Best coffee you'll get in Midtown. Worth coming here if you can - I love this place. However, this is just a coffee place, they sell some small bites, but come here mainly for the awesome coffee. I don't drink hot chocolates, but my friend swears that this is the best host chocolate in the area. read more

I am keeping careful tabs on the opening of indie coffee shops in Midtown in my neverending quest to avoid Star*ucks so Joe's opening in Grand Central made me very happy. The coffee is excellent, a little smoky and so fresh. I wish that there were a couple places to sit but even just hanging out at the counter is fine since the people who work there are very sweet and chatty. They also have a small selection of baked goods that look really excellent, not the usual crap that you see in some cafes where it looks more like an afterthought to round out the selection. 9/17/08 update: a friend, who was alerted to the great coffee at Joe's, a few scant blocks from Macchiato, went into Macchiato carrying a coffee from Joe's (only went in because his friend wanted an egg sandwich). When they got to the counter the cashier asked my friend where he got his coffee. He told them Joe's and they offered to replace it with a cup of their coffee. Because they put him on the spot he decided to tell them the truth that he prefer's Joe's coffee, but thanks anyway. read more

Recently stopped in after a few months away and was shocked to see iced coffee prices had increased almost 50%! I asked the cashier what was going on and she said they recently switched to "cold brewing" iced coffee so that's why prices went up. Well now a small (12 oz) iced coffee is $3! I am all about supporting small businesses when they make it worth it but I couldn't tell the difference between the old and new "cold brewed" iced coffee here; and I can get bigger iced coffees for less at Dunkin, Starbucks, and Crumbs. Probably won't be back. read more

Well I lost my virginity to Joe today and it was fantastic. I never had Joe's coffee until today and i have to say it was the best I ever had. Maybe it's not fair to give five stars because I only had an iced coffee but it was straight up pleasurable. Straight up Bang Boom flavor with just the right amount of strong and boldness. I'm sure the rest that Joe has to offer is fabulous as well. Joe's a little on the small side. However, i believe that more important than size is what you do with what you got. It's a very tiny welcoming atmosphere full of friendly. Sadly Joe only takes cash. I can't wait to experience even more of Joe. read more

GCT may have close to a million people pass through here a day and I feel like they all wind up in line at Joe. Some of the greatest coffee hand poured for you. Just don't expect it quickly. Bring Cash and your loyalty card too! read more

The Bad - Not for people who like more milk with coffee - Small place The Good - Wide selection - Had soy milk (for vegans) The Bottomline- Worth checking out. There's many different things to try ranging from tea to coffee. The cookies looked really good. I had the Iced Americano. Wasn't that great. Iced Americano is espresso brewed with water. read more

Definitely above average coffee here, but clearly an express location - they offer no pour overs - because it takes too much time. Strangely, they will make espresso drinks that take nearly as much time and effort. For coffee options, you have Single Origin of the day, Blend of the Day or Decaf - all with tasting notes. The few times I have been, the coffee was a bit on the strong side (I prefer a lighter roast) but not nearly as bitter and acidic as Starbucks. It's really the closest thing to Grand Central that I have found for good coffee. read more

When I finish my coffee, I like to leave the cup on the desk because the smell of fresh coffee still lingers in the cup after I've drank it all. I always get the mochas, and so far, it is the best mocha in the city. A small is 4.00. Small cappucino is 3.75. But alas, one star is docked because of the whole doesn't-take-credit-cards thing. Shame, because it really is my favorite coffee in the area. read more

Long lines in the morning, as I walk quickly from the commuter trains at GCT to work, peaked my interest. So one evening I decided to come by and buy a 12oz. bag of ground beans to take home. There were only two types available, a sharp contrast to all the types available online. Decaf, and Ecuadoran. I asked one of the hipster workers if they had more, and he said he didn't know. A little later, he said he could ground up a bag of house beans for me. When I made my coffee at home the next day, I knew it was going to suck. Coffee that comes out orange, not black. Taste? Light and sour. Reminds me of Dunkin' Donuts, which I despise, but many people like. Basically, light coffee with little to no caffeine. Now I know. At least the hipsters who work there are really nice and personable. read more

One of the best coffee. No seating here and very small. Value: ok typical high end coffee prices2.5/5 Amenities they have honey, raw sugar which is my go to sweetener when having espresso but no washroom 4/5 Service: good service,coffer sparkling water shot with espresso 4/5 Quality : amazing 5/5 Total 15.5/20 read more

My Saturday fix of caffeine occurs here. For people who pass by Grand Central Station often, this place would be the best bet in getting a decent/affordable cup of coffee. Ok. There's Macchiato Espresso Bar just one block away which serves great coffee. But, when you are on a run, even one block makes a difference. I am actually a decaf drinker after 2pm and their decaf beans are excellent. (Unfortunately great decaf coffee don't come around as often as you wish for.) read more

