Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New York

Chai and sourdough

A cup of chai paired with a slice of toasted sourdough is the simple, grounding meal that clears the head.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Bakery by Textbook image 1
Bakery by Textbook image 2
Bakery by Textbook image 3
View all

Spacious bakery with creative riser seating and artistic decor creates a welcoming, pet-friendly atmosphere. Friendly staff and lively neighborhood vibe make it a community staple. Baking process is visible, adding to the engaging experience.

Chai comes as a latte and an iced option, both well made. Non-dairy milk is available at no extra cost, and a vanilla chai latte is a popular choice.

Fresh baked sourdough stands out with its delicious flavor and versatile use in pizzas and pita. The bread consistently shows a well-crafted texture that complements various dishes.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great because the staff is so friendly."

"I loved the chai latte here."

"I loved the fresh baked sourdough."

Good to know

1

The bakery does not charge more for non-dairy milk.

2

The bread is often sold out by 10am, so arrive early.

3

Most pastries are sold out on Saturday mornings.

02
La Cabra Bakery image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with limited seating fills quickly, creating a cozy but crowded vibe. Bright, minimalistic design with open pastry kitchen showcases skilled baristas and fresh baked goods. Heated outdoor patio offers a calm spot, contrasting the lively indoor energy.

Chai here is perfectly spiced, velvety, and made from fresh ingredients rather than a concentrate. The chai latte pairs well with a cardamom bun for a fragrant combination.

Sourdough bread here has a chewy and tangy texture with a perfect crust and high moisture content. The slices come fresh and are often paired with cardamom buns that draw long lines.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent and well balanced."

"The chai latte here is perfectly spiced, velvety, and creamy."

"I thought the sourdough bread here was the best in the world."

Good to know

1

Seats are very limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

You have to go on time because the products run out fast.

3

There is no bathroom available for customers.

03
Doughnut Plant image 1
Donut shop

Quaint triangle building with creative decor and amusing architectural details sets a warm, inviting atmosphere. Small seating area encourages a relaxed, chill vibe suitable for casual catch-ups. Donuts are widely regarded as exceptional quality and visually appealing.

Masala chai here is authentic and not too sweet, made by steeping rather than using syrup. The chai latte tastes delicious and pairs well with their cream donuts.

Vegan sourdough donuts come with great texture and balanced sweetness, especially the chocolate and strawberry flavors. The Salted Pecan Sourdough stands out with its unique taste.

People are saying

"I thought the donuts here were the best I ever had."

"The salted pecan sourdoughnut is one of the best I've tried."

"I found the masala chai here to be the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The shop is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Come early as everything sells out fast.

3

The price of one doughnut is $5.50.

04
Toastique image 1

Bright space with natural light and modern decor features a wall mural that adds a unique touch. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, offering a relaxed vibe with soft music and smiling faces. Presentation of food is artistic, enhancing the overall inviting and fresh experience.

Spiced chai with agave sweetness stands out here. The chai latte offers a rich, flavorful blend that many find satisfying.

Thick sourdough toast comes topped with herb cream cheese, pickled red onion, and capers for a savory bite. Tuna also pairs well on sourdough here.

People are saying

"The avocado smash toast was amazing and perfect."

"The sourdough toast here is amazing and so flavorful."

"I think the chai latte here is the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Prices are generally high for the portion sizes provided.

2

Expect to pay around $15 for a drink.

3

The location is convenient, just a short walk from Bryant Park.

05
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.

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

Sourdough here stands out for its perfect chewiness and authentic French style with olives. The bread pairs well with fresh mozzarella, creating a simple but satisfying sandwich experience.

People are saying

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

"The sourdough here is heaven, with a crisp crust and soft, stretchy inside."

"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.

06
Little Collins image 1

Small cafe with tight seating and large windows offers a warm, welcoming vibe despite occasional loud music and conversations. The space blends a mom-and-pop feel with modern touches, creating a lively atmosphere during busy times.

Chai latte stands out with a rich, flavorful taste that impresses. It pairs well with breakfast and matches the quality of their coffee.

Sourdough serves as the base for dishes like the avocado smash and the BALT. It appears twice with the BALT, highlighting its role in savory sandwiches.

People are saying

"The coffee here is proper and expertly crafted."

"The chai latte here is perfectly spiced and smooth."

"I had the BALT on sourdough."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait during peak hours.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

3

On weekends, expect a 30-minute wait between 10 and 11 am.

07
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.

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.

Sourdough bread here stands out for its incredible quality and Danish style. Some loaves come with cardamom pastries alongside, but watch out for occasional burnt bread sold at full price.

People are saying

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

"The sourdough bread here is incredible and really good."

"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.

08
Hole In The Wall - FiDi image 1
Australian restaurant

Hole in the wall restaurant offers limited seating with a quiet, calm vibe and a rare outdoor patio that lets sunlight in. The atmosphere includes great music and a relaxed pace, attracting those who appreciate a peaceful brunch setting.

