Sipping Through New York: 3 Coffee Shops That Caught Me Off Guard

If you’re anything like me, discovering new coffee shops is more than just grabbing a cup of caffeine—it’s about the experience. From the vibe of the café to the uniqueness of the drinks, every detail matters. On a recent trip to the New York City area, I visited three different coffee spots—and here’s my honest review of each one.

☕ 1. The Café Presented by Almost Home – 595 Pavonia Ave, Jersey City, NJ

Rating: 8/10

Yes, this one’s not technically in New York City—but hear me out. The Café Presented by Almost Home is just across the river in Jersey City, and it’s absolutely worth the trip.

We tried the Monochrome Latte, which is made with activated charcoal. I’ve only ever had something like this once before—at a cafe in Florida years ago—so when I saw it on the menu, I got way too excited. It’s one of those drinks that just looks cool and luckily, it actually tasted good too. Smooth, bold, and just different in the best way.

We also sampled the Cereal Latte, made with cereal milk. It was fun, nostalgic, and definitely creative. That said, it leaned a bit too milky for my taste—I’m a coffee lover through and through, and I missed the coffee-forward flavor. Still, it’s a cool one-time experience.
Highlights:

• Spacious and welcoming atmosphere
• Great for remote work or catching up with friends
• Unique menu offerings

Drink Ratings:

Cereal Latte: 6/10

Monochrome Latte: 8/10

☕ 2. Mud – 307 E 9th St, New York, NY

Rating: 5/10

This one is a bit of a New York institution, and I was excited to finally try it. The environment has a cool, edgy feel—dim lighting, brick walls, and a no-frills charm. It’s definitely got that local coffeehouse vibe going for it.

We ordered the Iced Mud Drip, which is one of their classics. Personally, it didn’t wow me. It wasn’t bad, but it didn’t stand out either. For me, it lacked that special something you want when exploring a new coffee spot. I’d go back to try another drink, but the drip didn’t make a lasting impression.

Highlights:

• Iconic NYC café with a loyal following
• Edgy, artsy aesthetic
• Probably better known for other drinks

Drink Rating:

• Iced Mud Drip: 5/10

☕ 3. 787 Coffee – 66 Pearl St, New York, NY

Rating: 10/10

This was hands-down my favorite stop of the trip. 787 Coffee is all about quality, culture, and connection—and you feel that the moment you walk in. The baristas were super friendly, and the vibe was warm, modern, and inviting.

I tried the Tres Leches Latte and I would order it a million times over. It was rich, creamy, slightly sweet, and unlike anything I’ve had before. What sets 787 apart is how customizable everything is. You can even choose from three different coffee beans, which is something I’ve never seen offered before. It’s a true coffee lover’s paradise.

Also—your drink comes in a bag. Yep, a coffee bag. It’s quirky, memorable, and somehow makes the whole experience even better.

Highlights:

• Unique, handcrafted lattes
• Customizable bean options
• Friendly staff and aesthetic space
• Drinks served in fun, resealable bags

Drink Rating:

• Tres Leches Latte: 10/10

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a local or planning your next NYC coffee crawl, these shops each offer something special. From charcoal lattes to nostalgic cereal milk creations and ultra-custom coffee bags, there’s a little something for every type of coffee enthusiast.

If you’re looking for the best overall coffee experience—787 Coffee is a must. For a relaxing space and creative drinks just outside the city, The Café Presented by Almost Home is a solid choice. And if you’re curious about NYC staples, give Mud a try (just maybe skip the drip).

Have a favorite coffee shop in NYC that I need to try next? Let me know in the comments!