This place did what everyone should do. It's kind of like playing a video game, while everyone else has no idea you put in the cheat code to be Invincible. Nothing can go wrong. Why do I say this? These guys brought two forces together to form Third Rail Coffee, a place that uses two kinds of beans upon request, Stumptown and Intelligentsia. By doing so, they have taken two of the best roasts and opened, what may be, the most intelligent coffee shop I've walked in to. By having these two beans, unless there's a complete bonehead behind the counter, you really cannot go wrong when it comes to making a near-perfect cup of coffee. Here's part of my review of Stumptown: "The espresso was just perfectly delicious. Smooth, very rich, and not muddy at all, like most other coffee joints. It is a true art to serve a drink with espresso without it tasting the slightest bit bitter (there's a tongue-twister). But, Stumptown managed to nail every aspect of this drink." Here's an excerpt from my review of Culture (they use Intelligentsia): "Deliciously smooth, not a drop of bitterness. Strong stuff." That's all you really need to know about the place. There are a few seats and booths, but not the amount of space to depend on going here and studying or anything like that. Third Rail Coffee is the definition of 5 stars. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Stumptown AND intelligentsia. WIN. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

On my quest to find the best coffee (and yoga) spots in the city. This is definitely high up on the list. They make very good coffee here. Be prepared to have your socks knocked off. Of course also, I had my Disloyalty card and thus far, this is the third place I have visited (only 7 more to go). They make third wave espresso here, and honestly, I am getting more and more snobbish about my coffee the more I drink good coffee vs. bad coffee... The shop is tiny, can fit about 10 people max, so I don't recommend you hang around here for too long. But, it is fun to grab a coffee here and chit chat with friends, lovers, enemies, students, liberals, conservatives, animals or any permutations or combos of that. Great spot near W 4th stop. Definitely will be back! read more

The cafe is kind of cramped and stuffy like most of the non-Starbucks coffee shops in the area, but they brew a strong cup of coffee! I didn't want to splurge on a latte since I'd already had my cup in the morning, so I went with just the drip. It did its job to keep me awake and functioning for another 3 hours! Btw, they are no longer cash only - they got themselves Square, YAY! read more

I've definitely walked by this place multiple times but never noticed it. It's a super small find but definitely a gem! I came here to detox for about and hour so after work and before meeting up with friends and I'm so glad I did. The seating is limited, but it's got some chill vibes and the staff are super friendly! I had an iced latte and it was made to perfection. I also tried one of their almond croissants and it wasn't bad- I am not a huge almond croissant person and wanted to try something new and was pleased. They definitely have their regulars and you could see how the baristas knew individuals by name and k ew their orders as they came in. If I was closer to this spot I would definitely consider it as a regular spot. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Stopped by here for a short coffee break. The coffee here is really great and very fresh! They also have a good amount of seating.

Another great coffee joint! My medium iced coffee was decently priced at $2.25. Cozy inside...I would stay and hang. Cash only! read more

I first became aware of Third Rail Coffee at the national US Coffee Championships in 2015. Carlos Morales, of Third Rail, flew out and distinguished himself in the Brewer's Cup championships. (I was a volunteer staff member at the USCC). A few years later, I was fortunate enough to find myself in NYC and made sure to stop by Greenwich Village for a cup. By complete chance, who's behind the counter? No prizes for guessing--Carlos! He took extreme care in hand-brewing my individual naturally-roasted Burundi over a generous single-serve Chemex. I was quite frankly surprised by the amount of time and attention he took in brewing the cup, almost like a lab scientist. The resulting pour was so worth it. Very clean, perfectly extracted, not a hint of sour overextraction. The notes are still singing in my mouth now. World class. read more

Not the best coffee ever. My latte kind of tasted very plain and drowned in milk. The mocha was delicious though.

