I’d heard NBHD Brûlée was one of the best coffee shops in Harlem, but the thing about coffee shops is that they’re best when they’re hyper-local. At 1.7 miles away, this one is not hyper local for me. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t just far enough for a nice walk when I’m looking for a change of scenery. I recently ran a 5K and the race ended about 2 blocks from the coffee shop so I finally had the opportunity to stop by.
First of all, the vibs are coffee house. As in, this is the Central Perk space you picture when someone mentions a coffee shop. There are big leather chairs begging to be sat in, exposed brick and local artwork, tin ceilings, and a legit playlist.
I got an iced latte and it was great. They’ve got a full coffee/tea menu with all the concoctions and serve alcohol if you’re not an early bird. But I think the food menu really sets them apart here. There a pastries, salads, and sandwiches, but I had to get my hands on an egg and cheese. They offer a build-your-own style so I chose sourdough, cheddar, bacon, and jerk mayo. It was perfect.
This area around Strivers Row is a true neighborhood and it’s time there was a spot nearby that truly feels neighborhood-y.
Peaches to Apples 