Study Spots NYC: 101

Living in New York is difficult. Us busy New Yorkers have to find that perfect balance between go-time and Zen-time, and it's not so easy. The struggle is even more real when we have work to do; which is always the case! After searching the City for the best coffee shops to study at, I've found that there are several important elements that the greatest NYC Study Spot's share.

My favorite coffee shops to work at have these qualities in common...

1. Atmosphere

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Hands down, good vibes are the most important quality of a superb Study Spot. Unless I feel comfortable and calm, I can't get any work done. Things that contribute to atmosphere are; lighting (open and clear, or use of swanky mood lighting), comfy chairs and couches (rugs and pillows are a plus), and mellow beats (calm tunes that are soft enough for you to drown out with your headphones if desired).

My favorite coffee shop atmosphere is at Ground Central #1 in the Upper East Side.

2. Tasty Eats and Drinks

 

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Whether the shop offers hundreds of coffee concoctions, or just a small number of specialty drinks, their beverages and snacks must be fetching tasty. After all, you'll be sipping and nibbling on their grub for hours on end.

The award for best grub goes to Maman Coffee, Bakery, and Kitchen.

 

3. Solitude

 

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When I'm searching for a Study Spot, I'm looking for somewhere to spread out and not be interrupted by noisy children (I left Utah's millions of kids for a reason). Its vital that your Study Spot offer plenty of cushy seating and quiet corners.

I find seclusion at Birch Coffee on Spruce Street, Financial District.

4. Modern Conveniences

 

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Although having WiFi seems like a given, many NYC coffee shops don't offer this modern convenience. This is strange because its common knowledge that we're in the TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY. So if you don't have any data left on your iPhone because you've been listening to Bon Iver's new album on Spotify non-stop, you'll need to find a Study Spot with WiFi. Additionally, a multitude of wall plugs and restrooms are conducive to long hours of studying.

Aroma Espresso Bar near the World Trade Center has exceptionally fast WiFi and plenty of wall plugs by sunlit windows.

 

As we explore the coffee shops of New York City together, I'll need your help to discover the best Study Spots. Become a Spot Scout by submitting your favorite coffee shop to study at in the side bar.