Topics has a great atmosphere & solid drinks- what's not to love? I loved their book collection & was introduced to a lot of books that I have never seen before which was really nice. I'd go back after work as well as they serve wine & bites (I think)? as well. read more

Came in here because I love local bookstores! But no one greets you here and the staff seems VERY ANNOYED anytime you even make eye contact with them. Did not appreciate the stare down from the barista when I was just simply looking over the menu and deciding what i was in the mood for. Walked out without buying anything bc I felt VERY uncomfortable here (which is saying a lot bc I've been up and down businesses in Myrtle my entire life). Place has potential but an effort to be friendly and warm to a walk in customer would've made a difference with me. read more

I looove this quaint "coffee shop meets bookstore" I happened upon! The atmosphere was very hipster-chill, clean and fully loaded with amazing books, and plenty of seating inside and out! The service was great, as was the iced mocha (my goto coffee drink), with the winning moment being my finding 5 amazing used art books for a total of $18! Coulda bought the whole store!!! Definitely planning on visiting again, and again, with wife in tow! See you there! read more

See all

I love the idea of coffee and bookstore, I went in with my friend hoping to try a new coffee spot. We ordered two lattes one with oat milk, and waited at the waiting area. As one of the baristas shouted "two lattes" my friend grabbed the drinks thinking it was ours. I'm very picky and immediately knew they both had regular milk (the color is different) so I told him to ask if we had the right one. The barista was pretty rude and said "if I didn't say oat milk then it's not yours". Just think if you're gonna overprice coffee you can at least be a little nicer or implement a name system to avoid confusion. read more

This place is great even if the guy at the counter that's always eating beans straight out of the can told me I can no longer bring my emotional support viper into the store. read more

Honestly, it pains me to leave this review because I absolutely love Topos and I've always had great experiences at both of their locations. I've given their other location a five-star review because the staff there has always been warm and welcoming. However, after today's experience at the Woodward location, I feel compelled to share my frustration. I've recently started visiting the Woodward location because it's one of the few places where I can sit outside with my emotional support dog. I've always been aware of the "service animals only" sign on the door, and I know that's typically meant for accessibility purposes. However, I've visited other coffee shops where emotional support animals are also allowed, and I had a positive experience here in the past. The first time I came in with my dog, I asked the woman at the counter if emotional support animals were welcome, and she kindly said yes. I appreciated that and respected their rules--ordering quickly with my dog and then going outside immediately after. Today, I walked in again, hoping to grab a coffee, and before I even fully stepped inside, the man at the counter rudely yelled from across the room that I wasn't allowed to bring a dog in. I politely explained that he was an emotional support dog, and his response was to roll his eyes, scoff, and make me feel incredibly unwelcome. He then dismissively said, "That's not what it is, but whatever--what do you want?" I was so taken aback by his attitude that I immediately decided to leave. It's disheartening that I had to walk away from a place I've always loved because someone chose to be rude instead of professional. Had he simply explained the policy kindly and said that emotional support dogs weren't allowed inside, I would've understood and been perfectly fine with it. But the way this man treated me was unnecessary and honestly ruined the entire vibe of my day. I'm not leaving a one-star review because I still believe Topos is a great business overall, but I do think it's important to bring this situation to light. This experience has made me hesitant to return to this location, and I truly hope that the management takes this feedback seriously. The middle aged man at the counter--wearing a hat--needs to understand how his behavior negatively impacts the atmosphere of the establishment. I've always felt safe and welcome here, but today it felt completely the opposite. Topos is usually a warm and welcoming place, which is why I'm so disappointed by this experience. While I've always had great experiences with the other staff, this encounter has left me hesitant to return. I really hope this situation is addressed so that no one else has to feel the way I did today. read more

Cute little bookshop that serves coffee and pastries! What a find! There isn't that much room to sit inside but there are several tables and chairs outside. Too cold for us and the baby so we got our coffee and pastries to go. My daughter in law got a scone and a chocolate chip cookie and was very happy with it. I am constantly looking for a place that carries a great almond croissant and I think I've finally found one! I'm not sure if it's made in house or delivered but I must say the almond croissant is the best one I've tried so far in the neighborhood - I've tried 4-5 other places in the area. This place is certainly going to be on our list of places to frequent. read more

Most amazing of all time. Great staff, great coffee, unique selection of books. I love Topos.

