A Coffee Lover’s Guide by Tori Jones
Chelsea is full of charming streets, stylish boutiques, and—most importantly—amazing coffee spots. Living in Chelsea, I’ve had the pleasure of sipping my way through the neighborhood’s best coffee spots, and today, I’m letting you in on my favorites. Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner to work from, a quick caffeine fix before hitting the boutiques, or a sweet treat to pair with your cappuccino, these are the coffee shops you need to know about. Most of them are on 7th Avenue, conveniently right near where I went to school at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
1. Yanni’s Coffee
📍 96 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Yanni’s Coffee is my go-to for a latte that feels like a warm hug. Their secret? A sprinkle of cinnamon on top that adds the perfect touch of warmth and spice. There’s something about the aroma of their coffee that makes even the busiest New Yorker take a moment to breathe. The space itself is small and unassuming, but don’t be fooled—this spot knows how to brew a stellar cup of coffee. It’s the kind of place where you become a regular fast, and the baristas somehow remember your order after just one visit.
2. Stumptown Coffee Roasters (Ace Hotel)
📍 20 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
Stumptown inside the Ace Hotel is an absolute vibe. The coffee is always on point (try their cold brew if you need a serious wake-up call), and the stylish setting makes it a great place to start the day. I usually grab a latte to-go from here before heading up to 5th Avenue. If you have time, take a seat in the hotel lobby—it’s a hub of creatives, fashionistas, and travelers all buzzing with caffeine and inspiration.
3. King’s Street Coffee
📍 121 W 30th St, New York, NY 10001
If you’re looking for the perfect place to set up your laptop and get some work done, King Street Coffee is your spot. As a journalist, I do a lot of writing here, but you have to get in early because it’s a morning hotspot. Their coffee is smooth and rich, but what really seals the deal for me are their sweet treats. The pastries here are divine—think buttery croissants, decadent brownies, and seasonal specialties that make it impossible to order just one thing. It’s an easy place to lose track of time (and deadlines), but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
4. The Commons Chelsea
📍 128 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Tucked away on 7th Avenue, The Commons Chelsea is a cozy little gem that feels like a neighborhood secret. It has a warm, inviting vibe, perfect for curling up with a book or getting some work done. Their coffee is rich and smooth, and they make an incredible lavender latte (my personal favorite). They also have a great selection of pastries and breakfast bites, making it a perfect stop before a busy day in the city.
5. Coffee Project New York
📍 155 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
If you’re serious about coffee, Coffee Project New York is a must-visit. This spot is all about craft coffee, with a focus on unique brewing methods and high-quality beans. Their deconstructed latte is an experience in itself, letting you taste the individual elements before they come together. It’s the kind of place where you can truly appreciate the art of coffee-making, and the modern, minimalist space makes it a great spot to sip and stay a while.
6. Amy’s Bread
📍 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011 – Chelsea Market
If there’s one thing I love more than a great cup of coffee, it’s a great cup of coffee with a freshly baked pastry on the side. Amy’s Bread inside Chelsea Market is a must-visit for both. They serve Fonte Coffee, a Seattle-based brand known for its rich, velvety espresso and smooth brews. Pair it with one of Amy’s legendary cinnamon challah knots or a slice of their decadent layer cakes, and you’ve basically found heaven in Chelsea. The spot has that old-school bakery charm with a hint of NYC bustle—exactly the kind of place I find myself “accidentally” stopping by whenever I’m in the area.
