Starting with why. This post illustrates my love for cute cafes, quality espresso, and delicious ambiances. I have made it a mission the past two years to try as many different coffee shops in the area. I believe supporting small businesses is so vital to the culture and authenticity that these cities reek of.
Drum roll please…
#5. O Kafe 230 Pavonia Ave
There is something so special about O Kafe. They are located right next to Hamilton Park. And diagonal Cangiano’s. You already know the visit is going to be worth it. I really go to O Kafe for their Girl Scout Cookie iced latte. It reminds me of Marylous, iykyk.
They also are one of the few who does the tonic espresso. I know it’s not for everyone but it definitely is a plus for me.
Although I haven’t tried their food, I know it looks delicious. I have had the acai bowl and do recommend if that’s your thing.
Lot’s of indoor warm and collaborative seating.
#4. Canard Cafe Bar 200 Greene Street
Canard is vibe. Good coffee, bakery items, indoor work area seating, and parking/public transport across the street. Canard is located on the ground floor of the Urby Living tower.
My favorite time to visit Canard is when I need to hunker down on 3-5 hours of admin computer work. I can get lost in a Cortado and feel cozy checking off my action items.
Finally, they have bakery items similar to those in France. Fluffy, flakey, and delectable. Do not skip the chocolate chip cookie heated up. Honorable mention to their build your own breakfast sandwiches. Haven’t personally tried but when I can add multiple concoctions, I am always in.
#3. Sober Shot 514 Jersey Ave
Sober Shot gets no. 3 for a multitude of reasons. The first is the cold foam.
The cold foam on every drank. And for my dairy free girlies, they accomodate.
I always ask for my sober shot with cold foam made with soy milk. It hits every single time. You can get matcha, butterfly pea protein, espresso, the list goes on.
A smaller table section on the perimeter of the cafe. They have treats, I have not yet tried too.
They do what most coffee shops don’t. Keep it up SOBER SHOT!
#2. modcup Coffee 479 Palisade Ave
The coffee is no jokin. They roast in house. They know exactly what they’re doing. And they’re doing it right. There is always a thoughtful barista behind the bar. This is so appreciating in itself. They take pride in their craft. And they serve the masses with really really good drinks.
They are one of the few who can reasonably charge $6+ for a coffee. Mostly everyone else needs to chill. And finally, thank you for your macadamia milk services. And your selling of Baking Mama cookies. Too real.
#1. Treehouse Coffee Shop 205 Brunswick St
And finally, TreeHouse. Wow, they really done did it. I don’t know how. The market was oversaturated with coffee shops. Not to mention the 5 (Rabble&Lion, Gussys Cafe, Kaffa Espresso Bar, Basic Cafe, Dames) all in walking distance. But Tree House really did the damn thing.
And here’s how I think how.
The flavor profiles haven’t been done before. Horchata, NOLA, Strawberry White Mocha, Vietnamese Red Eye, list goes on and on. Don’t get me started on their rewards program. 10 points = a free cold brew or drip. So thoughtful? I am a loyal stan. I take my friends time after time. Outdoor seating in the back. Another location in West Side as well with the cutest outside picnic table setting.
Round of applause for some honorable mentions in Jersey City – BWE Cafe, Maggies Espresso Bar, and Hybrid Coffee & Kitchen. The drinks keep flowing in this city. Cheers, Jersey City. Cheers to coffee shop owners. Doing Gods work!