Black Cat Les - New York City

I am a huge coffee drinker and prefer local or new places. This was probably one of the best lattes and cappuccinos I have had in the city.Food: 5/5

Came here on a rainy day to meet up with two friends. Such a lovely atmosphere and efficient, warm service!! I was floored by the consistent soft decor and warm lighting, just a very romantic, calming vibe. There’s seating for one or for groups, on couches and cushiony chairs!! Plus free internet and places to charge your tech. I loveeee the barista specials, those unique touches are hard to find these days and one of the reasons I come to spots like this over boring sterilized chains. Also seems like 90% of people with warm vibes come in here and hang regularly, so nice vibes all around ^ ^

My FAVORITE cafe on the east side of Manhattan, HANDS DOWN. I'd make the daily 15-minute trek there (even in a heavy blizzard from mine and my boyfriends place on E. 12th St. Avenue A in the East Village JUST to hang there for awhile in the ambience. I live in California now, and HORRIBLY miss the Black Cat LES.

I wish I understood the buzz around this spot, as there are certainly many things to love (such as the adorable logo and cozy seating areas! , but I was very disappointed in my experience. On a hot day, it gets unbearably stuffy, an inconvenience compounded by slow service from an indifferent barista. The quality of the espresso is okay, but the commercial brand syrups made for a replicable latte lacking any flair. What I was assured is a LES staple and local favorite turned out to be a caffeine detour I could have personally done without.Vegetarian options: Plant-based milk available.Dietary restrictions: Plant-based milk available.

This coffee shop is incredibly cozy! I hope it remains open forever because it's exactly what we need. With reasonable prices, a wide variety of drinks, plenty of seating, excellent customer service, an events calendar, and a collection of vintage board games to enjoy with friends. Long live Black Cat LES!