If you're strolling through the Upper West Side this summer, you're in for more than just quiet, leafy streets and museum-hopping. The neighborhood’s café and bar scene is heating up with refreshing summer cocktails and espresso-based drinks that are perfect for long afternoons and golden-hour evenings.
Whether you’re seeking a low-key coffee shop or a buzzy bar with seasonal specials, this guide rounds up the best cafes on the Upper West Side for cooling off and sipping something special.
Inside The Wallace Hotel, The Wallace Lounge sets the tone for an evening of understated elegance and effortless comfort. In the summer months, the Lounge introduces seasonal specialties such as the Rosemary Grapefruit Gin Fizz and a silky Iced Vanilla Cold Brew made with beans from a local roaster.
From golden-hour Negronis to late-evening nightcaps, The Wallace Lounge is your refined retreat where ambiance and quality go hand in hand. It's the kind of place where guests linger, conversations flow easily, and every sip feels intentional.
An 8-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, Bluestone Lane offers a breezy, Australian-inspired vibe with both indoor and sidewalk seating. While known for its brunch and coffee, their drink menus feature summer favorites, including the Cold Brew Float, Aussie Iced Latte, and a Vanilla and Banana Protein Smoothie.
For those seeking a boozy yet brunch-friendly option, the Aperol Spritz here is light, citrusy, and served with a sprig of mint for a refreshing summer twist. Bluestone Lane blends espresso culture with relaxed energy, perfect for easing into your Upper West Side morning or enjoying a chilled-out afternoon pick-me-up.
This cozy cocktail bar is a charming nook with a passionate neighborhood following. Located just a 5-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, The Owl’s Tail has mastered the art of balancing inventive mixology with an intimate, welcoming vibe.
Summer cocktails here take a creative turn, such as the Tropical Old Fashioned with banana-washed bourbon or the Lavender Paloma, which swaps salt for a delicate sugar rim. The bar also offers refreshing, low-ABV options, such as spritzes and wine-based drinks, making it an ideal spot for those who want to indulge without overdoing it. In warm weather, grab a spot by the open front windows and enjoy the breeze.
One of the best cafes on the Upper West Side and just a 5-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, Irving Farm is a staple for locals and visitors alike. Their menu always features creative cold coffee options – think Lavender Matcha Cold Brew and Iced Espresso.
The café also serves freshly baked pastries and light lunch options, making it a perfect midday stop. If you're not in the mood for caffeine, they offer sparkling herbal teas and seasonal lemonades. Whether you're working remotely or simply relaxing with a book, Irving Farm is a comfortable and well-connected spot close to the hotel.
Da Capo blurs the lines between espresso bar and cocktail lounge, transitioning effortlessly from morning lattes to evening Negronis. Their seasonal Peach Espresso Spritz is a standout, blending a combination of Aperol, fresh peach purée, and a shot of chilled espresso that’s both invigorating and indulgent. For something classic, try their Campari Soda with a twist of orange peel.
The vibe here is sleek but friendly, with outdoor tables that make people-watching along Columbus Avenue all the more enjoyable, and it’s only an 8-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel. It's a unique hybrid space that captures the European café culture with an uptown edge.
A dependable go-to for both espresso lovers and casual coffee drinkers that’s just a 15-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, Joe Coffee Company has a strong summer lineup that includes Iced Cortados, Oat Milk Lattes, and Cold Brew Lemonade, a surprising but delicious blend of tart and bitter.
Their sleek, minimal interior keeps things cool, while outdoor tables let you enjoy the buzz of Amsterdam Avenue. If you're looking to recharge without the alcohol, this is one of the best cafes on the Upper West Side for sipping something refreshing and specialty-grade.
A neighborhood favorite – just a 15-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel – known for its speakeasy vibe and live music, Prohibition is a lively destination for summer nights. Their cocktail menu nods to the classics while adding seasonal infusions, such as the Cucumber Collins and Spiced Watermelon Margarita.
With a dimly lit interior and a retro bar, it feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret watering hole, except you’re only a few blocks from your hotel. Arrive early for a quieter experience, or stay late to catch a band or DJ spinning upbeat summer sets.
Whether you’re craving a cool pour-over, an Aperol-based refresher, or a next-level cocktail, the Upper West Side has a sip for every mood. Best of all, these standout spots are just a short walk from the elegant, serene comfort of The Wallace Hotel.
After a day of exploring the neighborhood – or an evening of leisurely drinks – you’ll be glad you booked a stay at The Wallace Hotel, your peaceful home base in the heart of the UWS.