DON'T GO!!!! There has always been some issue with this establishment. Poor service! Unhygienic! I've tried to give it multiple chances and it always fails! I just paid six dollars for a small OJ that was served to me in a coffee cup, no ice. When asked politely for ice, they said I would have to pay for the ice and a bigger cup. This is one tiny problem of many!! I've tried to advocate for this establishment but it's all a scam! I'll be going to the cafe next door instead! read more

The Muffins Cafe - OJ in a coffee cup with no ice! - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

LOVE this little cafe! Found it on a walk and it was exactly what I wanted! Treats, substantial food (not just a Crossaint) and a place to sit! Great for reading and journaling. Pro tip! Be patient for a seat, not a large spot but it cycles semi quick read more

The Muffins Cafe - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Great coffee in a tiny location. This place is small. Barely enough room for about 3 tables and the line to order. But it's my husband's favorite coffee spot when we are in New York. It's got good coffee, and a friendly regular clientele. This gives it a feeling of familiarity, which is nice. In most days the ordering process is at an encouraged quick pace. But not rude or rushed. You basically order and move on. It can be a little hard to add sugar etc to your coffee inside, but people are usually nice with the inside space that's Available. read more

We stopped by The Muffins Cafe, lured in by the promise of baked goods and cozy vibes on Google Maps. While the staff was extremely friendly (seriously, gold stars for that), the assortment of items they had was pretty underwhelming. My friend went for an almond croissant, and I grabbed a large apple cider (since none of the pastries particularly excited me). The croissant looked like it had been through a tough week -- flattened and not exactly inspiring. My friend gave it a respectable 8/10 (he's nice) but made it clear it wasn't the best almond croissant he's had. As for my apple cider, well, it was definitely apple cider. Not much to report there. The kicker? The prices. Six bucks for that almond croissant felt a bit steep, especially for something that lacked the puff and pizzazz you'd expect at that price point. But hey, we're in Manhattan. Would I stop by again? Maybe, if I were in the area and needed a friendly smile. But for standout pastries or drinks, I'd probably look elsewhere. 3/5 read more

The Muffins Cafe - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

I ordered an iced espresso and I was given a cold brew and charged 9 dollars for it because they called it a custom drink.

This coffee shop is on the small side. I do not come here much but if I find myself in the area and I am hungry I may stop in. The staff was not the nicest but, maybe I caught them on an off day. In order to pay I have to be on my tippy toes since they have their card machine high up. I got a sesame bagel with butter. What a pretty tasteless NYC bagel this was! They also have some table and chairs indoors but it is kinda crammed in there. They do have cool decorations though. They have bagels hanging on the wall. And superman stuff too. read more

See all

This is such a great spot. I went on a warm and sunny day and the vibes were perfect. Of course I had to get a muffin and it was super good. There's lots of seating both outside and inside. It can get a little busy, but not too crowded or where service is slow. read more

The Muffins Cafe - Blueberry Muffin & an Iced Latte - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Everything that we got was good- brownie, espresso, loaf cake, cappuccino. Felt the pastries were a bit $$$. Some seating inside & outside.

I went in at 4:45 on a Friday and the store had a weird smell to it. Like the burnt aspects of coffee, tea, and bread. They sell coffee and pastries. Do they do any of them spectacularly? No. I asked for a cortado and she asked, "small or large?" It was a bad omen I guess. The cortado was so-so. I tossed half of it. The corn muffin was edible. Prices are pretty good for the neighborhood. I like that they have a bench in front to sit and people watch. Give it a shot and then write your own review. read more

See all

The fresh baguette along with the chicken salad was delicious. The morning glory muffin was fresh and savory. The chocolate almond croissant was to die for. You can taste high quality ingredients in everything on the menu. The interior quaintness makes you feel like you're in a European cafe. read more

Cute local coffee shop and bakery! I got a big iced coffee and a pumpkin spice MUFFIN of course! A few seats inside, it's mostly a counter but it's nice if you can grab a seat. Friendly, quick service! read more

The coffee is good,the muffins are great but The bench outside the shop is very weak and does not support the weight of two average sized adults ( even at a normal poundage) The other tables in the sidewalk are right near the sidewalk and parked cars so you get to smell smog and exhaust!gross The regulars act like they have real estate money invested in the place and occupy the seating forever !not a great scene for relaxing! I thought most cafes are there to relax while you imbibe your coffee-not here read more

