9. Housing Works Bookstore Cafe, SoHo

Housing works bookstore

Housing Works Bookstore is one of the best independent bookstores in the city, and it has one of the coziest coffee shops. Funds from the bookstore and cafe help the organization raise money to support its mission of ending “end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy.”

The two-level space is run completely by volunteers and the books on sale are donated. You can grab your next great read while snuggling up to a hot cup of coffee and a treat from the cafe’s menu.