On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.

Abraço

5 star rating
based on 55 reviews

Category: Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

Neighborhood: Manhattan/East Village
86 E 7th St
(between 1st Ave & 2nd Ave)
New York, NY 10003
(212) 388-9731
  • Nearest Transit:

    Astor Place (6)

    1st Ave-14th St (L)

    2nd Ave-Houston St (F, V)

  • Price Range: $
  • Accepts Credit Cards: No
  • Parking: Street
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: Yes
  • Wi-Fi: None
Sponsored Result You Might Also Consider

Neighborhood: Manhattan/East Village

"Recommended for:  Tea connoisseurs, relaxing in EV.   Food 5, Service 5, Ambiance 5.  You all know I'm horrible with names, and one of the…" read more »

55 Reviews for Abraço

Sort by: Recent + Votes | Time | Rating
Photo of Farrah F.

 

3

67

Farrah F.

Fremont, CA

5 star rating
07/20/2008

A tiny coffee shop in East Village. Emphasis on tiny. But the guy that runs it is so nice and friendly, you don't really notice too much. I'm also a fan of the music he plays.

I forgot to order the almond milk latte, but the cafe latte he recommended was really good (with a spoonful of sugar, because I am in love with sweet things). My friend ordered an iced coffee and I think the guy had just run out of ice, so he went down the street to buy some to came back to make it, haha. I also got an olive cookie (it's like a party in your mouth).

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of MiRIAM w.

Elite '08

1174

1682

MiRIAM w.

New York, NY

5 star rating
Updated - 07/05/2008

The iced coffee at Abraço is so sublime that it's worth risking the ill effects of a coffee allergy just to consume it.

People thought this was:

Useful  (5)

Funny  (6)

Cool  (5)

1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating 01/06/2008

    In my former life as a San Franciscan I'd start my Saturdays and Sundays with a trip to Blue Bottle… Read more »

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Rey P.

Elite '08

67

188

Rey P.

Jackson Heights, NY

4 star rating
06/16/2008

Individually brewed cups of drip coffee and Portuguese pastries? Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, sign me up!

The coffee is delicious and the olive oil cake does not disappoint. That cake is a bonus, too, since before now the bf and I could only get it if we made it at home (which leaves you with a whole cake to eat instead of just the one slice you want).

Word to the wise -- they close early (like six-ish), so get your fix in the morning/afternoon!!!

People thought this was:

Useful  (3)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (4)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Liz E.

Elite '08

19

273

Liz E.

Flushing, NY

4 star rating
06/21/2008

Having not properly read the reviews on this place I had no idea how utterly tiny this establishment is. Not even sure I was at the right place, I got in line while everyone else ordered cappucinos, coffees, etc. (why they'd do it on such a hot day is beyond my comprehension).

I decided to get one of the lunch specials of the day, which for six dollars was a zucchini, halved, and stuffed with basil/pistachio pesto and a medley of other things. It was quite small and not particularly filling, but it was extremely tasty.

For my dessert, I chose the bread pudding, which was excellent and moist save for the strange ribbons of cream running through it; not a good addition in my eyes.

Staff is extremely amiable and casual, and the variety of other pastries particularly enticing *I'm going for the olive oil cake next*

Standing room only.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Kim B.

Elite '08

16

165

Kim B.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
06/13/2008

Thanks to Yelp, I sought this place out and was totally satisfied. Iced coffee with almond milk. It was divine (but Seattle coffee is better -- OH SNAP)!

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Sarah M.

Elite '08

43

258

Sarah M.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
05/21/2008

I live in San Francisco, Blue Bottle, blah blah blah...Abraco definitely beats Blue Bottle, I'm not going to lie or try and defend my home turf.  They both have the charm of it being a walk up, non loitering place (though Abraco does have a  counter you can stand at inside the store front).  
I'm so glad this is the only coffee place I had on my list of places to try while I was in New York, and coincidentally it happened to be right down the block when we were feeling like a warm beverage.

People thought this was:

Useful  (3)

Cool  (4)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Lisa M.

 

1

35

Lisa M.

Brooklyn, NY

4 star rating
06/18/2008

The space is small but the coffee is made with loving care. The one guy making the coffee is really nice and you get a sense of how this place is a local business with the kind of people coming in to say hi to him. My favorite mocha is still the one from La Note in Berkeley but this is good coffee.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Danvin R.

Elite '08

42

192

Danvin R.

