New York City is known for its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, but it's also home to some of the best cafes with outdoor seating.
Whether you're a tourist or a local, you'll find that these cafes offer the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
There's something magical about sitting outside on a warm summer day, sipping a latte and watching the world go by.
And in a city as vibrant as New York, there's no shortage of cafes that offer this experience. From cozy sidewalk cafes to rooftop bars with sweeping views of the skyline, there's a spot for everyone.
But with so many cafes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we've compiled a list of the best cafes with outdoor seating in New York City.
Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book, a lively atmosphere for people-watching, or a place to catch up with friends, we've got you covered. So grab your sunglasses and get ready to explore the best of what the city has to offer.
1. Cafe Katja
Cafe Katja is a cozy cafe with outdoor seating that offers delicious Austrian and German cuisine. The sausages are a must-try and the beer selection is great.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming with candles on the tables, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual hangout with friends.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a delightful dining experience.
If you're in the mood for some comfort food and a tasty brew, Cafe Katja is definitely worth checking out.
2. Union Square Cafe
Union Square Cafe is an excellent choice for those looking for a cafe with outdoor seating. The restaurant provides a balanced selection of food and drink to satisfy most people.
The service is friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming, making it a pleasant dining experience.
The high ceilings and ambiance of the restaurant create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu offers fresh, tasty food, and the staff is incredibly personable and professional.
The restaurant is busy, so it's best to make a reservation. Union Square Cafe is a great place to enjoy a special meal with friends or family.
3. Pause Cafe
Pause Cafe is a cozy coffeehouse with a relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating.
The menu is expansive and includes tasty breakfast staples, rich acai bowls, and flavorful sandwiches. The coffee is good and the bakery selection is surprisingly vast.
The staff is friendly and the service is warm. The cafe can get busy during peak hours, but the outdoor seating provides plenty of space for customers to enjoy their food and drinks.
If you're looking for a chill spot to grab a quick bite, Pause Cafe is definitely worth checking out.
4. Coffee Project New York | East Village
Coffee Project New York | East Village is a cozy cafe with outdoor seating.
The cafe offers quality coffee beans and a variety of unique drinks, including the deconstructed latte and cold brew flight.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making for a pleasant experience. While the space is small, the cafe makes great use of its limited seating.
Coffee Project New York | East Village is a must-visit coffee shop for any coffee lover in the city.
5. Good Thanks Cafe
Good Thanks Cafe is a charming eatery that offers a variety of delicious food and drinks. With outdoor seating available, customers can enjoy their meals while soaking up the sun.
The cafe has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the staff are attentive and welcoming.
The menu features a range of healthy options, including acai bowls and avocado toast, as well as heartier dishes such as the kimchi scrambled eggs and smoked whitefish.
The coffee is also excellent, and there are cocktails and wine available for those who want to indulge. All in all, Good Thanks Cafe is a great spot for a tasty meal or a leisurely coffee break with friends.
6. Drip Drop Cafe
Drip Drop Cafe is a must-visit coffee shop with beautiful art and smooth coffee.
Their outdoor seating with heat lamps is perfect for enjoying a drink and the friendly staff adds to the cozy atmosphere.
They also display local artwork for sale, showing their commitment to the community.
The turmeric latte comes highly recommended and the pastries are delicious. This privately owned cafe is definitely worth a visit.
7. Amano Cafe
If you're looking for a cozy cafe with great coffee and outdoor seating, Amano Cafe is worth checking out.
With a focus on quality coffeeware and attention to detail, this cafe offers a variety of drinks and food options, including vegan choices.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making it a great spot to grab a drink and work or catch up with friends. The patio seating provides a great view of the surrounding area, and the ambiance is chill and inviting.
Whether you're stopping in for a quick pick-me-up or looking for a comfortable place to spend some time, Amano Cafe is a great choice.
8. MUD SPOT
MUD SPOT is a cool cafe with outdoor seating that offers an excellent brunch menu and natural wine selection.
The coffee is exceptional and the food options are great for a quick lunch. The back patio is cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxing afternoon coffee break.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making the experience even better.
The only downside is the small bathroom, but overall, MUD SPOT is a lovely spot for a drink or coffee with a warm and cozy ambiance.
9. Banter NYC
Banter NYC is a cozy cafe with a patio that offers elevated, health-conscious fare.
Their menu includes a mix of lighter and more indulgent options, so there is something for everyone. The staff is friendly, and the service is fast.
The outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy sunshine with food.
Although the cafe can get crowded, the wait times are not that long. Banter NYC is a must-go brunch spot in New York City.
10. The Coppola Cafe
The Coppola Cafe is a small coffee shop that offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere for its customers.
The cafe has a variety of menu items, including sandwiches, paninis, pizza, and pastries, all at reasonable prices. The highlight of the cafe is their superb coffee, which is some of the best in Manhattan.
