Birch Coffee

Tucked away inside the playfully elegant Gershwin Hotel, Birch is a charming retreat from midtown Manhattan. Its secluded library upstairs is a strong contender for the coziest room in the borough and is the perfect place to read or study on a rainy day. Grab a delicious housemade treat and browse the used books, then as the sun sets, order a glass of wine or a beer and partake in the menu of salads and sandwiches. The space is relaxed and welcoming, as are the baristas, and owners Jeremy and Paul can often be spotted greeting regulars and pulling shots behind the counter. The coffee itself consistently hits the spot: the Birch Blend is dark and deeply satisfying and the espresso has a clean, almost sweet taste.