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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the LES

Coffee and pastries

Made for those who believe a cup of coffee is incomplete without a fresh, buttery pastry to accompany it.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mandrake Café image 1
Mandrake Café image 2
Mandrake Café image 3
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Espresso bar

Small, cozy espresso bar with thoughtfully curated interiors and a modern, light-soaked space. Atmosphere feels comfortable and calming, suited for quick visits rather than long stays. Known for authentic Mexican pastries and well-made coffee, it offers a unique, charming vibe in a compact setting.

Coffee here features a rich deep flavor with smooth taste and balanced bitter notes. The Roma latte stands out with chocolatey and nutty hints, reminiscent of Ferrero Rocher. Drinks like cortados and Americanos are made with consistent care and quality.

Freshness stands out with almond cream pastry and other baked goods. Pastries pair well with Mexican coffee for a solid morning treat.

People are saying

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

"It's a really cozy spot with a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

"The pastries here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

There are only a few tables available, so plan accordingly.

2

The café focuses on a strong coffee program with limited tea options.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other NYC coffee shops.

02
Kaida Coffee and Bakery image 1

Small coffee shop offers cozy atmosphere with fast WiFi and power outlets ideal for working. Music plays softly, creating a relaxed vibe. Pastries stand out as incredibly delicious, complementing a menu with unique dairy-free options.

Coffee here is rich and smooth with a sweet vanilla foam cold brew and tasty espresso options. Service is quick and the pastries complement the drinks well.

Fresh pastries come out delicious and solid with a yummy taste. Only a few remain near closing, showing steady demand.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"This cafe has top-tier coffee and amazing pastries."

"The pastries here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The cappuccino costs $7.78, plus a tip, totaling over $8.

2

The cafe offers unique menu options, including matcha drinks and dairy-free milks.

3

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended for more pastry options.

03
Joey Bats Café at The Essex Market image 1

Modern, sporty space offers heated outdoor seating and live music, attracting a fashionable crowd. Espresso powered by Delta coffee pairs perfectly with authentic Portuguese egg tarts featuring a flaky crust and sweet flavor. Cozy vibe blends well with quality pastries and rich coffee.

Delta, a Portuguese coffee brand, powers the espresso here with an industrial strength machine that creates a lasting crème. Coffee drinks come with pastéis de nata, a sweet treat that pairs well with the rich espresso.

Pastries feature a flaky crust and a smooth, sweet taste with a heavenly flavor. Portuguese options like Pastel de Nata stand out, and frozen pastries keep their quality well.

People are saying

"I declared it my new favorite pastry after trying it."

"The coffee here is amazing, especially the original."

"You should try the chocolate pastel de natas if you're a fan."

Good to know

1

The price of one pastel de nata is $4, which is quite expensive compared to $1.20 in Lisbon.

2

You can only visit this place during good weather as there is no indoor dining.

3

On Sundays, the venue has live music and everyone dances Forró.

04
Rex image 1
Cafe

Cozy café with soft lighting and comfortable seating creates a relaxed vibe ideal for work or unwinding. Walls display cool old photographs, adding character to the space. Pet friendly atmosphere complements a welcoming, casual energy.

Coffee here has a rich, aromatic flavor and a smooth finish. Options include creamy lattes, strong espressos, and refreshing iced coffees.

Fresh pastries include buttery croissants and mouthwatering banana bread. Gluten-free options like focaccia and English muffins come from the in-house kitchen.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be truly amazing and delicious."

"It's so cozy and welcoming, a perfect spot to unwind."

"I loved the fresh, homemade pastries here."

Good to know

1

Rex offers an incredible happy hour deal with a mimosa after work for $7.

2

Rex stayed open until 12:30, perfect for late night studying.

3

Rex offers all-day happy hour.

05
Caffe Vita image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with a tiny bar-like feel and limited seating, mostly for takeout. Atmosphere is hip and classy with fantastic music that creates a chill, artsy vibe. Space encourages quick visits rather than lingering.

Coffee here stands out for its exceptional quality and consistent excellence across all baristas and times. Specialty drinks like the rose cardamom latte and Yuzu espresso soda add unique flavors to the lineup.

Fresh pastries are available, with some people finding them life-changing while others see them as average. Heating pastries is not offered here.

People are saying

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

"I thought their latte was the most delicious I ever tasted."

"I enjoyed the espresso and found the baristas cool."

Good to know

1

There is a limit of two customers allowed inside at a time.

2

Customers must wait outside for the next guest to come out before entering.

3

There is no dine-in option, only take out.

