Parsons School of Design:
Fashion-
Ralph’s Coffee
160 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Ralph’s, by the famous fashion brand, Ralph Lauren, is a perfect place for all fashion lovers. The aesthetically pleasing green tile and perfect latte art make this place beyond Instagrammable – just make sure to come wearing your best outfit (and after the morning rush). There are several locations throughout the city including one right up the street from the University Center.
Interior Design-
Felix Roasting Company
450 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016
Felix Coffee, located in Kips Bay, knows that a good coffee shop has more than just a perfect espresso, they have a perfect interior to match. The inspiration for their interior comes from none other than the aesthetic movement from the late nineteenth century, which according to the Victoria and Albert Museum was, “aimed to escape the ugliness and materialism of the Industrial Age, by focusing instead on producing art that was beautiful rather than having a deeper meaning.” The result feels just as much like an art exhibit as it does a coffee shop. There’s ample seating in various shades of pink and blue (which are just as lush as the interior) accompanied by art-deco tables. And here’s a fun fact: the hand-drawn mural in the cafe is comprised of 500 individual tiles.
Fine Arts-
American Wing Cafe
1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Located directly inside the MET on the first floor, the American Wing Cafe offers stunning views of the artwork. Take the time to relax after wandering the various galleries, or grab a quick coffee for while you peruse, all while staying immersed in the MET’s experience. Or, you could go with friends and take the time to sit and discuss your time exploring the museum’s vast and awe-inspiring collection.
Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts:
Literary Studies
The Strand’s Coffee Shop
28 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
While this isn’t a designated coffee shop per say, the Brooklyn Coffee Company’s cafe, located inside The Strand, is perfect for book lovers. Offering espresso drinks, chai, and matcha, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy while browsing through The Strand’s famous and extensive stacks.
Screen Studies-
The Lost Draft
398 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
Located in Soho, the Lost Draft is a designated space for all screen study majors of NYC schools. The space is inspired by the film industry, and there’s ample seating to get work done and even a private “Read Room” that you can book. On their website, there’s even a submission form for aspiring writers to submit screenplays, treatments, movie ideas, etc. to be considered for future production. There are director’s chairs for patrons to sit in with individual table lamps for working on your draft.
Political Science-
Think Coffee
568 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Ethically-sourced and transparent about their social impact, Think Coffee is aiming to do what many other businesses are failing to: actively work to make the world a better place. With plenty of seating from high-tops to cozy booths, Think Coffee is the perfect place for brainstorming ideas to help bridge the many financial and social gaps in the world. Plus, they’re also easily accessible, offering many locations throughout Downtown Manhattan.
College of Performing Arts:
Drama-
Marie’s Crisis Cafe
59 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Marie’s Crisis Cafe, which according to their website is, “the world’s only acoustic sing-a-long showtunes piano bar,” is perfect for any drama majors who love a chance to belt out their favorite Broadway hits. Marie’s prides itself on being a welcoming and safe space for all identities, in particular the LGBTQ+ community and is open seven days a week until 4 am.
Mannes-
Cafe Reggio
119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Located on MacDougal street in the heart of Greenwich Village, Cafe Reggio is rich with history and famous for being the first cafe in the whole United States to serve a cappuccino. Dimly lit and filled with historic artwork, Cafe Reggio’s environment goes perfectly with a night of jazz music at Cafe Wha which is conveniently located right down the street – just look for the giant Cafe Wha sign above the neon-lit guitar.
Playwriting-
Drama Book Shop
266 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018
This establishment is both a bookstore and cafe, offering a variety of spaces for playwrights to work on their craft. Known for being the birthplace of many great theatrical works, including “In The Heights,” this place is super cozy and welcoming, making it an ideal venue for collaborating and brainstorming new ideas. Their menu is diverse, with items ranging from a matcha latte to an asiago turkey sandwich.
The New School for Social Research:
Economics-
Ten Thousand Coffee
1410 Broadway Unit 105, New York, NY 10018
Ten Thousand Coffee is located in central Wall Street and is the ultimate destination for anyone with a love of numbers. They spent ten thousand hours – according to their website – to create the ultimate cup of specialty coffee, and it’s worth checking out if you’re in the area. The location also can’t help but attract anyone who is obsessed with the Stock Market – and isn’t that the majority of econ majors?
Creative Publishing and Critical Journalism-
News Bar Cafe
107 University Pl, New York, NY 10003
Tucked between a Blue Bottle Coffee and P.F Changs on University Place, News Bar Cafe is perfect for anyone who enjoys the aesthetic or environment of a newsroom. With tables packed tightly together, this popular spot is perfect for collaborating on your latest breaking story, or simply enjoying an affordable lunch with a friend. Be wary though, tables are hard to come by during peak breakfast and lunch times.
Anthropology-
Ground Support Cafe
399 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
With its open floor plan and airy interior, Ground Support is the perfect daytime destination for the avid people-watcher. With a big open window for those who prefer to sit inside, or outside benches for those who want to be out in the sun, you can sip your beverage of choice wherever you please and contemplate the lives of those walking by. It’s also perfect for reading (or skimming) a textbook in natural light.