When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Grace Street Coffee & Desserts
Why Grace Street Coffee & Desserts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Grace Street Coffee & Desserts is a standout Korean dessert café located in the heart of Koreatown, New York City. Renowned for its specialty drinks, handcrafted desserts, and exceptional Korean shaved snow, it offers a unique blend of flavors that attract both locals and visitors alike. The café is praised for its inviting atmosphere that combines a lively community feel with a cozy yet vibrant environment perfect for meeting up with friends. Highlights include their famous burnt cheesecake, black sesame shaved ice (noted as one of the best in both the U.S. and Asia), and creative desserts like ho-dduk (Korean donuts with sugar and nuts paired with ice cream). The café’s generous seating accommodates groups well, making it ideal for leisurely gatherings. Open late into the evening, especially on weekends, it serves as a perfect spot to wind down after dinner with a sweet treat and great coffee. Trust is further strengthened by their catering services to high-profile clients, including Fortune 500 companies and celebrities, showcasing their expertise beyond just café service. Grace Street uniquely blends Asian dessert culture with the dynamic energy of Manhattan, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Korean sweets and coffee.
Here's what people think of Grace Street Coffee & Desserts
As of recent, Grace Street Coffee & Desserts holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3341 reviews.
Reviews consistently highlight the high quality and uniqueness of Grace Street Coffee & Desserts. Positive feedback praises the cafe’s innovative dessert options, especially the black sesame and burnt cheesecake, which many describe as unforgettable. Reviewers also appreciate the welcoming and lively environment, the variety of desserts including waffles with fresh fruit and unique ice cream flavors, and the accommodating seating areas. Customers often note the café’s ability to fuse Korean dessert traditions with fresh, high-quality ingredients, creating an experience that stands out in NYC’s crowded dessert scene. On the negative side, some reviewers mention that the café can get quite busy, leading to wait times of around 10 minutes or more, which some find inconvenient. A few also point out that the prices are somewhat on the higher side compared to other dessert spots, though many agree the quality justifies the cost. Overall, the reviews paint Grace Street Coffee & Desserts as a beloved and trusted dessert destination in Koreatown that offers exceptional flavors and a vibrant atmosphere, with minor drawbacks typical of popular, high-demand eateries.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Starr Davis
Interesting layout of the shop, with cash register right by the entrance, which is where you order and pay. After you ordered and paid, turn left into the main area of the shop through the door, it became wide open. The layout looks more like a big open cafeteria with service counter all the way in the back and is self service on everything. They serve a variety of drinks, snow-cones, pastries, and Chinese style candied fruits on the stick. We had two Matcha drinks and their famous cheesecake. The cheesecake was really good. Even though we were told, their Matcha already came in with sugar mix in. So for my drink. I told them do not add any additional sugar. And It tasted pretty good. It didn’t taste too sweet at all. They have a good amount of tables and chairs spread throughout the large open space. The setting is good for groups and individuals. Given its convenient location, which is located in the center of K-Town, and the spacious sitting area, this is definitely a recommended chill out spot for the area.
Angela F.
I just love to come here and drink the coconut rose iced latte, it's the most delicious thing I've ever tried. Probably in the future I'm gonna eat something from this place, I've been craving for a bingsu, I saw people eating that and it's huge!!! Three or four people can eat from the same plate perfectly. The place has a lot of space and tables, the service is nice and fast, for my drink I had to wait a couple of minutes, even with the place crowded. It's perfect to sit and take a little rest. 🍧🍨🧋☕ Recommended.
Olivia Pang
Perfect place to stop by and get dessert and drinks with friends! They prepare the food fast with a buzzer system so it's very convenient. Their desserts are beautiful with two vegan options and their drinks are innovative and colorful! I love their matcha beignets with mango sorbet and their matcha is fresh and vibrant, however if you don't ask for it less sweet the drinks are even sweeter than the pastry! It can get a bit crowded in front but it's understandable as it is so good and they are pretty quick with taking orders too
Taylan Akca
We stopped by Grace Street for dessert and absolutely loved it. The cheesecake was incredibly delicious—super creamy and rich. We also had the Nutella Mochi Waffle, which was warm, soft, and packed with flavor. Highly recommend trying both! The space is bright, cool, and comfortable despite the heavy crowd. It’s clearly a popular spot and gets very busy. Only downside: plastic utensils were openly placed and not individually wrapped, which was a bit off-putting. But overall, the flavors were great and the quality was impressive. Definitely worth visiting if you’re craving something sweet in Koreatown.
