Asano

- 322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028

In a city that runs on coffee, a new coffee shop is always a welcome addition, but a truly special one creates its own unique identity. Asano, located on the Upper East Side, is not just a place to grab your morning brew; it's a small business with a big personality. What makes it particularly intriguing is its unique concept: it operates as a morning cafe inside Sandro's, a longtime Italian restaurant. This innovative approach allows them to offer a high-quality coffee and pastry experience during the day, creating a distinct and inviting ambiance that has already captured the hearts of local New Yorkers.

Asano is a small, Asian-owned, and women-owned business that prides itself on more than just a great cup of coffee. It’s a place that fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, identifying as both a family-friendly spot and a transgender safe space. The vibe is exactly what a New York cafe should be: lively but not overwhelming, and perfect for a variety of purposes. Whether you're looking for a quiet corner to work, a place to meet friends, or a moment to yourself with a book, the atmosphere at Asano delivers. It’s a space where people can enjoy their morning caffeine in a comfortable setting, making it a true neighborhood gem.

This article will serve as a guide to Asano, from a local's perspective. We’ll explore its location and accessibility, the services it offers, and the standout features that make it a compelling choice. We'll also highlight some of the specific menu items that customers are raving about, as well as the unique aspects of its business model. The goal is to provide a complete picture of why this coffee shop is already becoming a beloved "regular" spot for many in the New York region, proving that sometimes, the most unique places are found in the most unexpected locations.

Asano is conveniently located at 322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028. This address places it in a bustling part of the Upper East Side, a neighborhood well-known for its residential feel and numerous shops and restaurants. Situated on a main street, the coffee shop is easy to access for pedestrians and is in close proximity to major public transportation hubs. Its location is a key factor for those looking for a quick and easy caffeine fix on their way to work or while running errands.

The coffee shop's accessibility features are a thoughtful touch. Asano offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating, which ensures that it is a welcoming space for everyone in the community. The presence of both indoor and outdoor seating provides flexibility for different preferences and weather conditions. While street parking in this part of Manhattan can be difficult, the location is ideal for those who walk, bike, or use public transport. A customer reviewer noted that the shop is a "great spot" near the Q train on 86th Street, highlighting its easy access for commuters. This level of convenience makes Asano a practical and appealing choice for any New Yorker.

Asano offers essential services that cater to the needs of a fast-paced urban crowd while also providing a comfortable space for those who want to linger.

• Takeout: This is a primary service for a quick, on-the-go coffee. Customers can easily grab their drinks and pastries for their commute or a walk through the neighborhood.
• Dine-in: The cafe provides ample seating for those who want to sit and enjoy their beverages and food. This includes comfortable seating for working on laptops or catching up with friends.
• Wi-Fi: Asano offers free and reliable Wi-Fi, making it an excellent spot for people who need to work or study outside of their homes. This amenity is a major draw for students and remote workers.

These services collectively make Asano a versatile and accommodating space for a variety of needs.

Asano has several unique features and highlights that set it apart from other coffee shops in New York.

• Unique Location: The most notable feature is that it operates as a morning cafe inside a classic Italian restaurant, Sandro's. This provides a fascinating "A.M. cafe to your P.M. restaurant" dynamic, and it’s a great way to support a local business.
• Specialty Drinks: The menu goes beyond standard coffee offerings with signature drinks like "The Sandro Latte" and "The Asano Latte." The strawberry matcha latte is particularly highlighted in a review as being "really enjoyed." This focus on unique flavors sets it apart.
• Creative Pastries: The pastry selection is a major highlight, with a creative, Japanese-inspired twist. Items like the "Miso Caramel Morning Bun," "Gochujang Scone," and "Black Sesame Coconut Croissant" offer a departure from typical cafe fare and have been praised by customers.
• Welcoming Vibe: The cafe is identified as being both family-friendly and an LGBTQ+ and transgender safe space. This commitment to inclusivity creates a genuinely welcoming environment for a diverse clientele.
• Quiet Ambiance: As one reviewer noted, the cafe has a "quiet ambiance," which is a rare and valued quality in a busy city. It's a great place for people to read, work, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment.

These highlights combine to create a compelling and memorable experience that goes beyond a standard coffee run.

For more information or to place an order, you can visit Asano at their physical location.

Address: 322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028

For any questions, you can contact the business directly. While a phone number was not provided, their contact information can often be found on their website or social media.

What is truly worth choosing about Asano is its unique fusion of high-quality coffee and pastries with a genuinely welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. The fact that it is a small, Asian- and women-owned business is an important factor for many New Yorkers who want to support local and diverse establishments. The rave reviews from customers highlight the cafe's success on multiple fronts: the food is "delicious," the vibe is "loved," and the Wi-Fi is "good." The menu's creativity, with items like the "strawberry matcha latte" and "miso caramel morning bun," shows a dedication to offering something special and memorable.

The customer reviews provide excellent insight into the value of this place. One reviewer describes the cafe as a place where "friends meeting for coffee," "people working from laptops," and "a mom bringing her baby" can all coexist, which speaks volumes about the cafe’s versatility and broad appeal. The idea of supporting a local restaurant by visiting its daytime cafe is also a compelling reason to become a "regular," as one reviewer stated. For New Yorkers looking for a unique, high-quality coffee experience with a touch of authentic creativity and a lot of heart, Asano is an exceptional choice that delivers on all fronts.

Asano

322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028, USA