Mountain View, CA

5 star rating
05/25/2008

Is this place cute or what. A literal hole in the wall serves coffee with a smile. Their choice of pastries really make this place unique. I mean, where else can you find cured olive cookies or olive oil cake. The man behind the counter truly takes care of every drip he pours to his customers, with meticulous care for every order. I actually just had the cured olive cookie and although weird at first, I really got into it. Definitely worth a stop, this place places a smile on any coffee lover's face.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Allen Y.

 

8

43

Allen Y.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
05/20/2008

Quite simply, one of the best drip coffees I've gotten in this city! The coffee is freshly ground in front of you and just the right amount of water is heated for it. I'm drinking it at my desk as I write this and it's so much more dynamic than most drip coffee that is pumped out in this city.  

I haven't eaten anything here but if it is made with the same amount of care and craft as the coffee, I'm sure it's great.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Mo P.

Elite '08

19

103

Mo P.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
05/22/2008

There are people in the world who have a gift. Abraco has several of them trapped in their little cubby of a coffee haus..... blessing each cup of deliciousness that leaves their counter. I don't think I can say anything that hasn't been said.... this is one of the best cups of coffee you're going to find in NYC, brewed just for you....they love you that much.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Joi B.

 

24

53

Joi B.

Brooklyn, NY

4 star rating
05/02/2008

On Sunday, I hobbled my way down First Avenue in the midst of a hangover very, very rarely experienced.  I am lucky, I can tie a mean one on and wake up fine the next day, but when I do fall victim to the hangover, it's extreme.  I probably should avoid putting anything in my stomach at all.  At least, I don't want to, but I know I should.

Christ, where am I going with this?  

So, I decided to get a latte from Abraco. They don't carry soymilk, but they do carry almond milk.  It was beautifully prepared and felt wonderful in my mouth.  I couldn't drink it, however, due to my damn stomach problem.

Whyever would I think this is a good thing, to waste a first trip to a belauded coffeeshop?  You know how when you're nauseous and you make the mistake of eating something and then you can never eat it again?

Well, I am determined to go back to Abraco and get a few shots of espresso.  

I'm still giving it four stars because of the care with which it was prepared and served.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Elizabeth B.

 

12

26

Elizabeth B.

New York, NY

5 star rating
04/22/2008

Hola Jaime and your wicked brand of great coffee! It's a great distance from SF and you've already made quite a big deal of yourself. With five feet of coffee space one can make true friendship over hot cups of liquid gold!  I love me a cappuccino and of course the drip coffee. I live in the UWS and I do the trek to drink from the cups of Abraco. Give yourself time to enjoy it right where you stand, a "to go" order usually elicits a "Why do you need to go?" Thanks again Jaime, we needed this.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of N D.

 

0

49

N D.

New York, NY

5 star rating
04/17/2008

Absolutely the best latte I have ever had. The espresso was so smooth, rich and well-bodied. Having become resigned to burnt-tasting or watered down coffee drinks, my faith has been restored that good coffee does exist.

I know it's just a latte, but I enjoyed it that much. Can't wait to go back.

People thought this was:

Useful  (3)

Cool  (4)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Christopher I.

Elite '08

56

110

Christopher I.

New York, NY

5 star rating
05/15/2008

If I were captured, blindfolded and walked around the East Village, forced to identify some of my favorite spots, I would identify Abraco by:

hearing the crackle of vintage samba records playing

feeling the espresso machine and griddle's searing heat emanating from Abraco's tiny square footage

smelling the most superbly roasted and brewed espresso

tuning in to the owner's aloof humming and impulsive, friendly shouts "BYE BYE"

Then I would force my captor to take my wallet, find the appropriate bills, and buy us two caffe' macchiato. Perfection, in a tiny cup.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Stevie B.

 

2

18

Stevie B.

San Diego, CA

5 star rating
06/09/2008

Fantastico!   So glad that I indulged and enjoyed  all the splendor of the Abraco experience while in NYC on a recent trip.
 Great, personable staff! Fine cup of  perfection in a coffee mug and despite a trek from the subway 4-5 blocks away, I did not need the comfort! Standing at the window or sitting outside on a bench with a little drizzle still made it a memorable experience.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of camilla c.

Elite '08

137

322

camilla c.

