After my wonderful meal at Jean Georges, I took a leisurely stroll from Central Park West to SoHo, and found myself at the wifi-less Nespresso Cafe. I’d enjoyed the space during the press event a few weeks prior, but wanted to go back to see what the space was like normally. I was surprised to discover that it was a sit down cafe, with some light bites and table service… they really want you to focus on the experience of their espresso without distraction. I found out later that they don’t even allow you to take their drinks to go!
I can appreciate that, so I took a seat and settled in to enjoy some espresso. I have very limited experience with espresso, and find myself somewhat caffeine sensitive, so I was hesitant as I browsed the menu. I finally settled on liegeois; described as a shot of espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, I decided it sounded like the Italian affogato. When I took a sip, I was surprised immediately by how creamy the espresso was; not much of the ice cream had melted just yet, but the espresso itself was smooth, with only the tracest hint of bitterness. I found myself seeking out the coffee taste, and being surprised with just how smooth it was with no additions. I enjoyed this a lot, even as the ice cream melted, and plan on going back to try just espresso in the near future.
While I sat there, I noted the three-sided placard on the table showcasing some of their specials. Note the spelling of macaron. >:T The above is something I’d totally enjoy though – I love salted caramel.
Another adorable assortment of pastries with your choice of drink.
The onirio is, to my knowledge, their current ‘seasonal’ coffee. I’d be interested in trying that to see how it stacks up to their regular coffee lines…
Yvo says: If it wasn’t clear in the previous post about the Nespresso Cafe, I really like the space. It’s bright, airy, wide open (though no wifi), and has a lot of comfy chairs scattered around low tables for you to sit and enjoy your espresso. I found myself really enjoying just sititng there, working on my netbook offline, able to concentrate on work without the distractions of being ‘on’ all the time. The prices were about average for such a cafe, and I’m interested in returning to try their food items as well. Caffeine up!
recommended
Hungry says
So this cafe only serves coffee from their pods?
Feisty Foodie says
Ha, technically, yes all the coffee served has come from the pods. But they do make drinks with them (lattes, cappucinos, etc.), and they serve food as well (light sandwiches, snacks, small things like a true European cafe might).
T.C. says
Not sure I am cool with their fancy coffee pricing. Probably stick with Joe’s.
Much cooler when you had your own machine! 😛