Hidden Grounds: A Manhattan Coffee Shop with Authentic Chai

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Introduce

In the heart of New York City's vibrant East Village, where coffee shops are plentiful, Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House carves out a unique and memorable identity. This small, women-owned business has built a reputation not just on great coffee, but on its exceptional and authentic chai. It’s a place that feels like a cozy, inviting secret, a true gem for anyone seeking a break from the city's hustle and bustle. While the space may be small with limited seating, the friendly and efficient service, coupled with the rich flavors of their drinks and food, makes every visit a worthwhile experience.

Hidden Grounds is a haven for both coffee lovers and chai enthusiasts. The menu is a delightful blend of classic espresso drinks and unique, spiced concoctions. Their chai is a particular highlight, with customers raving about its "rich with depth" flavor. Options like the "Adeni Yemeni Chai" and "Cardamom Chai" stand out as being among the best in the city. For coffee drinkers, the menu is just as impressive, featuring classic lattes, Americanos, and cold brews, alongside creative signature drinks like the "Lavender Honey Latte." The variety of rose and lavender drinks also adds a beautiful and distinct touch to their offerings.

Beyond the beverages, Hidden Grounds also serves a delicious selection of food that goes beyond the typical coffee shop fare. The pastries are noted for being "good" and "kinda unique," and the "Cardamom bun" is particularly praised for being "dense, moist, and pliable" with a well-balanced flavor. Their bagel and avocado toast menu provides hearty and flavorful options for breakfast or a quick bite. The "Bombay Bagel Sandwich," with its perfect and authentic flavors, is a standout item that reminds customers of the "real thing."

Hidden Grounds isn't just a place to grab a quick drink; it's a welcoming space for everyone. It proudly identifies as a small, women-owned business and a safe space for the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and trendy, attracting a diverse crowd of college students, families, and tourists. The ability to bring dogs inside and out adds to the inclusive and friendly vibe. This combination of exceptional food and drink, a warm atmosphere, and a commitment to community makes Hidden Grounds a truly special spot in Manhattan.

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Location and Accessibility

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House is conveniently located at 36 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003. This puts it in a prime spot in the East Village, a neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse community. The location is easily accessible for both locals and those visiting the city.

The coffee shop is a short walk from several major subway lines, including the 6 train at Astor Place, and the R and W trains at 8th Street. This makes it a convenient destination from almost any part of Manhattan. For those driving, there are various paid parking options, including garages, lots, and street parking, though as with much of New York City, public transportation is often the easiest choice. The shop also features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that it is welcoming to all patrons.

The availability of curbside pickup, delivery, and no-contact delivery services makes Hidden Grounds an incredibly convenient option for those who prefer to enjoy their drinks and food at home. This flexibility, coupled with its central location, reinforces its status as a reliable and accessible neighborhood favorite.

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Services Offered

Hidden Grounds provides a wide array of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

Dine-in, Takeout, and Delivery: The coffee shop offers a variety of service options. You can enjoy your meal in the cozy cafe, grab it to go with their efficient takeout service, or have it delivered right to your door with their no-contact delivery option, which is perfect for busy days.
Comprehensive Menu: The menu is extensive and includes a wide range of beverages and food. From a full espresso bar and a great tea selection to unique stove-top chais and New Orleans-style brews, there's a drink for every taste. The food menu includes a variety of pastries, bagels, and avocado toasts, ensuring you have plenty of options for breakfast or a quick bite.
Retail and Merch: Hidden Grounds also sells its coffee and chai in various retail forms. You can purchase bags of whole beans, instant coffee, and even their Masala Chai Mix, allowing you to recreate their delicious drinks at home. They also offer branded merchandise like tote bags.
Amenities: The shop is equipped with Wi-Fi, making it a great place for solo dining or getting some work done. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and dogs are allowed both inside and outside, adding to the friendly and welcoming vibe.

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Features and Highlights

Hidden Grounds stands out in the crowded New York coffee scene due to several unique features and highlights.

Exceptional Chai: This is perhaps the biggest highlight. The "popular!" "Adeni Yemeni Chai" and "Cardamom Chai" are highly praised by customers and are often considered some of the best in the city. The flavor is described as "rich with depth," distinguishing it from other chai options.
Unique Drink and Food Options: The menu goes beyond the standard coffee shop fare. Creative beverages like the "Taro Matcha Dream" and "Rose Matcha Elixir," along with food items like the "Bombay Bagel Sandwich" and "Cardamom bun," show a commitment to unique and flavorful offerings that customers love.
Women-Owned Small Business: The fact that Hidden Grounds is a small, women-owned business is a highlight for many customers who appreciate supporting local and independent establishments. This identity adds to the feeling of community and authenticity.
Inclusive and Welcoming Atmosphere: The shop prides itself on being a safe space for the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities. It is also family-friendly and welcoming to dogs, creating an inclusive environment that appeals to a diverse range of customers.
Fast and Great Service: Despite its small size, the service is consistently noted as being great and fast. This efficiency ensures a pleasant experience, even during busy times, and keeps customers coming back.