It's a Ridgewood staple that has been around forever. All the bibliophiles and yuppies that wanna look smart hang out there. Right now, since there's nothing to do cause of pandemic, a lot of people just hang out on the sidewalk outside. It's not the biggest store in the world, but the selection is nice and interesting. Definitely conversation starter books. You can get them to order books for you too. They buy used books but selectively. You can email them a list of what you got and they can tell you if they want to buy them or not. It's a culturally important place because frankly bookstores are dead and fingers crossed this will never be. read more

Anytime I think of book stores I am reminded of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. It's a dream to find a nook on a fall day cozied up with a hot coffee and a good book. Topos is the kind of bookstore that has that magical spell. This place is absolutely adorable. And I'm thrilled they serve Gimme! coffee. They also have loose leaf tea for the days I want something hot but I still want to sleep. I came last night which felt like a fall evening for an intimate poetry reading. There were three readers and all had their own personal style. I loved hearing about creepy baby dolls from Sola Saar. And there is something about living in NY that makes rats a part of your every day life. The piece "Affinity for Rats" from Keri Smith was an endearing take on NY's rodent of choice! I hope they do more readings in the future. I guess the only thing that would perfect this bookstore/coffee shop is cats. I would not mind a cat cuddle puddle. I did notice it does happen to be Topos mascot. Their tote bag has an adorable kitty face. I might have to add to my collection of tote bags. I can see many more bookworm visits in my near future. read more

See all

So far this is the best used bookstore I have been to in New York. They have an excellent selection of used books that are like new - including pretty recent releases. The prices were very fair, and there is even a $1 book section that includes popular books. I cannot comment on the cafe portion except to say that it was quite busy. read more

See all

It would be better if you didn't feel like you were constantly annoying the workers by doing things like ordering a coffee and asking where a certain type of book is. read more

Topos is a nice little cafe/bookstore in Ridgewood where you can study, buy/sell books, and have your coffee and pastry all in one place. The seats fill up quickly and stay filled most of the time. Somehow, we were able to grab 4 seats at the front counter. Their coffee and almond croissant were delish. They use Variety Coffee. Coffee prices were more than fair. Add a different type of milk to your latte for just 50 cents more. Their wide selection of books can be purchased at fairly low prices. You can also sell books to them at much lower prices. Definitely a place to check out if in the area. read more

See all

What a great little bookstore and addition to the neighborhood. Stopped here today for some ice coffee and to decompress. Staff was friendly and the atmosphere was chill. I decided to donate a few copies of my book, Mars 3D. Dr. Paris. read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

This place is so great. Books are at a really good price and they have a large variety considering how small the space is. I love grabbing a morning coffee and starting a new book while sitting outside. read more

This place is a joy--and an unexpected one in this part of Ridgewood. The service is great. The stock is always turning over, so go often to see what's recently come in. read more

This review is mainly for the second location on myrtle. Loved their coffee and I was a regular for a while but I can't take the poor customer service of this place any more read more

An amazing bookstore and community space -- always worth a visit! You can purchase a great copy of a worthy book here for a fair price.

I live in the neighborhood and went to Topos to get coffee with my wife the other day. While we were sitting outside, we asked for wifi to the young blond guy (with wavy hair). He was so short and passive aggressive towards us for no reason. And after sitting there for about 15 min, he told us that he is closing the cafe -again short and rude.Then, we left. I surely understand that business/people are going through tough times due to pandemic, but there is no explanation of this aggression that directs to costumers. I used to enjoy going to topos. However, now there are more options in the neighborhood that are more welcoming. I will take our business somewhere more pleasant from now on. read more

I am not the type of person to expect any over the top customer service but the baristas at topos are are nasty nasty people. I have been met with aggressive behavior multiple times and even called stupid when I didn't know the specific name of a drink order. There are lots of coffee shops close by with really nice baristas, go there instead. read more

I sure wishTopos would be open! I used to walk there on Sundays and browse the $1.00 book shelve. I have found many great biographies there. Cappuccinos are excellent. Staff amiable. Guess what? People actually talk there, not just stare at laptop!!! read more

Nice selection of used books, new photography books, and some new books, great coffee, good prices used books, and very friendly staff!

Everyone is very friendly. The books I ordered came exactly when they said they said would! Good Coffee too!

I love this place! A very relaxed and friendly vibe. Great coffee (beans are from Gimme Coffee! in Ithaca, NY). And an incredibly well-curated selection of used and new books to explore. Definitely worth checking out!! read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - Coffee, books, relaxed vibe - what more could you ask for? - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

See all

it's alright. the drinks aren't anything out of this world, the baristas are nice enough i guess. the book selection is cute.

I have been here twice so far, and each time has left me satisfied and happy that such a cheerful place exists. The baristas are cute, friendly, and easygoing. The people watching on the street is great. The books make me happy. And my iced chocolate milk has been tasty both times-I super appreciate the oat milk option and the accommodations! read more

I usually don't feel welcomed or comfortable in here as a black person. Very white establishment. Overall, okay book selection and the chai is good. read more

Topos may look small, but they've got a really good selection of zines by local writers, classics, and contemporary titles. Most of the books are used and usually everything that I pick up is under $10, averaging about $5. I always wonder how places like this stay in business, but I'm just glad that they're around! They sometimes host events and there is always a person or two loitering around, enjoying the books. Don't miss the science fiction section, it's tucked away in the corner to your right as soon as you walk in. The staff is also nice and helpful. Chat them up if you're looking for some recommendations. read more

Thoughtfully curated selection of books, coffee, and pastries. Thoughtless and indifferent service.

