4. Dear Mama Coffee (611 W 129th St.)
Dear Mama Coffee expanded past its original East Harlem location when it opened its second location in Manhattanville in 2020. Now the only operating location, the East Harlem location is a space where coffee lovers and art lovers can join together to enjoy a macchiato or iced latte as they take in the latest in-store art exhibit. The vessel of community in upper Manhattan sells vibrant matcha lattes among other caffeinated goods.
Past the wandering artists frequenting the cafe, authors can enjoy this community space to fuel their creative juices. In addition to the Columbia University professors who visit the cafe in between teaching classes and writing their next book, authors occasionally hold events at Dear Mama Coffee. An influential author who has held events at Dear Mama Coffee is Ken Foster, author of City of Dogs. Actress and producer Jenny Paul, known for her roles in Adulting with Jane and Jessica Jones has enjoyed their products as well.