New York City is famous for its fast-paced, on-the-go vibe, and IENYC is ideally situated to tap into this electric atmosphere. But sometimes, you just need to grab a coffee in a laidback environment and focus on getting some work done. Luckily, SoHo isn’t just home to designer boutiques and trendy art galleries. There are plenty of high-quality cafés in the neighborhood where you can hang out, study and get your caffeine hit—all at the same time.
Five of the best cafés in SoHo for students & professionals
One of the great things about studying at IENYC is our promise to make the city your classroom. And in SoHo’s eclectic, creative atmosphere, trendy cafés are a natural part of the learning and networking scene. From long-established coffee spots to newer tea and juice joints, the mix of old-school and modern favorites appeals to any taste.
So, the next time you need a slight change of scenery, here are some of the best cafés in SoHo to work and study on your laptop:
Urban Backyard
Urban Backyard is one of the top-rated cafés in SoHo. It blends brickwork, stark concrete and botanical elements to create a one-of-a-kind space. Whether you want to read a book in the outdoor seating area or work on a pending assignment indoors, this is the perfect place to get stuck in.
The café caters to both tea and coffee drinkers. It also offers specialty matcha and ube lattes, with a selection of breads, bagels, sandwiches and cakes on the side.
Harney & Sons SoHo
Fancy a unique, tea-based experience? Then Harney & Sons SoHo is your best bet. You’ll find free Wi-Fi and lots of seating space here, making it an ideal location for solo study sessions or quiet group work.
When you’re done hitting the books, the café has light bites and a wide selection of teas from all over the world. Whether you’re into green or herbal teas, experimenting with jasmine and oolong blends, or want to stick to the classic Earl Greys, these tea connoisseurs will help you make the right choice. You can even book a tea tasting or take the tea quiz to find your perfect cuppa.
Butler Bakeshop & Espresso Bar
This café takes the concept of a neighborhood hang-out spot and elevates it to the next level. Butler Bakeshop & Espresso Bar pairs stylish aesthetics, good coffee and food options on the healthier side with free Wi-Fi and a relaxed, welcoming attitude towards laptop users—something that’s becoming harder to find in the busy city.
If you want to enjoy a latte and delicious pastries while you work, or hold small, quiet meetings in the hustle and bustle of SoHo, this is the place to be.
Bibliotheque
Bibliotheque is a cozy bookstore, café and wine bar right in the middle of SoHo. It’s a stunning getaway for lovers of art in every form, from paintings by the greats like Matisse to works by contemporary American artists and thousands of book titles in a wide range of genres.
It’s pretty laptop-friendly too, offering comfortable stools and couches where you can study and work—but only until 5 p.m. After that, Bibliotheque transforms into a strictly work-free zone where food, social interaction and literary exploration take center stage.
The Lost Draft
Looking for good vibes and a stress-free place to work? Consider The Lost Draft as your next study spot. With free Wi-Fi, comfortable nooks and plenty of quiet space to work available on the second floor, it’s become one of the most popular destinations for students, creatives and remote workers.
You’ll also find a variety of artisanal coffee blends here, which you can enjoy in-house or order online.
Honorable mentions
Besides these five, SoHo has plenty more hidden gems where you can spend a few hours outside work or class:
- Housing Works Bookstore
One of SoHo’s best-kept secrets, literature meets activism in this “bookstore cafe”. The nonprofit offers space to work or study, and every purchase goes to supporting a good cause, like addressing homelessness in the city.
It’s New York City, so cafés get pretty busy at times. But you can go in early or call ahead for the best spots, especially if you’re a large group.
- Stone Street Coffee
Set in a high-traffic, touristy part of town, this café provides an extensive menu of coffee, smoothies and fresh juices, indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of natural light.
- Now Here Cafe
Informal, laptop-friendly location with charging stations.
Something for everyone
SoHo is a place for creative people who aren’t afraid to chase bold, new ideas. It gives you all the benefits of studying in the Big Apple while keeping you connected to a supportive community. So, whether you learn best in the classroom, in green spaces, or in the city’s colorful cafés, you’ll find endless opportunities to reach your potential.
Curious about the unique learning experience at IENYC? We’re here to help you pursue your passion and take yourself to new heights. Start the journey to SoHo—find your program at IENYC today.