One of NYC's smallest coffee shops with exceedingly beautifully lattes. Cozy yet modern atmosphere, very anti twee. Limited seating, maybe at most for 10 people, so depending on the time you come in you may or not get a table. I did not see any outlets, nor would I recommend trying to bring work here. Good to visit in the off times with a book, groups less than 3, or anything one to one. The baristas are knowledgeable and friendly. The prices are about average. They offer two different espresso blends, single origin coffee (some brewed within a chemex) and a range of espresso based drinks. I highly recommend their lattes- flawless appearance and taste, a particular, almost nutty flavor from the coffee itself. The cortado is also well done. read more

Third Rail Coffee - A medium latte with whole milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I am staying in Greenwich and searched coffee. I have been to Stumptown, Toby Estates, Birch, but Third Rail is at the top of my list. There coffee wasn't smooth and rich. It didn't taste very acidic and I think that is why it was so good. Didn't need any creme or sugar. My wife got a latte which she wouldn't share and kept a smile on her face. Place is small with seating for 8 but just pick it up and walk around. read more

See all

A small hole in the wall place that serves the best coffee like Stumptown and Intelligentsia. If your in the area, the West 4th train station is really close so order something here before heading back to your destination. Sub Coffee_Order { Walk to Third Rail Coffee Order a Latte/Iced Coffee/Coffee Walk back with your cuppa Joe because there is hardly anywhere to sit in the store Smile return; } read more

Good Stumptown drip coffee, but not as good as their latte. And the Stumptown here is still not as good as my Porto Rico Importing Co. Third Rail's java is more expensive, as well. The place is staffed and frequented by students/hipsters as one would expect and there's almost no room to sit. As a takeout place on the way to the subway it serves good coffee, but there seems little pleasure in hanging out here. My SO purchased a couple of pastries. I could not eat my pumpkin/cranberry/pecan muffin due to logistical difficulties during rush hour, so I'll have to get the review on those from her. read more

Tiny but adorable and cozy place with delicious coffee. The hot chocolate is great too. They take cash only! read more

Third Rail Coffee - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Absolutely one of the best lattes I've had in the city. It was so smooth and rich tasting (I had mine with almond milk) and just the right temperature. The barista was friendly and prompt. I'm not in this area too often, but I wouldn't hesitate to return to 3rd Rail. read more

Too pricey, even pricier than comparable drinks at other cafes. A regular-sized, iced soy latte with a one dollar tip comes to.......$7.00. The espresso is also too strong. I'm a regular coffee drinker--an aficionado, some might say--but this was just excessive. I was jittery for three hours. Third Rail Coffee is very good coffee but you'd get just about the same quality for two bucks less a block away. Also, SWARMING WITH LAW STUDENTS AT NEXT-DOOR NYU SCHOOL OF LAW. BEWARE!!! read more

Westcoast hippies have coffee down to an art and are far less snobs about it. Of course, this is NY, however, they do make a stiff macchiato. After they slapped me with $4 for the drink I expected more than a 1 oz shot. But the fact they did it with an artful cream shaped heart and smile on their face made it one of those so uncool it's cool vibes. I like a little bit of grunge and mystery to my coffee shop but the limited seating does make for good people watching and a quick stop for a perk. Until someone else puts a heart on my coffee I will come back, and hate that I love them. Touche barista for winning my heart and earning quirk points. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Made with love - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

Third rail has a very comfortable environment that feels similar to my grandmother's house. My grandmother passed away several years ago. She was the kindest person I know; bless her soul. Both third rail and my grandmother provide me shelter when I am cold. They both give me cookies for when I am sad. They are both so adorable. And they are both currently not living. Interior design: small circular shaped tables. One brick wall. Black wooden counter with marble top. It is very nice and minimalistic over all. There are confusing photos of happy people living in third world countries though. Why are there these controversial photos on the walls? Third rail, third world country; I get it now. P.s. They are currently blasting in the club by 50 cent. Right on. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

The coffee is adequate but nothing extraordinary, especially considering the exorbitant prices. A pastry and a "large" latte will cost you almost $10. The baristas are perfectly nice and the decor inside is pleasant, but the cafe itself is too small for anyone to want to linger for too long, IMO. Not a bad place to grab a treat once in a while, but I can't imagine becoming a regular here. read more

Third Rail is almost always packed when I show up on my daily mid-morning coffee runs. Why? Probably because it's awesome. The physical parameters of being a Greenwich Village coffee shop do not limit this little shop's fun energy and local feel. This is a place to be social and do some light people watching - there are only a few tables, but the copious light that the large picture windows let through makes this place feel really comfortable and welcoming. And - the biggest plus in New York - the friendly, laid back staff behind the counter obviously enjoy working with each other and like coffee, and they always serve up your drink with a smile. Spread the buzz. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Adorable signage draws the coffee lovers in. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

