Best Coffee Shops – Upper East Side NYC

One of the BEST UES coffee shops for a solid brunch menu and avocado toast

Bluestone Lane is an Australian-based coffee chain influenced by the cafe culture of Melbourne.

There are several locations in Manhattan and this is by far the most unique as it's nestled next to a beautiful church and features sandstone arches.

Bluestone Lane is a popular brunch spot with a full menu of healthy options like avocado smash toast, gluten-free banana bread with whipped ricotta, and colorful salads. 

There are plenty of tables and chairs outside but very limited seating inside.

If you're coming on the weekend, prepare for a long line if you didn't make a reservation.

One of the BEST UES COFFEE SHOPS for those looking to shop local

This small craft artisan coffee roaster first opened in Williamsburg in 2002. The UES location is a tiny hotspot with locals.

The coffee quality is absolutely outstanding and why Oslo Coffee Roasters has established such a following with New York residents.

Stay simple with an excellent americano or cold brew. Or, go for the highly reviewed cortado!

Oslo Coffee Roasters is best when ordering to-go as the space is small. 

One of the best dog-friendly coffee shops on the UPPER EAST SIDE with stellar food

Hutch and Waldo is Australian owned and offers a coastal, Bohemian vibe. 

The menu here is stellar. I've seen few coffee shops that offer such a large and varied menu filled with seasonal and local ingredients.

Go healthy with one of the bowls. The blue smoothie bowl with blue algae, banana, coconut, kiwi, and granola is light and fresh. Or try the nude bowl for something savory, made with scrambled eggs, pesto, sweet potato, and avocado.

The breakfast burrito is crave-worthy as is the grilled chicken and avocado sandwich.

This UES coffee shop offers all the classic drinks along with more unique options like beet and golden turmeric lattes.

Hutch and Waldo is a great choice when the weather is nice. They have garage-door style windows that can be opened all the way and a handful of tables and benches outside. 

One of the BEST COFFEE SHOPS (UPPER EAST SIDE and other locations around NYC) for sweet treats and baked goods

134 1/2 E 62nd St. – this location is TINY and is best for takeaway or a quick espresso shot while standing.

171 E 88th St. – a little larger than the above location with more standing room and a few seats.

Birch Coffee does a wonderful job at sourcing delicious treats from some of the best bakeries in NYC.

You'll find gluten free-items, artisan donuts, and homemade pop tarts.

Grab a bag of their coffee beans on your way out!

One of the most Instagrammable upper east side Cafes

Out of all the Upper East Side cafes and coffee shops, this is your spot if you're looking for the most adorable design and Instagrammable setting. You'll be transported to a charming French cafe the moment you walk through the door.

Blue toile patterns are used on coffee cups, wallpaper, tile, plates...and even the espresso machine. There's a distinct farmhouse feel with the wooden tables and chairs, exposed brick, and greenery adorning the walls and entrance. 

Maman's UES location offers a full menu from their kitchen including quiche, salads, sandwiches, tartines (open-faced sandwiches), and breakfast bowls.

Don't leave without grabbing a few pastries. Maman is famous for its nutty chocolate chip cookie. The pistachio chocolate croissant is also very good. 

Maman is more of a cafe than a traditional coffee shop and can get quite busy on the weekends.

While it can make for a cozy setting to work or study when things are slow, be mindful of busy times and to not overstay your welcome while typing away on your laptop. 

2. 787 Coffee Co.

One of the best UES coffee shops for unique tasting notes

What makes 787 Coffee Co. unique is its infused coffee beans. Choose their famous rum infused espresso in your morning latte...or any coffee drink. It adds a nice depth/richness to the flavor profile.

They also have whiskey infused and tequila infused espresso.

Cold brew lovers will want to give the mint cold brew a try during the summer months. It sounds weird, but the amount of mint is very subtle and perfect for a hot day.

787 Coffee Co. has taken off in NYC. The number of locations is growing fast with two being on the Upper East Side.

Those with a sweet tooth will want to try the Coquito Latte, made with coconut cream, condensed milk, and nutmeg. Other popular lattes are the Horchata, Mazapan, and Dulce de Leche.

Both the UES coffee shop locations are better for grab-and-go as they are quite small.

In Summary

And there you have it for my best coffee shops - Upper East Side edition! These are my absolute favorite spots for a coffee break when I'm wandering around the UES.

Whether I'm craving a healthy snack, some seriously delicious baked goods, a space to work, or a nice sidewalk patio to people watch...these spots deliver.