We got two lattes, an iced coffee and an "iced mocha" and none of us liked our drinks. Was very surprising considering there was a line out the door. Service was nice, but the cafe was very hot and prices were high for meh coffee... read more

We stopped in while in the area and I was surprised by how creamy and delicious the chai latte was despite us ordering it with non-dairy milk (that is a rare feat iykyk). A hidden gem in the area! read more

This place doesn't have a lot of room inside, but seems like a cozy spot for a chat over coffee if you're lucky enough to get one of the few tables. Muffins Cafe offers an assortment of pastries that includes the pumpkin muffin and chocolate croissant that I tried in my recent visit. The flakiness of the croissant was great, but it had less chocolate than I expected and had hoped for. On the other hand, the pumpkin walnut raisin muffin was better than I expected: rich in flavor and was fluffy and moist. I'll probably give Muffins Cafe another shot in the future, but go with a regular croissant next time (and maybe a slice of one of their cakes). read more

Great little cafe on the UWS with a very local and old-timey vibe. Great to just get something to go or sit down and read a book! Blueberry muffin was moist, coffee is solid too. Coffee drinks can be made with most milk alternatives and pretty standard flavors offered too (vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, etc.) Great place to come on a Sunday afternoon type vibe! read more

The Muffins Cafe - Blueberry muffin and latte - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Just had tea. Wanted a dessert too. Not a large selection. Asked for a cookie, and told I could help myself to the jar of cookies on the shelf. Passed on that option. Don't like the idea of anyone sticking their dirty hands in a jar to grab a cookie. There was parchment paper nearby to use to pick the cookie, but I still found the idea to be less than sanitary. No cookie for me. read more

An out of the way sidewalk space with a myriad of bistro chairs and tables begs for relaxation and coffee on a scenic block. The rustic storefront beckons the slower ways of life. The pastries sparkled with the magic of French grandmother recipes (almond toast looked like portable French toast.). French accents, sandwiches and a 3.50 large coffee all equaled easy breezy. I'll come here for breakfast sometime when I'm around the 60s and Columbus. read more

Muffin was delish. Disappointed in my drink. Went bc they had hot cider on the menu. But when I asked for it I was told it was "too early." It was after noon so I'm not sure what that means but it shouldn't have been on the handwritten menu if they didn't have it. read more

The Muffins Cafe - Bran muffin - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

This is a nice cozy comfy sidewalk café. You're able to enjoy a pastry and a tea while social distancing, during the pandemic. I order an Arnold Palmer today and it was delicious. Nice to be able to sit outside and people watch. They were open past 3pm. I was there closer to 5 so the yelp hours need to be updated. read more

The Muffins Cafe - Arnold Palmer while social distancing. Delicious! - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I went last night for muffins and this morning I had half of the lemon poppy which was Even before you ate it you could smell such a strong lemon scent. Highly recommend! read more

When I think of an authentic New York cafe, Muffins Cafe always comes to mind ! The staff are the friendliest and warmest people I've met and it makes the entire experience enjoyable ! The food is fresh, they have great sandwiches, great coffee and pastries, and (of course) great muffins ! I love the mozzarella and pesto sandwich with tomatoes on toasted ciabatta bread and my boyfriend loves the chocolate croissants. You'll be happy with anything you order ! Covid updates : the cafe is a very safe spot to get food at during Covid. The staff and patrons always wear masks, only a few people are allowed in at a time, and they have a few outdoor tables for cute sidewalk dining ! read more

The Muffins Cafe - a muffin shop - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Everyone who knows me knows that I am into my muffins. It started in high school, when my mom got it into her head that raisin bran muffins were a health food and so I had one everyday for breakfast. I think we both realized years later that muffins were essentially cupcakes without the frosting but my love for muffins has never dwindled. So naturally I will gravitate to any place specifically named Muffins Cafe. I have only tried the muffins here. Note there is a section of the menu called "Health Muffins" which I do my very best to avoid. Blueberry: They do the sugar crumb streusel topping perfectly. Pumpkin spice: Strong, rich cinnamon and nutmeg flavor; a muffin that I could eat everyday, not just during the fall. Banana walnut: This was a bit of a fail, as the banana seemed blended in rather than in chunks and there was maybe one walnut in total in the whole muffin. They do have other baked goods (croissants, danishes, bagels, pound cakes) that all looked delicious, as well as salads and sandwiches. The counter folks will try to remember your name and are very sweet and patient. read more

