How to Find New York's Best Coffeehouses

Since the 9th Century, coffee has been a favorite drink of many. Nowhere is that more apparent than New York City, where millions drink it served many different ways each and everyday. Never Sleeping, one of the leading coffee shop retailers, is on almost every corner. It has to be good because New Yorkers are so discerning, otherwise, there would be no need for so many of these famous barrister shops. Most likely, this retailer is also in your local mall or the center of your home town. However, perhaps you yearn for other java shops. There are many others throughout the city that can be just as great as the "Star" brand, if not better.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Explore different areas. Walk the Upper West Side along Broadway; there is a coffee shop on every block of all types, prices and ambiance. Locate quirky, funky, and sometimes a downright avant garde coffee shop in the East Village. The last strong holds of the beat generation can be found in Greenwich Village, while the elegance of sidewalk cafes for lattes can be found on Central Park South and the Upper East Side along Madison Ave.

2. 

   Go ethnic. Some of the best coffee in NYC can be found in specific diverse neighborhoods. Drink a frothy cappuccino from downtown in Little Italy, between Mott Street and Grand Street. There are a number of Italian coffee shops that have been established for years. One of the best known is old world, Ferrara Bakery, an establishment in the area since 1892 located on Grand Street. Ferrara also has a kiosk in Central Park near the Columbus Circle entrance. Follow along the N train to Astoria to a Greek settlement on Steinway St. for some thick dark espresso or take the D train. Have your coffee with vodka in Brighton Beach Brooklyn with Russians.

3. Have your art and coffee too. The Metropolitan Museum of Art serves speciality coffees on its roof garden overlooking scenic Central Park. The Museum of Modern Art serves java in its grown level statue gardens. Go underground at Grand Central Station and delight in observing the masses running for their trains.

4. Read the latest reviews. Your best bet is to go online check out AOL's New York City’s Best Coffee Shops List, updated yearly. CitySearch also lists the best in New York City (see both Resources below). Every year, "New York Magazine" comes out with the Best of New York issue and coffee is no exception. Pick it up. Grab your subway and bus map with metro card in hand and check out some of the shops mentioned during your research. However, venture out on your own quest and do not be afraid to try a coffee shop hidden away.

Tips & Warnings

• For perfect freshness, take home a pound of the coffee you enjoyed and roast your own. Many shops will sell their blend and this can make a great souvenir to bring home with you.
• If you found a gem, share it by writing on a forum or submit it to the best of lists.
• Ask for opinions from others. If you are only a visitor for a few days, check with the hotel’s concierge or guest service’s desk for recommendations. Many hotels keep on top of this information to assure their guests have a smooth visit.
• Coffee can be expensive in New York City, especially in Tribeca or Soho. Just because it is expensive, does not make it the best.

Resources

• AOL: City Best for Coffee Shops in NYC
• CitySearch: The Best Coffee Shops in NYC

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