The Mandarin

- 113 Madison St, New York, NY 10002

Tucked away in the vibrant and evolving Two Bridges neighborhood, on the border of Chinatown in Lower Manhattan, you'll find The Mandarin, a true gem for coffee and tea lovers. This small, cozy, and trendy cafe provides a much-needed haven from the city's relentless pace. It's more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a carefully curated space with a "geometry with soul," where thoughtful design creates a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. The Mandarin has quickly become a favorite for both locals and those who travel for a standout coffee experience. It’s an ideal spot for a quick caffeine fix, a quiet moment of solo work, or a relaxed catch-up with a friend, offering a slice of calm and a touch of style in the bustling urban landscape.

The core of The Mandarin's appeal lies in its dedication to high-quality beverages and a curated menu of quick bites. While some may specialize in one specific area, The Mandarin has earned praise for both its great coffee and its extensive tea selection, which includes a variety of matcha-based drinks. The menu is simple and refined, focusing on classic coffee beverages like lattes and Americanos, alongside more unique offerings such as a Matcha Cortado and the "Babychino." This balance of familiar favorites and new discoveries ensures there’s a drink for every palate. The food menu, while concise, is equally thoughtful, with options like sourdough toast and open-face toasts with delicious toppings. This simple but high-quality approach to both food and drink, combined with a friendly staff and a clean environment, makes The Mandarin a standout destination in a city full of coffee shops.

The Mandarin is located at 113 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA. This address places it in the vibrant and culturally rich Two Bridges neighborhood, which is easily accessible from various parts of Lower Manhattan. It's a convenient stop for anyone exploring the area, which is known for its blend of historic charm and modern development. The coffee shop is within a reasonable walking distance of several major subway stations, including the East Broadway station (F line) and the Grand Street station (B and D lines). This makes it a great choice for those relying on public transportation to get around the city.

For those who prefer to drive, the area offers paid street parking. As with most of Manhattan, street parking can be challenging to find, so it's often wise to consider public transport or a nearby paid garage. The small and intimate size of the cafe contributes to its cozy atmosphere, and while there is limited seating, it's a perfect spot for a quick break. The ease of access for a quick takeout order, combined with a welcoming and tidy interior, makes The Mandarin a hassle-free destination.

The Mandarin provides a focused set of services and offerings that cater to a clientele that values quality and convenience.

• Takeout and Dine-in: Customers have the choice to enjoy their beverages and food on-site or to take them to go. The small, cozy interior is perfect for a quick break from the city.
• Specialty Coffee: The coffee menu is concise but high-quality, with classics like Drip Coffee, Espresso, and Lattes, as well as Flat Whites and Cortados.
• Extensive Tea Selection: The tea offerings are a significant highlight, especially the variety of matcha drinks, which include a Matcha Cortado and Matcha Latte. They also serve a classic Chai Latte and a simple Tea Pot.
• Quick Bites: The food menu is curated for a quick and satisfying snack. Offerings include Granola and Fruit Compote, as well as a variety of open-face toasts, like French Jambon and Caprese, perfect for a light meal.
• Milk Alternatives: The cafe is accommodating to dietary preferences, offering milk alternatives for a small additional fee, which is a great amenity for those with dietary restrictions.
• Quick Visit Friendly: The cafe is designed for a quick and efficient visit, making it an excellent choice for a busy New Yorker on the move.

The Mandarin is known for several key features and highlights that have earned it a loyal following.

• Great Coffee and Tea Selection: The cafe is praised for both the quality of its coffee and the variety and excellence of its teas. It is considered a place for "great coffee" that stands out in its city, appealing to even seasoned coffee drinkers.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is consistently described as casual, cozy, and trendy. Its minimalist yet thoughtful design with "soft curves and clean lines" creates a relaxing and stylish environment.
• Laptop Friendly: For those looking for a productive space, the cafe is noted as being good for working on a laptop, providing a comfortable and focused environment.
• Friendly and Fast Staff: Customer reviews highlight the staff as being "friendly and kind," making drinks "quite quickly." This efficient and welcoming service enhances the overall experience.
• Delicious Snacks: While the food menu is small, the quality is high. A customer specifically praised the toasted Ham and Gruyere Croissant for being "quite tasty."
• Commitment to Quality: The cafe's dedication to quality ingredients is apparent in its drinks and food, offering a consistently good product.

For those looking to visit or contact the cafe, here is the essential information:

Address: 113 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA

The Mandarin is a solid and worthy choice for anyone seeking a quality coffee shop experience in Lower Manhattan. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its successful blend of high-quality offerings, a welcoming ambiance, and a convenient location. It’s a place that delivers on its promise of great coffee and tea, providing a genuine and satisfying drink experience. The ambiance is a major plus, as the casual, cozy, and trendy design makes it a pleasant place to linger, whether you're working on a laptop or catching up with a friend. The friendly and efficient staff further enhances the experience, ensuring you feel welcome from the moment you step in. While one review mentions a less-than-ideal coffee experience, the overall consensus points to a place that cares about its products and its customers. For a quiet, stylish, and productive break or a delicious cup of coffee, The Mandarin is a hidden gem that is well worth seeking out.

The Mandarin

113 Madison St, New York, NY 10002, USA