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Chai spots in New York

Sipping chai in peace is impossible when you are constantly scanning the room for a restroom that is actually open to customers.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hard Bean Merrick image 1
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Cozy coffee shop with comfortable couches and thoughtful decor featuring beautiful artwork and a crisp coffee bean scent. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing with piano jazz music playing, ideal for working or chatting. Space feels larger than expected, welcoming for both solo visitors and groups.

Bathrooms stay clean and private. Amenities include free WiFi and plenty of seating nearby.

Chai latte stands out with its rich, consistent flavor. The Iced Spice Cinnamon Chai Latte topped with coconut cold foam offers a unique twist that complements the classic taste.

People are saying

"I loved their cookie butter shaken espresso; it was amazing."

"I found their chai latte to be the most delicious I ever tasted."

"I found the bathroom to be really clean."

Good to know

1

A small coffee costs the same as a large in some NYC shops.

2

Breakfast prices are considered high at this cafe.

3

The shop is located very close to the train station.

02
Bunbury's Coffee Shop image 1

Coffee shop combines vintage style with a bookstore vibe, offering used books alongside drinks and baked goods. Atmosphere feels cozy and artsy with comfortable seating and curated music. Popular spot for relaxing, browsing, and refueling after bike rides, attracting locals and visitors alike.

Cleanliness stands out with a well kept and clean bathroom. A cozy atmosphere extends from the restroom to the choice of books.

Chai drinks come with balanced sweetness and clear spice hints. Options include a frozen chai with an added shot and a smooth Chai Tea Latte.

People are saying

"This coffee shop is so cute and cozy."

"I loved their Chai Tea Latte; it wasn't too sweet or bland."

"The Chai Tea Latte here is perfectly balanced, not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Bunbury's Coffee Shop opens early and serves freshly brewed coffee and bakery items.

2

Expect to pay around $7 for a small drink.

3

The shop offers a selection of new and used books for browsing.

03
Bon Tree image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop with tranquil nautical blue walls and tufted faux leather booths creates a serene, unpretentious atmosphere. The vibe suits working remotely or relaxing, with strong air conditioning and free wifi supporting long stays. Authentic Yemeni decor and coffee culture add a distinctive cultural touch.

Bathrooms stay clean and well-maintained. Each restroom includes a bidet for added comfort.

A pot of Yemeni chai offers a delicate yet aromatic flavor and serves well for sharing. The chai lattes, including a dirty chai, come made to order with care and warmth.

People are saying

"I loved the rich, aromatic Yemeni coffee, especially with cardamom."

"This chai latte is phenomenal, I couldn't stop thinking about it."

"The bathroom here was clean with no issues."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop is open late until 10pm on Fri and Sat, and 9pm on all other days.

2

There’s no time limit for staying at this coffee shop.

3

You need to get there early or get lucky to find a table to work or read.

04
City Coffee & Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Spacious café with exposed brick walls and classy chandeliers creates a cool, relaxing vibe. It transforms into a nightclub at night, playing loud Dominican and DJ music until early morning. Locals frequent the place, enjoying excellent cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

Plenty of space leads to a spotless bathroom with a chic toilet. The bathroom feels very nice and clean.

Chai latte stands out with both hot and iced versions tasting very good. The chai tea latte ranks as a favorite drink here.

People are saying

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the Nutella French toast."

"The bathroom here is spotless and chic."

"I loved the Chai here; I'll definitely return."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers from 4-6 PM daily.

2

Dog-friendly outdoor seating is available for customers.

3

The café serves Cafe Vita coffee, known for its quality.

05
787 Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop shines with natural light and a cozy vibe where patrons write gratitude notes. Chai offers creative twists like dirty chocolate and horchata lattes with rich blends. Bathrooms feel like home, boasting spacious, clean design and warm colors.

Spacious and clean with great lighting and a well designed interior. The colors add a pleasant touch reminiscent of a cozy home.

Chai here stands out for its smooth, flavorful balance and creative twists like the dirty chocolate chai and horchata chai latte. Baristas craft unique blends with rum, whiskey, and dulce de leche, delivering rich, memorable flavors.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee I’ve ever had here."

"I thought the chai latte was really good."

"The bathroom here is really nice and clean."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop closes at 7PM.

2

Expect live music events regularly throughout the month.

3

Discounts are available for healthcare workers.