New York, NY

5 star rating
03/13/2008

This just may be the perfect cup of cappuccino I've ever had in the states.  I can't think of one single way to improve on it... beyond increasing the size of the cup so I can consume more of it.  The foam was just perfect and ideally balanced with the espresso and the aroma... mmm... just heavenly.  Despite all the bodies squashed into this tiny storefront (the place was completely packed on a late Sunday afternoon), I was happy to be there and sipping on this lovely cup of cappuccino.  I usually can't stand overly stuffed closet spots like this and quickly start to feel claustrophobic, but none of those usual reactions to this type of a setting bothered me!  Weird... must be the effect of their great coffee.

The place has hardly anywhere to sit (I think I saw 2 stools by the window) and even though it opened not too long ago, it has the feel of a place that's been around for ages and has been a long-time neighborhood institution.  The guy running the place makes you feel welcome and unlike many other coffee shops with horrible / snooty / careless service, you feel as though they're going to take care of you here and fix you up with a really good jolt of caffeine.  I wanted him to friend me and throw about friendly banter as he was with a few other patrons (no doubt, regulars / addicts).  

If it hadn't been for a good, filling brunch right before coming here, I definitely would've loved to have tried some of their food.  But I was totally full and thus settled on a slice of the dark chocolate orange marble cake to go.  They gave it to me warmed up... and thus, I had to take a bite.  Yum!  Tasted really home-made and a nice complement to the cappuccino.  I'm definitely coming back to try out more of their food and pastries (with cappuccino, of course).  

As I left this place all cozy and warm from my coffee, I wondered why and how people could consume so much Starbucks when there are great little spots like this around.  I also started longing for the days I used to live in the E.V., just a hop, skip, and a jump from Abraco.  Now, I'm a bit further away... but anytime I'm in the vicinity, I plan on popping in here.

People thought this was:

Useful  (5)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (4)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Aneaha K.

 

4

10

Aneaha K.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
05/31/2008

The best bean juice I have ever had! I have been going to Abraco for about two months and i've never had an average cup. Whenever i'm in the city I alway stop in.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Anna H.

Elite '08

15

102

Anna H.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
03/29/2008

I'm not sure when it became okay for me to spend $3.50 for a cup of coffee-- but if I'm gonna do it, I'll do it here.  Abraco is adorable, the service is impeccable, and they made me the best (and most beautiful!) latte I've ever had.

Mmm.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of David L.

 

6

4

David L.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
03/12/2008

I came across Abraco in the NY Times.  I read the article and recognized the barista from my old coffee spot in San Francisco.  

I am glad to say he's brought the same quality to New York.  The coffee is excellent.  There is a small kitchen that serves food but I haven't tried anything.  The space is small.  There is no place to sit just a small counter area.

The place is always packed which is a testament to how good the coffee is.

People thought this was:

Useful  (4)

Cool  (4)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jennifer O.

Elite '08

41

174

Jennifer O.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
03/22/2008

The. best. cappuccino. Hands down, the best.

I miss seeing Jamie at Blue Bottle in SF, it was like a mini reunion seeing him again! You see, I've had the pleasure of having coffee out of Jamie's accomplished hands since he worked at Oliveto in Berkeley way back in the 90s. He makes a mean bittersweet mocha, and I really don't like mochas...Ah Manhattan, you're lucky to have him.

Abraco's tiny space keeps out the impatient riff-raff, only the true seeker of perfection will abide in a sardine can!

To note: Jamie's got great taste in music, you'll be tuned in to something new perhaps while you sip that cappuccino.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Karen L.

 

2

2

Karen L.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
06/02/2008

Hands down THE BEST iced coffee I have ever had in my entire life.

I stumbled upon it one day walking around the East Village and popped in to see what it was all about. There were no coffee menus to be seen. I asked the man behind the counter if he had soy milk since I can't drink cow's milk. He said, "No." A wave of sadness passed over me as I started to turn away when he said, "But we have homemade almond milk that I just made last night." I spun back around and undoubtedly had a huge smile on my face. I mean, I've never been anywhere that claims to make their own almond milk each night. So I ordered an iced americano with almond milk. The man shook his head and said, "I have something better: iced coffee." So I went with his recommendation and ordered an iced coffee, lightly sweetened, with almond milk. It looked amazing when he finished making it...the way the almond milk was swirling through the coffee. Upon first taste I nearly died from sheer bliss. The coffee was so rich, so perfectly balanced, and not bitter at all due to their cold brew process.