Easily among the best coffee I've tried anywhere - these guys really care about what they are doing. Consistently excellent espresso and cold brew. I haven't tried baked goods, etc. The location is very convenient, small but cozy. read more

Fantastic service from a fantastic team no matter when I come in. And one of the most affordable almond milk mochas in town at $5.50! Cash only... good! It's a small business, avoiding cc fees is great. The space is great too, it's smaller but they pack in a lot of seating to get off your feet for a few while you enjoy your coffee. Again though, the staff is all great. I've never seen a frown on a single persons face, doesn't matter if it's before the sunrises on a Monday and we'd all rather be sleeping, or late on a Saturday night when they'd all rather be out with friends. Hard to find a place that commands such natural positive energy from its team. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Actual art... so rare in coffee shops. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Tiny place located near Washington Square/NYU. The coffee (regular and cappuccino) was good, the service was quite friendly and the atmosphere has character. The place is small, but well worth a stop. read more

Third Rail NY: Manhattan: SoHo 6:30pm Sunday 28th September 2014 Four Stars This small coffee shop has two sets of benches, 6 mini tables, and some good coffee. I ordered my usual Cappuccino ($3.75) to stay. They use Stumptown Coffee. It had a strong nutty aroma. The slightly bitter crema sticks to your lips. The ratio fell on the milk heavy side. The vibe was pretty cool - playing the Iconic Space Jam Hit I believe I can fly by R. Kelly followed by songs from Missy Elliot and Beyoncé. You can also see into the bar across the street and watch some Sunday night football. The service was nice and seemed to know their product. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

Small coffee shop with about 6 tables. Excellent espresso, had a delicious latte. Fyi - no decaf espresso read more

Third Rail Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

Great Baristas, crowded in commutes, chill af the rest of the time. Still make a good cappuccino even when the morning rush is strong.

Great mocha. The perfect amount of espresso and chocolate. If the spirit moves you, try a glazed donut which was delicious, though all the baked goods looked scrumptious. The customer area is quite small, so not a place to hangout with your laptop and your homework. read more

Pretty disappointing coffee shop for me. Coffee was pricey and very average. I didn't get much fragrant coffee bean taste, which I usually expect for a $5 drink. Overall I'd recommend passing as there are much better options in the city. read more

Their coffee is unmemorable. Overpriced, Starbucks has better coffee than this hipster place. They hire bunch of hipsters that can't even serve coffee nor provide quality service. Hope this location will be closed soon like the other location. read more

Perfect latte. LOVE! I don't drink coffee regularly, but I do enjoy a latte or two at times. Yes. I'm not a regular coffee drinker. So what?! But this place makes legit lattes. It smells so awesome when you first step into this place. It's tiny, there's very limited seating, but it's cute and they make legit lattes. I should've asked for a stamp card. I'll most likely go back next time for their lattes. Did I mention they make legit lattes?? read more

Take the way home that leads back to Sullivan Street and to lovely coffee!! I stopped in here to kill a little time before meeting up with a friend. I got in about quarter 'til 5 and the place was packed. Tables were full, except for the one I scored, and the line filled the remaining nooks and crannies. I ordered my mocha and did some people watching while I waited for my drink. The clientele here is varied. From hipsters to business men to students to ladies with Great Danes twice their size. The people venturing in and out all seemed to be connoisseurs of decent coffee and many of them seemed to be regulars and knew the baristas. My mocha was excellent. Small, but potent. The design on the top just added to the overall allure of the drink and the establishment. I sat reading my book and enjoying my coffee for about an hour and a half. The funny thing was that the crowd sort of cleared out and then as quarter 'til 6 approached the place became overly packed again! I guess the lesson here is to show up anytime, except a quarter to. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Proudly serving Stumptown Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Third Rail Coffee is a nice coffee chain in NYC. I was looking for one of the highly recommended place by fellow yelpers in NYC while walking around in the NYU area. This one was the best rated and rightfully so. It is a very small place with limited sitting space. The baristas are very nice and courteous. They have a very positive and upbeat attitude when I was there. I like their selection of tea and baked items are good too. If you are looking for good tea they have it. If you are lucky and the wether is nice outside you can always walk to the park and sit on the bench to enjoy a nice cup of tea. read more

