Post Overview: Best DUMBO coffee shops
Across the East River from Manhattan there’s an adorable Brooklyn neighborhood with a silly little name that New Yorkers can’t help but love. Its name is DUMBO, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.
The cobblestone streets wind to and fro, taking guests past former warehouses and factories that have been turned into stores and restaurants. Once a hub for aspiring artists, DUMBO never really lost its allure and still attracts both locals and tourists alike.
And like the rest of the world, this neighborhood runs on caffeine. You’ll find a goldmine of charming coffee shops in DUMBO that brew with the same artistic passion that made the neighborhood famous.
DUMBO is so picturesque that it occasionally seems unreal. You have jaw-dropping views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Lower Manhattan, the East River drawing you to the neighborhood like a magnet, and mouthwatering coffee that will keep you coming back.
Whether you need a place to work or are in search of an afternoon caffeine-boost rest assured there’s plenty of coffee shops in DUMBO that will captivate your heart and taste-buds.
But hey there I go again, getting ahead of myself. What do you say we get right into it?
So what the heck does DUMBO stand for?
Quite simply, DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Aptly named, this neighborhood is sandwiched between two iconic NYC bridges: the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. Don’t you just love it when the answer is uncomplicated and to the point? It’s the New York City way!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
DUMBO Coffee Shops
#11. Joe Coffee
Some of the best coffee in all of New York City can be found at Joe Coffee Company. Luckily they have not one, but two coffee shops in DUMBO for you to run a cup through its paces.
Their cafes are better suited for take-away orders because of their smaller sizes, but I’d be dammed if I didn’t mention the phenomenal coffee. It’s consistently smooth so it always hits the spot, and I’m not the only one that thinks so.
On the contrary, Founded in 2003 Joe’s Coffee has spread like wildfire. But it’s not hard to see why the DUMBO coffee shop is so loved — the atmosphere is inviting, the vibe relaxed and the coffee exceptional.
Locals Tip: Their shop on Washington Street is one of the best DUMBO coffee shops to stop by for a drink and a picture in front of the famous Manhattan bridge! If you’d like a photo in front of the iconic Manhattan Bridge spot, head to the cross section between Washington Street and Front Street.
Address: 45 Washington St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 & 102 Hicks St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#10. BEEPUBLIC
BEEPUBLIC is not only one of the most charming coffee shops in DUMBO, it’s one you can feel good supporting. Founder Jonathan Ledee set his sights on creating a sustainable cafe in New York City that focused on saving the bees.
Bees are vital to the production of coffee and many other things that people consume. In BEEPUBLIC Ledee saw a chance to build something greater than just coffee, making it one of the most ethical coffee shops in DUMBO.
There is a lot of seating in the roomy cafe. It’s a nice place to catch up with friends or work away on your laptop. The menu, which features dishes like breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, and even burgers is entirely vegan (in true sustainable manner).
And dare I say, this is one of the most affordable DUMBO coffee shops (when compared to common NYC pricing). An Americano cost less than $4, which if you’re familiar with $8 lattes, this is a steal. All the food items also range between $8-12, which I found to be impressive for the quality.
All of this is to say that BEEPUBLIC is a great example of a business that offers top-notch service and eats while advocating for a larger issue and being true to their cause.
Bonus: This DUMBO coffee shop turns into a bar later in the day, stick around and finish your study-sesh with a glass of wine!
Address: 181 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#9. Evil Twin Coffee
It’s no secret that Evil Twin Brewing is one of the top breweries in NYC, but what many folks don’t realize is that the brewery also happens to offer coffee at their DUMBO cafe.
Thursday through Sunday from 8 AM to 3 PM, sleepy New Yorkers eagerly run to this cute DUMBO coffee shop to get their daily dose of caffeine. The clean, bright and open aesthetic makes starting your day at a brewery seem a little less taboo.
As far as the menu goes expect to find all the classics like drip coffee, fancy lattes and freshly baked pastries. There is a good amount of seating available at Evil Twin Coffee, along with outlets scattered throughout the space. Plan on sticking around for a while if you have work to catch up on.
Evil Twin Coffee is one of the most underrated DUMBO coffee shops in my opinion. If you plan your trip just right you can start your visit with an espresso and end it with a brew (and I don’t mean cold brew!).
Address: 43 Main St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#8. usagi
Of all the DUMBO coffee shops on our list, usagi might just take the cake when it comes to dreamy aesthetics. The Japanese-inspired cafe is a mix between a bookstore, a gallery and a coffee shop.
But with so much going on the cafe is still minimal, spacious and cozy. You’ll often find the seats filled with folks clicking away on their laptops nursing delicious matcha lattes, surrounded by colorful books.
It truly is as dreamy as it sounds, usagi is an easy place to love. Make sure to swing by on a rainy day and secure a spot near the window facing the street — it’s one of the best coffee shops in DUMBO for people watching.
Address: 163 Plymouth St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#7. Devoción
Devoción means devotion in Spanish, which is a fitting name given that the cafe is devoted to being one of the best coffee shops in DUMBO. The neighborhood hot-spot serves locals with the freshest cup of coffee possible, seriously.
This DUMBO coffee shop is the closest thing you’ll get to a fresh roast outside of the places where the crop is actually harvested.
After hand selecting coffee plantations in Colombia, the folks at Devoción mill their coffee at their warehouse in Bogotá. Using overnight shipping they then transport it to Brooklyn, for in-house roasting. From there it is prepared to order and finds it’s way into your cup all within roughly 10 days.
