The food and drink scene is definitely the highlight when it comes to discovering a new neighborhood. In a dynamic and bustling area like Chelsea, the competition is high. While many boast about being the top, the truth is that it’s impossible for anyone to afford trying everything without resorting to a personal loan.
Thankfully, I have resided in New York City for more than eight years and continuously find myself returning to Chelsea to explore new coffee spots. As a result, I have compiled a list of the top coffee shops in Chelsea to assist those in search of a delicious cup of coffee.
Top-Rated Cafes in Chelsea for Coffee Lovers
As much as I hate to admit it, I may have gone overboard in my pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee and depleted my life savings (just kidding!). However, after numerous attempts and mistakes, I have compiled this list. Don’t let my poor financial choices (or caffeine-induced nervousness) be in vain!
Without any more delay, we will now dive into the top coffee shops in Chelsea.
Seven Grams Coffee
This cafe may seem familiar to you as it has been consistently featured on numerous lists as one of the top places to get cookies in New York City. Their chocolate chip cookie is a fan favorite, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture. Additionally, Seven Grams is widely recognized as one of the top coffee shops in the Chelsea area.
The reason for naming the coffee shop in Chelsea as Seven Grams is because the owners have a strong belief that the ideal shot of espresso can only be achieved by using precisely 7 grams of high-quality coffee grounds.
I believe the name is appropriate. The coffee is simple and does not require the addition of various milks and flavors. The espresso stands on its own. It is one of the finest coffees in Chelsea, with a strong flavor.
Location: 275 7th Ave, New York, NY 10001.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Originating from the renowned coffee capital of San Francisco, Blue Bottle Coffee has made a name for itself as one of the top coffee establishments in Chelsea. Despite its roots, the city’s reputation for exceptional coffee does not diminish its status as one of the finest coffee shops in the area.
Blue Bottle is a popular coffee brand that is highly sought after by New Yorkers, which is why it can be found all over the city. One of their locations is situated within Hudson Yards, a large shopping center that boasts a variety of upscale stores and dining options.
Blue Bottle Coffee is known for their expertise in pour-over coffee, offering a wide range of delicious drinks. Their menu includes frothy lattes, light cappuccinos, and refreshing iced Americanos, all crafted to perfection.
The ambiance of this coffee shop in Chelsea is light, simplistic, and pristine. Although it may not be the ideal location for studying, it is a perfect place to meet up with a friend.
Location: 228 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10018
Coffee St. Kilda
St. Kilda Coffee in Chelsea is a modest yet exceptional find for those on the hunt for great coffee shops. Upon initial observation, one may not immediately recognize this establishment as a coffee shop due to its use of a groovy, undulating font. Were it not for the strong scent emanating from within, I may have easily overlooked it.
The coffee shop in Australia has a contemporary and simplistic style, with playful touches of green provided by the scattered plants in the cafe. They serve Sey Coffee, which is undoubtedly one of the top choices in NYC, making it a tempting spot to spend a few hours relaxing in Chelsea.
The bold coffee delivers the desired effects of caffeine and the staff is amiable. Don’t hesitate to seek suggestions if you are unsure of what you desire!
Location: 213 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Cafe-Flor
Cafe-Flor is an ample coffee shop ideal for enjoying a cup of coffee and being productive during the daytime, as well as for socializing with friends and relaxing with a glass of wine in the evening.
Cafe-Flor, located in Chelsea, is a unique establishment that combines a coffee shop and a retail store specializing in floral and home decor. As soon as you enter, you are welcomed by a strong scent of coffee and flowers. Therefore, if you are sensitive to strong smells, this may not be the ideal place for you.
The café boasts a plethora of vibrant flowers and impressive artwork adorning its walls. With ample seating available, finding a table to indulge in some food or drinks should not pose a difficulty. The bistro chairs and green leather booths add to the delightful ambiance, solidifying this coffee shop as one of the most charming in Chelsea.
Cafe Flor welcomes laptops and has convenient outlets, making it a popular spot for New Yorkers to work while enjoying a delicious cup of coffee.
Address: 218 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Citizens Chelsea
Established in 2016, this cafe with Australian influences takes pride in fostering a welcoming community and providing a safe haven for savoring a delectable cup of coffee. It rapidly gained recognition as one of the top coffee spots in Chelsea.
Every time I visit Citizens Coffee, I am welcomed by a friendly employee who consistently goes the extra mile. With its delightful staff, delectable food, and charming atmosphere as one of the most adorable cafes in NYC, I am constantly drawn back to this place.
The atmosphere inside is lively and cheerful, adorned with lush foliage and playful tiled flooring. Citizens coffee has successfully achieved a warm and inviting ambiance.
The Smashing Avocado (also known as avocado toast) is a must-try at Citizens Coffee in Chelsea. Made with multigrain toast, this dish is elevated with the addition of pickled onion, feta, and beetroot hummus, making it not only tasty but also unforgettable. From my experience, it is some of the most delicious food you can find at a coffee shop.
