[Photo: Kathy Chan]

Kaffe 1668, on Greenwich Street in Tribeca, is a roomy spot that rules the coffeeshop scene, with morning lines and lunchtime crowds. High ceilings and plenty of space, with a communal table near the front, and individual tables in the back half. Even more seating downstairs. My favorite stop? The bench that lines the window, where you feel as if you're practically on Greenwich Street—only protected from the elements by glass windows. There you have the perfect view for people watching both inside the coffeeshop and outside on the street. (A good view is ideal when dining alone.)

You might have heard about their coffee from a recent New York Times round up, a post from our own Allison Hemler's Coffee Chronicles, or perhaps from simply staring at the menu board of almost overwhelming options. Drip coffee? Pick from five single origin choices, starting at $2.75 a cup. There is single origin espresso as well, plus cold-brewed coffee and tea, and that's only the beginning.

All the sweets are made in-house—muffins, banana bread, scones. Stick with these basics, or the brownies and cookies; the popovers ($3), unfortunately, are not given the same care as their coffee drinks. Dusted in sugar, the popover was chewy on the outside but downright sticky on the inside. These sad creatures seemed stale at room temperature. I asked for jam on the side and was denied.

For a better nibble, go for a sandwich; of the options, I'm partial to the Ham & Brie ($9). It doesn't look like much, but wait until you bite in—lingonberry jam generously smothered on either end, and an unexpected crunch from slices of Granny Smith apples. (I wish had the foresight to scrape some jam off for use on the popover!) Brie melts into the nutty whole grain bread and thick, meaty ham. Lettuce was the single unnecessary element.

They may not be worth traveling for, but if you're there for the coffee, the sandwiches are perfectly tasty. Bring your laptop or a book; this is a place to linger, warm drink in hand. Don't forget to keep your receipt—that's where they print the WiFi password!

Kaffe 1668

275 Greenwich Street New York NY 10007 (map)
212-693-3750
kaffe1668.com