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Contact Information

For more information or to place an order, you can contact Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House using the following details.

Address: 36 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 849-2165

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What is worth choosing

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House is a must-choose for anyone in New York seeking an exceptional and authentic chai experience. While the city has no shortage of coffee shops, Hidden Grounds distinguishes itself with its specialized, high-quality chai that many consider to be the best. The commitment to unique flavors and traditional methods is evident in every cup, making it a destination for chai enthusiasts.

Beyond the beverages, the value of Hidden Grounds lies in its ability to feel both cozy and inclusive. The small, intimate space and the friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere where you can feel at home. It’s a great spot for solo dining, a quick coffee break, or a leisurely chat with a friend. The diverse and delicious food menu, from bagels to unique pastries, ensures that you can always find a satisfying bite to accompany your drink.

Choosing Hidden Grounds also means supporting a women-owned small business that is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone in the community. Its efficient service, combined with its central and accessible location, makes it a convenient and reliable choice. For a truly special cup of chai and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, Hidden Grounds is an excellent choice.

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Food & drink

ESPRESSO
CAFE MOCHA $7.15
Double shot of Rosebud Espresso, Ghirardelli Mocha Powder, Milk.
ESPRESSO SHOT $4.40
Double shot of Rosebud Espresso
HONEY-BEE LATTE $8.25
Honey, Cinnamon, Double shot of Rosebud Espresso, Milk.
CORTADO $5.25
Double shot of Espresso, 2.75oz of Milk.
CAFE LATTE $7.15
Double shot of Rosebud Espresso, Microfoamed Milk
CAPPUCCINO $6.35
A creamy classic—two shots of Rosebud espresso meet perfectly textured milk for a balanced, velvety finish. Simple. Timeless.
LAVENDER HONEY LATTE $8.25
Lavender, Honey, Cinnamon, Double shot of Rosebud Espresso, Milk.

TEA
HIBISCUS FLOWER ICED TEA $4.95
A caffeine-free, tart, and calming herbal tea blend crafted with natural ingredients for a soothing and refreshing experience.
LORD BERGEMOT - BLACK TEA $5.50
A refined take on classic Earl Grey, blending Ceylon and Assam black teas with fragrant bergamot for a bold, citrusy flavor and smooth finish.
JASMINE SILVER TIP - GREEN TEA $5.50
A delicate, fragrant jasmine tea made from silvertip leaves, offering a smooth and refreshing floral experience in every sip.
RED NECTAR - HERBAL TEA $4.40
A naturally sweet and caffeine-free blend of rooibos and honeybush, offering smooth, rich flavors with subtle hints of fruit and spice.

