The Best Cafes And Coffee Shops In Manhattan's East Village

Sorry gentrification, you’re not going to win: the charm of the East Village is here to stay. With its slew of antique shops and underground karaoke bars, the neighborhood has a lot to enjoy – and its coffee shops are no exception. Look beyond the Starbucks, the Dunkin’ Donuts and the oh-so-trendy matcha cafés, and discover the real deal: quintessential East Village staples and hip hidden spots. Here are some of the best cafés and coffee shops in the East Village that’ll give you that extra pep in your Below 14th Street-strolling step.

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Mudspot

Cafe, Wine Bar, Coffee Shop, Contemporary, American
Question: where have all the hip kids gone? Answer: they haven’t left East Village staple Mudspot. In 2001, Mud Coffee was launched by husband and wife team Greg Northrop and Nina Barott, who started selling their own coffee blend out of an orange van, better known as the Mudtruck. The Mudtruck remains popular for those on the go, but for customers who’d prefer a proper seat rather than a chewing gum-covered stoop, there’s its stationary sister, Mudspot Café. Here, the drinks are served in handmade mugs. The interior is chill and dimly lit, but it’s the secret garden in the back where all the cool kids get their caffeine on. Don’t miss the creamy Mud Mocha. Mudspot also serves American fare (including an all-day breakfast), wine and beer.

Porto Rico Importing Co

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Pub Grub
Since 1907, the three-generation family-owned Porto Rico Importing Co have served what, according to their signage and coffee sleeves, are the “finest coffee and teas.” That would be an understatement. Their fuss-free East Village location is on every true East Villager’s radar, where there’s more offered than just a cup of Joe. You’ll find pour-over coffee makers and espresso machines for purchase, as well as a seriously impressive selection of beans from around the globe, all of which are available through their online store. Porto Rico Importing Co’s loyal fan base might also have something to do with their crazy kinds of cheap bodega-like prices: strong and tasty cold brew for less than three dollars? Make it a large, please!

Hi-Collar

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Bar, Japanese, $

Hi-Collar isn’t your typical coffee shop: it’s a Japanese coffee shop by day and a sake bar by night. You’re going to feel like a VIP here – that is, if you manage to grab a stool. The narrow and deep space, which opened in 2013, only fits about ten at their long brass bar, where super friendly baristas serve strong coffee using various methods: pour over, AeroPress, or (their specialty), Siphon. On a sizzling summer day, gulp down Hi-Collar’s cold brew Mizadashi. Post-caffeine, save room for their insanely fluffy Japanese-style pancakes. Better yet, satisfy your savory tooth with the crispy pork katsu sandwich, a customer favorite. But hurry! There are only approximately 10 servings a day.

Abraço

Coffee Shop, Cafe, American

If you’re looking for the perfect place to unwind and chill, head to Abraço, a counter-serve cafe that locals are particularly fond of. We’d go so far as to say that it’s the coziest cafe in the East Village, with some of the very best coffee in the city. Maybe that’s because they source their beans from South America or because they roast them on site, but either way, be sure to try the Espresso, a customer favorite. And their menu doesn’t stop at coffee; they also serve delicious baked goods, savory small plates and even cocktails. Their homemade olive-oil cake comes highly recommended.