Cafe

Sote Coffee Roasters

4.8 · 419 reviews·Hidden gem: highly rated, still under the radar
Sote Coffee RoastersSote Coffee Roasters
Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

Sote Coffee Roasters is a beloved cafe and micro-roastery on Amsterdam Avenue in New York City's Upper West Side. With a 4.8 rating from nearly 420 reviews, it's a destination for coffee aficionados seeking fresh, small-batch roasts. The space is warm and inviting, with exposed brick, wooden shelves displaying retail bags, and a long communal table. The menu features espresso drinks, pour-overs, and cold brew, all made from beans roasted on-site. The baristas are skilled and happy to discuss flavor notes. Sote also offers a selection of pastries and light bites from local bakeries. Its location near Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History makes it a convenient stop for tourists and locals alike. The cafe's commitment to quality and community has made it a neighborhood staple.

Don't miss

  • House-roasted single-origin beans available for purchase
  • Signature cortado and flat white
  • Cozy interior with communal seating and free Wi-Fi
  • Friendly, knowledgeable staff
  • Close to Central Park and the Museum of Natural History

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Sote Coffee Roasters

You can visit on your own (no ticket; pay for items ordered). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Know before you go

  • Try the pour-over to taste the beans' full flavor.
  • Free Wi-Fi is reliable, but outlets are limited.
  • Pastries are from local bakeries; the chocolate croissant is popular.
  • Buy a bag of beans to take home, they roast fresh weekly.

A bit of history

Sote Coffee Roasters opened in 2016, founded by a team of coffee professionals who wanted to bring specialty roasting to the Upper West Side. The name 'Sote' is derived from a Japanese word meaning 'to invite'.

Common questions

Do they have non-dairy milk options?

Yes, oat, almond, and soy milk are available.

Is there outdoor seating?

No, but the interior has large windows for natural light.

Can I watch them roast?

The roaster is visible behind the counter; ask for a tour.

Do they serve food?

Pastries and light snacks only.

What are the hours?

Typically 7 AM–7 PM daily; check their website for changes.

Is it good for working?

Yes, with communal tables and free Wi-Fi, but it can get noisy.

More attractions in New York City

Planning your trip to New York City? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a New York City itinerary.