Fair warning, this is one of the best coffee shops in DUMBO so finding seating can prove to be difficult. They have a bigger location in Williamsburg, but grabbing a cup to-go at their DUMBO cafe and heading towards the East River for epic views of Manhattan is pretty hard to beat.
Address: 105 York St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#6. Bluestone Lane
Bluestone Lane is best known for colorful and healthy brunch, but their coffee is worth a trip alone. The DUMBO coffee shop is always full of people and the lively chatter that accompanies large groups.
Inspired by coffee culture of Melbourne Australia, Bluestone Lane helps New Yorkers start their days off right. They even sell their own packaged coffee to make at home, saving you the trip to their DUMBO cafe.
But you should make the trip, their coffee shop in DUMBO is bright and fun thanks to their unique flamingo wallpaper and friendly staff.
Having to wait in line is practically guaranteed during the weekends, but the colorful Aussie brunch menu is worth the wait. Their coffee is half the draw, which is why I consider this one of the best coffee shops in DUMBO.
Address: 55 Prospect St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#5. Dawn’s Til Dusk
So you just walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and need a spot to rest your legs and refuel? I got you covered!
Dawn’s Til Dusk (also known as just Dawn’s) is one of the cutest DUMBO coffee shops. It’s located just a short walk away from the Brooklyn Bridge so it’s a perfect pit-stop after the trek.
The charming corner lot creates the ideal scene for people watching while sipping away on a latte. It also doesn’t hurt that Dawn’s has a small selection of irresistible baked goods, including mouthwatering cookies.
There’s a cookie called the Judith which happens to be gluten-free and vegan that I dream of often! It’s a coconut, toffee mix that’s so good you forget that it’s vegan.
It’s not uncommon for this adorable DUMBO coffee shop to boast a line. Between the picturesque building and laid-back vibes it’s not hard to see why it’s such a popular spot for a cup of coffee.
Address: 33 Main St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#4. Zaruma Gold Coffee
Zaruma Gold Coffee might just be one of the best kept secrets in Brooklyn. The DUMBO coffee shop is tucked inside a neighborhood grocery store called the DUMBO Market.
The unassuming cafe sources and serves coffee directly from Ecuador. The best part about this DUMBO coffee shop? The authentic Latin food and treats that follow in tow.
I mean where else in NYC can you go to get a delicious cup of Ecuadorian coffee AND an empanada? The food is served fresh and treats like the Yuca Bread (essentially balls of cheese bread) should never be skipped out on.
It’s very apparent this DUMBO coffee shop prides itself on quality and authenticity which translates in the goods.
Address: Inside DUMBO Market | 66 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#3. Cha Cha Matcha
It feels like matcha has taken over the world and coffee is officially getting a run for its money.
As such, it comes as no surprise that New York City has hopped on the matcha train and boasts multiple matcha shops, one of which is among the best cafes in DUMBO.
Fabulously pink, Cha Cha Matcha is one of the most Instagrammable places in NYC. Not only is their DUMBO cafe charming as can be, the drinks are gorgeous too.
Popular for their matcha lemonade, matcha soft serve and specialty drinks, Cha Cha Matcha gives coffee shops in DUMBO a run for their money. But hey, there’s nothing wrong with a friendly rivalry, right?
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#2. Butler Bake Shop
Ryan Butler blessed New Yorkers when he opened Butler in 2016. Being a chef by profession, Butler has curated an exquisite and simple menu that compliments their delicious coffee from Intelligentsia coffee roasters.
Roasted to perfection, the coffee is among the smoothest you’ll find in NYC. I never miss an opportunity to stop by their coffee shop in DUMBO, even if I have to take my order to-go.
Whether you pop in first thing in the morning or for an afternoon snack, Butler has the perfect hot (or iced) cup of Joe for you. The sleek and gorgeously designed interiors make customers want to hang out in there.
Their DUMBO coffee shop is usually full of chipper locals, or folks on laptops working away. With their big and light-filled space it’s hard to not want to stick around yourself.
Address: 40 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#1. % Arabica
% Arabica first came onto my radar by way of Instagram. Found on a charming block corner, the DUMBO coffee shop offers stellar views of lower Manhattan.
As if that wasn’t enough, enormous half-dome windows perfectly frame the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. It’s near impossible to not break out your phone for a photo.
The location and epic views are incredibly memorable and help make it one of the best coffee shops in DUMBO to share with out of town guests. The modern interior fits perfectly with the neighborhood it calls home.
However don’t assume its beautiful design is merely fancy packaging, their coffee holds its own. With in-house state of the art roasting machines you truly get to experience the freshness and boldness of their coffee.
Our dream is to grow % Arabica across unique lands and cultures of the world, so that we can “See the World Through Coffee.”
KENNETH SHOJI, FOUNDER
Address: 20 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 1120
Quick Recap of the best cafes in DUMBO
- % Arabica
- Butler Bake Shop
- Cha Cha Matcha
- Zaruma Gold Coffee
- Dawn’s Til Dusk
- Bluestone Lane
- Devoción
- usagi
- Evil Twin Coffee
- BEEPUBLIC
- Joe Coffee
Best DUMBO coffee shops (Helpful Map)
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And there you have it, our list of great coffee shops in DUMBO. As always, don’t hesitate to let us know if we missed anything. Cheers!
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