Location: The address is 401 W 25th St, located in New York, NY 10001.
787 Coffee
Although this coffee shop in Chelsea may not stand out in the neighborhood, it still deserves recognition. 787 Coffee is undeniably one of the top coffee spots in New York City.
The quality of the coffee is consistently excellent and the baristas are consistently top-notch. What I particularly appreciate about this delightful café is its mission to offer a farm-to-cup coffee experience while also giving back to the local community.
The cafe owners in Puerto Rico cultivate and handle the coffee production on their farm. Their objective is to promote sustainable coffee growth and provide fair wages to the community members they employ. This effort results in exceptional coffee, making it a popular spot among locals in Chelsea. Pay a visit and experience for yourself the reason behind their beloved reputation.
Location: 256 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Variety Coffee Roasters
If you are searching for a top-notch coffee shop in Chelsea where you can work, allow me to recommend Variety Coffee Roasters.
With an abundance of natural light flooding the space, the cafe is an ideal location for studying or working remotely. The ample amount of tables and chairs available means finding a seat should not be an issue. Additionally, there are numerous outlets scattered throughout the coffee shop, making it convenient to charge your laptop and stay for extended periods of time.
What sets Variety Coffee Roasters apart as one of the top coffee shops in Chelsea? It offers a restroom! It’s frustrating how many times I’ve had to leave a café earlier than planned because there was no restroom.
Are there any fans of cold brew here? I have discovered that Variety Coffee Roasters offers some of the best cold brew in NYC, with no sour aftertaste. I highly suggest giving it a try!
Location: 261 7th Avenue, New York City, New York 10001
La Colombe Coffee Roasters
For a scrumptious cup of coffee, there’s no need to search beyond La Colombe Coffee Roasters. This coffee shop in Chelsea is among the top-rated ones, ensuring to fulfill all your caffeine desires.
La Colombe not only offers a variety of coffees, teas, and snacks, but also goes the extra mile by providing unique drinks on tap. This expansion has been so significant that their cold brew and draft coffees are now available in cans at grocery stores nationwide.
It should come as no surprise that La Colombe is featured in a list of the top coffee shops in Chelsea, considering its numerous locations in New York City.
Address: 601 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Bakery by Fabrique
One must not forget to include a bakery when listing the top coffee shops in Chelsea. After all, who can resist indulging in a delectable baked treat to accompany their coffee?
Fabrique Bakery prides itself on creating all their products from scratch and ensuring that they are always served fresh. The bakery, which originated in Stockholm, has since expanded to include two additional locations in London and New York City.
Known for their delectable cardamom buns, believe me when I say, you should hurry and not waste any time – I’m serious! These buns are perfectly dense, bursting with flavor, and unlike any other treat I’ve ever tasted.
If you are unfamiliar with cardamom buns, it can be a little difficult to define them accurately. However, I will attempt to explain. Essentially, cardamom buns can be described as a combination of a cinnamon roll and a pull-apart bread. They usually have a soft and flaky inside, a crispy outside, and are filled with a sweet cardamom coating.
In spite of everything, having a spot is a fortunate circumstance for New York City. I recommend sampling any delicacy offered by Fabrique Bakery while enjoying a cup of the finest coffee in Chelsea.
Location: 348 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10014
Chelsea’s Bean & Bean Coffee Shop
Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters, a coffee shop located in Chelsea, is owned by a woman and is known for serving top-quality coffee in the local area. The establishment was founded nearly 15 years ago by a mother and daughter team and has expanded to four different locations across New York City since its inception in 2008.
The size of each location is considerable, making them some of the most adorable cafes in the city. The presence of big windows allows an abundance of natural light to illuminate the coffee shop, resulting in a welcoming and airy atmosphere.
For those seeking a work-from-home location, this coffee shop in Chelsea is highly recommended. With numerous seating options and available outlets, you can stay for extended periods of time without any inconvenience.
The logo of the company is a charming sloth, but why? Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters discovered an environmental concern in the procurement of coffee beans which posed a threat to the natural habitats of sloths.
As a means of providing assistance, Bean & Bean has joined forces with The Sloth Institute and has pledged to contribute a portion of their online sales to support endangered sloths.
Location: 318 8th Avenue, New York, New York 10001
Terremoto Coffee Room
For those in search of an authentic and high-quality coffee shop in Chelsea, Terremoto Coffee Room is a must-visit. This charming Chelsea establishment has a deliberate and carefully crafted atmosphere.
This establishment is immediately recognizable as one where the satisfaction of its customers and their interactions take precedence, and the quality of the coffee speaks for itself.
The cafe exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere with its interesting artwork and distinctive wallpaper adorning the walls. However, due to its small size, it may not be suitable for socializing indoors. Additionally, guests may be treated to the pleasant sounds of a live jazz band outside the shop as they enjoy their cappuccinos at Terremoto Coffee Room.