The only con is that it's not a place for lounging. Much more an on-the-go establishment. There are a couple of tiny bars: one for sitting and one for standing. But I can't imagine it would accommodate more than 5 people altogether.

BUT I can certainly appreciate that their focus is coffee, not lounging. And who needs to sit inside during these beautiful summer days anyway? Grab an iced coffee to go and bask in the sunshine while you drink the best iced coffee in the world.

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of KellsNYC G.

 

2

114

KellsNYC G.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
03/04/2008

So I'm in NYC, I left San Francisco and by saying I left San Francisco I'm really saying I left Blue Bottle coffee. Then I had a crazy happen. Last night I was randomly walking down a street in the east village with friends & I look into the window of this tiny ensy espresso shop and low & behold it's that dude from blue bottle Hayes Valley inside. You know, Jamie, the one with a lot of curly hair.
Before I could stop myself I was running across the street to get a closer peek, if anyone brought their love of coffee with them it would have been him, I had to know.
Turns out he moved here, he's bought a shop, he's making coffee and  the stuff is GOLDEN.

Small world. Small GOLDEN coffee filled world.

People thought this was:

Useful  (3)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of chloe s.

 

21

37

chloe s.

New York, NY

5 star rating
03/05/2008

That espresso was pretty damn good. The vibe too. Everybody else said it already.

Tiny, cute, and worth going to again and again

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Sienna K.

Elite '08

123

134

Sienna K.

New York, NY

5 star rating
02/15/2008

Abraco, as others pointed out, is Portuguese for "embrace." And though the owners don't really speak Portuguese, and actually named the store after a Brazilian song, there really isn't a more fitting name for this closet-sized friendly cafe that produces glorious coffee, big smiles, and die hard fans.

You'll notice right away how small this place is; it's about as big as a walk in closet, unable to fit more than six people max. And then you realize that not only are they making drinks from this hamster cage sized shop, they're actually baking here too. They have a small oven in the back that cranks out all the yummy pastries-- amazing.

I placed an order for a latte and olive bread. I assumed that because the place was so darn tiny, everything would be to take away, and was pleasantly surprised when the barista (Jaime) told me to enjoy it inside the store. I looked around. There was one stool and a window still. But still, if he insisted that I stay inside and enjoy Abraco's hospitality, how could I refuse?

And then while I was waiting for my drink, I watched Jaime and the pastry chef joke around with the other guest, whom I assumed to be a regular customer. It was impressive enough that they were talking like best of friends, but it was absolutely mind-blowing to see the lady actually clean up the store and help the two behind the counter. I told her that she shamed me as a customer, and she laughed and said, "I'd only do it for them." That's true love, man.

The coffee was ridiculously delicious. It was strong, but not acerbic or overbearing. The milk was foamed to perfection (I've been having lots of foam luck lately with my cafes) and it tasted like... Italian coffee. I'm a little hesitant to say it right now, and will have to test taste both of them side by side, but Abraco might give 9th Street Espresso run for the title of Best Coffee in New York.

The olive bread was also amazing. Though firm and crispy, it was still buttery and melted right in your mouth. The savoriness of the olives perfectly complimented the slight sweetness of the bread. Delicious!

Just more than anything, I'm really floored by how Abraco goes beyond the standard. Considering their size, they could just order baked goods from elsewhere, like many bigger cafes do, but they' don't. They could just be friendly and serve your coffee with a smile, but they're dead set on making your day with their smiles. They don't need to use organic milk for everything, but they do! It'd be easier to make everything to go, but they insist that you stay. And I'm glad I did, because by the end, they were including me into their jokes, and I felt like I was in some sort of modern LES version of Cheers.

Abraco, amo voce. (is it sad that I spent over a month in Brazil and all I know what to say is "I love you" and "you stink like a dog" ?)

People thought this was:

Useful  (10)

Funny  (3)

Cool  (9)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Julia N.

Elite '08

156

139

Julia N.

New York, NY

5 star rating
02/11/2008

Wow. This is the best espresso I have ever had in the USA. Ever. I wanted to climb inside the cup and bathe in the smooth, delicious, rich but not bitter, dark and tasty goodness. I actually ordered a double cappuccino ($3), but the barista here (so eccentric, so great) makes a very dry cappuccino. I liked the sparing amount of milk, but I bemoaned the small quantity of foam (a 1/2" at most), especially because it was extremely good, dense, succulent foam. I'll ask for lots more next time.

