Ria Park
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Looking for a hidden gem with top-notch coffee and small bites in the Upper West Side? Look no further.
In a neighborhood full of casual coffee shops, Solid State Coffee doesn’t scream for attention. But step inside, and you’ll find a place that takes coffee very seriously- and does it exceptionally well.
Drink Menu: The espresso selection is on point, with rich, perfectly calibrated shots that reward patience. Their lineup of single-origin beans provides a great variety for pour-over fans. If espresso isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other options, including matcha, masala chai, fresh orange juice, hot chocolate, and iced tea. No frills—just expertly crafted drinks that hit the spot!
Food Menu: The food offerings are great, with locals frequently dropping by for a full meal. The menu is limited, but it’s a study in restraint, focusing on solid, well-portioned dishes. Breakfast and lunch offerings like the Scrambled State Sando, Salmon Plate, BLT, and Overnight Oats are generous in portion and thoughtfully prepared delivering a quality that rivals that of a full-fledged restaurant. In my opinion, it’s comparable to Danny Meyer’s Daily Provisions, and I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious these cafe staples can be!
Ambiance: The café sits half a level below the street, making it easy to miss unless you know it’s there. That said, they have some outdoor seating at street level and a small terrace inside. Once inside, you’re greeted by an order kiosk where you can check out their pastry selection. There’s plenty of seating, but no free Wi-Fi—yet locals flock here to work or read, and during most weekdays, about 70% of the seats are filled.
If you’re thinking of holding a meeting here, it’s probably not ideal. The tables are small and closely spaced, offering little privacy. But for a solo visit or a quick, high-quality coffee stop, Solid State Coffee is hard to beat.