06
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery with two levels and large windows fills the space with natural light. Atmosphere feels Parisian and cozy, welcoming for working or relaxing with coffee. Seating includes comfortable booths, upstairs lounge, and outdoor tables perfect for people watching.

Bathrooms stay clean and look beautiful. Plenty of seating complements the space, making it one of the best in a café.

Hot and iced chai options come with a smooth and strong flavor. The chai latte highlights rich spices without being watered down.

People are saying

"The pastries here are phenomenal and taste so balanced."

"I appreciated that the bathroom was clean and well-designed."

"The chai latte here is amazing and so good."

Good to know

1

Gloves should be worn when touching food and removed before returning to the register.

2

Expect 8-10 minutes to get your order taken if there's one person ahead.

3

Prices are higher than at Starbucks and other local cafes.

07
Tandoori Twist image 1
Restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant with a chipotle vibe offers a clean, stylish atmosphere and comfortable, welcoming energy. Spacious seating and tasteful decor create an inviting environment. The place often feels packed, reflecting its popularity.

Bathrooms stay clean and well maintained. Restrooms and tables show consistent cleanliness throughout visits.

Strong masala chai stands out alongside a mango lassi that complements it well. Both drinks appear consistently and pair with desserts like gulab jamun and rice pudding.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and full of flavor."

"I thought the chai tea was delicious."

"I found the bathroom visit to be worth it and it was clean."

Good to know

1

Expect additional fees and a 10% automated tip added to your bill.

2

The restaurant offers quick options for takeout or dine-in.

3

They provide generous portions, especially during complimentary hours from 3-5 pm.

08
Café Habibti image 1
Coffee shop

Space feels like stepping into a beautiful living room with warm, cozy vibes and Arab-inspired decor. Music plays softly, creating a relaxed, inviting atmosphere that welcomes conversation and comfort. Seating is comfortable and intimate, encouraging lingering and connection.

Super clean, single-stall bathroom features extravagant scarlet tiles that stand out.

Mughal chai stands out with rich, balanced flavors. The café offers high quality chai alongside a cozy vibe that feels like home.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be extremely good."

"Their Masala Chai was A+ and sweet to my liking."

"The bathroom is super clean with extravagant scarlet tiles."

Good to know

1

Café Habibti has two floors for seating, but the upper section may not always be open.

2

The menu includes espresso drinks, chai, refreshers, pastries, and more.

3

Reservations are not required, but it can get busy during peak hours.

09
kotha grill and kabab image 1
Bangladeshi restaurant

Small to spacious dining areas offer a clean, bright setting with a warm, hospitable atmosphere that feels like home. The environment stays peaceful and cozy, inviting relaxed meals. Regulars appreciate the authentic Bangladeshi vibe and consistent quality in food and service.

Bathrooms stay consistently neat and clean. They maintain a tidy and well-kept environment throughout.

Chai comes served with care, sometimes even in your own thermos cleaned fresh. It pairs well with Alu puri, daal puri, and snacks like egg chop and chicken lollipop.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I found their chicken biryani very delicious and bursting with authentic flavors."

"I loved their chai, it felt like home."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open close to 12am on Saturday nights.

2

The meat used in the dishes is halal and sourced from a butcher shop.

3

Be careful and always check the bill.

10
Charlotte Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop offers fast Wi-Fi and cozy seating, perfect for work or chats. Chai latte is rich and smooth, with iced and dirty chai options. Bathrooms are spotless and stroller accessible, featuring pleasant music for a relaxing break.

Spotless and stroller accessible, the bathroom offers a clean and pretty space with pleasant music playing on the sound system.

Chai latte stands out with a rich, smooth flavor that many find exceptional. Options include iced chai latte and dirty chai, both praised for their quality and taste.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great, perfectly spiced and ideal for starting the day."

"This chai latte is perfectly spiced and amazing."

"The bathroom here was spotless and cute."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop opens at 6:30 AM for early risers.

2

Customers are required to buy coffee per person to stay in the laptop zone.

3

You don't have to pay more than $5 for an iced coffee here.

11
Mandy Bean Specialty Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers beautifully designed interior with an archway and cushy seating that creates a cozy, posh atmosphere. Outdoor seating with umbrellas adds a relaxed vibe for warmer days. The space stays inviting and not too crowded even during busy mornings.

Bathrooms stay clean and comfortable throughout visits. They maintain a consistently tidy environment.