This cafe is three blocks from my house. I've lived in the neighborhood for almost 30yrs. Inside there are two or three tables for customers but the shop itself is small. I saw that some people chose to sit on the bench outside the cafe. Behind the glass counter was an assortment of muffins, croissants, bagels, cookies and other breakfast items & beverages. I picked out a carrot muffin for me and two blueberry muffins for my wife. My carrot muffin was awesome! It was fresh, and so moist. Probably one of the best I've ever tasted. My wife said her muffin was amazing. I glad I got her more than one. I would have given this place a better review but for the way I was treated when paying for my food. I handed the lady (Hispanic) behind the counter a $20 bill. When she gave me my change she threw the bills onto the counter. I calmly collected my change and started walking out. I stopped to look back at her and she saw she continued looking at me as if she was expecting me to say something. It was then I realized I was the only person of color in the cafe. Seeing that now there were several people behind me on the line, I chose to not say anything. Why ruin everyone's day by causing a scene? I actually returned a couple of minutes later to purchase another muffin. The young man behind the counter who took my money was very friendly, polite and unlike her, he smiled. Totally different interaction with him than what I experienced with the first worker. Maybe she was having a bad day. Glad I didn't let her ruin my day. read more

I had a very upsetting incident with Muffins staff this morning. I am a frequent customer of Muffins and often recommend it to friends and neighbors. This morning I went in with my small (5lb) service dog, ordered breakfast, and proceeded to sit down. The woman behind the counter told me I could not eat inside with the dog, so I let her know it's a service dog. She then told me it does not matter and that service dogs are not permitted to sit at a table (by the way, my dog was sitting on my lap very quietly - so was not on the floor or disturbing customers - AND I've seen many dogs sitting inside Muffins before). Regardless, this is illegal. Under the ADA and New York law, businesses and facilities that serve the public must permit a service animal in all areas of the facility where customers are allowed or the public is invited. Denying this is considered discrimination. read more

We stop by every time we visit my brother-in-law in NYC, like it is a pilgrimage. Crowded, but what place on Columbus isn't? We most enjoy their sandwiches on baguettes followed by an almond croissant. read more

The Muffins Cafe - Outside seating at 222 Columbus on a lovely Spring day - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Literally the best coffee on the UWS if not the entire city! That plus the delicious baked goods and the service with a smile make this place my favorite morning stop. read more

I was walking south from the upper west side and decided to stop and have a little snack. I am always looking for new places to have a little nosh and found the Muffins Cafe. It is very small and there are several tables where one can sit and have coffee, etc. I was waited on immediately and opted for a cup of coffee and a chocolate croissant. It would have been even better had it been heated but it was still delicious. It is reasonably priced and the staff is very accommodating, to everyone who was waiting on line. I would recommend. read more

The Muffins Cafe - The front of the Muffins cafe! - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Amazing food options and great taste. I found this place over a year ago while visiting NY and every time I return I must visit it.

I've lived in the neighborhood for years but hadn't come to this shop until this weekend. Wow. Each thing I tried here was better than the last. The lattes are so incredible, makes Starbucks seem like mud, I don't know how they do it but it's the only coffee I want now. The bagels are so perfect, chewy and with a bite (I have to admit more acclaimed bagels in the area really fall flat and aren't chewy enough or are so chewy that my 34 year old jaw gets tired after eating them). I got the cinnamon and raisin the first day and the pumpernickel the next, both toasted with cream cheese, both perfect. The muffins are soft and delicate and fresh. I got the lemon poppy seed and berry cherry. And finally, the biscotti is so fresh tasting. Often biscotti tastes stale, but their biscotti has a less teeth breaking bite and is more delicate than most. My mother and I dined in both days this weekend and absolutely loved people watching as we enjoyed our perfect sustenance and coffee. The plates they serve baked goods on are also adorable. 10/10! Long live muffins cafe! read more

It's a cute cafe, but the baked goods are totally underwhelming to say the least. I always try a plain croissant first to see if it's worth pursuing further. It was NO GOOD. Not only it had ZERO butter flavor, it had an aftertaste of rancid oil. Other pastries we got were not worth mentioning either. You never know till you try, and we won't be going back. Service was adequate. read more