The cafe has free Wi-Fi, making it a great spot for students and remote workers. The friendly and welcoming staff add to the cafe's charm.
With outdoor seating available, The Coppola Cafe is a great spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry while taking in the city's sights and sounds.
11. Cafe Skye
Cafe Skye is a charming neighborhood spot that offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. With outdoor seating available, customers can enjoy their meals and drinks while soaking up the sun.
The cafe offers a unique wine list that changes regularly, making sure that there is always something new to try.
The cocktails are also a must-try, with a modern twist on classic drinks that will leave customers impressed. The food is delicious, with juicy burgers and caramelized Brussels sprouts with bacon being some of the favorites.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that customers have an enjoyable experience. Cafe Skye is a perfect spot for a date night or a catch-up with friends over drinks and bites.
12. Merriweather Coffee + Kitchen
Merriweather Coffee + Kitchen is a cozy cafe with outdoor seating. The food is delicious and beautifully presented, while the coffee is great.
The staff is efficient and attentive, creating an excellent atmosphere. The menu offers unique options, including gluten-free choices.
The cafe's aesthetics and staff are nice, and they have a bathroom, which is a bonus.
The prices are reasonable, and the drinks are not micro-sized like other independent coffee houses. The cafe also offers non-dairy and plant-based options for their coffee.
13. Laughing Man Cafe
Laughing Man Cafe offers an excellent outdoor seating experience for coffee lovers. With a spacious and clean environment, patrons can enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere with plenty of natural light.
The cafe offers delicious coffee and food options, and the staff is kind and efficient, even during busy hours. The cinnamon vanilla latte is a must-try, and the prices are reasonable.
Additionally, the cafe's profits go towards supporting coffee farmer families, making it a great choice for socially conscious consumers. Despite being a small and busy cafe, the service is outstanding, and the coffee is solid.
The cafe is expanding, and the design is simple and elegant. Laughing Man Cafe is a trendy and creative spot that is worth a visit for anyone looking for a great coffee experience.
14. Cafetal Social Club
Cafetal Social Club is a charming Italian cafe that offers outdoor seating for their customers.
They have a wide selection of alcohol, including wine, liquor, and beer. Their food is delicious, and they serve authentic Italian cuisine made to order.
The staff is friendly and professional, and the service is prompt. The restaurant is clean and well-organized, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
If you're looking for a cozy and welcoming place to enjoy some Italian food, Cafetal Social Club is definitely worth a visit.
15. Two Hands
Two Hands is an Australian-inspired cafe and bar that serves delicious breakfast and brunch dishes in a casual space.
With outdoor seating available, customers can enjoy their meals while soaking up the sun. The staff provides excellent service and is always willing to help.
The food is fresh, healthy, and affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget. The banana bread with mascarpone topping is a must-try, and the coffee is always on point.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, Two Hands is definitely worth a visit.
16. NewsBar Cafe
NewsBar Cafe is a cozy coffee spot with a stylish outdoor seating area.
The menu offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including sandwiches, bowls, and baked goods.
The coffee drinks are excellent, and there is a big variety of different kinds of beans to choose from.
The service is great, and the workers are always helpful and nice. It's a perfect spot for a casual meeting or to grab a quick bite. Highly recommended!
17. Cafe Social 68
Cafe Social 68 is a charming cafe with outdoor seating that serves exceptional food and coffee.
The staff is warm and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and work remotely. The cafe offers vegan options and has a nice selection of pastries.
The big windows provide a lot of natural light, and the plants create a cozy atmosphere. The cafe is pet-friendly, which is a nice bonus.
The only suggestion would be to improve the music playlist to match the vibe of the cafe. Cafe Social 68 is a great spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and soak up the neighborhood's energy.
18. Citizens Of Gramercy
Citizens Of Gramercy is a charming cafe with outdoor seating. The food is fresh, healthy, and delicious, with unique brunch options available throughout the week.
The staff are friendly and attentive, providing lightning-fast service. However, the portion sizes are somewhat small. The cafe has a nice neighborhood vibe, making it a great spot to grab a quick coffee or a light lunch.
The seating area is cozy and well-decorated, and the cafe offers free wifi. While the menu is small, it has something for all diets and preferences.
The coffee is excellent, and the tea selection is also noteworthy. All in all, Citizens Of Gramercy is a great place to visit for a tasty and healthy meal in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
19. Tartinery Cafe – Bar
Tartinery Cafe – Bar is a charming cafe with outdoor seating that offers fresh and reasonably priced food.
With great service and a cozy atmosphere, it's a solid spot for lunch or a morning coffee.
The cafe also offers healthy breakfast options and freshly squeezed juices. The salmon tartine with avocado is a must-try dish, and the coffee is always strong and flavorful.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a relaxing meal, Tartinery Cafe – Bar is a great choice.
