Sweetleaf



Main bar (including Jen's favorite, French Bulldogs)



Working nights in a midtown restaurant, I have my days to recuperate which can be really nice. While exploring neighborhoods in Manhattan or even just our own hood, Long Island City, i’ve noticed that places have a much more laid back, inviting vibe during the day before the masses of nine-to-fivers get off work.



The "vinyl lounge"



For this post I wanted to spotlight one of my favorite daytime hangouts, Sweetleaf, which is an espresso bar and café about eight blocks from our place in LIC. Sweetleaf is in the ground floor of a cool 19th century brick building and has been expanded to more than twice the size I remember it being when I moved here. Inside they have a main bar, living room, designated laptop/ work room, and a back "vinyl lounge" complete with lots of classic records and a player. They brew delicious Stumptown coffee (with varieties like “hair bender” and “rocket fuel”) in a serious espresso machine named Dorothy. More recently they have reorganized their café (now making everything in house!) and offer cookies, muffins, cakes, pies, scones, tartlets, fondue, and even soup and lunch items.

Especially on Wednesday’s when the new Village Voice hits stands, I can spend hours there getting some reading in while enjoying the great drinks and atmosphere. And it’s not even coffee weather yet!