9 best coffee spots in New York

New York, New York. It’s the city that never sleeps – which means that its residents need caffeine like they need air. In recent years, Aussie expats have been setting the benchmark for coffee, and people can’t get enough, like these nine must-stop coffee destinations.

Get your caffeine fix in the Big Apple.

Sorry Starbucks but we know better.

Bluestone Lane

When AFL-player-turned-New York-banker Nick Stone missed the Melbourne café culture, he decided to do something. That was in 2014, and he’s now building an empire, with 55 Bluestone Lane locations dotted across Manhattan and throughout the USA. Every venue boasts amazing coffee, an all-day brunch menu (hello, baked eggs!), and service with a side of banter. www.bluestonelaneny.com

Two Hands

For one of the most Instagram-able brekkies in NYC, make your way to Two Hands – bright and bustling spots that are known for their relaxed vibe as much as it is for their ridiculously good acai bowls, ricotta toast and corn fritters. Go often enough and you’ll be greeted by name as the barista hands over your ‘outback cap’, a cappuccino complete with powdered chocolate and a Tim Tam. Because you deserve it. www.twohandsnyc.com

Little Collins

These two cafes may be tiny, but Little Collins gets a lot of love from locals. It serves up a brilliant brew as well as Aussie staples like avo and feta smash and The Convict, a tongue-in-cheek name for Vegemite toast. Don’t be surprised if you hear New York natives asking, “What’s a charcoal chook sandwich?” We’ll tell you – it’s smashed peas, bacon and caramelised onion, and it’s downright delicious. www.littlecollinsnyc.com

Partners Coffee Roasters

The trendy Williamsburg café is sun-drenched, and has an on-site bean roaster – making it ideal to settle in for the afternoon. The other locations are over the bridge in Manhattan and Long Island City, but offer the same smooth coffee and friendly service, so there’s always a flat white fix close by. partnerscoffee.com

Ruby’s

With four locations, Ruby’s has a few claims to fame. It was one of the first of the Aussie cafes to set up shop in New York, and the influence is clear from the photos of Bondi Beach on the wall, Coopers and Pale Ale on tap, and “Thanks mate!” scrawled on the bottom of every bill. Then there’s the burger list that reads like a list of beautiful beaches: Coogee, Bondi, Blueys, Whaleys and the famous Bronte. www.rubyscafe.com

Banter NYC

As at most great Australian eateries, there’s a fusion of flavours and vibrant coloured produce at Banter NYC. Based in Greenwich Village and the West Village, these natural light-filled cafes are a must-visit for those fuelling up for a big day of exploring New York City. www.banternyc.com

Hole In The Wall

Four locations with top notch long blacks and the ideal place to get some more substantial fare. Try the mushies and pesto on toast then head back for a beer in the evenings. holeinthewallnyc.com

Black Fox Coffee

Five destinations for coffee purists and while the brews are sublime, there's none of the attitude that can accompany this level of dedication. They also sell a range of beans you can whip up in your hotel room to conquer that jet lag. blackfoxcoffee.com

Dudleys

The owners' vision was to  "capture the essence of the quintessential Australian corner pub-and-bistro." Mission accomplished but it should also be pointed out that this is an all-day diner. Which means you can smell proper coffee wafting out the Orchard Street premises from 9am seven days a week. dudleysnyc.com

Originally published as 9 best coffee spots in New York