BAKERY
PLAIN CROISSANT $5.50
Ingredients: Organic wheat flour, butter, water, sugar, salt, yeast, egg. Allergy Warning: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs, and is produced in a facility that handles nuts. Availability Note: If we run out of plain croissants, we will provide another bakery item of equal value.
CHOCOLATE CROISSANT $6.60
Ingredients: Organic wheat flour, butter, water, salt, yeast, eggs, chocolate. Allergy Warning: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs, and is made in a kitchen that handles nuts. Availability Note: If we run out of chocolate croissants, we'll provide another bakery item of equal value.
THREE CROISSANTS (ASSORTED OR SAME FLAVOR) $9.90
3 Croissants (Assorted or Same Flavor) Enjoy three fresh croissants at a discounted price. While we typically offer an assortment, you may receive multiples of the same flavor based on availability. The value of your deal remains, even if some flavors are sold out. Allergy Warning: Contains gluten, dairy, nuts (pecans), and is prepared in a kitchen that also processes eggs. Note: If one or more flavors are unavailable, you will receive another flavor of equal value.
TWO DONUTS (ASSORTED OR SAME FLAVOR) $12.10
Get 2 delicious donuts at a great price: Pistachio & Rose. While we aim to provide an assortment, you may receive multiples of the same flavor based on availability. Allergy Warning: Made in a kitchen with nuts, dairy, and gluten.
PUMPKIN LOAF $5.50
Baked with pumpkin purée, warm spices, and a touch of vanilla, our pumpkin loaf is soft, moist, and full of fall flavor. Finished with a crunchy topping of roasted pepitas. Contains gluten, dairy, and egg.
CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE $4.95
Rich creamery butter, golden brown sugar, and pure vanilla extract blended into a soft dough, studded with silky milk chocolate chunks. Finished with a touch of sea salt to bring out every nuance of sweetness and depth. If we run out, we’ll give you another delicious treat of equal value.
ALMOND CROISSANT $6.55
Ingredients: Flour, yeast, water, sugar, butter, milk, salt, almond flour, rum, vanilla paste. Allergy Warning: Made in a kitchen that processes nuts, dairy, and gluten. Availability Note: If we run out of almond croissants, we'll provide a different bakery item of equal value.
BANANA BREAD LOAF $5.50
Baked in-house from scratch with ripe bananas, brown sugar, Greek yogurt, and vanilla. Topped with crumbled walnuts and oats.
HALF DOZEN BAKERY BOX (ASSORTED OR SAME ITEM) $33.00
Enjoy six fresh bakery items at a discounted price. While we aim to provide an assortment, you may receive multiples of the same item based on availability. The value of your deal stays the same, even if some options are sold out. Allergy Warning: Contains gluten, dairy, nuts, and is prepared in a kitchen that also processes eggs. Note: If one or more items are unavailable, you will receive a substitute of equal value.
PISTACHIO DONUT $6.60
Pistachio Cake Donut: Flour and cardamom base, almond extract and walnut oil glaze, crushed pistachios. Allergy Warning: Made in a kitchen that processes nuts, dairy, and gluten. Availability Note: If unavailable, a donut of equal value will be provided.
ROSE DONUT $6.60
Rose Cake Donut: Flour, milk, rose extract base, lemon and rose glaze, rose petals, crushed pistachios. Allergy Warning: Made in a kitchen that processes nuts, dairy, and gluten. Availability Note: If unavailable, a donut of equal value will be provided.

STOVE TOP DRINKS
POPULAR! ADENI YEMENI CHAI $7.45
A subtle black tea brewed with freshly ground spices, milk, and jaggery (brown sugar), infused with the rich, cardamom-forward flavors that define authentic Yemeni chai. Boiled to perfection on the stovetop, made to order—never batch brewed. Finished with cardamom for aromatic depth. Served hot only.
MASALA CHAI $7.45
Our signature drink—crafted from scratch with bold black tea, warming spices, and rich jaggery. Slow-boiled twice, never pre-made. Topped with star anise for that final, fragrant finish.

MATCHA
UNSWEETENED MATCHA LATTE $7.15
Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha, Milk
BROWN SUGAR MATCHA $7.15
Organic Ceremonial Matcha Powder, Jaggery Brown Sugar, Milk.
LAVENDER MATCHA $8.25
Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha, 1883 Lavender Syrup, Milk

CHAI DRINKS
CHAI LATTE $7.15
Spicy Chai Concentrate, Milk
DIRTY CHAI LATTE $7.70
Where East meets West. Bold chai spices collide with a double shot of our house espresso—perfectly balanced with milk. A true wake-up call.
MUGHAL ROSE CHAI $7.70
Inspired by royal Mughal flavors, this lush chai blends house-made spice mix and silky milk with a hint of organic rose. Delicate, floral, unforgettable.
POPULAR! CARDAMOM CHAI $7.15
Spicy chai concentrate, Holy Kakow cardamom syrup, and milk.

BLACK COFFEE
RED EYE $5.50
Drip Coffee, Double Shot of Rosebud Espresso
AMERICANO $4.40
Double shot of Rosebud Espresso with Hot Water
DRIP COFFEE $3.03
Drip Coffee made with Medium-Dark Rosebud Espresso Beans

AVOCADO TOAST
SMOKED SALMON & AVOCADO TOAST $13.20
Toasted sourdough topped with avocado mash (avocado, lime, garlic, sea salt), layered with smoked salmon, and finished with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bold kick.
SMOKED SALMON & CREAM CHEESE TOAST $12.10
Toasted sourdough spread with smooth cream cheese, topped with smoked salmon, and finished with a touch of chili flakes for a balanced bite.
SAVORY AVOCADO TOAST $12.10
Sourdough with Fresh Avocado Smash, Feta, Honey & Sriracha Toasted thick-cut sourdough topped with our zesty, in-house avocado smash (ripe avocado blended with lime, salt, and garlic), finished with crumbled feta cheese, a drizzle of honey and sriracha, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

