Hideaway from the cold this winter at one of my favorite NYC coffee shops!
We’re getting to that time of year where I’d be happiest if the weather could turn for the better and the trees start to bloom, but the reality is there are still month’s until it is warm enough to spend an afternoon outside in the city with fully bundling up. That all being said, I’ve spent way too much time inside wrapped in blankets watching Netflix, so in the next few weeks, despite the cold, I’m going to try and get out and about more.
So for all of you in NYC in the same predicament I put together a list of my favorite coffee shops to get you out of the house while still hiding away from the cold! Are you guys prefer going solo to coffee shops or meeting up with friends? I love going to coffee shops alone before work to catch up on emails, but on the weekends you can find me grabbing a table with friends!
MY FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS
Ralph’s Coffee
Ralph’s on the Upper East Side, part of the flagship Ralph Lauren Mansion, has all the makings of a winter hideaway. The adorable themed decor and cozy booths are the best. Plus, there is plenty of seating so you don’t have to worry about showing up and having nowhere to enjoy your coffee.
Urban Backyard
This is a new find thanks to Kate, but Urban Backyard is perfectly situated just far enough out of the hubbub of SoHo to be your cold weather warm up after an afternoon of shopping. It has the cutest little stoop (it’s where I took these photos!) where you can pose for a picture before heading inside to stay warm. Also, the barista who’s been there both times I’ve been has been the sweetest which is always a bonus!
Daily Provisions
If you’re in the mood for a real treat then you have to head to Daily Provisions and get either the Cinnamon Cruller (aka basically a mix between fried dough and a donut) OR the O.G. Gougeres for a more filling breakfast. I’m literally drooling thinking about these. While this spot is tiny and you may have to steal a spot in the corner it’s well worth it for the good food and good coffee!
Manhattanville Coffee
My favorite neighborhood spot is Manhattanville Coffee in Hamilton Heights! The big open windows allow you to get a little Vitamin D while hiding from the cold. Plus, you can bring your laptop to catch up on work or just scroll through Pinterest! Pro tip: You have to try the cheddar scallion biscuit when you’re there! Ask for it heated it up and I promise your life won’t be the same.
Toby’s Estate West Village
This spot in the West Village is a long time favorite of mine! While you have to be careful of it getting busy on the weekends, if you show up early enough and snag the couch it’s the perfect place to catch up with friends or finish a book.
Maman Flatiron
There are now a few Maman’s around the city, but the newest location in Flatiron is my favorite coffee treat near the office. It’s plenty big enough to make plans for a meeting or catching up with friends. Maman also gets major bonus points for their Lavender Latte – so damn good.
Devocion Brooklyn
I don’t go to Brooklyn much in the winter, but when I do Devocion is at the top of my hit list. You’ve probably seen it’s plant wall on Instagram, but what I love most (or at least just as much as the decor) is that you can bring your laptop and check off all the items on your to-do list underneath the giant skylight. They just opened a location in Flatiron so I definitely need to stop by before work some morning.
A few honorable mentions… Once Upon A Tart for the best treats, Blank Slate Tea for ensuring you’ll have a seat, and literally any La Colombe because their coffee cannot be topped.
COFFEE SHOPS ON MY LIST
I have an ever growing saved board on Instagram with all the spots I want to visit in NYC! Here’s just a taste of the coffee shops on my list to cozy up in this winter:
Butler Bakeshop
I’ve realized all the good coffee shops are in Brooklyn, so I guess I’ll have to plan a day in Dumbo to try out Butler Bakeshop because I need one of their famous pastries. The gold topped tables are also v Insta-friendly!
La Mercerie Cafe
I’ve heard the pastries here are to die for, so enough said for me.
Sun In Bloom
This cafe is right across the street from one of my favorite brunch spots, so while I can never justify going in after stuffing myself at brunch it’s high on my hit list. I’m all about big windows for people watching and for you guys who are gluten free or vegan, you’ll be able to have all the snacks!
Kaffe 1668
Guys, this coffee shop has SHEEP on the wall… like what?!? I saw the shop on Instagram and honestly don’t know much more about it than the sheep, but that’s enough for me to need to visit!
If you’re looking for more more things to do this winter check out my 4 favorite cold weather activities!
photos by Kate McReynolds
