THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CAFES IN MANHATTAN
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CUP AND A MOMENT.
With so many cafés in Manhattan, I have made it my mission to create this short list of the ones I want to get lost in, the ones I want to impress friends with, the ones I want to go back to time and time again.
FELIX ROASTING CO.
Felix Roasting Co Nomad 450 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016 Additional Locations C+C Blog Post
One of my very favorite cafés, Felix Roasting Co. captures the definition of “design is in the details”. The elegant woodwork, the fashion-inspired color palettes, and the innovative coffee menu come together to create a curated high-end perfectly coffee-centric world. These cafés have that put-together quality that you get when you see a fashion model who pulls off a sophisticated pattern meets color-blocked look that you can’t fathom mixing yourself but would love to wear if someone laid it out for you. This café will surely impress any and everyone you bring there.
MAMAN
Maman Upper East Side 1424 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028 Additional Locations C+C Blog Post
Enter a Parisian world with distressed woods, whitewashes, glass floral lamps, and faux vines and flowers climbing the façade and moments within the interior. Sit amongst the reclaimed pews and definitively plan to splurge on pastry or dish because all of the food is so good—plus, you will want to stay and relax a while so you’re sure to get hungry while you are there.
PATISSERIE VANESSA
Patisserie Vanessa 1340 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128
Enter the red brick corner building and live amongst its oversized windows that illuminate the predominantly white space, below the terracotta hanging lamps that match the terracotta planters filled with lavender that are scattered throughout the space, and explore the glass case filled with perfectly crafted Parisian pastries. This Patisserie pays the perfect homage to the south of France. When you visit, please make sure to climb up the stairs and enjoy people-watching from the intimate mezzanine level.
RALPH’S
Ralph’s Madison Avenue 888 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021 Additional Locations
As with the rest of the Ralph Lauren flagship store, once you walk inside, you are teleported into a curated world, the world of Ralph. Once upon a time, their café was upstairs, now it is more accessible by the front door. Sit in the floral wallpapered space with deep green leather banquettes, or walk up to the to-go counter where baristas are so well put together that they are tittering on the line of wearing costumes. It’s less of a warm vibe and can be read as a more posh experience—a fashionista’s must.
FELIX ROASTING CO.
Felix Roasting Co Nomad 450 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016 Additional Locations C+C Blog Post
One of my very favorite cafés, Felix Roasting Co. captures the definition of “design is in the details”. The elegant woodwork, the fashion-inspired color palettes, and the innovative coffee menu come together to create a curated high-end perfectly coffee-centric world. These cafés have that put-together quality that you get when you see a fashion model who pulls off a sophisticated pattern meets color-blocked look that you can’t fathom mixing yourself but would love to wear if someone laid it out for you. This café will surely impress any and everyone you bring there.
BLACK STAR BAKERY
Black Star Bakery Upper East Side 1597 York Ave, New York, NY 10028 Additional Locations
It’s not the quaint black-and-white interior I’m raving about, it’s the backyard outdoor space. With new wooden plank tiled floors, white fringed umbrellas, woven chairs, and a wooden playhouse for the kiddos, this family-friendly café is a regular go-to secret feeling oasis for my crew.
VARIETY COFFEE ROASTERS
Variety Coffee Roasters Upper East Side 1269 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028 Additional Locations
Exuding a sleek mid-century modern vibe, Variety Coffee combines clean lines, wooden fluted accents, an iconic bubble chandelier, and minimalist furniture with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The café’s aesthetic perfectly complements its artisanal coffee offerings, making it an ideal spot for design lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. Large windows flood the space with natural light, enhancing the calming environment while providing a welcoming place for both casual coffee breaks and remote work. It’s a stylish yet approachable escape amidst the hustle of the city.
STUMPTOWN COFFEE ROASTERS
Stumptown Coffee Roasters Midtown 20 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001 Additional Locations
Stumptown Coffee Roasters inside the Ace Hotel is a perfect blend of high-quality craft coffee and industrial chic ambiance making it the quintessential go-to spot for artists, local coffee lovers, and travelers. Grab your drink and head to the laid-back atmosphere of the Ace Hotel’s spacious lobby. With its deep cozy couches, sexy low lighting, eclectic decor, lots of outlets, and free wifi, it’s an awesome space to linger over your favorite cup of coffee while getting some work done or simply people-watching.