Has Joe suddenly turned into my second favorite iced coffee in NYC (no one can topple Stumptown)? I don't know when it happened, but I think it has. Their cold brew has either gotten better than in the past, or it's grown on me over time. Great chocolatey, caramel notes combined with a legit large size that I'm guessing is 20 ounces make this easily the best iced coffee you'll get in the East 30s, 40s, or 50s (and beyond). If you're anywhere nearby and want something tasty and cold that'll give you the closest thing to the boost you used to get when you first started drinking coffee, forget about Macchiato, Jittery Joe's, D'Espresso, Oren's, Aroma and anything else "gourmet" nearby and head over to the Graybar Passage in Grand Central Terminal. The extra work mileage you'll get out of this coffee will more than make up for the extra few minutes spent walking there. This is strictly a "to go" place. I wish the annoying suits who usually block the coffee tops/sugar/cream/napkins realized that too. read more

Yes. One of the best espressos in the COUNTRY! I've never had a bad experience at any of the Joe locations and I make it a point to visit every time I'm in NYC. By the way, they are cash only. read more

Hands down the best coffee in NYC in my opinion. For plain coffee, their house blend is very good. In addition, they always have another option besides. Iced coffee is brewed separately for 18hrs, which they says is stronger and has more caffeine. For me, the cappuccino and espresso can't be beat. Perfectly pulled every time (and I've had many of them) - just delicious. For something between these two, try a cortado, which means "to cut" - an espresso with a smaller amount of milk than a cappuccino and just enough to take a little of the edge off. The prices are a little high and the lines can be long but, for me, worth it. read more

I came here several times during my 10-day stay in NYC. Mostly because it was the only establishment that consistently brewed really great coffee. I will admit though: the first time I went there, I got an iced americano. And, not being awake yet, I tried to put the plastic lid on the cup... and wound up losing my grip on the cup and spilling the entire thing all over my shorts and legs. Upside? I smelled like delicious coffee for the rest of the day. It's absolutely worth the long lines, and although I understand how some people might get frustrated, the coffee obsessed will rejoice that such a wonderful piece of heaven exists in GC. The service is great. I never tried any of their goods, but they appeared fresh. I genuinely miss the coffee though. While I can find similar coffeeshops at home in Seattle, none of them are as close to me as Joe's was to where we were staying in Manhattan. -Audible sigh- I guess that's just another reason for me to go back though... read more

Once in a while you grab a cup of coffee, take a sip and simply feel great about the world. Joe is that cup. Tip for morning commuters: the place is busy but it has an auxiliary stand down the hall. If you just want a simple cup, head that way for a shorter line. read more

The drip coffee ~ both the house and the various single-origins that rotate periodically ~ is what drives me to get out of bed early in the morning. The espresso, as noted below, is also fantastic. On the iced coffee front, Joe's "normal" iced coffee is good but not heavenly -- as crazy as it sounds, I much prefer the "slap in the face" BOOM effect of Starbucks "iced venti iced coffee", as the Baristas puzzlingly call it, on a scorching hot summer day. In contrast, the Joe "cold brew" iced coffee (the new vogue these days -- beans soaked in cold water for a long time, like 36 hours, resulting in a much less acidic coffee) provides a truly unique, chocolate-like texture that is certainly worth experiencing. Have it black, and enjoy the moment. It's a beautiful thing to try, at least once. read more

My favorite coffee in manhattan! I stop here every morning after I get off the train. The house blends and single origin coffees they offer are outstanding! At $2.75 for a large it's a great price for these special grinds. Prices that are on-par with Starbucks but quality that is 10x better! The staff is extremely friendly - even cheery - despite the constant and busy flow of customers. They also offer pastries. The selection seems more decadent than other coffee places. Of note are doughnuts from Donut Planet :) read more

of course as good as the other locations. The cordato or cortadito, tiny Cuban espresso w/steamed milk is the bomb. Reminds me of MIami. And the vegan oatmeal choc chip cookies, yeow! read more

I work in the Financial District but any trip through Grand Central brings me like a magnet to Joe's. I drink my coffee black so it really makes a difference when the coffee tastes as good as Joe's. This is a tiny location but it is packed with friendly witty staff and great products. Best of all, I bought the coffee beans to brew a mean cup of Joe's at home. read more

Joe the Art of Coffee at Grand Central Terminal serves a consistently superior cup of coffee. Joe's current seasonal blend -- Brazil, Guatemala, and Costa Rica -- makes a rich, refreshing iced coffee. Perfect for a 65-degree November heatwave. Bonus points: Joe Grand Central will let you cup a taste. The staff is usually accommodating and friendly. The seasonal blends change about 4X a year and are based on what's best to be had in those times. read more