Kulfi chai latte offers a unique twist with its rich flavor. Chai lattes taste fresh and avoid syrupy sweetness, while the dirty chai balances espresso bitterness well.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best around."

"I thought the chai latte tasted very fresh, not like syrup."

"I thought the bathroom was the cleanest around."

Good to know

1

They are open late, sometimes until 12 midnight.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

The cafe has plenty of tables, complimentary wifi, and outlets for laptops.

12
Qahwah House Coffee - Williamsburg Brooklyn image 1

Spacious interior features giant wooden carved map and stoves in seating area, creating a unique setting that transports visitors to Yemen. Warm, lively atmosphere offers a cozy, welcoming vibe with authentic Yemeni coffee and sweets served freshly. Comfortable seating and good WiFi support both relaxation and work.

Bathrooms stay clean and private with a large layout. They work well and keep the space feeling tidy.

Strong Adeni Chai stands out with its authentic, beautifully blended spice mixture. The chai offers a unique, addicting flavor that elevates the entire experience.

People are saying

"The Coffee here is excellent and the staff are super friendly."

"You have to try the flaky Sabaya and Pistachio Dream Cake desserts."

"The bathrooms here were noticeably clean."

Good to know

1

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments without warning.

2

A pot of coffee is expensive at $11, which is unexpectedly high.

3

Customers can only sit-in if they order a 'pot' that serves 2 people.

13
hamlet coffee company image 1

Minimalist design combines with ample seating and a cozy backyard patio to create a bright, welcoming space. The atmosphere stays relaxed and neighborly, making it suitable for work or casual visits. Consistently excellent coffee and pastries add to the inviting vibe.

Restroom is available and kept clean. Seating area nearby is ample.

A spicier blend of apple cider and chai defines the Chai-der drink here. The chai pairs well with the sweet potato cake for a tasty combo.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I've ever had."

"The coffee here is delicious and the atmosphere is great."

"I found the apple cider chai amazing."

Good to know

1

The store closes at 5 PM.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early for a spot.

3

They offer free wifi for customers.

14
Pando’s Creperie & Cafe image 1

Small, beautifully designed cafe offers cozy atmosphere with local art and diverse music ranging from Rancheras to Motown R&B. Space includes indoor and outdoor seating, welcoming families with kids through thoughtful amenities. Energy stays chill and inviting, making it a neighborhood gem for coffee and crepes.

Bathrooms include a changing table and a high chair nearby, making it very kid friendly. Having a bathroom on site is convenient when visiting with kids.

The chai here stands out with its rich flavor and smooth blend, especially in the dirty chai variant. It pairs well with espresso, offering a unique coffee experience.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was next level."

"I found the chai here to be awesome."

"They have a bathroom, which is nice for visiting with kids."

Good to know

1

The cafe hosts open mic events for local performers on weekends.

2

Live music occurs every Friday and Saturday night.

3

Pandos has outdoor seating available for customers.

15
Elysian Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with high ceilings and an olive tree inside creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Space feels friendly and inviting, suitable for relaxing or working with plenty of outlets and free WiFi. Decor blends natural light and artful design, making it a peaceful spot to chat or focus.

Restroom stays very clean and reflects the high standards of the staff. Impeccable bathroom conditions set a gold standard for cleanliness.

Fresh pressed juices and a chai latte stand out here. The iced chai latte (dirty) ranks among the most flavorful in the area.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best in New York."

"I was impressed by how clean the bathroom was."

"I had the best sweet chai latte I’ve ever had."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located just outside the Astoria Blvd metro station.

2

The cafe provides free wifi for customers.

3

Elysian Cafe only uses high quality coffee in their beverages.

16
Urbana Cafe and Gallery image 1

Spacious modern cafe with rotating contemporary art exhibitions and lush greenery creates a calm, creative atmosphere. Bright, airy space offers comfortable seating and welcomes laptops and pets. Quiet energy supports both casual visits and focused work.

Cleanliness stands out with a fresh scent and well lit space. Beautiful paintings decorate the private bathroom, which uses code access for entry.

Chai comes as a well-sized latte with great flavor that is not overly sweet. It pairs well with pastries like an apple turnover and stands out among other café drinks.

People are saying

"The honey oat latte is life-changingly tasty."

"It's a great, laptop-friendly spot to get work done."

"I had the best chai I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The WiFi has a 10-minute limit, with a 5-hour wait to reconnect.