I also ordered a (manual, not machine) drip coffee ($2.50) to go, which was tasty for drip coffee, and insanely, overwhelmingly strong. I had to add whole milk in equal proportion in order to get my coffee to the desire medium-brown lightness and be actually drinkable. That's sort of how filter-manual-drip coffee is, and it was tasty, and powerfully caffeinated,  but I'll stick to the espresso drinks.

They offer breakfast specials (at 10:45 am on a Sunday morning, this place was JAM PACKED), and I tried a bite of spanish onion frittata ($3). It literally melted in my mouth, it was so delicate and tender and cloudlike, allowing the pure, sweet onions to shine through flavour-wise. The pain perdu with fresh ricotta ($3) is also utterly amazing, and the other pastries ($1.50-$4) looked just as delectable. I must try them all.

I love that they use organic milk (organic valley, my preferred brand) and organic soymilk (silk), and only offer natural, turbinado-style sugar. Nothing but the best, here; no compromises. Pure excellence.

People thought this was:

Useful  (22)

Funny  (12)

Cool  (23)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Molly T.

Elite '08

14

127

Molly T.

Astoria, NY

5 star rating
04/13/2008

I cannot stop thinking about this place. This coffee is so good that I think it would be perfectly reasonable to structure my life around it. And talk about it. All the time.

The first time I went in, I was sold. And I didn't even have their coffee. I was extremely thirsty and I try not to have caffeine in the evening, so I decided to order a san bitter (I think that's what it's called). Basically, because it was in a cute little bottle. Jamie warned me that I might not like it if I hadn't tried it before, which was quite thoughtful of him.

The place is teeny so I sipped the red, bittersweet drink while standing at the small counter looking out on 7th st. The drink was yummy! Quite sweet but with an thirst-quenching aftertaste that reminded me of grapefruit.

But I knew I had to go back for the true experience, and I was dying to try cold-brewed iced coffee. So I dragged my sister there. She got a macchiato which she loved. But I am telling you, this iced coffee is the best thing EVER. The flavor is so rich, and with milk added, the experience is so satisfying, almost yogurt-sour and even filling. We snacked on a subtle-sweet piece of olive oil cake and it was divine.

There's nowhere to sit except a small bench on the sidewalk, but this place has obviously gotten quite a following so people don't mind mingling outside while they wait for their drinks. The friendly neighborhood vibe is amazing and I feel like I'm back in SF when I'm there.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of amy l.

Elite '08

32

51

amy l.

New York, NY

5 star rating
02/13/2008

This place has made me re-route my weekend runs so that I end up here -sweaty and tired with the best coffee I've ever had.  

I don't remember Blue Bottle in SF being this good, but maybe that is because I'm forced to go to Starbucks here and in SF I went to Peets.  

All Abraco needs to do is to set up shop on every corner with a public bathroom.

People thought this was:

Useful  (3)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (3)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Simon E.

 

0

3

Simon E.

New York, NY

5 star rating
04/21/2008

I freelance from home in the East Village and even though I have fantastic coffee beans from the Porto Rico shop IN the house, I get up and walk 4 blocks over to Abraco for a cappuccino. It is simply the best one I've EVER had (in my 46 years.) The people there are very friendly and hopefully they will be rewarded for their efforts by making enough money to expand. Note: The good music you hear in the store is vinyl, playing off a turntable.....how cool is THAT?

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jaii F.

 

40

126

Jaii F.

Novato, CA

4 star rating
03/29/2008

I visited Abraco because I was in town with my friend Jen, who used to get coffee from Jamie in San Francisco at the Blue Bottle. My friends got a cappuccino and a mocha, which they said were excellent. I am more of a straight up coffee drinker, so I can vouch for my own cup of Joe and tell you that it was strong and smooth (thank you coffee Gods). The space is pretty tight and some guy was letting his kids zigzag around in the already cramped space (basic parenting - give it a try), but other than that everyone seemed pretty civilized so waiting for our coffee was fine.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jack L.

Elite '08

8

75

Jack L.

New York, NY

5 star rating
03/19/2008

Their espresso drinks are so smooth and aromatic its ridiculous. Don't go cause it's too packed already.

People thought this was:

Funny  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Jenny F.

 

8

71

Jenny F.

