Round K

- 78 Canal St, New York, NY 10002

Tucked away on the vibrant and dynamic Canal Street, Round K is a true hidden gem that offers a captivating and multi-sensory experience unlike any other coffee shop in New York City. Blending the cozy, casual atmosphere of a traditional cafe with the creative and unique offerings of a modern bar, Round K has carved out a special niche for itself. It’s a place where you can find an expertly crafted classic latte just as easily as you can discover an inventive, signature drink that will challenge your expectations. This is more than just a place for a quick coffee run; it’s an experience, a destination for those who appreciate both great coffee and a distinctly artistic vibe.

The interior of Round K is a reflection of its unique personality. It features a cozy and intimate space with a few tables and a countertop area, giving it a speakeasy-like feel that's both trendy and comfortable. This intimate setting is perfect for solo dining, providing a welcoming environment for locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and even romantic, making it a great spot for a relaxed meeting or a casual date. As the day progresses, the space transforms, with a bar onsite that serves beer, cocktails, and wine, making it a versatile destination for late-night food and drinks. Round K has earned a reputation for being a "transgender safespace" and LGBTQ+ friendly, which, combined with its welcoming attitude towards a diverse crowd of college students, locals, and tourists, highlights its commitment to creating an inclusive and positive environment for everyone.

Round K is conveniently located at 78 Canal St, New York, NY 10002. This puts it squarely in the heart of Chinatown, bordering the Lower East Side, two of the city's most culturally rich and exciting neighborhoods. Its location makes it easily accessible via multiple subway lines, including the J, Z, B, and D trains, which stop just a short walk away at the Grand Street and Canal Street stations. This makes it an ideal meeting spot for anyone looking for a unique cafe experience without having to venture too far from the city's main transit hubs. The neighborhood itself is a vibrant tapestry of street art, historic buildings, and diverse eateries, providing plenty to explore before or after your visit.

The building's street-level entrance is wheelchair accessible, and the interior is thoughtfully laid out with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and seating, ensuring that the space is welcoming and accommodating to all patrons. While the main seating area is compact, there is an outdoor seating option available, which provides a nice, private spot to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat, especially on a nice day. This combination of a central location, easy transit access, and a commitment to accessibility makes Round K a convenient and welcoming destination for anyone navigating the bustling streets of Lower Manhattan.

• Inventive Coffee & Tea: Round K is celebrated for its unique coffee and tea selections. Alongside classic options like Drip Coffee, Espresso, and Latte, they offer creative drinks that have garnered a cult following, such as the famous black coffee made with coconut ash. They also boast a great tea selection, including 'Yuja Honey Tea' and 'Ginger Honey Tea'.
• Full Food Menu: This isn't just a place for drinks. The menu includes all-day breakfast options like 'Mushroom Truffle Toast' and 'B.E.C. Bun', as well as house specials like 'Spicy Chicken Sandwich' and 'Kimchi Fried Rice'. Vegetarian options and small plates like 'Spicy Cucumber Salad' and 'Popcorn Chicken' are also available.
• Bar Onsite: As a coffee shop by day and a bar by night, Round K offers a selection of beer, cocktails, and wine, making it a perfect spot for happy hour drinks or late-night outings.
• Onsite Services: The establishment provides a variety of convenient services, including outdoor seating, curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in.
• Catering & Reservations: Round K offers catering services for events and also accepts reservations, making it a viable option for groups or special occasions.

Round K is known for its fast service and commitment to providing a memorable experience. Its atmosphere is one of its most compelling features, described as trendy, cozy, and even romantic. The space has a distinctive "Narnia" or "speakeasy" vibe, which adds a layer of mystique and charm to the visit. This unique ambiance makes it a popular spot for college students, locals, and tourists looking for a place that feels different from a typical chain coffee shop. The cafe is well-suited for those who want to work on a laptop, thanks to its Wi-Fi access, and it also provides a comfortable setting for solo dining.

Another major highlight is the quality of the coffee itself. The "great coffee" and "great tea selection" are consistently praised by customers, who appreciate the expert craftsmanship that goes into each cup. The friendly staff and a welcoming "transgender safespace" environment further enhance the experience, ensuring that every customer feels comfortable and respected. The availability of both quick bites and full meals, along with a wide range of offerings from comfort food to small plates and alcoholic beverages, makes Round K a truly versatile and appealing destination in the heart of the Lower East Side. The fact that it is also dog-friendly, allowing dogs outside, is a bonus for pet owners in the city.

Contact Information

Address: 78 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (347) 471-1601

What is Worth Choosing?

When visiting Round K, you'll want to choose an item that captures the essence of its creativity. While a classic Cortado or Latte is always a safe and excellent choice, the truly unique experience lies in their signature, often inventive drinks. For a memorable and photogenic experience, consider one of their famous black coffee creations, which have a distinctive flavor profile. The Matcha Latte is also a great choice, as Round K is known for its high-quality tea selection.

Beyond the drinks, the food menu holds some true gems. The Kimchi Fried Rice is a standout house special that offers a flavorful and comforting meal. For a perfect savory and indulgent start to your day, the Mushroom Truffle Toast is a popular choice, praised for its rich flavors. The Popcorn Chicken, served with a unique spicy mayo and chili oil sauce, is also a highly recommended small plate for sharing. Ultimately, what is worth choosing is a willingness to step outside the box and try something that you can't find anywhere else. Round K's ability to blend Korean-inspired flavors with classic coffee shop fare in a cozy and trendy setting is its greatest strength, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in New York City.

Round K

78 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, USA