A Wren Says

Really quickly, let’s go back in time to a couple of coffee shops I visited in New York City this past winter.

Coffee Shop 1: White Noise Coffee

The name alone intrigued me. But rather than being a touristy place or viral with an outstretched line, it seemed like a local hangout. I saw groups of who I’d assume were students studying, people doing their remote work, and couples of friends reconnecting.

I ordered the Jang Pumpkin Spice Latte. That was a little risky given I’m an outspoken opponent of the pumpkin spice teams, but I was curious.  I figured it had to be something different than I might be expecting. I liked that it didn’t have that artificial pumpkin flavor that so many pumpkin spice drinks have. It was just the pumpkin spices that rang clear to me. I appreciated it.

Would I go back?

Absolutely. It seems like a chill spot to hang. The desserts and entire food menu seemed good, but I forewent them as I was heading off to exercise. I would love to give those a try and their other takes on Korean-inspired flavors in the drink assortment.

Coffee Shop 2: Bird & Branch Coffee Roasters

Every now and again there are cafes that I wish I could visit more than once in a single trip. Bird and branch is that cafe. I sipped on the nightingale latte while munching on a black sesame kouign aman. The latte had a strong tea flavor ringing through amongst the espresso. After all it was their take on an earl grey latte. 

Would I return?

Yes for sure. For starters, the egg sandwich ordered by another patron made me jealous. It was also cozy in there. You could read that as small and tight, but it was a good place to perch by the window and enjoy a sip before zooming off for the rest of the day. And I want to hear more of their story and taste more of the perspective. Tell me about the wren latte, with peanut butter. Explain to me what your favorites are. It was my last stop before I rushed out on my last day of the trip, but I would definitely return with more time to sit and enjoy the more of the menu.

That’s my quick review for the day. Are there coffee shops you would recommend the next time I’m in New York.