Brooklyn, NY

4 star rating
02/27/2008

Abraco is a recipe for success. It's too small to hold lots of people, which makes its supply (of seats and space) limited, which means that the demand will probably always exceed supply. (good for looking popular)

It's got unusual goodies, homemade and with trendy/obscure ingredients which is so hott right now. (anyone know what quince is? does anyone else make their own almond milk? have you ever had olive oil cake? but isn't olive oil the bomb!? etc.)

It has quirky, friendly staff, who welcome you to stay (though they must be chuckling on the inside because where would you stay if you stayed?)

It has word of mouth fabulous reviews thanks to Yelp!

The cappuccino ($5 w/almond milk) wasn't the best I've ever had (Gimme! Coffee is my fave in NYC as yet) and the olive oil cake was a little on the oily side (go figure) but overall I really liked Abraco. It's cute and friendly. And I'm a sucker for those "homemade" goodies with weird ingredients, what can I say?

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Lindsay M.

 

4

5

Lindsay M.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
03/30/2008

I'd been wanting to try this place since I read about it in NY Mag. I'm so glad I found it because it's now one of my absolute favorite coffee places in the city.

The small space is incredibly charming. Especially when viewed from the sidewalk with the windows open and the barista peering from behind the La Marzocco. I personally like the small space as it takes me back to living in Italy where you truly drop in, drink your espresso and are on your way again. (Though if you're lucky you'll grab a bench seat outside on a nice spring day and linger for a while.) In the five minutes or so that it takes to drink a cup of coffee the space can be both roomy and packed as people drop in and out.

The service is always incredibly friendly and the barista (the owner) obviously knows many of the customers. My espresso macchiato is always perfect with a leaf pattern in the foam to boot. Apart from trying a sip of  a friend's drip coffee (which was delicious) I haven't tried any other coffee drinks--I just can't resist a perfect macchiato. In fact, any time I'm within a ten block radius of Abraco I drop by for an espresso.

As for the food, I've only tried the grilled cheese so far and it was scrumptious. Oh, and there are three kinds of sparkling water--just ask Jamie and he'll describe them to you!

If you are a coffee purist (or just a coffee lover) you'll love Abraco!

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Adam G.

 

5

8

Adam G.

New York, NY

5 star rating
03/23/2008

Adding my voice to the chorus - I dropped in on a Sunday morning and found the cafe Cortado rich and smooth, and the staff super-friendly. I'm looking forward to going back and trying more of their drinks and pastries.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Daphne H.

Elite '08

14

155

Daphne H.

New York, NY

4 star rating
03/09/2008

My gf and i stumbled upon this little joint while looking for a coffee joint on our East Village shopping day. She wanted a decaf - the store owner apologized and said he doesn't serve decaf - i suspect that was rather blasphemous after reading all the reviews fellow Yelpers have posted here.

Nevertheless, I turned to her and was like " DECAF?! Why do you want decaf if you want coffee??!!!" Claiming that she simply likes the taste but not the caffeine - I persuade her to order a cup anyway, because I'm ordering a cappucino anyway. She orders a regular coffee ;D

This place is tiny. And when I mean tiny, i literally mean tiny. Like what everyone else says. There's barely a counter and practically no seating (ie. 1 or 2 stools) but boy do the people pour in! Clearly, there's a steady clientele and they love this expresso joint. I receive my fresh cup of cappucino and there's a foam heart which tickled my fancy. I look up and notice the counter culture coffee bean bags on a shelf - I inquire about buying beans for my boyfriend's dad - i ask him to recommend a bag of his best beans ($7.50) and he hands me a cute, brown packaged bag of their house beans which are free trade, counter culture as well.

We take our coffees and wiggle our way out amidst the loyal customers who chat up the extremely, friendly and warm owner. My coffee fix for today has been satisfied, extremely well. Expresso just the way i like it - rich and warm and hits the spot :D I hope my bf's dad will enjoy it as much as i did!

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Brian P.

 

1

4

Brian P.

New York, NY

5 star rating
03/24/2008

I hate to pile on more praises for Abraco, but I can't help it.

From the coffee, to the lattes, to the atmosphere, Abraco is "caf" perfected.

Some may digress and complain about the lack of personal space, but that's definitely part of Abraco's charm. The mood is always good and you never really feel cramped in there. I also love talking to [friendly] strangers, and the tiny quarters and amazing espresso are conductive for that. Similarly, Jamie's absolutely the nicest "Barista" [I say that since he runs the place as well, and I'd say anything out of Espresso-god is lacking in respect haha] ever. He doesn't know me [I wish he did, it'd be awesome to be a regular] but no matter who you are, he'll extend a warm, loving, cup of coffee/espresso/whatever to you.