2

A latte costs $6.50, with a total of $7.62 including taxes.

3

The cafe can get crazy busy on weekends; expect to wait for a table.

17
NY Caffeine image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop with comfortable seating including big couches near windows and an insulated patio. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with charming decor and a lively energy from staff. Outdoor deck and parking lot feature string lights and unique decorations, creating a relaxed vibe.

Bathrooms stay very clean and spacious. They maintain a nice and tidy environment throughout.

Iced vanilla chai lattes offer a balanced sweetness and a somewhat authentic spiced flavor. Variations like the dirty spiced chai come through as delicious and not overly sweet.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great and delicious."

"The chai here is sweet with just the right amount of spice."

"The bathroom was clean and spacious."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait more than 10 minutes in line during peak hours.

2

Cash is required to avoid credit card fees.

3

The cleanliness of the space is generally good, including the bathrooms.

18
La Cabra Roastery image 1

Huge, airy space with minimalist design and private work pods creates a serene, focused atmosphere. Mellow background music and stylish ceramic cups add to the elevated coffee experience. Seating areas separate laptop users from conversation zones, supporting both work and socializing.

Every detail in the space shows care, including the bathroom design and ambiance. The bathrooms are excellent and fit well with the overall thoughtful atmosphere.

Chai here stands out with rich, flavorful lattes that balance spices well. The Saba Chai offers a unique twist, paired nicely with canelle and cardamom buns.

People are saying

"The coffee here is reference-quality for those who appreciate lighter roasts."

"The bathrooms here were excellent and large."

"I thought the chai latte was delicious and excellent."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop does not have public wifi.

2

There is not enough seating available in the cafe.

3

The espresso costs $12 or more.

19
Karahi King Restaurant & Catering image 1

Halal restaurant offers a clean, spacious dining hall with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The environment feels cozy and culturally rich, attracting both locals and newcomers. Staff and ambiance create a peaceful, inviting experience.

Bathrooms stay neat and clean with a newly renovated look. They are well-maintained and hygienic, though sometimes lack toilet paper.

Authentic karak chai and doodh patti chai capture traditional flavors well. The chai latte offers a smooth, rich taste alongside hearty meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"The bathroom was newly renovated and looked super clean."

"I found the chai to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

The restaurant features a variety of spicy and non-spicy dishes.

3

Parking is available on the street, but can be limited during peak hours.

20
MOKAFÉ image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop with cozy seating and ample outlets at every table supports work and relaxation. The atmosphere stays welcoming and quiet, with beautiful decor enhancing a calm vibe. Drive-through option adds convenience without disrupting the peaceful interior.

Bathrooms stay clean and have a nice scent. Toilet areas include a handheld wand for washing and feature pleasant soap.

Mamdani chai stands out with its perfect balance and absence of overpowering sweetness or cardamom flavor. The chai here is consistently delicious and part of an elevated menu featuring creative drinks and desserts.

People are saying

"Their honey and date latte was great."

"I'm coming back for the Mamdani chai; it's perfectly balanced."

"The bathroom here is always clean and smells nice."

Good to know

1

A large drip coffee costs $5.50, and a small latte is $7.

2

There is an extra charge for large drinks beyond the listed price.

3

MOKAFÉ is open until 12am or 2am, great for late-night study sessions.

21
CG Cafe & Roastery (Common Grounds) image 1

Cafe offers a sleek modern design with beautiful decorative interiors and a welcoming atmosphere. Live music enhances the experience, especially during brunch, while outdoor seating provides a relaxed option. Roasting their own beans contributes to a high-quality coffee focus.

Bathrooms stay clean and well maintained throughout visits.

Spiced chai latte stands out with perfect spice balance and moderate sweetness. It earns praise for being genuinely delicious and consistently satisfying.

People are saying

"Their coffee is expertly crafted and perfectly balanced."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well maintained."

"I loved the spiced chai latte; it was perfectly spiced and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait for food during peak brunch times.

2

The cafe roasts its own coffee beans on-site, enhancing flavor quality.

3

Prices for drinks and food are generally higher than average for the area.

22
Qahwah House coffee - W Village image 1

Coffee shop blends modern elegance with Yemeni elements and features a Middle Eastern seating area alongside a large map of coffee trade routes. Atmosphere is packed and lively with sharp lighting and instrumental intercultural music. Outdoor seating and outlets support work and relaxation amid a unique, energetic vibe.

