Rise Coffee

By far and beyond still my favorite spot in Manhattan. Been going since the early/mid 90s and will never stop. There have been weeks where I have gone there 4 or 5 times and it has never ever disappointed me. Amazing creole wings, gumbo, jambalaya, burgers, rotating specials that always kick ass and some of the best drinks ever. Try the Shaggy - it's GJC's amazing version of the classic Dark & Stormy. Once you have one of those, you'll never turn back. There's also a killer jukebox full of rockin' soul and 50s-70s R&B. Plenty of New Orleans favorites. Did I mention that the people who work there are amongst the best in the world? That's pretty important, too. Things to know: they will not seat you if you don't have your full party there. And, speaking of full, this place is tiny. I wouldn't recommend a party bigger than 6 at any time. I have brought way more than that, but it was usually late night. Kitchen is open until 12am. Saturday and Sunday brunch is fantastic as well.