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10 Best Coffee Shops on the Upper East Side: A Neighborhood Guide
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10 Best Coffee Shops on the Upper East Side: A Neighborhood Guide

The Upper East Side isn’t just about museums and fancy apartments—it’s also home to some seriously good coffee. Whether grabbing a quick espresso on your way to Central Park or looking for a cozy spot to catch up with a friend, this neighborhood has plenty of options. From hidden gems to popular favorites, these 10 coffee shops are serving up the area's best brews, pastries, and vibes. If you’re searching for your next caffeine fix, you’ll want to check these places out.

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Perk Coffee

Tucked away on 97th and 2nd Avenue, Perk Coffee is a neighborhood gem that offers a laid-back atmosphere with fast Wi-Fi and charging stations—a rarity in the city. The almond croissant and scones here are perfect companions to your cup of coffee. It's the ideal spot to get some work done or relax before hopping on the crosstown bus. Customers rave about the friendly service and the quiet vibe that make this small café feel like home.

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Matto Espresso Upper East Side

Matto Espresso on East 68th Street offers some of the best value for coffee on the Upper East Side. At just $3.50 for an iced cappuccino with cold foam and oat milk, you won’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. The vegan bread pudding muffin is a popular treat, and the outdoor seating gives you the option to enjoy the sun while sipping on a perfectly made espresso drink.

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Evelyn Sokolowski

Hex & Company

If you're looking for a unique coffee experience, Hex & Company offers more than just caffeine—it’s NYC’s most sophisticated board game café. Located near the heart of the Upper East Side, this spot pairs high-quality espresso drinks with an extensive library of board games. Pay a small flat rate and you can play games with friends all day, all while enjoying delicious sandwiches, ice cream, and well-crafted lattes.

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Kafe Neo

Kafe Neo is the quintessential neighborhood café with its authentic European vibe, high-quality coffee, and incredible Greek pastries. Locals swear by its seasonal espresso drinks, and many declare it the best coffee on the Upper East Side. The minimalist space adds to its charm, creating an inviting environment for both casual hangouts and focused work sessions. Don't miss out on their buttery pastries, and if you’re into espresso, this might just become your new favorite spot.

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Picky Barista

For a more intimate setting, head to Picky Barista, a cozy family-owned café serving Stumptown coffee. This shop is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to work during the week, or a social hangout on weekends (when they encourage conversation over laptops). The drip coffee is particularly beloved, and the homey vibe makes it easy to see why this place is a neighborhood favorite.

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Kate HighEnergy

Inès

Nestled in the low 70s, it’s the perfect café for breakfast or brunch. The cozy interior, window seating, and friendly staff make it feel welcoming whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go or hanging out with friends. Inès also serves wine and beer, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the neighborhood looking for good vibes and excellent service.

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787 Coffee

Located in an intimate basement space, 787 Coffee delivers bold, unique coffee flavors, including horchata and tres leches lattes, all sourced from Puerto Rico. With its trendy atmosphere and artisanal brews, this café stands out for its fun and flavorful drinks. The eco-conscious approach—serving coffee in biodegradable pouches—adds an extra feel-good factor.

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Wilson Yeung

Green Lane Coffee

A Brooklyn transplant to the Upper East Side, Green Lane Coffee keeps it simple with a focus on excellent espresso drinks and fresh pastries. Though small in size, this café makes a big impression with its warm and welcoming baristas. Whether you’re grabbing an iced Americano or a latte, the quality of the coffee shines through. Outdoor seating adds to the charm, making this a great spot for a quick coffee run or a leisurely afternoon with a good book.

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LeMasters

Gregorys Coffee - Upper East Side

A staple in Manhattan’s coffee scene, Gregorys Coffee is more than just a quick caffeine fix. Their menu features a variety of vegan options and a selection of wellness-focused drinks that are as delicious as they are guilt-free. The spacious seating and cozy decor make it a great spot to relax or get some work done. Whether you’re craving a specialty latte or a classic espresso, Gregorys is known for its consistency and quality.

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Wilson Yeung

Dan Jones

Dan Jones Café, located in a snug corner of the Upper East Side, offers a warm, trendy vibe with an all-day menu featuring croissants, bagels, and their famous avocado toast. Using La Colombe beans for their coffee, they serve some of the best iced lattes and cappuccinos around.

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