Restrooms stay consistently clean and well-maintained. The cafe includes a restroom alongside good Wi-Fi and moderate seating.

Adeni chai stands out with its milky texture and balanced spices. The chai tastes authentic and flavorful, similar to Arabian boba tea, and pairs well with desserts like pistachio.

People are saying

"I've never had coffee this rich and smooth before."

"I thought the Adeni chai was the best chai I had in the US."

"I found the bathroom to be pretty and clean."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a fully halal menu for all food and drink options.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Seating can be challenging; consider visiting during off-peak hours.

23
Compilation Coffee Roasters @ Ft. Greene image 1

Cozy coffee shop with spacious seating including tables, a communal counter, and couches. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, suitable for work or socializing. Offers solid wifi and a modern design that feels warm and welcoming.

Bathrooms are mostly clean, though sometimes the cleanliness varies. Overall, they maintain a decent standard.

Great chai comes with oat milk here, making it creamy and smooth. The chai stands out among other drinks like espresso and matcha for its quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be delicious and great."

"The bathroom was surprisingly clean."

"I enjoyed the great chai with oat milk."

Good to know

1

The prices at this shop are reasonable for a downtown Brooklyn location.

2

The price of $3.25 for a croissant is considered a steal in the area.

3

There are quite a few seats available.

24
Kolkata Chai Co - Nolita image 1

Small space with colonial India-inspired decor and South Asian twist creates a cozy, lively vibe. Outdoor seating offers a chill atmosphere that expands limited indoor space. Music plays loudly, adding to the energetic feel while a No Laptops rule encourages socializing.

Restrooms stay consistently very clean and well maintained.

Masala chai here tastes just like the ones from Delhi, full-bodied and very flavorful. The chai soft serve and lavender iced chai stand out as exceptional and unique offerings.

People are saying

"I found the chai to be perfectly spiced and not too sweet."

"I thought the chai soft serve was to die for."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

The chai soft serve ice cream is seasonal and only available in summer.

2

They run out of soft serve chai ice cream, especially on weekends.

3

There is no seating at all, making it a grab-and-go spot.

25
Moka Mo coffee House image 1

Cozy yet chic space with quiet atmosphere and no music, allowing easy conversation. Walls display AI art, adding a modern touch despite mixed reactions. Offers halal meat and bakery items, including notable pastries and cheesecake.

Cleanliness stands out with a clean toilet and clean bathroom. Access includes free water and restrooms available inside.

Strong homemade spices give the chai a rich, comforting flavor. It tastes authentic and invites daily enjoyment.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and really fresh."

"I found the spiced chai to be the best I ever had."

"The bathroom here was clean."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times for Yemeni spiced coffees due to their preparation.

2

The coffee shop offers halal meat options for food items.

26
Black Fox Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Open-air coffee spot sits within a lush urban garden featuring a glass canopy and marble and walnut finishes. Atmosphere stays calm and cozy, with spacious seating and peaceful water features. Visitors enjoy a semi-enclosed outdoor space filled with greenery and natural light.

Large and very clean, the restroom stands out as one of the nicest public bathrooms around. It offers a beautiful design and a spacious layout that makes it comfortable to use.

Sesame chai stands out with house made oat milk and tahini adding unique flavor. Iced chai latte and chai lattes come highly recommended alongside pastries.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying their creative, flavored lattes."

"The bathroom here is surprisingly large and really clean."

"I really enjoyed their fantastic chai latte."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop closes at 4 PM, not 5 PM as stated.

2

Ordering is takeout only, with no indoor seating available.

3

Expect a maximum 5-minute wait for coffee orders.

27
Picky Barista image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers cozy, welcoming vibe with plentiful indoor and outdoor seating including open garage doors for fresh air. Wood decor and books create a relaxed atmosphere suited for work or casual chats. Free wifi is available, though sometimes spotty.

Clean toilets and a well-maintained restroom show clear attention to detail. Having a toilet available makes this spot stand out among others nearby.

Iced chai lattes stand out with their rich flavor and smooth texture. Unique options like the Caramel Apple Cider Chai and dirty chai add variety to the chai selection.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was excellent and delicious."

"It's a super cozy place, perfect for reading."

"I found the iced chai here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a happy hour at this place.

2

The Picky Barista location holds events like standup comedy.

3

This coffee shop doesn't allow computers on the weekend.

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