Purple Waves

- 285 W 110th St, New York, NY 10026

Welcome to Purple Waves, a truly unique and intentional cafe, wine bar, and community hub located in the heart of New York City. Positioned at the nexus of Manhattan's Harlem, the Upper West Side, and Morningside Heights neighborhoods, this women-owned establishment goes far beyond serving great coffee and food. It’s a space built on principles of sustainability and community, creating a warm, vibrant, and inclusive environment for everyone.

From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is a perfect blend of relaxed and vibrant. The interior, thoughtfully decorated with secondhand furniture and a cozy library nook, invites you to sit, stay, and unwind. It’s a place where professionals can work, students can study, and friends can meet up for a leisurely meal or a glass of wine. The cafe's dedication to supporting local and promoting a circular economy is evident in every detail, from the food they serve to the products they sell.

Purple Waves is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a living example of how a business can make a positive impact on both people and the planet. This commitment to a higher purpose, combined with its high-quality offerings and welcoming atmosphere, makes it a cherished spot in the New York community.

Purple Waves is conveniently located at 285 W 110th St, New York, NY 10026. Situated in the Circa Central Park building, the cafe overlooks the wide pedestrian plaza at the northwest corner of Central Park, near Frederick Douglass Circle. This prime location makes it an ideal spot to visit before or after a walk in the park.

The cafe is easily accessible to a wide range of people. It is adjacent to several public subway and bus stations, with the A, B, and C subway lines just steps away. For those who prefer to cycle, Citibike stations are also nearby. The establishment is fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring it is a welcoming space for all. Additionally, its family-friendly policies, including high chairs and a kids' menu, make it a great option for families in the area.

• Dine-in: Enjoy your meal in the cozy and trendy indoor space, or on a nice day, take advantage of the outdoor seating with views of the Central Park area.
• Takeout: For customers on the move, Purple Waves offers a convenient takeout service. True to its sustainable mission, all to-go containers are reusable, and customers are encouraged to bring them back.
• Catering: The cafe offers catering services, allowing you to bring their thoughtfully prepared, locally sourced food to your next event or gathering.
• Private Events: Purple Waves' versatile and inviting space is available to rent for a wide range of gatherings, from private parties and corporate meetings to creative workshops and presentations. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and offers flexible layouts to suit any event.
• Wi-Fi: High-speed Wi-Fi is available, making it an excellent spot for remote work, studying, or casual browsing.
• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area, so you can enjoy a coffee or meal with your furry companion.

• Sustainable & Local Sourcing: As a leader in the circular economy, Purple Waves sources its coffee, food, and wine as locally and sustainably as possible. The menu features organic dishes, and the cafe works with local New York State farms for its dairy and cheese.
• Unique Cafe & Wine Bar Concept: Purple Waves masterfully combines a traditional cafe experience with a sophisticated wine bar. You can enjoy a great cup of coffee in the morning and return for a curated selection of local wines and craft beer in the evening.
• Live Music & Performances: The cafe serves as a vibrant community space, regularly hosting live music, open mic nights, and other creative events. This makes it a dynamic spot to enjoy local talent and connect with the neighborhood.
• Versatile Menu: The menu offers a wide range of options, including great coffee, a strong tea selection, and thoughtfully prepared dishes for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Patrons rave about specific items like the grain bowl, which is described as a "symphony of textures and flavors." The menu also caters to various dietary needs with vegan and vegetarian options.
• Retail Section: Beyond the food and drinks, Purple Waves features a unique retail section offering locally sourced products. This includes oils and vinegars, sauces and condiments, jams, and even eco-friendly household and cleaning products.
• Community-Focused & Inclusive: The cafe is dedicated to fostering a sense of community. It identifies as a women-owned business and is a welcoming and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. Its gender-neutral restrooms further highlight its commitment to inclusivity.

Address: 285 W 110th St, New York, NY 10026, United States

Phone: (212) 927-1101

In a city full of cafes, Purple Waves stands out as a destination with a purpose. It is a must-visit for New Yorkers who value not only high-quality food and drink but also a business with a strong commitment to sustainability, local community, and social responsibility. The cafe's mission to operate on circular economy principles—eliminating single-use plastics and sourcing locally—makes every visit a choice that feels good for both you and the planet. This level of dedication is a refreshing and important feature that is worth supporting.

The atmosphere is another major reason to choose Purple Waves. It strikes a perfect balance between a cozy, quiet retreat and a vibrant community hub. The space is thoughtfully designed to make you feel comfortable whether you're working on your laptop, having a casual meal, or enjoying a live performance. The presence of live music and live performances adds a layer of cultural richness that elevates the experience beyond a simple coffee run.

The food and drink offerings are also a compelling reason to visit. The menu is a testament to quality, with organic and thoughtfully prepared dishes that impress even the most discerning palates. The grain bowl, as noted by a reviewer, is a prime example of the cafe’s ability to turn a simple dish into a "symphony of textures and flavors." The full bar with a focus on local wines and craft beers provides a sophisticated alternative to the typical cafe menu, making it a versatile spot for any time of day or night.

In short, Purple Waves is a place where you can feel good about what you're consuming and where you're spending your time and money. It's a women-owned business that fosters an inclusive, friendly, and progressive environment while serving top-tier food and drinks. It's a true gem in the heart of New York City, and its unique blend of cafe, wine bar, and community center makes it an exceptional choice.

Purple Waves

285 W 110th St, New York, NY 10026, USA