FRESH BAGELS
BAGEL WITH CREAM CHEESE $7.70
Bagel with Housemade Cream Cheese
BAGEL SANDWICH $9.90
Bagel with Housemade Cream Cheese, Tomato, Onion, and Cucumber, Salt and Pepper
TOASTED BAGEL $3.30
Toasted Plain or Everything Bagel
BAGEL WITH BUTTER $3.30
Plain or Everything Bagel with Butter
BAGEL WITH AVOCADO & CREAM CHEESE $8.80
Bagel with Housemade Cream Cheese and Fresh Avocado Smash A toasted bagel spread with our silky housemade cream cheese, topped with a zesty, freshly prepared in-house avocado smash—ripe avocado blended with lime, salt, and garlic—for a bright, savory finish.
SALMON BAGEL SANDWICH $12.10
Toasted Bagel, Cream Cheese, Salmon, Cucumber, Onion, Red Pepper Flakes.
BOMBAY BAGEL SANDWICH $11.00
Toasted Bagel, Creamy Cheese, Mint & Date Chutney, Onion, Cucumber, Tomato, Crushed Pepper.

SUMMER DRINKS
TARO MATCHA DREAM $8.55
Taro Matcha Dream (Iced Only) – A creamy fusion of organic ceremonial grade matcha, sweet taro, and vanilla, perfectly blended and served over ice.
COCONUT MATCHA LOVE $8.55
Coconut Matcha Love (Iced Only) – A tropical blend of creamy coconut and organic ceremonial grade matcha, perfectly mixed and served over ice.
ROSE MATCHA ELIXIR $8.55
Rose Matcha Elixir (Iced Only) – A refreshing blend of creamy milk, floral rose syrup, and organic ceremonial grade matcha, served over ice.

COFFEE & MERCH
COLOMBIA HONEY WHOLE BEAN BAG - 10OZ $19.80
Our Colombia Honey Process Coffee is grown at 2150 meters in Caturra, Colombia, using a honey process to enhance its flavors. With notes of brown sugar, orange, raspberry, and red apple, it’s perfect for espresso, AeroPress, or Moka pot brewing.
INSTANT NEW ORLEANS BREW $20.90
Instant New Orleans Brew is a smooth and bold coffee made with robusta coffee, chicory, fresh spices, and a touch of honey. It delivers a quick and delicious cup with rich, chocolatey depth, perfect for busy mornings or a relaxing afternoon. To prepare, mix one tablespoon of coffee powder with a little hot water until it dissolves. Add 8–10 ounces of hot or cold milk, stir well, and enjoy a smooth, spiced coffee in minutes.
ETHIOPIA KEMBATA WHOLE BEAN BAG - 10OZ $19.80
Our Ethiopia Kembata Coffee is grown at 2101 meters in Durame village using traditional methods. With notes of cocoa, orange, and strawberry, this natural process coffee is perfect for drip, pour-over, AeroPress, or French press brewing.
ROSEBUD ESPRESSO WHOLE BEAN BAG - 10OZ $19.80
Our Rosebud Espresso is a blend of Colombia Honey and Brazil Washed beans, used in all our cafe espressos. It features notes of cherry, orange, caramel, and hazelnut with a smooth finish.
3 FOR 45 COFFEE BAGS $49.50
Buy 3 Coffee Bags for $45 – Special Deal – Get three bags of coffee at an unbeatable price. Note: This offer does not apply to seasonal coffees like India.
COLOMBIA DECAF WHOLE BEAN BAG - 10OZ $19.80
Our Colombia Decaf Whole Bean Coffee uses the Swiss Water Process to remove caffeine while keeping its rich, full-bodied flavor. Enjoy the smooth taste of real Colombian coffee, caffeine-free, any time of day.
2 FOR 30 COFFEE BAGS $33.00
Buy 2 Coffee Bags – Special Deal – Purchase any two bags of coffee at a great discount. Note: This offer does not apply to seasonal coffees like India.
TOTE BAGS $12.09
INDIA CHIKMAGALUR RATNAGIRI ANAEROBIC CULTURE PROCESS COFFEE $23.10
A unique single-origin coffee from the Ratnagiri Estate in India, featuring a vibrant flavor profile with notes of cola, strawberry, and cherry. Expertly processed using anaerobic culture methods for a bold and aromatic experience
ROSEBUD ESPRESSO WHOLE BEAN BAG - 5LB $82.50
Our Rosebud Espresso is a blend of Colombia Honey and Brazil Washed beans, used in all our cafe espressos. It features notes of cherry, orange, caramel, and hazelnut with a smooth finish.
MASALA CHAI MIX $20.90
Our Masala Chai Mix blends premium black tea with authentic spices for a rich, customizable chai experience. Enjoy a true home-style flavor in every cup.