I am baffled that this place has so many positive reviews. Possibly the worst espresso I've ever had. Extremely bitter. Whilst some might confuse this bitterness as the coffees "uniqueness" or its "fruity tone", it is in fact the machines that are not cleaned regularly y hence the bitter after taste. go to Macchiato Espresso Bar the street and taste the diffrence. read more

Small outpost of an alternative brand Coffee shop. The coffee is decent but not earth shattering. My regular cup had a very nutty flavor that was pleasant. They are pricey compared to the other offerings in the vicinity. Unlike other reviewers, I didn't have a problem with the employees. They were bright, cheerful and friendly. Do not visit this location during morning rush hour unless you have extra time, the line is crazy. read more

I really enjoyed this place. After working coffee for almost ten years, I know a thing or two about what makes coffee good, and I think this place had a lot of the qualities that makes a package experience. The coffee is good. It reminds me of a place we have down here. I had a soy latte (my drink of choice, and my basis of comparison between places) and both times it was really good. The espresso has a vague nuttiness, but is not overwhelmingly strong while still having good flavor. They know how to steam milk properly here, with the good microfoam. Latte art is a check, and they free-pour cappuccinos. The barista was really friendly. I went here two days in a row (got coffee on the way out of town) and she remembered my drink and where I was from, which is pretty impressive to me. It's clean, but not snobby (Blue Bottle's coffee was great, but the snobbery almost blew me out the door). Baristas are cute and knowledgeable, and I get the feeling they are well trained. They also have a selection of pastries from local bakeries, including some really awesome donuts. We had a coconut cream one, and as the barista said, "It's so good, it's silly". It was good. Long story short, I went to several places in NYC searching out good coffee and this was my favorite coming out. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I just can't say it's the best EVER, but it is totally worth going. read more

Open over an hour late on a Sunday morning. Girl behind the counter is so rude telling everyone to go away. Lovely

I've followed the plethora of coffee servers percolating throughout Manhattan and enjoy searching for new experiences. Joe's in Grand Central is a commuter's paradise: their delicious, full-bodied, rich, fresh coffee is never disappointing. They feature the same popular offerings available at other baristas, and during morning rush they roll a coffee cart outside their doors to serve twice as many customers. The Gen-X staff are consistently pleasant, helpful, and intelligent. It's as if they've been transported each morning from the Pacific Northwest. This is first rate Java, guaranteed!! Highly recommended! read more

One of the best coffee places in the city. Their beans are great too Two benches outside behind a fence where you can tie your dog are a big plus, if you can score a seat. read more

I go here every once in a while as a treat as it is expensive (and somehow paying in cash makes it seem even more expensive), but the coffee is consistently good and the people who work at this location are very nice. I would say the only negative thing is that they charge a bit extra for soy or almond milk. I know some places do that (and many don't) but with everyone being more health conscious and learning more about the (disgusting) dairy industry, it would be nice if they treated all our tastes equally with this coffee condiment. Otherwise 5 stars! read more

yay! im a fan. i loved their roast before the change but i also love their current roast. i've only had their drip and iced coffees so i couldnt really say much about their espresso drinks. the thought of joe on the way to work helps me get out of bed weekday mornings (i do love their waverly location tool). staff is awesome and they try to get people on their way when there's a huge line. also doesnt hurt that they have donuts from the doughnut plant read more

Their customer service stinks. Here's the thing. At home, I drink my coffee black. We buy decent beans, and grind them fresh each morning, and drip perfectly hot water through the freshly ground beans, into a thermal carafe, and usually, two cups of that magic is all I need for the rest of the day. What this means is that I only infrequently drink coffee out of the house. And for whatever reason, I almost never drink it black when I'm not home. It's just one of those things - if I don't know where the coffee came from, it needs milk. There are delis all over New York. You go in, you ask for coffee/regular/no sugar, and you get a paper cup of coffee with milk in it. But, you go to some fancy place like Starbucks, and you ask for a cup of coffee, and they hand you a cup and expect you to put the milk in yourself. If you insist, the better establishments will bow to the gods of customer service and will, in fact, add the milk, so that I don't have to put all my bags down on the dirty floor, let go of my child's hand, wrench the lid off the top, locate the milk and unscrew its top, add milk (after spilling out some of the coffee), replace the lid, and gather up all my possessions. The other day, I was in Grand Central, heading for the train, and the need for a cup of coffee and a cookie swayed me into Joe. The woman behind the counter gave me attitude when I asked for milk, but did it, grudgingly, and then had the temerity to hand me a cup without a lid. This is a take-out joint, in a commuter rail station! No lid? Oy. The lids were across the shop, with the milk, and of course, they were organized by ounces - and the first one I picked up was the wrong size. I ask you, how am I to know how many ounces are in the cup and therefore which lid might be right? When I finally got on the train, peeved beyond a reasonable doubt, I fired off an irritated tweet. I was, of course, hoping it would fall on gracious customer-is-always-right ears, but no! Snark was returned, suggesting that one wouldn't expect waiters to put ketchup on your fries and dab your lips with a napkin? Coffee with milk is in no way comparable to french fries with ketchup, and this attitude stands in complete opposition to their "dedicated to making flawless coffee served with warm hospitality" mission statement. There was no warm hospitality at all - either in the shop or on the Twitter. I'm never going there again. Lord knows, a one person boycott isn't gonna do squat, but I can keep railing about it. Even if nothing happens, it makes me feel better. read more