06
Smiley Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Vintage design and European cafe culture create a cozy, inviting atmosphere with laid-back vibes. Jazz music plays softly, enhancing the warm and quirky setting. People enjoy great coffee and pastries in a space that feels like a scene from a romantic movie.

Cold brew and drip coffee stand out for their great taste and reasonable prices. The matcha latte is also highly recommended, served in a spot that balances quality coffee with a welcoming vibe.

Delicious pastries come with excellent quality and reasonable prices. Coffee pairs well with these fresh baked goods.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious, fabulous coffee here."

"The cafe staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"The pastries here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Smiley Coffee does not accept cash payments; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of coffee options, catering to all preferences.

3

Pricing at Smiley Coffee is reasonable, making it accessible for most visitors.

07
Allan's Bakery image 1

Small modern bakery offers Caribbean pastries with a brightly lit, clean interior and grab-and-go setup. Atmosphere feels chic yet sparse, focusing on quick service without seating. Prices remain affordable compared to typical city rates.

Iced coffee here is very creamy and not acidic. Coffee and tea drinks come alongside a small menu of savory and sweet items.

Caribbean pastries offer rich butteriness and a blend of spices with sweet currants that stand out. The guava pastry competes with well-known options and the selection is both interesting and affordable.

People are saying

"The Caribbean bread and pastries here are unbelievably delicious."

"I found the pastries here to be super tasty and delicious."

"The beef patty's crust was perfect and seasoned well."

Good to know

1

Allan’s Bakery offers a variety of Caribbean pastries and savory items.

2

Prices are very reasonable compared to most cafes in the area.

3

There is no real seating in the shop as it is a compact space.

08
GATHER espresso & wine bar image 1

Super sleek, spacious cafe with modern, artistic decor creates a bright, warm atmosphere. Plenty of seating and outlets make it laptop friendly and welcoming for work or casual hangouts. The vibe blends chic and cozy styles, attracting a friendly, neighborhood crowd.

Coffee here offers a solidly quality brew with consistent preparation. The Spanish latte and mocha lattes stand out for their rich, delicious flavors.

Fresh pastries come with a variety of options alongside sandwiches and salads. The pastries pair well with coffee and cider, offering a satisfying treat.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and tasty."

"It's a great work-friendly spot to post up all day."

"The pastries here are amazing, and the staff is super friendly."

Good to know

1

Gather is family-friendly, making it a good spot for families to dine.

2

The food menu includes a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.

3

There are many tables available for working or hanging out.

09
Davidovich Bagel Cafe image 1

Small cafe with four tables and a full coffee bar offers a cozy, homey vibe and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. The space feels cute and charming with fresh daily-made products and a variety of vegan options.

Ice coffee stands out as amazing and the Dulce de Leche Latte features high quality caramel. Espresso drinks tend to be small and thin, with iced lattes tasting like milk with a splash of drip coffee.

Breakfast includes fresh pastries alongside bagels that many choose regularly. Pastries serve well as gifts or treats for others.

People are saying

"I found the bagels here to be really delicious and fresh."

"Victoria at the cafe is the sweetest, she even gave me a muffin."

"I always got my bagels and pastries here."

Good to know

1

The prices at this cafe are very good compared to some other places in the area.

2

The bagel selection at Davidovich is great.

3

There is a great variety of bread options available, including rainbow colored ones.

10
Ost Cafe image 1

Cozy space with comfortable seating and natural light creates a relaxed vibe. Friendly atmosphere encourages greetings and quiet conversations, supported by old-school jazz music. Frequented by locals, it serves as a casual spot for meetings and neighborhood gatherings.

Coffee here is strong but not bitter, made from great beans with a proper roast. Cold brew is decently strong and smooth, and lattes come with tasty pastries like scones.

Pastries come with great flavor and pair well with coffee and tea. They consistently deliver excellent quality alongside the drinks.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent and tasty."

"It's so cozy with lovely interiors and a neighborhood vibe."

"The pastries here are delicious with a great cup of coffee."

Good to know

1

They let you use the bathroom if you get coffee.

2

The pastry menu is limited after noon.

3

During COVID times, there is no inside seating.

11
Pause Cafe image 1

Moroccan-inspired decor fills indoor and outdoor spaces with cozy cushions and plenty of outlets. Loud music sets a vibey atmosphere where people mostly study or work. Covered outdoor seating and high-speed WiFi support long visits.

Strong, flavorful coffee stands out here, especially the dirty chai latte with oatmilk. Pastries complement the drinks well, and the spot offers a cozy, buzzy vibe good for working on a laptop.

