Coffee Houses in Harlem, New York

The number of coffee houses springing up in an area is a sure signs that a neighborhood is in the midst of an economic transition .  Harlem is no exception to that rule.  Below are 10 neighborhood favorites.

Sugarhill Java & Tea Lounge


This charming neighborhood cafe fills the need of a rapidly growing area that was sorely lacking a place where residents could sit  with a hot beverage and leisurely chat with friends and neighbors.  Josai, the owner of Sugarhill Java and Tea Lounge hand makes sandwiches, wraps and fresh green salads every morning. Pastries come from the neighborhood bakery, Make My Cake, and there are specialty tea blends like the popular Velvet which seems to appeal to both coffee and tea lovers.

Sugarhill Java & Tea Lounge is located at 344 West 145th Street near Saint Nicholas Avenue.  The hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 8 pm and Weekends 9 am to 8 pm. No website or Wi-Fi access. Whole beans available for purchase.

Settepani [website] [map]


Settepani Bakery and Cafe was one of the first Harlem cafes to offer sidewalk seating along Lenox Avenue.  The owners started out by offering their specialty pastries and Italians breads but soon discovered that they needed an added touch in order to reach the unique Harlem community.  With some help from the Clinton Foundation, Settepani expanded their menu to include sandwiches, salads and pasta.  Settepani is located 196 Lenox at 120th Street. Call for hours. 917-492-4806. Wi-Fi access.

Saurin Parke Cafe [website] [map]

This popular cafe is located at 301 West 110th Street at Central Park West.  They are open seven days a week from  7 am to 12 midnight. In addition to coffee they offer hot and cold sandwiches, fresh pastries, soups and salads, a full bar and free Wi-Fi.

Society [website] [map]