Tee
I am here with the love of my life. Bae said he wanted coffee. Nice system they have. You order at the door, grab a buzzer and have a seat then pick up towards the back. Bae got iced viatnamese coffee. Very strong. I didn't want a beverage. Now the main item: shaved ice the mango flavor. So good it hit the spot. Enough for 2 people to share. It had fresh fruit. Now I know where to come when I'm depressed and needing a sweet little treat.
How to reach Grace Street Coffee & Desserts
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Why Grace Street Coffee & Desserts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Grace Street Coffee & Desserts with your friends? Grace Street Coffee & Desserts offers an exceptional setting that merges delightful culinary experiences with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal meetup spot for friends or family. With a remarkable rating of 4.5 based on over 3,300 reviews, this Koreatown gem in New York City has earned the trust and admiration of countless patrons. Its unique fusion of Korean desserts and specialty drinks creates an exciting and novel adventure for the palate, perfect for sharing with others. The café’s central location—just minutes from iconic landmarks like Penn Station and the Empire State Building—means it’s both accessible and convenient for groups coming from different parts of the city. Whether your group consists of dessert enthusiasts, coffee lovers, or simply people looking for a cozy place to converse and unwind, Grace Street offers the right ambiance. It's open late on weekends, ideal for evening gatherings, and its lively, friendly vibe helps build connections among friends. Ultimately, it’s not just a dessert spot; it’s a social hub perfect for creating joyful memories together.
What activities and experiences make Grace Street Coffee & Desserts perfect for group meetups? Grace Street is not only about eating and drinking—it’s about experiencing a vibrant culture through its unique menu offerings and welcoming environment. The café specializes in Korean shaved snow desserts, Korean-style donuts, and premium boba milk tea, each freshly made and thoughtfully crafted. This wide variety caters to diverse tastes, from those craving refreshing icy treats to fans of rich, chewy boba drinks. Importantly, Grace Street has accommodated dietary preferences by introducing vegan options, such as mango sorbet and plant-based milk alternatives, so everyone in a group can find something satisfying. The spacious indoor seating on a first-come, first-served basis provides enough room for groups to sit together comfortably without feeling cramped. The ambiance is lively and energetic, which is perfect for groups wanting a dynamic spot for conversations and laughter. With late hours, especially on weekends, it also offers flexibility for meetups that extend into the night. Together, these elements make Grace Street an activity-rich, inclusive venue for sharing an enjoyable time with friends or family.
Why is the menu at Grace Street Coffee & Desserts a draw for group visits? The menu at Grace Street blends traditional Korean dessert craft with innovative flavors and options that are both unique and universally appealing. Its centerpiece is the freshly made shaved snow—a delicate, fluffy treat that melts in your mouth, accompanied by toppings that range from seasonal fruits to red bean or mochi, catering to adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike. The Korean donuts, crispy and light with the perfect sweetness, add a nostalgic feel that many find irresistible. These can be enjoyed alongside premium boba milk teas, which come in multiple rich and creamy varieties, including classic black tea or matcha-based blends. Importantly for group gatherings, the ability to order in a variety of flavors creates a shared tasting experience and invites communal interaction. Consistent praise from visitors highlights the quality and presentation of the menu items, which are crafted to be both photogenic and delicious—a great bonus for groups wanting to capture memories. This thoughtful curation of flavors and options makes the menu a centerpiece of the social experience at Grace Street.
How does the location of Grace Street Coffee & Desserts enhance its suitability for meetups? Situated at 17 West 32nd Street in New York City’s Koreatown, Grace Street Coffee & Desserts enjoys a prime and vibrant locale. Its proximity to major transit hubs such as Penn Station and prominent landmarks like the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center ensures easy access for friends coming from various neighborhoods or even out of town. This accessibility reduces the logistical challenges typically involved in bringing a group together. Being in the heart of Midtown Manhattan also contributes to the energetic atmosphere, with the hustle and bustle of the city providing a lively backdrop that adds excitement to any gathering. Additionally, Koreatown’s authentic cultural vibe enriches the experience, offering an immersive environment that extends beyond the café’s doors. The neighborhood is safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it convenient to arrive early, enjoy nearby explorations, or continue the outing after dessert. The location perfectly complements the café’s offerings and enhances the overall group experience.
