Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop

- 219 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Introduction / Overview

For many New Yorkers, a local coffee shop is far more than a place to grab a caffeine fix; it’s a vital 'third space'—a sanctuary between home and work. Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop, nestled in the vibrant heart of Bushwick, Brooklyn (11237), has masterfully created a space that serves this dual purpose with an authentic and compelling mission. This is not just another neighborhood cafe; it is a meticulously curated Book store and a welcoming Coffee shop that acts as a dedicated hub for the Gay & lesbian organization community and allies.

Located at 219 Irving Ave, Hive Mind is a cozy, trendy, and casual retreat that immediately feels like home. While the café section, as noted by local patrons, is intimate, the quality of the drinks is celebrated, with an excellent coffee program featuring all the espresso staples like Latte ($5.00) and Americano ($4.00), alongside specialty drinks like Chai Latte and Matcha. The atmosphere is specifically highlighted as being conducive for Solo dining, making it a perfect spot for individuals looking for quiet contemplation, study, or getting lost in a good book. The dedication to creating a safe, easy-access, and cozy environment is what makes Hive Mind a significant addition to the Brooklyn literary and social landscape.

The core identity of Hive Mind is rooted in its extensive selection of queer and trans books, proudly stocking what is recognized as one of Brooklyn's largest selections of literature by queer and trans writers. The book inventory is thoughtfully curated, offering a mix of new, used, and discounted titles, catering to both specific literary interests and general readers who appreciate a diverse, intersectional perspective. This unique blend of commerce, culture, and community advocacy makes Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop an essential New York institution.

Location and Accessibility

Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop is ideally situated at 219 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA. Irving Avenue is a bustling, easily navigable street in the Bushwick neighborhood, known for its artistic energy and growing number of unique, independent businesses. The 11237 ZIP code is a cultural nexus, making Hive Mind a highly visible and relevant local destination.

Accessibility is paramount in New York City, and this location is well-served by public transportation. It is conveniently close to major subway lines, including the L train at DeKalb Avenue and the M/L lines at the Myrtle-Wyckoff Avenues station, placing it within easy reach for residents across North Brooklyn and Manhattan commuters. For customers requiring physical accessibility, the establishment ensures a welcoming experience with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, demonstrating a commitment to serving all members of the community. Inside, the presence of a dedicated Restroom further enhances the comfort for patrons who choose to stay and enjoy the space for an extended period of solo work or relaxation.

Services Offered

• Onsite Services and Dine-in: Provides a cozy space for patrons to sit, relax, read, and work while enjoying their beverage.

• Full Espresso Bar: Offers a wide range of hot and iced coffee and tea drinks, including Espresso, Americano ($4.00), Latte ($5.00), Cappuccino, Cold Brew, Chai Latte, and Matcha.

• Specialty Beverages: Options for non-coffee drinkers such as Hot Choc, Hot Tea, Iced Tea, and Alt Milk substitutes.

• Curated Book Sales: Stocks a diverse selection of new, used, and discounted books, specializing in queer and trans literature while also carrying general interest titles.

• Quick Bites & Desserts: Offers limited food items, focusing on quality sweet treats and snacks, often sourced from highly-regarded local bakeries, perfect for a Quick bite or an afternoon Dessert.

• Community Event Hosting: Regularly organizes and hosts a variety of events, including Queer Book Club meetings, author readings, literary open mics, Queer Writing Nights, and community meetups.

• Modern Payment Options: Accepts multiple convenient payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

• Brooklyn’s Queer & Trans Literary Hub: Specializes in stocking one of Brooklyn's most extensive selections of books by queer and trans authors, making it a vital cultural resource and a center for discovery.

• Exceptional Beverage Program: Known for offering Great coffee and a Great tea selection, ensuring high-quality refreshments to complement the reading and working experience.

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The space is highly praised for its Casual and Cozy vibe, providing a warm, welcoming environment where customers are encouraged to "hang out" and feel at ease.

• Community-Centric Events: Hosts frequent and diverse literary and community events (such as the Queer Book Club and Work In Progress Open Mic), firmly establishing itself as an essential ‘third space’ for interaction and connection.

• Ideal for Solo Patrons: Recognized as being Popular for Solo dining and work, catering perfectly to the independent nature of many New Yorkers looking for a peaceful yet inspiring place to spend time.

• Commitment to Accessibility: Features a Wheelchair accessible entrance, promoting inclusivity for all visitors in the New York community.

Contact Information

Address: 219 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA

Phone: (347) 487-0033

Mobile Phone: +1 347-487-0033

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop is about embracing a business with a powerful, dual mission: great coffee and essential community building. For any New Yorker in the market for a new favorite local spot, Hive Mind stands out far beyond its excellent caffeine offerings.

First, the book curation is unparalleled in the neighborhood. Unlike large chain stores where specialized literature can be hard to find, Hive Mind places queer and trans voices—including both celebrated and marginalized authors—at the forefront. This commitment to diverse representation in literature makes it an indispensable resource for readers looking for stories that truly reflect their community and the world's complexity. If you're looking to support independent, mission-driven bookselling, this is the place.

Second, the overall atmosphere and sense of welcome are consistently highlighted by local users. The space manages to be both Trendy and deeply Cozy, offering a much-needed escape from the relentless pace of New York City life. The emphasis on being a great spot for Solo dining means that customers can confidently walk in alone and find a peaceful corner for reading or working. The combination of a tasty Latte or a Cold Brew with a locally-sourced sweet treat creates the perfect environment for a productive or relaxing afternoon.

Finally, the extensive schedule of free and low-cost community events—from book clubs to open mics—cements Hive Mind’s status as a vital social anchor in Bushwick. It’s an easy-access, alcohol-free ‘third-space’ where literary and queer communities can gather, connect, and thrive. For those who value community, high-quality refreshments, and a thoughtfully curated bookstore, Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop is a truly valuable and worthwhile destination in Brooklyn.

Hive Mind Books & Coffee Shop

219 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA