Darling Coffee

"Darling Coffee, Inwood. Wow, it smells good here. With hot chai tea and warm cheddar biscuits for days, Darling Coffee is no ordinary establishment. Opening in 2012, Darling Coffee quickly become a neighborhood standard. They excel in baked good, sandwiches, seasonal soups, and a warm environment that prefers books to computers, engaging conversation to superficial niceties. Nichole, the owner, is there on most days blending in with the rest of the friendly staff. Pull up, sit down. Enjoy a cup of tea. Enjoy a satisfying lunch. Meet a friend. Write the next Great American Novel, crank out your thesis paper. Darling Coffee is something of a community space and is known for supporting local artists on their walls and generally just being nice. Don't you like inviting places? Don't you like coffee and yummy baked goods? Don't worry, you're only human. Nobody will judge you. Inwood residents love it here."

Beata Lech

Google

Like this place a lot. Separate tables for gets with computers & separate for the gets who just want to site with coffee & talk. Love it!!! :) food is expensive but sooooo good!!!!

Sharon Kapitula

Google

Cute shop with friendly staff and a variety of delicious baked goods. Wasn’t a fan of the chai latte, too spicey. A bit pricey and there were so many strollers that the ambiance was day care.

Majo Balquinta

Google

The place is cozy, amazing! The carrot cake is a must! Really. Is a beauty full place!

Julie Thiry

Google

I've lived right around the corner since 2011. Great coffee and espresso drinks. They offer pour over, cold brew in the summer months (it's like delicious speed.) Way way better than any Starbucks will ever be. I give 4 stars because I miss their old baker and recipes from when they were a newer shop. They have also recently gotten some sweet gluten free options via Sans Bakery. Good choice! I would appreciate a few more and some savory options! Family owned and run. They're awesome. And Luke is my favorite employee.

Mike P

Google

Great coffee and espresso. Staff has a great eye for detail and attention. Most of the food sold there is made on premises and you will constantly see people preparing some great food. The focaccia and the campfire cookies are crazy good. It can be a little cold and impersonal and the hours are super limited, but really a solid place and an asset to the hood

Jozsef Meszaros

Google

Really wonderful cafe! I go there at least 4x a week. I appreciate the no-computer policy at some tables, even though I use a computer there. If you don't get a table for a computer you can always wait and one will open up rather quickly. It's a really spacious place with tons of sunlight. All the employees are friendly and the coffee is amazing.

Marieka Jackson

Google

Lovely place to grab some tea/coffee while working or simply wanting to sit. It’s not overly pretentious. I’m particularly found of sitting on the oversized benches in the window. Nice selection of tea. The bread with zucchini (and other stuff) was delicious and moist. I wish they had a slightly larger food selection, or more so that it is a bit more clear. It wasn’t until after I ordered tea and a slice of loaf and ate that I realized they had whole skillet egg dishes. I didn’t see them on the chalk board or anywhere else. Maybe I just missed a sign. Anyway, it looked tasty!

Max Eddy

Google

My preferred coffee spot in Inwood. The coffee is excellent, and the environment very friendly. Computers aren't allowed at most tables, which keeps the place from being overcrowded, but finding a seat can be challenging at peak times. The selection of sandwiches and baked goods is also stellar.

Rob A.

Yelp

A nice cozy shop for people to experience. Decorated with plants, artists on the wall and more this shop offers some good coffee but also some delicious treats. I recommend coming here to catch up with someone, a coffee date or even to get some work done.

Cynthia A.

Yelp

Coffee here is great. Had a bad customer service experience with a woman today. I asked her for a chai latte and right before she grabbed a cup to prepare it, I said oh please iced. She rolled her eyes even though she hadn't even started preparing my chai latte or finished charging me. Zero people on line. I was the only customer like what's the big deal. I was polite. She wasn't. Like lady if you're that unhappy you shouldn't work with customers. Rude!!!

Himadri G.

Yelp

Stopped by here for a morning pick me up before a long hike. This place is very spacious, it seems like a perfect place to get some remote work done. I am very keen to try the different Ethiopian snacks and meals they serve here. My friends and I really liked the chai. I think on that morning they did not have oat milk, so we swapped for soy or almond. The one thing we were not a fan of was the peppermint latte. It had a very odd taste, must have been a weird syrup mix. The employees were kind and offered suggestions when asked. I think the serving sizes were a bit small for what I could get elsewhere. However, if I lived in the neighborhood I would come back to try different things. I'm sure they have something that may fit my palette more!

Abbey R.

Yelp

This is a nice cozy shop for the vegan and plant lovers. This place has a nice variety of pastries vegan options. I'm not a big vegan fan but the pastries were decent. This coffee shop has l plenty of space to sit. The plants are beautifully decorated throughout. I had a lavender latte and my guest as well. Definitely would recommend it. Seems like so people were here getting work done or catching up with a friend. Service was fast! Prices were about $7.

JP P.

Yelp

This place is set up well! The coffee is outstanding! Cold brew with oatmilk and honey - 5 out of 5. Almond croissant - 4 out of 5 The bathroom is clean! The staff is friendly and patient! Will definitely frequent here. Good place to grab a coffee and walk to the park:

Pratima M.

Yelp

A cute, cozy coffee spot in the Inwood area -- the ambiance inside is really nice, with lots of art from local artists lining the walls. They have some yummy pastries and snacks. I got the Spinach Turnover and liked it, and there were plenty of others which also looked appetizing. If I'm in the area, could totally see myself coming here with a book!

Melissa C.

Yelp

Great customer service.Cappuccino was not to my liking tasted more like warmed milk, didn't taste like any coffee was added. But great ambiance. Recommend this place if you're looking for a peaceful place to sit for a bit.

Kisbel F.

Yelp

Cute cafe located in the Inwood area. I usually get a dirty chai with oat milk and it always hits! If you get there early enough you might get lucky and be able to get a pastry. I'm a little obsessed with the everything bagel seasoning cream cheese filled croissant (sounds like a mouthful). It's just perfect; salty, rich and filling little snack you can take on the go with your coffee. My fave on the weekend. Staff is also pretty friendly and patient because if you're anything like me you will easily get distracted by all the goodies near the counter.

Rachel W.

Yelp

This may be my new fave cafe/coffee shop in Inwood! I got an Oreo frappe, decaf and dairy free. As someone who can't have caffeine or dairy, I really appreciate a place that offers these options. I also had a croissant. Both were delicious! The vibe is chill with a touch of energy to help you get your work done. The playlist had songs from different genres: pop, salsa, slow rock, chill. The employees are kind and friendly. I had some questions, and they were really helpful in figuring out what I wanted to order. They have a great menu, vibe, and service so I'm def coming back!

Aimee D.

Yelp

The injera wrap was everything I wanteddd. Not to mention this was simply the cutest (and waste-conscious) place.

Kai W.

Yelp

Buunni has more vegan options for pastries. I got the vegan carrot cake muffin and vegan croissant and they both were moist inside. They didn't taste sweet which I liked. The prices for both were a good price and not over priced. I would definitely get this again when I want to indulge.

Min P.

Yelp

Stood outside their door a few minutes before them opening, peeped inside to see two workers behind the counter with the one putting pastries on pastries and the other one just standing there. I gave it a few minutes until they were supposed to be opened and peeped inside again to see if they noticed that I was waiting, they did. When I made eye contact with the one loaded pastries she makes this gesture with her hand and aggressively saids "relax". Like???? Sorry lady I guess for you to open when you're supposed to be is a little too hard of an ask. A few more minutes go by and they still have not opened up the door, neither worker is doing anything time sensitive and just continuing to talk to each other. Almost as if they're getting a kick off making me wait for them. When they finally open, I still say my good morning and thank you when I go through buy my coffee and all I was met with was attitude from both workers. I live a block away and used to come to this place all the time, workers were friendly and the all around atmosphere was great. But now it seems the workers want to make their problems everyone else's problems. So shoutout to the short haired female worker with glasses and the tall big one with glasses for giving me the red light to stop coming here. Honestly, there's better ways to spend my money than on a $6 cup of coffee served with a side of attitude!

David W.

Yelp

I love coming to this cafe, I have to stop by once or twice a week because of the atmosphere and coffee. Also Ashley is amazing she's very attentive , plays great music and does a great blend of coffee. 10/10 Best coffee in inwood !

Arnie A.

Yelp

So much more than a coffee house. it's a community center. Great vibe and food. Wish I could spend more time there

Richa T.

Yelp

This is absolutely a great coffee shop! Pros: + Friendly staff + Delicious pastries/desserts + I do love the Ethiopian inspired sandwich/wraps - a lot of flavor and vegetarian friendly! + Great for stopping by after a trip to Met Cloisters

Yajaira G.

Yelp

Typically, I receive excellent service and enjoy their delicious bakery items. I'm not a fan of their coffee, but their teas are good. However, today was disappointing - the hummingbird loaf I purchased was soooo stale, I spit it out! The cashier was not pleasant either. A waste of time and money.

Alexandra P.

Yelp

I checked out this place with friends today; what a nice treat! From the outside, it's not obvious how spacious the shop is inside. BUUNNI serves more than coffee and savory Ethiopian fused treats; they have nice teas, other drinks, and foods. The place was clean, it had a nice vice and the service was great. Shout out to the manager (C.....)! The venue hosts cool events during the week and is available for private parties. If you find yourself in the Inwood area of Manhattan, you should drop by.

Ryna D.

Yelp

I first got acquainted with Buunni at their Pinehurst location when my parents used to live nearby that shop. Then there was the Riverdale shop that I frequented a few times while living in Yonkers. That shop is now closed but it's nice to see Buunni doing well in Inwood. The café is spacious and they even have Ethiopian dinners on rotation. Definitely a local business that I recommend supporting if you live in the neighborhood!

Jahayra M.

Yelp

This review is for the Ethiopian take out offered at Buunni Coffee. While waiting for my take kit at Yummi Thai, next door to Buunni Coffee I saw a photo of Ethiopian food being offered. I took the website info down and immediately looked at their menu and decided to place an order. Ethiopian food is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday pre order only. Now on to the yummy food....... ordered the "Ye Tsom Beyaynetu" (Ethiopian vegan platter). The platter consisted of 4 side dishes: Misr - Ethiopian style spiced red lentils (my favorite). Kik Alicha - Mild yellow split peas. Atkilt Alicha - Mixed vegetables. Gomen - chopped and spiced collard greens. My order also came w Teff Enjera (which I ordered extra bc you will have some leftovers). I also ordered the chai iced tea. So much flavor, so tasty, satisfying and yummy. Each side dish was full of flavors and the leftovers the next day were even better. Can not wait to order food again and continue to explore their menu. I hope the Ethiopian is offered 5 days a week.

Julia C.

Yelp

I continue to enjoy coming to Buunni. Now that I have sampled more of their food, I wanted to write an update and some feedback. The pastries are very good, especially the sweet ones like the almond croissant or the sweet, chewy lemon financier. There are not as many savory options, and the ones I tried (like cheesey or rosemary biscuits) are not quite as special; they tend to be a little dry. We also tried the vegan platter of Ethiopian dishes, which I am so excited to have in the neighborhood. Their updated, coffeeshop-style take on an Ethiopian platter was delightful (for example, atkilt with beets; kale salad). Some of the traditional dishes were not perfect, at least the day we went; the shiro needed salt while the gomen was quite salty. They also could use a better method of storing and reheating the injera so it doesn't get dry. My only other piece of feedback is that I wish they would put up signs about their composting! They are using compostable cups and lids, but at the trash station there is only trash and recycling. For now, if you want to compost your food scraps or cup and lid, you have to bring them back to the counter.

Bernice N.

Yelp

Just a decent coffee shop, but I think the prices are to high for the sizes they give you. I do think they have tasty treats and other little pick me ups. Plenty of seating areas. The bathroom is always clean for the most part, and that's a plus for any coffee shop in N.Y.C. I believe they have free wi-fi, and they have a big information board for stuff around the community. I really do like the place, but just not the coffee prices.

Katrina F.

Yelp

This is one of my favorite cafes. It just has a great vibe and energy, whether you use it for a workspace or a place to meet up with a friend. The workers are really nice and friendly, no matter how busy it is. This cafe is pretty unique because they serve Ethiopian food, which is delicious. But if you just want a coffee and pastry, this place is great for that, too. It's very roomy and features awesome local art and a post board of local events and ads for various services.

Shay S.

Yelp

$7 + $1 tip for a small vanilla iced oat latte. But the reason I'm leaving 1 star is for the cashier. I don't even remember the last time I interacted with someone so rude and grumpy for no reason. Unnecessarily made my day worse

Samuel B.

Yelp

My wife and I are long time fans of Cafe Buunni, this place is truly a gem. The only disappointing thing about this place is regarding (some) of the staff who are working behind the counter. my family and I have noticed over the past several weeks that the staff has a really bad attitude (Especially on Saturdays) and honestly that has deeply affected our opinion of this great place. We are noticing that some staff members come off as annoyed, distracted and dismissive. I do hope this changes and I write this only in the hope that management will keep an eye on this.

Amy L.

Yelp

So exciting! Was in the area and decided to stop by Buunni Inwood for lunch. They have a terrific new menu, with many sandwiches, salads and Ethiopian specialities. I had the the "Silk Road"; a wrap filled with spicy lentils and vegetables. The wrap itself is injera, which is a very moist soft bread. It was perfectly seasoned, very fresh ingredients. Love it! Love their selection of iced teas, I had Moroccan Mint.

Megan T.

Yelp

Usually great. Needs to list its hours outside and stick to them. If you close at 6, you can't lock your doors at 5:30.

Heather G.

Yelp

I live in Riverdale so I usually go to the Buunni on Riverdale Avenue. I discovered Darling Coffee last summer when I was being sent to 207 for work seemingly every weekend. I dug them and was sad to see them go - although being replaced by Buunni isn't the end of the world. I love their iced matchas.

C M.

Yelp

Stopped by the other day for a cup of tea. Everything is take-out now, and they use to-go lids that are not made from plastic, but from some biodegradable material. This is a great idea in theory, terrible in practice. I couldn't even taste the tea because of the flavor of the lid. They would be better off requiring people bring their own vessels - it would save them money and save the earth. If you are a coffee shop, and put your coffee/tea in something that masks the flavor, that's a bad call. This doesn't just mask the flavor - it actively tastes bad. I won't be back until I can drink from a real cup at a table there. Also the service was crap. Felt like I was back at Darling, ha. I'll stick to Kuro Kirin - have to walk a bit further, but definitely worth it.

C T.

Yelp

Came in a few times over the last couple of weeks. I mostly come for the cold brew as they are the only place I've known in the Inwood area that even serves it and pretty well at that. They also have good macchiato but the food did not look fresh in their display. The place also felt cluttered as there were boxes stacked high by the entrance (which were there for at least a couple of days). The service was fine but we did notice one of the employees (a woman) eating between orders by the register. I can't help but compare it to the previous establishment before they arrived, Darling Coffee which I felt was all around superior to this place.

Sparky C.

Yelp

I'm actually not a coffee drinker, but the Ethiopian food at Buunni is stellar, especially because food in Inwood is basically American/burgers and fries or Dominican rice, beans, and chicken. Buunni is my new go-to for delicious Ethiopian vegetarian and vegan fare. We tried the 3-item plate (spicy red lentils, yellow split peas, and green chile stuffed with onions and tomatoes), the tomato mozzarella mustard sandwich, the collard greens and Gouda sandwich, and the lentil veggie injera wrap. Everything was top-notch in that it was well-prepared, nicely seasoned, and fresh. My favorites were the wrap and the collard green sandwich, but I want to try more items from the 3-item plate. The stuffed green chile is reminiscent of pico de gallo and the chile actually packed quite a punch, which I appreciated. The injera is fresh, spongy, and tangy. I can't wait to go back for more of everything!

Tanya B.

Yelp

The cold brew was undrinkable. The prices are outrageous. The staff is slow and don't seem to know what they're doing. They also have a minimum $5 credit card charge. When your iced coffee is so overpriced that it comes to $4.70, you should probably take card. Especially when so many other places are moving to cashless. But, of course, without competition, they can do what they want. I miss Darling.

Tina C.

Yelp

Formerly Darling Coffee. This coffeehouse is very different than the original lacking in the previous pastry offerings of Nutella bread pudding or chocolate Bundt cake which are both a rarity in coffee houses. The almond croissant is good and abundant in portion. Customer service is efficient and attentive. I wish there were more pastry options for the morning breakfast ritual.

Pilar A.

Yelp

Started coming to Buunni at the beginning of the school semester (fall 2019) because I found it through yelp and I live close by so decided to give it a try! Love the atmosphere and the staff here. The shop is always kept very clean and organized which is very appreciated since a lot of people come to do work in here! Very reasonably priced and The baristas always know what I want as soon as I walk in and are always encouraging me to try new stuff which i appreciate it !:-) (they're also very nice). They have a variety of yummy pastry's to chose from and free WiFi ;)

DoItBig P.

Yelp

Delicious always! Very friendly staff and the baked goods and drinks are the best in town

Libby S.