This place is surrounded by hippies, one of the coworkers was bald and had grown her armpit hair and dyed it purple. It was too overcrowded for such a small place and the books are overpriced. They make you pay $7 for one book and when you try to sell in something they'll pay you at most $3 read more

My first visit and first impression was excellent. The guy behind the counter was quick and efficient even though some friends of his were in line before me and obviously wanted to chat about a recent show they were all at. The barista quickly spoke to them, (even though the friends wanted more conversation time), made their order and proceeded to help me. All in a smooth and professional manner. I was imagining standing there for 10-5 minutes waiting for him to finish his conversation but not this time. The hot coffee was excellent and the coconut dark chocolate muffin was incredibly good. It had just the perfect amount of chocolate, with a very light crumb topping, and light coconut flavor. Get this muffin with a hot coffee on a fall or winter day and the rest of your day will be wondrous because of it. Oh and check out the books too! So many great books here! This place makes me feel like I am in the Pacific Northwest at a coffee shop in Olympia, WA. read more

1/12/2014 As of now, they haven't officially opened the cafe area (expected to open later this month). The person who helped me was the mother of the owner: very kind and helpful. She explained that "topos" means "place" in Greek. She also had a plate of cookies out for guests. There's tons of natural light, and simple and comfortable decor. They have a small selection, but it all seems very intentional. Rosa Luxemburg, Gramsci, Susan Sontag, Amiri Baraka, and lots of Marx... There's a lot of great titles to comb and they're all decently priced (prices marked in pencil in the corner of the first page); most of the books I looked at were under 10 dollars. The majority of the collection is used, but even the few new selections I saw were marked below market price. read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

See all

Excellent service. They were very sweet to my child. Excellent prices as well! Would recommend this place!

Still my neighborhood favorite. They have Variety coffee, the best staff, and an incredible collection of new and used books. Oh! And the products by Your Other Left Ear are amazing!! read more

I love this place so much. I initially visited for a pop up Persian food shop. I stayed for the fantastic range of books and great prices. They also have great coffee year round! read more

Topos is one of the most charming cafes I've ever had the pleasure of spending an afternoon in. From the cozy bookstore aesthetic to the welcoming staff, this little shop screams love story. I'm a tea guy (I know, I know) so I haven't tried the coffee. If you're looking for good tea in this neighborhood this is the place. I sat for maybe an hour once and the barista offered a free refill as soon as I looked up from my book. I didn't get the sense he was watching me intently, I think he was just attentive. He also had great taste in music. The bookstore end of the business is awesome. They take orders, buy books back, are knowledgeable, and even tell you where to get books they might not carry. To me that's the sign of a business that cares. Alright enough geeking out about this spot. I recommend it for a relaxing morning or evening. Go alone or with a buddy, there's not a ton of space and it's been decently full every time I've gone. read more

I periodically go to topos. My order is usually a cold brew but now for the second time I ordered a latte and they used their ungloved finger to deal with the espresso. This is the second time and it's disgusting. read more

I am new to the neighborhood and this bookstore looked appealing from the outside. Decided to go in and left after an hour with 4 books! Prices are decent. There's a variety of books from history to music etc. Its a nice place to enjoy some quiet time and read. I will definitely be going back! read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - First time here and left with 4 books! - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

See all

What a wonderful place! Possibly the best used books selection I've seen in a long time. Lack of wifi and good coffee make for a very unique atmosphere. I can't wait to go back over and over again. read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - I found paradise - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

There is something quite reassuring about a bookstore in which the staff are so well-read and informed that when you approach the counter with a carefully selected item, they look you in the eye and say "that's a good one... you'll enjoy it." Not that I expect every employee of every bookstore to have read every book that graces their shelves, but it's just kinda neat to stumble on a scenario like that. And I was fortunate enough to stumble on it at Topos! This lovely, creative shop is off the beaten path and I highly recommend seeking it out. They have amazing selections, many that my sister had been seeking for years. From vintage dime store novels to literary classics and everything in between, Topos is a truly unique shop. They offer coffee and pastries. There are a few indoor tables and a bit of outdoor seating. I don't think there is A/C but I noticed a large fan towards the back. The day we visited, business was a little slow so the incredibly sweet and friendly store clerk was more than happy to make the most creative iced mocha I'd ever tasted. I scored a little stack of truly unusual treasures that thrilled me to the bone. Topos is a real gem and there is no doubt that we'll be back to visit as soon as we can! read more

Topos Bookstore Cafe - Best coffee, better books - Cafes Near Me - Ridgewood, New York

See all