I became a wannabe coffee/espresso-connoisseur about a year back when I realized there's A World Outside of Starbucks filled with unquestionably better coffee and ambience. I've been to many other places looking for the 'best' and I believe I've found it here.

The espresso is the smoothest I've tasted, and I couldn't help but smile on the way out the door after my first cup of Abraco's cappuccino. It's just that good. I can't wait until warmer weather, when I can just get a cup of Abraco and loiter outside with friends and other clientele.

I, sadly, haven't had the food here yet, but I'm sure it's amazing as well.

So, when all is said and done, go to Abraco. Now.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Nick A.

 

6

24

Nick A.

New York, NY

5 star rating
02/23/2008

Literally the best latte I've had in my entire life.  I was ready to pass out I was so happy the first time I had one.  I can't stop myself from basically chugging these by the time I get to 5th street.  The barista here is seriously on top of his shit.

People thought this was:

Funny  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Maya L.

 

13

85

Maya L.

Arlington, VA

5 star rating
01/05/2008

We went from Seattle to NYC in search of good coffee shops and we found it here at Abraco (amongst a couple of other really good ones). Abraco is charming despite of the tight space. Jaime, one of the owners, made the best Americano I've ever had because he used a very small amount of water in the espresso, which turned out, surprisingly, to be PERFECT. Abraco was like a welcoming warm nest completed with the jazz music playing in the background, the wall painting, the full kitchen in the back that serves an interesting menu of items I would've loved to try if I was there at lunch time. There were no chairs in the store but we spent more than half an hour in the shop and had a great time.

People thought this was:

Useful  (2)

Cool  (2)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of M T.

 

0

69

M T.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
03/01/2008

Finally! Great coffee in New York! I never thought I'd see the day! I'm not surprised it took someone from SF to do it right. And everyone here is so chill and awesomely nice, you feel like a regular even if you aren't.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Marcy C.

Elite '08

30

275

Marcy C.

Redwood City, CA

5 star rating
01/13/2008

I wandered in here after getting crappy service in 2 other cafes that I didn't have the patience to deal with. And it was the weirdest coincidence-the guy behind the counter is someone I used to know from back in the day..the Twilight Zone in Alameda, CA circa late 1980's. Of course I was so taken aback I didn't say hi. I mean, what are the odds? I am a dork. Jamie, if you are reading this, hi.  Oh the espresso was excellent too. :)

People thought this was:

Useful  (1)

Funny  (1)

Cool  (1)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

Photo of Edward F.

Elite '08

227

94

Edward F.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/04/2007

Our morning routine entails us always enjoying our first cup of coffee...be it the dependable drip coffee at the Bean on 1st Ave, the organic/fair trade drip coffee at Think Coffee on Mercer Street.....but on this first morning of Daylight Standard Time, we walked a few blocks to 7th Street to try Abraco for a cafe latte.

Why?

M-A-R-Z-O-C-C-O  as in the handmade in Florence since 1927 La Marzocco - the Ferrari of espresso machines.....

We're huge fans of espresso drinks, and when Better1/2 informed me that Abraco has La Marzocco, I said let's go!

While walking our cranky cocker spaniel toward Abraco, we could hear the sounds of Chet Baker being played from a portable record player in the cafe.  

Abraco is too small to be considered a cafe in the American sense (with tables, wifi access and laptop-toting patrons or students scattered about the premises)--but with an outdoor bench, a window ledge counter with space for two, maybe three patrons to stand and sip their cafe--what Abraco may lack in size it makes up for with its superior espresso, made-to-order food and personalized, friendly service (Jamie greets each customer with a smile and sincere warmth!).  Araco reminds me of the small cafe shops in Paris or Barcelona where patrons stop by and enjoy a quick espresso or  a quick bite before proceeding along with their day.  

We tried the cafe latte made with homemade almond milk.  Made with a double shot of espresso and almond milk poured carefully to create espresso art, I can honestly say that this latte tasted on par if not better than espresso drinks I've had at Ninth Street Espresso or Joe the Art of Coffee, but closer to our apartment.  A truly delightful start to our day!

People thought this was:

Useful  (4)

Funny  (2)

Cool  (6)

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review

1 to 40 of 55 |  
Page: 1 2
Write a review

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...