I was a fan of this place and clearly a lot of people are based on how many people went in and out throughout my time outside. the coffee itself was pretty good, prices were nyc average but the place itself has character. seating outside as well! read more

Such a lovely cafe with a diverse menu of sandwiches, pastries, muffins, etc. The orange cake is simply divine! I will definitely return very soon! By the way, the staff are warm and welcoming. read more

I've been stopping in here once or twice a week since moving to the neighborhood. They have really good pastries, and their hot chocolate is now one of my favorites. Sweet and very chocolatey, which is the way I like it. They also have option to make it less hot for little kids, which I think is nice. The people working there are always attentive and helpful. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for something quick and tasty. read more

Can't begin to explain how much I love this place. The shop itself is very classic and pretty, almost always playing good classical music. Staff is friendly and kind to all customers. Espresso drinks are very good, I find other places to have it too bitter or weak. Baked goods always fresh. Special mentions to cranberry orange muffin, Brie and cucumber sandwich, brownies, and lemonade. It's the type of place that makes me love my neighborhood, that makes my day a bit better, that I will miss terribly if I move. Thank you muffins :) read more

The Muffins Cafe - Cappuccino and muffin - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

Ok, so I've lived a block away for 3 years and never tried this place mainly because it was so small and always quite busy. The staff was extremely nice, they have and incredible chai not made with that bad chai syrup. Lightly spiced and creamy!! 10/10 recommend read more

Whenever I go up to the Upper West Side I'm usually there to grab some coffee from Sensuous Bean, however, since I'm usually walking these days I always stop into this spot and grab a quick bite. It is inexpensive and has a really nice bench out front for sitting. As luck always has it, the bench is always free for me to claim and either sit with my girls and my lady. There are roughly 8 different bakery spots in this area within blocks of each other but I like the value here the most. It is not pretentious and the food is very good. read more

The Muffins Cafe - Cafes Near Me - New York, New York

MOLD MOLD MOLD...watch out for the 5 Grain! Stopped here almost every morning before the office...not after today. I enjoy their muffins...this morning not so much, when breaking open my 5 grain I noticed mold growth inside. I decided to return it not expecting a refund or to make a scene but merely to alert the staff that they should pull the batch and save themselves from reviews such as this. Surprisingly I was met by one of the bakers who could of been the owner or manager defiantly denying the mold telling me that it was sunflower seeds I had found. Not a chance...I told him quietly so the patrons currently inside the shop wouldn't hear...that it was indeed mold. He continued his defensive attitude...claiming still that it was sunflower seeds...not even apologizing or offering a refund (not that I wanted one). I smiled at him, shook my head, and quietly left. Unfortunately for them they lost a regular customer, for me what I thought was a pretty cool shop that took pride in their baked goods. -Steve read more

I grabbed a muffin here and was v pleased with how moist and fresh it tasted. I have yet to try the coffee which will seal the deal on this cute little joint, and will definitely be back. There are always a bit of people outside, which is a good sign that there are more treats in store. read more

Small cafe. 5 small tables on front half, then the cafe part on the rear half. I got a salmon & lox bagel with cream cheese ($6.25), a peanut butter brownie ($2.75), and a chai tea ($3.75) (chai tea they said they don't have, then said "oh wait tea or latte?" tea. "oh wait we do have that!") The salmon tasted Strongly of fish (we'll see later how that goes), and I always put salt on mine, sp they gave me the salt and pepper shakers from behind the counter. Was nice. Their Chai tea, though, was awful- must've poured milk a few seconds too long/few,or something, bc while I can See the tea bag,it's more like milky water than any kind of tea. Adding 3 sugar packets didn't help strengthen taste even a little. As for the brownie, maybe I was jaded from the chai disappointment, but it also tasted kind of bland. I tried an old trick and added salt to the brownie (well it had peanut butter) and it did improve the taste substantially. Based on the reviews, I should have gone with their 'amazing hazelnut coffee' and some kind of sandwich (none of which really excited me, but I did walk in with an agenda for Salmon and Lox--and would have been hard-pressed to change that quest for fish, dairy, bread and fruit --abandoning this quest would have, at the time, been like trying to talk a cat out of a tuna can. :p Shame it didn't meet my expectations, but I will return and try what other Yelpers recommended: the hazelnut coffee (and Maaaybe a sandwich) read more