I stepped into Third Rail Coffee for a quick latte while I was on my lunch break. I had heard they served Stumptown and I didn't feel like walking past the park to get to W8th for the real Stumptown. I wasn't disappointed - the coffee was good but again, more expensive than the real thing. Their large latte is really a medium latte. I was expecting a huge cup of coffee - I suppose only Stumptown does the actual large lattes. Third Rail is great if you don't want to walk and want some coffee ASAP. But in the long run, I think I'll continue to make the trek for my precious Stumptown. read more

Coffee was outstanding. One of the best in NY. I got a latte. Well steamed and espresso had a soft nutty flavor. Only downsides are price, limited seating and cash only. But really the coffee is so amazing, the other is immaterial. read more

A tiny coffee shop spotted across the dumpling store. I tried the iced latte with less ice and this was hilarious; since it was less ice, the cup wasn't full! It was 75% full. Wow they are exact with the ice! Besides that funny moment, this was a really good iced latte with no sugar. You know when coffee is good when you don't need to add sugar! It was expensive but very good. read more

Such a quaint coffee shop (the size of a closet) right near Washington Square Park! Completely unpretentious. Stellar Espresso. Great Pastries. I'm sold. I've been having good luck with espresso lately! This place is cute and the employees are very friendly. My cappuccino was perfect. The milk was perfect, the espresso was pulled perfectly. Yum. Yum. Yum. Perfect place to grab a for here mug and sit at the five tables to chat it up with the locals or a good friend. read more

Third Rail Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

I think people who write negative Yelp reviews are the worst. I also think the weird policy about not putting espresso drinks in large to-go cups is the dumbest thing I've heard in a while. I asked for a quad americano in the large to go cup and told them to charge me whatever they needed. They said no; they said they could do a quad in the medium cup (which is way too much espresso for that little water) but "the owner is really particular about not putting espresso in the big cups." Again I was like, you can charge me I don't mind, and the answer was still no. Honestly, the barista was polite about it and I bet the coffee is tasty, but I left without ordering anything and went to Irving Farm Roasters around the corner where they it wasn't an issue. I still don't understand Third Rail's weird policy. read more

As a coffee lover I can definitely appreciate a place that is all about the coffee. Do not come here if you want a chai latte or a decaf espresso, you will not find that here. I really enjoyed my latte. The coffee tasted incredibly fresh and there was not bitterness at the end. read more

This place has a great coffee, great pastries, great customer service and overall a perfect atmosphere. Worth mentioning that the place is pretty tight and focuses mainly on coffee. read more

This is one of the cooler cafes I have discovered in Manhattan. Love the vibe here. It's a very chill for what I expected to be a busy cafe given its location. Somehow traffic dies down nicely. I came here around 5 pm on a Saturday. Indie rock playing, hipster looking baristas who were actually nice for a change. Love the large windows that bring in ample sunlight. There's a chapel looking building across the street with a small garden where the street opens up which feels nice. I ordered the almond milk latte which I would put on my top 5 lattes in Manhattan. Wish I had found this place sooner. It sits right behind Boxkite cafe in my ranking which is also in East Village on 3rd and A. The peanut butter cookie was pretty good but nothing extraordinary. Looking to come chill and hang with amazing latte? This is your joint. Enjoy! read more

Third Rail Coffee - Almond milk latte & peanut butter cookie - Coffee & Tea Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I considered myself a coffee snob, so I'm pretty snooty about my coffee. Got a cortado from Third Rail Coffee today, and I love it. Probably my cup was made by a light to medium roasted coffee beans because the note was aromatic. It tasted like honey and some berries blend. The temperature of the coffee, the coffee beans, the smoothness of the milk, together combined brought out a nice taste of my cortado. It indeed brightened my day. The only flaw that I want to point out about this place is their staffs.They are not that friendly. I was a regular to this place a year ago, never really got a friendly vibe from their staffs. Now I'm back to the hood this year, a stoney face from their staffs again. I reckon it might be a hipster thing? Probably it looks more cool to not smiling too much? read more