Pastries come in a wide variety and pair well with great coffee and smoothies. The selection includes breakfast sandwiches and crepes, all served fresh in a lively, casual setting.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast here was spectacular and worth the price."

"I thought the coffee here was great."

"I found the pastries here to be fresh and exceeded my expectations."

Good to know

1

The cafe has a no laptops allowed policy.

2

You order at the counter and then sit down.

3

The restaurant opens at 7am and closes at 8pm.

12
Oi bozu image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior blends modern design with a cozy cafe vibe and Japanese music for a relaxed feel. Coffee shines with fruity drip and a roasty hoji latte with frothy skim milk foam. Pastries come in several varieties with a buy one get one half off deal, perfect for a casual treat.

Drip coffee tastes fruity and stands out as some of the best around. The hoji latte offers a roasty sweetness with the frothiest foam made from skim milk. Tiramisu latte also comes highly recommended.

Pastries come with a buy one get one half off deal. They are ready-made, unlike the made-to-order coffee and rice bowls. Several varieties are available to choose from.

People are saying

"You have to try the sushi bombs; they're playful and flavorful."

"I thought the coffee here was great."

"I loved the buttery, flaky pastry here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour includes sushi and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

For the soft opening, they offer free drip coffee with a pastry purchase.

3

The cafe transforms into a bar/izakaya at night.

13
cha & image 1
Cafe

Minimalist interior with natural light creates a calm vibe perfect for quiet chats or solo work. Unique coffee blends mix tea and condensed milk, with a weekday morning deal on hot or iced coffee. Pastries offer great flavor, and staff provide discounts when items sell out.

Coffee here blends tea, coffee, and condensed milk for unique drinks. The space offers extra seating and WiFi with a calm vibe, plus a weekday morning deal on hot or iced coffee.

Pastries come with great flavor and a delicious taste. Staff show accommodation by offering discounts when items sell out.

People are saying

"I found the tea latte to be the best."

"The staff here was really nice and friendly."

"I wished they offered a larger version of the Black Matcha."

Good to know

1

The grand opening of the cafe is on September 7.

2

Reservations are needed for the tea flight experience.

3

The cafe does not accept cash, only cards.

14
Supermoon Bakehouse image 1

Minimalist bakery offers a cozy outdoor seating area with no indoor seats. Pastries impress with unique flavors and generous sizes. Cold brew delivers an amazing flavor and smooth finish, making it a top choice for coffee lovers.

Cold brew stands out with its amazing flavor and smooth finish. It ranks as one of the best cold brews available.

Pastries stand out for their unique flavors and high quality ingredients. They come in generous sizes and offer a delightful, aesthetic experience.

People are saying

"The pastries here are amazingly creative and delicious."

"The Nutella croissant was pure bliss and generously filled."

"The pastries here are amazing and unique."

Good to know

1

They only accept cards and do not accept cash.

2

Check their working days and hours before visiting as they don’t open every day.

3

Get there early as a line forms before they open.

15
Dialogue Coffee & Flowers image 1

Coffee shop with floral decor featuring hanging vials and bouquets creates a cozy, mellow vibe ideal for focused work or quiet reading. Space fills with people using laptops and books, supported by reliable wifi and outlets. Rustic design with natural lighting enhances a calm, inviting atmosphere.

Coffee here features unique Asian flavors like fermented rice osmanthus and hojicha. Creative drinks include a carrot cake latte and cold foam osmanthus latte, all served in a cozy, woodsy setting.

All pastries are vegan and pair well with coffee. The selection invites sitting down to enjoy a relaxed moment.

People are saying

"I loved the dairy-free cold foams; they were just as thick as dairy ones."

"The carrot cake latte tastes just like carrot cake."

"The pastries here are so cute and lovely."

Good to know

1

Expect difficulty finding seating on weekends due to crowds.

2

Everything is vegan and there is no cow's milk.

3

The seating arrangement is very tight when the cafe is packed.

16
Café d’Avignon image 1

European-style bakery offers impeccable bread and buttery pastries with a relaxed vibe and outdoor seating. The space feels compact, and the atmosphere suits quick breakfasts or light lunches. Coffee serves hot in disposable cups, complementing the overall casual experience.

Coffee comes strong and well-balanced with consistently high quality every day. Baristas add a personal touch with latte art, and options include oat milk and unique flavors like salted maple latte.

Flaky pastries and a great variety of baked goods fill the case, including a Chocolatine and almond pastry. The Black Forest Ham and Sea Salted Butter on a baguette stands out among the selection.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious and excellent."

"Their breakfast sandwiches and pastries are some of the best."

"I found the pastries here to be some of the best."

