Birch Coffee Introduce
In the vibrant and often fast-paced landscape of the Upper East Side, finding a moment of calm can be a true luxury. That's where Birch Coffee comes in. Nestled on East 88th Street, this cozy coffee shop has established itself as a beloved neighborhood fixture, offering a tranquil escape and, most importantly, some of the best coffee in the city. More than just a place to grab your morning caffeine fix, Birch Coffee is a community hub where quality, comfort, and connection come together. It's a spot that’s as perfect for a quiet moment of solo work as it is for a friendly chat with the barista.
The philosophy behind Birch Coffee is simple yet powerful: to provide exceptional coffee in a welcoming environment. They are dedicated to sourcing high-quality beans and meticulously crafting each cup, ensuring that every sip is a testament to their passion. While some of their locations may be known for their "unplugged" atmosphere, this particular location strikes a balance, making it a great place for both focused work and relaxed socializing. The aroma of freshly ground coffee hits you the moment you walk in, creating an inviting sensory experience that sets the tone for a great visit.
The friendly and attentive staff are a key part of what makes this place special. Regulars rave about their positive interactions, and new customers quickly feel like part of the community. From offering a free birthday coffee to grinding beans to your specific brewing preference, the team at Birch Coffee goes the extra mile. This personal touch is a standout feature in a city where service can sometimes feel transactional. It’s a genuine approach that transforms a simple coffee run into a highlight of your day.
The Birch Coffee location is situated at 171 E 88th St, New York, NY 10128. This prime spot on the Upper East Side places it in a charming and bustling residential area. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful brownstones, tree-lined streets, and proximity to iconic NYC landmarks, including Central Park. This makes the coffee shop a convenient stop for locals heading to work, residents taking a stroll, or visitors exploring the area.
Accessibility is a major advantage of this location. It’s easily reachable via several modes of public transportation. The 4, 5, and 6 subway lines stop at the 86th Street station, a short walk away. Multiple bus lines also serve the area, making it a straightforward journey from various parts of Manhattan. The shop is also located between Lexington and Third Avenues, making it highly visible and easy to find. While specific accessibility details for the entrance and interior are not specified, the shop is a popular public venue in a well-trafficked area, and the brand is known for its welcoming nature.
Dine-in, Takeout, and Outdoor Seating: Birch Coffee offers a variety of service options to cater to all preferences. You can enjoy your coffee and a quick bite inside, take your order to go, or, when the weather is pleasant, relax in their delightful outdoor seating area. This flexibility makes it a great spot for both a rushed morning and a leisurely afternoon.
Comprehensive Coffee and Tea Menu: The menu is a coffee lover's dream, featuring classic espresso drinks and unique options. They offer everything from a simple Drip Coffee and Americano to specialty lattes like the Matcha Latte and Chai Latte. Beyond coffee, they are also celebrated for their "great tea selection," with a variety of loose teas and iced teas available. This diverse menu ensures that everyone, whether a devoted coffee drinker or a tea enthusiast, will find a perfect beverage.
Quick Bites and Vegetarian/Vegan Options: In addition to beverages, Birch Coffee provides a selection of quick bite food options. These items, which may include pastries or other snacks, are ideal for a light breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. The menu also includes vegan options and vegetarian options, demonstrating their commitment to accommodating different dietary needs and preferences.
Coffee Bean Sales: For those who want to bring the Birch Coffee experience home, the shop sells bags of their coffee beans. An added convenience is that they will grind the beans in-store for you, tailored to your preferred brewing method. This is a great service for home brewers who appreciate a fresh, high-quality grind.
Exceptional Quality and "Great Coffee": Customer reviews consistently praise the quality of the coffee. The phrase "really good coffee" and "best coffee in New York" are common sentiments, indicating that Birch Coffee's commitment to excellence is not just a marketing claim but a tangible reality. They focus on providing a superior product that stands out in a city with no shortage of coffee shops.
Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy. It’s a warm and inviting space, perfect for escaping the city’s concrete jungle. The interior is small but thoughtfully designed, with a common table that encourages a sense of community. The positive energy and pleasant aroma contribute to a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Good for Working on a Laptop: With Wi-Fi available and a comfortable setting, Birch Coffee is a popular spot for those looking to get some work done. The atmosphere is conducive to focused work, making it a favorite for solo dining and productive sessions. This feature is a key benefit for the many students and professionals in the neighborhood.
Friendly and Attentive Staff: The staff at this location receives high praise for being "nice," "sweet," and "attentive." Customers feel welcome and valued, whether it's their first visit or they are a regular. This focus on customer service creates a loyal following and a positive community around the brand.
Address: 171 E 88th St, New York, NY 10128
Phone: (212) 686-1444
Mobile Phone: +1 212-686-1444
For New Yorkers seeking a coffee shop that feels like a genuine neighborhood spot, Birch Coffee on East 88th Street is an excellent choice. The primary reason to visit is undoubtedly the quality of the coffee itself. This is not a place that serves mediocre brew; it is a place for coffee connoisseurs and anyone who appreciates a well-made drink. The variety on the menu, from a classic Americano to a flavored latte, ensures there’s a perfect option for every taste.
What truly sets this location apart, however, is the combination of its top-tier product with its friendly and inviting atmosphere. The staff's warm demeanor, as highlighted in customer reviews, makes a significant difference. It’s this human element that elevates the experience beyond a simple transaction. The added amenities, like Wi-Fi and the option for outdoor seating, make it a versatile spot that can serve many purposes throughout the day. Whether you need a place to work, a quiet corner to read, or a comfortable space to catch up with a friend, Birch Coffee fits the bill. It’s a dependable, high-quality, and community-focused establishment that truly represents the best of what a New York coffee shop can be.
Birch Coffee Menu
Coffee
- Drip
- Cafe Au Lait
- Matcha Latte
- Chai Latte
- Hot Cocoa
- Mocha
- Loose Tea
- Iced Tea
Others
- Americano
- Macchiato
- Cortado
- Latte
- Cappuccino
- Flat White
Birch Coffee Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
- Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Coffee
- Quick bite
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Birch Coffee Photos










Birch Coffee Location
Birch Coffee Reviews
baristaespressopastriescappuccinooat milkwifimuffinsflat whitecold brewscones
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Love this coffee place in UES! The staffs are always nice. And if you don’t know they celebrate your birthday with a free cup of coffee too! ☺️ My favorite to go is their blackberry oat latte, and always go for large!
July 28 · Ninnapha PhoutsavathCoffee was really good here and the people that take your order are really sweet and attentive. I bought a bag of coffee as well and they grind it in store for the method of coffee making of your liking. The place is small but has a common table were you can sit and some chairs outside. The energy is really nice and the smell nicer.
February 18 · Andrea GarciaWe love this neighborhood coffee shop, and can’t imagine a day without stopping in. The staff are all really friendly and welcoming. The cappuccino is the best I’ve ever had. The vibe is very upbeat, and the playlist is fantastic. It’s the best.
September 03 · Tom DaggerOur favorite coffee shop! I come here almost every day and the coffee is always amazing. The staff are very friendly and are super consistent. It has a warm, inviting ambience and yummy pastries. 10/10 recommendation.
August 24 · Ashley Valencia(From a Dogs perspective) While I was not allowed in the coffee shop my human goes to I did have the chance to wait outside in the most incredible barking lot I have ever seen! The water bowl was quite exquisite and really quenched my thirst on a hot summer day. Not only that but so many humans pet me on their way out. Paws down would recommend for all of my doggie friends on the Upper East Side
July 27 · CoCo Beans
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