The mocha I had today brought tears to my eyes it was that good. So beyond well balanced cannot even tell you. Strong notes of espresso, well integrated chocolate taste. OMG seriously. Kind of want to marry the guy who made me mine as then maybe I could have one of these every day for the rest of my life. That'd be a good life choice right? :) read more

I take the train to see my parents at least 2 times a month and whenever I'm in Grand Central I get coffee at Joe. They have cold brew here if you're into that and always have nice baristas. Hands down, it's better than Starbucks and it's just in from the double door entrance on Lexington, read more

I went from not being a coffee drinker for 30 years, to leaving home 10 mins earlier to get my Joe Skim Latte every morning. I have a 2 hr commute to work, so I needed a quick wake up boost one morning. I asked the barista for a recommendation and she knew exactly what I needed. The coffee was so smooth that for the first time in my life, it didn't upset my stomach. And very flavorful! Now, I don't board the train in the morning without my Joe cup of coffee. And the staff is super friendly and efficient! Something hard to do at 6:30 am. I'm in and out of the shop in 3-5 mins. Great if you don't want to miss your train to upstate NY. :) read more

I'm so sorry Starbucks, but I'm a joe convert. This is how coffee should taste. Their house drip is always perfection and the feature brews are so amazing, you'll wonder why you've been drinking coffee from anywhere else. Yes, they are pricey, but it's so worth it. Haven't had any of the specialty drinks yet, but I hear they're bangin. Oh and they have almond milk! read more

I've been coming here for my morning coffee since 2011 and I still consider their coffee to be top notch. However, the recent staff changes has gotten me a little disappointed. What happened to the quirky yet friendly crew? The people that used to work there always had cheery smiles on their faces, which made my mornings a little brighter. The new staff now look like they haven't slept for days and they obviously hate their jobs. Hate to bring down their rating but this review is primarily for their staff changes. read more

inconsistent chai. poor customer service. when we first started coming here, the chai was delicious, it tasted like liquid candy, just the way i like it, however, we started noticing that the chai was very bland with way too much milk in it, so we started asking for more chai and less milk. a few times we have encountered "baristas" who give us attitude when we make this request. your chai comes out of a box - is it really that hard to pour in a little less milk and a little more chai into a cup? am i making your life THAT much more complicated?? it's not rocket science people. today, when our order was ready, the "barista" announced our order : "chai with some sort of modification i've never heard of" - really? no one has ever asked you for less milk in chai? maybe if there was some consistency in the way you prepare your chai, i would not have to modify your product! i'm the one drinking the chai, not you, suck it up, shut up, and do it with a smile - you are in the service industry, there's really only one rule you need to know: "the customer is always right". went back again today - pretty much every single employee i have encountered here has an attitude problem - managment seriously needs to reconsider the type of people they are hiring to represent their brand. not coming back again after 5+ years, the attitude is not worth it! read more

Delicious iced coffee, I didn't expect it to be this good. The price was reasonable too. Didn't try any of the baked goods.

3.5...Look for it in the Graybar passage. Whoever waited on me (a guy) was a sweetheart...so friendly and cheerful. He encouraged me to try the hazelnut donut. It was too sweet for my taste but the guy loved it. The coffee was a bit weak. read more

In the three days I was in New York, I made a trip to Grand Central to grab a drip coffee from Joe every day I was there. The blend was delicious. So much love. read more

I wait on line in the mornings when I'm too lazy to make my own cup of coffee. You don't come to Joe's looking for a deal or a simple alternative to Starbucks, you come because you need a fix me up that's worth your $5 cash. The drinks are addicting and everyone in my office notices my quick change in attitude and energy after a cup of Joe's (my favorite is their Ice Lattes.) I rarely steer away from these except this morning when I 'splurged' for an Iced Mocha. Liked it but I really don't need the mocha. The staff here is particularly friendly and NEVER ever mess up your order unlike that awful chain Starbucks. read more