Travel
The very best espresso in NYC
Catie Kelly, Lonely Planet’s Government Vice President, moved to NYC in 2023. Comply with her quest to get to know town, one cup of espresso at a time.
I’m a espresso connoisseur.
So after I relocated to New York City final yr – after dwelling a little bit of a nomadic life in locations like Charlotte, North Carolina; Cleveland, Ohio; and London, England – I believed I’d put my espresso like to good use. So to get the lay of the land in my new hometown, I challenged myself. I’d drink 100 cups of espresso, from 100 totally different espresso spots.
In Cleveland and Charlotte, the concept of craft espresso was nonetheless new – these cities solely have a handful of locations that fee excessive on the coffee-culture chart. London already had a espresso tradition, although after I lived there, my espresso palate wasn’t as refined. I bear in mind vividly strolling round London consuming a Pret espresso and dunking a croissant in it. There, that felt like probably the most regular factor on the earth.
A gentlewoman in New York
I didn’t know most of the neighborhoods in New York. And I needed to. Notably ones close to my dwelling and workplace, however there have been different areas I needed to discover out of curiosity. This espresso quest gave me the drive to find totally different components of town, and to immerse myself of their specific vibe, which I discovered matched up properly with the extra in style espresso outlets.
On the Higher East Facet, the perfect espresso is Ralph’s, the place Ralph Lauren’s preppy, clubby model is unmistakable. I discovered that individuals on the Brooklyn outlets are friendlier, whereas the West Village is stylish and vibrant, and everybody appears to be doing crucial issues.
To curate the checklist of espresso outlets and cafes I’d enterprise to; I watched a lot of TikToks of different individuals attempting espresso. I additionally in all probability learn one million pages on Google. Earlier than I knew it, I had an inventory of 20 outlets. Then I turned it right into a shareable notice to which others might add their favorites.
Wish to know extra about the place the locals eat in Brooklyn? Try our list of the best bites, by our personal Brooklynite Chamidae Ford.
Tasting notes
My ranking system was primarily based on my style alone. Generally my ranking has extra to do with the vibe or vitality of the espresso store than the rest. Three vital particulars about my problem:
- My taste profile is creamy and easy; I keep away from something bitter or acidic.
- I ordered the identical plain latte, generally sizzling generally iced, all over the place I went to make sure that my scores and comparisons had been…scientifically legitimate(ish).
- I rated every spot 1, 2 or 3, with 1 being the very best – these locations I’d enthusiastically advocate. A 2 signifies a much less enthusiastic suggestion – it’ll do if you happen to’re close by. And three – nicely, we gained’t discuss in regards to the 3s.
A couple of extra particulars from my quest: I realized that the expertise of a restaurant improved primarily based on…nicely, not the precise espresso. A heat smile, a thoughtfully designed paper cup, the vibe within the cafe: these components often affected my ranking.
I undoubtedly drank extra iced lattes alongside the best way and located the scale and high quality of the ice affected the espresso’s style profile. (Nobody likes a watery latte.) Additionally, New York Metropolis has banned plastic straws (yay setting!) – however paper straws don’t fairly do it for me as a alternative. Since I couldn’t rely on the identical sipping expertise with no respectable straw, I like to recommend carrying a pleasant steel one with you.
Out of the 100 coffees I attempted and examined, solely 78 had been in tier 1 or 2. You could discover many neighborhoods on this checklist are close to each other – however I’ve a busy job and will solely enterprise to date afield. So that is under no circumstances an entire checklist for the whole metropolis.
However it’s adequate for me, and I hope it’s useful and galvanizing for you.
The outcomes are in…
With out additional ado, listed here are my high espresso outlets, together with just a few temporary and unembellished notes I took whereas consuming.
1. Koré Coffee (Chinatown)
This place is the one which blew me away probably the most. Normal espresso is scrumptious and made with care. The tiramisu latte is an enormous deal with – an enormous standout of the entire journey. Subsequent stage. This store rotates a really creative menu so if you wish to strive one thing seasonal or new, cease by, however notice the store has restricted seating.
2. Devoción (Flatiron and different places)
Service is excellent. At all times a queue; by no means an enormous wait. Should you like easy espresso, do this place. Very silky, very yum – the extra I’ve, the extra I would like. Additionally, they’ve one in all my favourite plain croissants. Bonus: pistachio milk. Devoción roasts single origin espresso from Colombia and boasts the freshest espresso – they course of their beans in as few as 10 days earlier than they make it to the roaster in Brooklyn!
3. Stumptown (Greenwich Village and different places)
Seattle roaster. Very creamy. Oat milk is their normal, so it is advisable choose into dairy. Additionally they promote foil-wrapped King David breakfast tacos (made at their headquarters in Brooklyn). Order the PEC (potato, egg and cheese) with inexperienced salsa. It is a winner. Stumptown has actually moved previous being an area store, as their espresso could be bought at Goal or loved on an Alaska Airways flight, however I stand by the truth that the in-store espresso tastes really scrumptious.
4. Interlude (Tribeca)
Their iced latte may be very creamy. The blocks of ice are excellent. Get the honey butter scone. I’ve heard the meringue pop tart can also be a particular deal with however have to be pre-ordered. Interlude roasts espresso from George Howell Espresso, who is called a legend within the espresso business.
5. Buddies (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Tiny store, and filled with character and good vibes. They roast all of their very own beans, and the espresso is totally delish – it was my first expertise being served espresso in an “Anthora” New York City to-go paper cup. It felt iconic. Additionally of notice: This ubiquitous NYC cup is so beloved that there is a ceramic model bought on the MoMa Design Store.