What about the atmosphere and seating arrangements at Grace Street Coffee & Desserts make it great for groups? Grace Street offers a spacious and welcoming interior designed to accommodate socializing in comfort. The seating arrangement is laid out to support both intimate chats and larger gatherings with ample room to spread out. Because seating is first-come, first-served, groups benefit from arriving early or planning meetups during less crowded times to ensure a spot together. The café is often described as lively and slightly noisy, which suits those looking for a place buzzing with energy rather than quiet solitude. This vibrancy fosters a sense of community and makes conversations feel more dynamic and engaging. Lighting and décor contribute to a modern yet cozy feel, creating an inviting environment where guests can relax and enjoy their time without rush. For groups who appreciate casual and upbeat settings, this atmosphere is ideal, encouraging interaction and shared enjoyment over delightful desserts and drinks.
Can Grace Street Coffee & Desserts accommodate special group needs or occasions? Beyond just casual meetups, Grace Street Coffee & Desserts serves as an excellent choice for special occasions and tailored group experiences. The café offers catering, providing a fully staffed boba and coffee bar that can elevate events such as product launches, corporate gatherings, or private celebrations. Their expertise in custom Asian desserts allows groups to impress their guests with unique, delicious options beyond standard fare. This capability to customize and serve larger groups off-site or onsite sets Grace Street apart from typical coffee shops. They have established relationships with Fortune 500 companies and even Hollywood celebrities, underscoring their reputation for quality and reliability. Moreover, the business is responsive and easy to contact for inquiries or bookings, ensuring that group needs are met professionally. For group organizers wanting both an ambient location and professional catering with a cultural twist, Grace Street offers a complete solution.
How does Grace Street Coffee & Desserts support dietary inclusivity for group gatherings? Grace Street has shown an admirable commitment to accommodating diverse dietary preferences, a particular strength when hosting group meetups where tastes and restrictions vary. They provide vegan options such as mango sorbet as a substitute for traditional ice cream and plant-based milk alternatives, making it easier for vegan or lactose-intolerant guests to enjoy their desserts and beverages. The menu’s flexibility encourages groups to mix and match items without worry about dietary constraints, which is crucial for ensuring everyone feels included and cared for. Additionally, many of their offerings are naturally vegetarian-friendly, aligning well with many modern dietary trends. Grace Street’s openness to customization and their clear communication of these options support an inclusive social dining atmosphere, helping groups focus on enjoying their time together rather than navigating limited choices. This inclusivity is a strong reason why many find the café a welcoming spot for diverse gatherings.
What makes Grace Street’s late-night hours important for group meetups? One practical highlight of Grace Street Coffee & Desserts is their extended opening hours, especially during weekends, when they remain open until midnight. This late-night availability offers flexibility for groups whose schedules don’t align with traditional café hours. Whether friends want a post-dinner dessert destination, a place to unwind after an event, or a lively spot for weekend socializing, Grace Street fits the bill. This allows meetups to start later in the day or continue after other plans without rushing. Furthermore, being open late in a central Midtown location adds convenience and safety for guests traveling back home at night. The café’s nighttime atmosphere is described as buzzing and vibrant, perfect for energizing gatherings or relaxed nightcaps alike. These extended hours make Grace Street a versatile venue ideal for diverse group needs and timings.
How do customer reviews and ratings reflect the group-friendly nature of Grace Street Coffee & Desserts? The overwhelmingly positive feedback from thousands of customers emphasizes why Grace Street is such a favored venue for meetups. With a 4.5-star average rating from over 3,300 reviews, patrons consistently highlight the quality of the desserts, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere. Many reviewers note the café’s ability to handle groups comfortably and the expedited service even during busy periods. The consistent praise for their vegan-friendly options speaks to their inclusivity, which matters greatly for social groups. Additionally, customers appreciate the café’s spaciousness and lively energy, which contribute to a great social vibe. The combination of authenticity in Korean dessert offerings and the welcoming environment has made Grace Street a Travelers’ Choice recognized venue, further reinforcing its reputation as a top meet-up destination in New York City. Reviews collectively paint a picture of a place that friends and families seek for both everyday gatherings and memorable special occasions.