Good to know

1

The wait times can be long on weekends, so plan accordingly.

2

They close early often, so check hours before visiting.

3

The bakery charges extra for milk and butter, so expect higher prices.

17
Davidovich Cafe image 1

Space combines stylish design with a homey vibe, creating an inviting atmosphere. Bagels stand out for their freshness and colorful presentation, especially the rainbow variety. Pastries receive positive attention for quality and flavor, contributing to a satisfying experience.

Coffee here stands out with really great flavor and perfect lattes. Options like cold brew and Cloud Coffee Iced offer refreshing choices alongside solid classics.

Bagels and cream cheese stand out among the pastries. The selection includes feta and spinach pastry and croissants. Pastries often come with coffee or tea.

People are saying

"These bagels are the best I've ever had, so fresh and flavorful."

"I really enjoyed their delicious coffee."

"I am hooked on these blueberry scones; they're not dry."

Good to know

1

The Clinton St location closes soon after 4:30 PM on Thursdays.

2

Be prepared to wait 20 minutes for a single toasted bagel depending on who is managing.

3

The cost of a croissant with cream cheese and jelly is $6.80.

18
Clinton St. Baking Company image 1
American restaurant

Small, busy restaurant with cramped seating and wrap-around windows offering city views. Atmosphere is warm and noisy, with fans instead of air conditioning and frequent interruptions. Popular spot known for best pancakes and a message-alert system for table readiness.

Coffees here pair well with breakfast dishes like pancakes and eggs. The coffee is consistently delicious and complements the fresh juices and biscuits served.

Freshness stands out with fresh and delicious pastries available at the takeaway window. The pastry chef's skill shows in the quality of breads and items like the chocolate scone.

People are saying

"These pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and worth the price."

"The coffee here is really delicious and well prepared."

"The pastries here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required on weekends and highly recommended during the week.

2

Expect wait times of up to an hour during peak hours.

3

Get there early to avoid long lines, especially for breakfast.

19
Ludlow Coffee Supply image 1

Small space with 80’s retro flair and vintage clothing creates a unique setting. Loud Top 40 and Hip-Hop music fills the air, making it lively but not ideal for quiet work. Plenty of power outlets and free Wi-Fi support remote work, attracting many with laptops and business chats.

Coffee here stands out for its excellent Kenyan drip and Vietnamese Iced Coffee. Baristas serve strong, high-quality brews that attract many working on laptops.

Pastries come fresh daily with vegan and gluten-free options. They taste very good and stand out compared to other coffee shops nearby.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their really good coffee and espresso."

"I thought the coffee at this cafe was delicious and well made."

"I enjoyed their great coffee and morning pastries."

Good to know

1

The café serves excellent Kenyan drip coffee for $2.75 and various espresso drinks.

2

Finding a seat can be challenging in the mornings due to crowding.

3

There is limited seating for work, so arrive early to snag a table.

20
Essex Market image 1
Produce market

Spanning three floors, the market buzzes with authentic NYC energy and a lively bar scene. Specialty coffee vendors serve Vietnamese iced coffee alongside artisanal brews. Freshly baked French pastries add a high-end touch to the diverse food stalls.

A wide range of specialty coffee options exists alongside Vietnamese iced coffee and freshly brewed cups. Multiple vendors offer artisanal coffee paired with baked goods and global street food.

Freshly baked French pastries stand out among a variety of options. Pastries come from vendors offering high-end and authentic selections alongside other foods.

People are saying

"This market has so many delicious food options to explore."

"I enjoyed a great cup of coffee here."

"The buttery pastries here are so impressive."

Good to know

1

Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.

2

The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.

3

Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.

21
Georgie’s Cafe & Bar image 1

Large open space filled with gigantic living plants and floor-to-ceiling windows creates a plant-forward ambience with natural sunlight. Atmosphere stays tranquil and cozy, ideal for studying or working with ample seating and some power outlets. Wi-Fi is available but can be spotty, and the vibe reflects a modern Hong Kong style.

Open late for late-night coffee, this cafe offers a solid spot to work or relax. The latte art stands out, and the coffee pairs well with their granola bowl or snacks.

Asian pastries come with cappuccinos and tea, offering a delicious pairing. The pastry selection is limited but good enough to enjoy while working or relaxing.

People are saying

"It's a great work-friendly spot with natural light and plants."

"This spacious, plant-filled coffee spot is gorgeous and airy."

"The pastries here feel like they're in a botanical garden."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located on the second floor, making it easy to miss.

2

Seating becomes limited in the afternoon, so arrive early.

3

Wi-Fi connectivity is spotty; it may stop working after a few hours.

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