The Best Coffee Shops in New York State
Written for: Time Out New York State in association with the New York Lottery
The great American songwriter Frank Loesser said it best:
'If I can't take
My coffee break,
Something within me dies.'
Relatable! Whether you’re on the road to work, in the middle of an all-nighter, or just in desperate need of that pick-me-up, never fear. From Long Island to Buffalo, here is your java-lover’s guide to the best coffee shops in New York State.
1. Soul Brew
Long Island (Huntington)
Your body is a temple, and it requires Soul Brew. Minutes away from the north face of Long Island, this specialty coffee shop and eatery is dedicated to two things: 1) good vibes only, and 2) brewing only 100% organic fair trade coffee and tea from neighboring communities. Stop by to check out why this cafe is called Long Island’s coffee shop “Nirvana.”
Manhattan (Greenwich Village)
Stumped about where to find your next caffeine fix in NYC? Look no further than Stumptown Coffee Roasters. A Portland original, this Greenwich Village cafe has quickly become a neighborhood cornerstone featuring a full espresso bar, drip coffee, and brew-by-the-cup. The perfect place to pick up your morning red eye and go for a stroll through Washington Square Park.
Westchester (Pelham)
Tradition has flowed freely through the caffeine-infused veins of Caffè Ammi Roasting Co since 1963. Operated by third-generation coffee roasters, this “Brooklyn vibe in Pelham” sources its beans from around the globe and processes them on-site in their state-of-the-art roastery and tasting room, which are open daily to visitors.
Kingston
Rough Draft is what a bibliophile’s caffeine-induced dreams are made of. Located on one of Kingston’s historic four corners, this cafe and bookstore has maintained all its rustic charm of a pre-Revolutionary War haven while serving up today’s best single-origin coffee from Counter Culture Coffee.
Albany
Nestled on the edge of downtown Albany’s historical Center Square stands the 19th century James Holroyd Mansion. And on it’s grounds, the Iron Gate Cafe, the most picturesque coffee shop with a garden patio to complete the experience. Come for the signature blend espresso, stay for the seasonal brunch menu, and leave with a little history in your pocket.
Syracuse
Peaks Coffee Co. understands, the hardest part of any day can be that slow march to the next cup of coffee. So that’s why they’ve built their direct trade and sustainably sourced Syracuse cafe around getting you out of your valley and back to your peak.
Rochester
The only thing served hotter than their globally-sourced coffee beans is their name, Fuego Coffee Roasters. A Rochester staple in third wave coffee--a movement defining coffee as an artform and not just a beverage--this micro-roaster uses hand-brewing techniques to create artisanal, picture-perfect cappuccinos worthy of your next Instastory.
8. SPoT Coffee
Buffalo
If you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere that prioritizes getting to know the community it serves, SPoT Coffee is the spot for you. With dozens of locations throughout the Buffalo area, each cafe is as welcoming as the last, providing every neighborhood with a selection of unparalleled micro-roasted coffees and breakfast served all day.
8/20/21