Yelp

BEST Coffee in Upper Manhattan. Just did a big renovation and really does feel like a cozy new spot. In a neighborhood with very few options, Buunni is Really gold! So grateful for this place.

Kelsey P.

Yelp

Love having Buunni so close by! I sometimes stop by with a client after a strength training workout in Fort Tryon. A nice post-workout treat!

Allison H.

Yelp

I just love this place. Cozy with a focus on community (local artwork decorating the walls). Staff is really kind and thoughtful and every pastry I've tried has been a highlight to my day.

Lora F.

Yelp

March 28, 2019 morning, I tried the cherry walnut bar. If you are in the mood for a sweet gluten free treat this is a winner.

Nikki M.

Yelp

Even in a pandemic, Buunni Coffee has not stopped making excellent coffee. They deliver beans locally and now offer homemade Ethiopian dinners (for delivery). You can order your coffee online ahead of time too. I love this Inwood gem.

Jon O.

Yelp

They're neglecting their sandwich section, they taste exactly as buying them at an airport.They're cold, dry and barely anything inside them, my friend even got a butt end of the sandwich. The staff never ask if you're a rewards member and when I tell them I have a phone number then they reply it was too late. Another reviewer mention Choc's great service down the block and he's correct. On one occasion we did go their instead for better quality.

Lauren K.

Yelp

I have lived in the neighborhood since 2015. Buunni took over a much-loved community coffee shop run by locals last year. Buunni have done their best to fill the hole, but unfortunately they pale in comparison. The quality of the coffee beans is relatively poor, the variety and quality of the food is middling, and they have decreased staffing and therefore service level. For instance: while one used to see dedicated bakers preparing fresh pastries and sandwiches, now old pastries are doled out from storage boxes in the morning, and they are often out of options. Just this morning, the cream I put in my coffee was soured! I see Buunni's interest in being a community center (they host events and have recently added a "performance space" aka a raised area and some A/V equipment), but they are not a quality coffee shop. It is a disappointing transition.

Emily S.

Yelp

This place has really amazing food. I was a bit of a skeptic at first because sometimes 'trendy' looking menus don't always deliver with flavor and quality. But they produce really good quality food and you can tell it's made with love. It leaves you feeling like you ate the best meal your mother ever made, yea that type of comfort. I do think the portions are a little small for the price but again, the quality is so good it's hard to argue.

Johnnie M.

Yelp

Wonderful location, super friendly staff. It's comfy, clean and attractive. Mmmmmmmm. Friendly, warm, welcoming, professional. What a great spot!

Haley M.

Yelp

Go to for my ice coffee Service is always enjoyable and timely! Interior is beautiful as well

Maryann C.

Yelp

OMG this coffee is the best!!! Beyond smooth. I chose the dark. I will be giving this as small gifts to some friends!!!! MaryAnn. Fort Lee NJ.

Dingin B.

Yelp

Darling coffee was much better. The employees all left and the new ones are not as friendly and vibrant. The coffee is no where near the quality that plowshares is and its pretty disappointing how much has changed for the worst since darling closed. I use to go here 2-3 times a week but with the changes I hardly go here at all. Really sucks because I use to love the owners, food, coffee, employees and atmosphere. Its nothing near what it once was. Sad but true.

William R.

Yelp

Previously Darling Coffee, ownership changed around Feb 2019. My take: coffee has remained solid, maybe slightly better. Interior and atmosphere are still great. Service has improved, particularly in speed. Baked goods, however, have suffered - and the baked goods really used to set this place apart. Overall, still a good coffee shop but probably not as great as it used to be. Not sure how/why they let the drop in baked goods quality happen as they retained the person that made a lot of the baked goods (Ginger) for Darling. My suggestion would be to bring back some of the old favorites (focaccia, pecan sticky bun, lemon squares, etc.), it was just better. If it's a margin issue just charge a little more, people will pay for that stuff. Also, I think many regulars would be happy if the poppy seed cookie were around on the weekends. It's a staple. I will say the almond croissant is solid.

Victoria C.

Yelp

We are so excited to have Ethiopian food in Inwood! Came here for a chill and delicious dinner. The Addis Sunset cocktail was delicious too.

Rebecca L.

Yelp

Buuni always has really great coffee and really great service. Their breve americano is my favorite. Their drip coffees are also great, and make me feel like I'm getting a special drink for a bargain.