.blackfoxcoffee.com/
- Felix Roasting Co. (SoHo) Felix is renowned for its stunning, art-deco inspired interiors and its equally beautiful coffee. Travel bloggers and Instagrammers flock here for the unique atmosphere and meticulously crafted drinks like their popular espresso tonic. It’s a place where aesthetics meet a serious commitment to quality.
- Address: 1045 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10018
- Website: https://www.felixroastingco.com/
- Abraço (East Village) A true East Village institution, Abraço is a tiny, standing-room-only shop with a huge reputation. On Reddit, it’s consistently mentioned as a place for an authentic, no-frills, and absolutely phenomenal cup of coffee. Locals praise their fresh, in-house roasted beans and the strong, community-focused vibe.
- Address: 81 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
- Website: https://www.abraco.nyc/
- Culture Espresso (Midtown) A refreshing independent alternative in a neighborhood dominated by chains, Culture Espresso is famously known for its delicious chocolate chip cookies, but locals will tell you their coffee is top-notch. It’s a beloved spot for a quick, quality coffee and a perfectly baked treat.
- Address: 72 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
- Website: https://www.cultureespresso.com/
- Variety Coffee Roasters (Multiple Locations) With multiple locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan, Variety has managed to maintain a neighborhood feel at each one. They are known for their consistent, quality roasts and a simple, no-fuss approach to great coffee. It’s a reliable favorite for many New Yorkers looking for a dependable brew.
- Address: 1269 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028
- Website: https://varietycoffeeroasters.com/
- Little Collins (Midtown) Bringing a slice of Melbourne’s famous coffee culture to Midtown, Little Collins is run by an Australian and is praised for its strong flat whites and flavorful cortados. It’s a perfect escape from the typical chain cafe and is highly regarded by travelers and locals alike for its friendly, efficient service and great coffee.
- Address: 667 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022
- Website: https://littlecollinsnyc.com/
A Final Note on the NYC Coffee Scene
From world-class roasters pushing the boundaries of flavor to cozy neighborhood spots serving as community hubs, New York City’s coffee scene is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for a new favorite or a visitor wanting to sip like a true New Yorker, this list is your perfect starting point.
Check out our recommends both at city and state levels here.