COLD BREW
COLD BREW COFFEE $10.73
Steeped for 24 hours using our signature Rosebud espresso, this cold brew is smooth, bold, and naturally low in acidity. Crafted fresh daily.

SIGNATURE DRINKS
TARO LATTE $7.15
Creamy Taro, 1883 Vanilla Syrup, and Smooth Neutral Milk
HOT CHOCOLATE $6.05
Ghirardelli Mocha Powder, Vanilla, Milk.

NEW ORLEANS BREWS
HG BROWN SUGAR BREW $7.15
HG Brew: Coffee, Chicory, Milk, Sweetened with Brown Sugar Jaggery, Hot or Cold
PUMPKIN SPICE BREW $7.15
Our cozy fall take on a New Orleans-style brew. It’s got smooth coffee, warm pumpkin spice, and just enough sweetness to make you feel like sweater weather came early. Served hot or iced—your call.
SWEET CARAMEL BREW $7.15
Comfort in a cup—our New Orleans base gets a golden caramel upgrade. Balanced, sweet, and silky smooth.
BLOSSOMING ROSE BREW $7.15
A floral twist on our New Orleans-style brew. Notes of rose petal and deep coffee richness combine for a beautifully fragrant sip—hot or iced.
NEW ORLEANS BREW $7.15
Bold and nostalgic—this Southern classic blends rich chicory coffee with velvety milk and a touch of premium vanilla. Served hot or cold, always smooth and comforting.
CARDAMOM BREW $7.15
Coffee, Chicory, Milk, Sweetened with Holy Kakow Cardamom Syrup, Hot or Cold
LAVENDER BREW $7.15
Coffee, Chicory, Milk, Sweetened with 1883 Lavender Syrup, Hot or Cold

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Small business

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection

Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite

Dining options
Breakfast
Dessert
Table service

Amenities
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
College students
Family-friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Parking
Paid parking garage
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking

Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs allowed inside
Dogs allowed outside

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Photos

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Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Picture 9

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Location

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan

New York New York County New York 3rd Avenue

36 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House - Manhattan Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 74 user reviews.

donutsspicecardamombagelyemeni chairose chaiflavorgulab jamunstove tophomemade chai

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This was my first time going to Hidden Grounds! We stopped by for something to eat but I was impressed with the drink menu variety, especially all the rose and lavender drinks. The premise is small with limited seating but the service was great and I got my food very quickly! I tried the Bombay Bagel Sandwich which was amazing and reminds me of the real thing, the flavors were perfect.
July 26 · Lydia Rebello
Happy to see they opened a location here. Their Chai flavor is always one of the best in the city. Pastries are also good, I specifically recommend the donut which is kinda unique.🥛🫖✨Chai latte was creamy even it was iced. The flavor was rich with depth.💛🧡Cardamom bun was dense, moist, and pliable. The flavor was well balanced! One of the outstanding cardamom buns.
May 11 · Julia H
The cardamom chai is the best chai I've had in NYC that actually reminded me of the chaiwalas back in India.They actually make it on a stove top to order.The gulab jamun donut was also quite good too.
July 14 · Tenzin Rigden
Ever since stumbling upon Hidden Grounds last year I have been HOOKED. I am slowly working my way through the menu but my favorites are the iced rose, classic masala, and cardamom chais. The chai drinks have that perfect spice taste that majority of the other "chais" I've had in the city are missing. Hidden Grounds is the best. I wish I could buy a bigger size than the one offered and I also wish there could be a location right next to my school but honestly that may not be good for my wallet.The apple cider donut is also so delicious and pairs so well with the spiced flavor you get from the drinks. I'm looking forward to trying the new food and snacks I've been seeing :DThe vibe in this location is very cozy, it is a very snug fit and there is very limited seating but every time I'm able to grab a seat at the window it's the best thing ever. It's so lovely to sit and people watch and whoever is choosing the music is doing a really good job.i love you hidden grounds
April 28 · Anjali Pulim
we've been on a quest to find the best and most authentic chai in nyc. after trying multiple different ones, hidden grounds has been the best one! also a cold new orleans blend is an ideal drink for summer weather.
July 20 · Aushim