Chai drinks here stand out for their rich flavor and smooth texture. Both chai lattes and chai tea taste very tasty and pair well with other menu items.

Sourdough toast comes with lox, cream cheese, and a poached egg or scallions for a simple touch. Bread slices lean thin, which can affect the balance with toppings like avocado.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious food and coffee."

"The sourdough toast with lox, cream cheese, and a poached egg is awesome."

"The chai latte here is so yummy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Plan to get to Hole In The Wall early if you want to sit indoors, as their brunch gets busy.

2

They don't take reservations, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.

3

You can add yourself to the waitlist and go for a stroll around while waiting.

09
In Common NYC - A Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy cafe with warm wooden decor and natural light creates an inviting atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making the space feel cramped and congested. Music features a strong playlist with artists like Chet Faker and Jungle, adding to a relaxing vibe.

Chai here is not too sweet and pairs well with dishes like shakshuka. The chai latte stands out as a fan favorite alongside other breakfast items.

Sourdough bread comes wonderfully toasted with a crispy outside and fluffy interior. It serves as a base for dishes like shakshuka toast and avocado toast, both featuring thick slices and a homemade quality.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The cranberry sourdough bread was delicious."

"The chai latte was peaceful and wonderful."

Good to know

1

You pay at the counter on your way out.

2

No laptops are allowed in this place.

3

The kitchen closes at 2:30 PM.

10
Citizens Of Soho, A Breakfast Restaurant & Cafe image 1

Exposed brick and neon lights create a modern, stylish vibe with cozy indoor and outdoor seating. Dirty chai latte shines with perfect spice balance and cinnamon topping. Toasted sourdough bread tastes like German bakery quality, making avocado toast with poached eggs a standout.

Dirty chai latte stands out with perfect spice balance and a cinnamon topping. The chai latte offers a rich, spicy flavor similar to a beet latte but with classic chai warmth.

Toasted sourdough bread has a German baker quality with a tasty flavor. Avocado toast comes with poached eggs and uses this good sourdough base.

People are saying

"The servers here make brunch so friendly and attentive."

"I loved their perfectly spiced chai latte with cinnamon."

"The sourdough toast was tasty, like a good German baker's."

Good to know

1

There is no reservation system, so expect possible wait times.

2

We had to wait 1 hour on Sunday to get a table for 5 at 11am.

3

Brunch is available on Sundays and is highly recommended.

11
Parva Bakeshop and Cafe image 1

Small cafe with cozy, intimate atmosphere and cute decor adjoined to a laundromat, allowing customers to enjoy coffee while doing laundry. Space includes a few tables and bar seating, creating a friendly vibe. Beautifully displayed baked goods and a green espresso machine add charm to the neat, clean setting.

Iced Chai Tea Latte and regular chai come with high quality flavors. The chai frappe has a sharp taste that resembles cleaning products.

Sourdough bread comes fresh and flavorful with a notable tang. Jalapeño Cheddar and raisin bagels stand out among the sourdough options. A sourdough loaf offers a solid choice for light snacking.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and piping hot."

"The chai latte is unsweetened and the most flavorful I've ever had."

"I've never had a better croissant than this sourdough."

Good to know

1

Parva offers plant-based milk options for coffee drinks.

2

You can walk between the coffee shop and the laundromat without going outside.

3

The muffins are from Morrison Pastries, not made in-house.

12
Forever Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating indoors and an adorable outdoor area. The vibe is chill and welcoming, suited for slow mornings and casual conversations, but not for laptop work or WiFi use.

Turmeric Chai Latte stands out with its rich flavor. Chai lattes with oat milk taste similar to Starbucks, offering familiar spiced warmth and creamy texture.

Sourdough serves as the base for sandwiches like tuna salad and lox with cream cheese, tomato, and capers. It is the only bread option for some sandwiches, including the bacon, egg, and cheese.

People are saying

"This is my go-to spot for breakfast and coffee."

"I loved the Turmeric Chai Latte."

"The tuna salad on sourdough bread was very tasty."

Good to know

1

Customers must pay the exact amount in cash; no change is given.

2

The coffee shop does not allow laptops and has no WiFi available.

3

Food takes a while to be cooked, so order in advance if in a rush.

13
Citizens Of Chelsea, A Breakfast Restaurant & Cafe image 1

Whimsical decor with pastels and florals creates a lively, Instagram-pretty spot perfect for brunch or study. Hot chai lattes, especially the Dirty Chai, offer a unique twist. Sourdough bread shines in multigrain and classic styles, pairing well with smoked salmon and eggs.

Hot chai lattes come in delicious and inedible versions here. The Dirty Chai adds a unique twist to the usual chai experience.

Sourdough bread comes in multigrain and classic styles, served alongside dishes like smoked salmon and eggs. It has a distinctive flavor that stands out in breakfast options including smashed avo and hash browns.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the chai to be delicious and satisfying."

"I thought their sourdough bread was a must-try."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends.

2

Brunch is a popular time, so arrive early.

3

Breakfast for two can cost around $100.

Discover more

New York

Area guide
Loading Map...