Location: 328 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Cafe Telegraphe
Telegraphe Cafe, located in Chelsea, is renowned for its delicious food. With a diverse menu, this coffee shop offers a wide variety of options including sandwiches, soups, and French delicacies.
The coffee shop in Chelsea has been in business since 2003 and is owned and operated by a family. It offers a spacious and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect place to satisfy your hunger.
For a satisfying breakfast, I highly suggest trying the croissant sandwich filled with roasted peppers and onions. To kickstart your day, pair it with a robust cup of coffee and you’ll have the energy to conquer the rest of your day.
Location: 107 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011
Daytime Drinks
Day Drinks, situated in the Chelsea Market, stands out as a distinct coffee shop. What makes this café stand out from others is its resemblance to a cocktail bar. However, the twist is that no alcoholic beverages are offered here, only coffee!
With its brass accents and a bar made of marble, people from all corners of the city flock to this renowned coffee shop in Chelsea.
The concept of “cocktail bar” is fully embraced at Day Drinks, where they offer cold brew on-tap and sparkling tea. A standout feature of this café is the option to personalize the amount of caffeine in your beverage, allowing you to indulge in multiple drinks throughout the day without experiencing excessive jitters.
Location: 425 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Yanni’s Coffee
For those looking for a coffee shop in Chelsea that offers value for both your time and money, Yanni’s Coffee is a must-visit. This charming coffee shop is not only one of the cutest in Chelsea, but it also offers more reasonable prices compared to others.
Before I receive any hate mail, let me address the fact that prices in New York City are incredibly high – a sentiment that I share with you! However, if I am able to purchase an Americano for under $5, it will definitely make it onto my list of the top coffee spots in Chelsea.
Yanni’s is a petite and immaculate café, abundant with natural illumination and featuring seating along the windows, making it an ideal location for observing people. And don’t forget to indulge in a delicacy alongside your coffee, as the pastries are sourced from the renowned Balthazar’s bakery.
Not only does Yanni’s offer some of the most heavenly baked goods, they also go above and beyond by making their own cookies from scratch. With vegan options available, this Chelsea coffee shop has something for everyone seeking an energy boost.
Location: 96 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Kobrick Coffee Co.
For over a century, Kobrick Coffee Company has remained a staple in Chelsea, serving the community with exceptional coffee. Through four generations, the Kobrick family has perfected their roasting technique, turning it into a precise science.
Kobrick Coffee Co. ensures maximum freshness by manually roasting their coffee in limited amounts. They offer Fair Trade, organic, and Rainforest Alliance approved beverages to provide New Yorkers with the assurance of enjoying an environmentally-friendly cup of coffee.
Kobrick Coffee shop offers a wide range of bean-based beverages on their menu. Along with the usual options such as cappuccinos and cold brews, guests can also try out coffee cocktails without any fear of judgement.
Location: 24 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10014
Grumpy Cafe
Although it began in Brooklyn, Cafe Grumpy has now grown to have multiple branches in New York, including one in Chelsea. The ambiance exudes a cozy and welcoming feeling, and the seating options are ample. The outdoor patio in particular caught our attention, providing a tranquil spot to unwind and escape the busy city life.
Cafe Grumpy is primarily known for its coffee selection. They offer a variety of single-origin and blended options, all of which have consistently been of exceptional quality. Their selection of light bites and pastries may not be noteworthy, but they still satisfy. For top-notch coffee in New York City, make your way to Chelsea and visit Cafe Grumpy located at 224 West 20th Street.
Location: 224 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011
Highline Coffeebar by Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia is not limited to only Chelsea, however, it deserves to be mentioned due to the exceptional quality of their coffee and its unbeatable location. The coffee itself is worth mentioning. For those familiar with Intelligentsia, the expectations are clear, but for those who are not, here’s a brief explanation. Intelligentsia procures and roasts top-notch specialty coffee that can rival any other specialty roaster. The coffee is truly exceptional, with the only downside being its cost.
The Highline Coffeebar stands out among the numerous places where you can purchase Intelligentsia coffee. Its outdoor seating area is truly stunning, surrounded by lush green plants that create a peaceful coffee haven amidst the urban landscape. Along with charming local artwork and twinkling string lights in the evenings, Highline Coffeebar offers the perfect cozy setting. You can personally enjoy their coffee and ambiance at High Line Hotel, located on 180 10th Ave at W 20th street.
Location: High Line Hotel 180 10th Ave at, W 20th St, New York, 10011
Born and raised amidst the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, I’ve witnessed the city’s many exciting phases. When I’m not exploring the city or penning down my thoughts, you can find me sipping on a cup of coffee at my favorite local café, playing chess or planning my next trip. For the last twelve years, I’ve been living in South Williamsburg with my partner Berenike.