6. Kobrick Coffee (Meatpacking District)
So old-school that it has been round for over 104 years, and it is one of many cities oldest roasters. 4 generations of Kobrick have made this espresso their livelihood, they usually’ve had the identical roastmaster for over 30 years. Their iced latte is supreme to near-perfect – sturdy ice cubes, creamy milk, and a pleasant straw. A lot of seating obtainable (each inside and outdoors).
7. WatchHouse (Midtown)
This was a late-breaking addition to my checklist. I adored WatchHouse after I lived in London, and it simply opened an outpost in Midtown. I really like that the usual latte is served as 8 ounces (versus the standard 12) – this feels extra coffee-forward with a touch of sweetness and creaminess. They’ve nice branding. Their sandwiches appeared tempting
8. Ninth Street Espresso (East Village and different places)
One in every of few outlets that also takes money (and also you get a reduction!). This store has zero faff and feels really native. I laughed after I checked out their web site, which claimed they’re dedicated to snobbery-free customer support,” they usually undoubtedly nail it. Their first store opened in 2001 on East ninth Avenue, and has since expanded to extra places in NYC, Brooklyn, and Lengthy Island Metropolis.
9. Cafe Integral (SoHo)
Feels native with actually well-done espresso. It’s a heat store seemingly all the time crammed to the brim with individuals having fun with one another’s firm. Opened in 2012, Cafe Integral roasts Nicaraguan espresso, the place the house owners are from. Should you’re up for one thing distinctive, strive the Horchata latte or the Olivia, an iced drink with espresso, almond milk, and dates.
10. % arabica (Dumbo and different places)
Feels very craft. It takes them some time to make your espresso, nevertheless it’s tasty. The Dumbo location has a beautiful view of the Brooklyn Bridge, they usually simply opened a second store in SoHo. Its first was in Kyoto, Japan. They’ve over 150 outlets worldwide – they’ve 70 outposts in China alone.
11. Enly Coffee (SoHo)
A really floral-forward espresso store. Actually impressed by their menu variation – in addition they have cocktails. Additionally, Enly began as a candle store so it’s also possible to buy a really luxe candle. After visiting I observed it was blowing up on TikTok, which defined the hefty queue. Nonetheless completely value it!
12. Abraço (East Village)
Should you google “greatest espresso in NYC,” Abraço will come up. Their espresso is just too daring or intense for my profile, however I actually respect this store and its dedication to the craft of espresso. The olive oil cake was stable, and I used to be undoubtedly tempted by their frittata. Essential notice: This store is closed on Mondays.
13. Fellini (West Village and different places)
If you wish to fake you are in a beautiful European espresso store and never NYC, go right here. The West Village store is tiny. I drank a espresso subsequent to a woman in a beret – what enjoyable! I really like that the espresso is served at an out of doors window, and others appear to love it, too. Fellini just lately expanded to SoHo and can launch one other new store in Chelsea quickly! Additionally they serve wine within the afternoon.
The runners-up
Listed below are the opposite spots I cherished probably the most. These remaining espresso outlets are categorized into two tiers to distinguish between those I cherished versus these I simply favored.
Tier 1: I’ll be going again. And infrequently.
A number of NYC places:
:3
Amano Cafe
Blue Bottle
Café Kistuné
Drip
Coffee RX
Cōpper Mug
Hungry Ghost
Irving Farm
La Cabra
Partners
Plantshed
Variety
White Noise
Single location:
Little Canal (Decrease East Facet)
Rigor Hill (Tribeca)
Butler Bakeshop (SoHo)
Brewlita (Nolita)
Cafe Lyria (Soho)
The Lost Draft (Nolita)
Do Not Feed Alligators (West Village)
The Elk (West Village)
Cafe Panino Mucho Giusto (West Village)
Lê Phin (East Village)
Mud (East Village)
Foreigner (Flatiron)
Gotham City Roasters (Flatiron)
Third Rail Coffee (Greenwich Village)
Kona Coffee Roasters (Chelsea)
Yanni’s (Chelsea)
Artison Flowers and Cafe (Union Sq.)
Sorella Coffee (Kips Bay)
10000 (Midtown)
Common Address (Midtown West)
Remi Flower and Coffee (East Village)
Mast Market (Higher West Facet)
Gertrude (Higher West Facet)
Plowshares (Harlem)
Tier 2: I’d return, however provided that I occur to be close by.
A number of NYC places:
787
Bluestone Lane
Bourke Street Bakery
Drip Coffee
For Five Coffee
Ground Central
Gumption
La Colombe
Marathon
Madman Espresso
Mah-Ze-Dahr
Poetica Coffee
Ralph’s Coffee
Seven Grams
Single location:
Kaffe Landskap (Tribeca)
Current Coffee (Bowery)
Gasoline Alley (SoHo)
Urban Backyard (Nolita)
Pâtisserie Fouet (Greenwich Village)
Merriweather (West Village)
Smør Bakery (East Village)
Felix Roasting Co. (Nomad)
Terremoto (Meatpacking)
Intelligentsia (Chelsea)
Aficionado (Midtown)
Loveless (Williamsburg)
Sey Coffee (Williamsburg)
Rhythm Zero (Greenpoint)
Room 205 (Gowanus)
Final, however undoubtedly least
There have been round 20 outlets that I merely can not advocate as a result of their espresso…was too bitter, was not sturdy sufficient, had an excessive amount of acid, appeared stylish and tasted unhealthy, tasted too candy, got here on the fallacious temperature…or was merely gross.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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