SEY Coffee — Restaurant in New York

When I visited NYC, I was excited to check out Sey, given their stellar reputation as a brand worldwide. However, my multiple visits during my stay left me somewhat disappointed.

The Good:

The product itself—the coffee—is undeniably excellent. The roastery sources beautiful beans and roasts them exceptionally well. The batch brew at the café was consistently great, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. They also offer other filter coffee options where you can choose your beans from the menu, which is a nice touch.

The Not-So-Good:

The filter coffee experience didn’t live up to expectations. These options were more than twice the price of the batch brew, which would have been fine if the experience matched the premium cost. Unfortunately, instead of traditional hand-brewed filter coffee, they use AeroPress and automatic water dispensers. While this method might save time, it doesn’t justify the significant price difference.

The coffees used for these brews were priced similarly to their retail beans, and I didn’t feel the minimal extra effort warranted such a high markup. Moreover, this brewing method lacked flexibility, resulting in inconsistent quality across cups depending on what I ordered.

It would be great if they offered more premium brewing options for those interested in exploring a higher-end coffee experience—especially since Sey likely attracts many “coffee tourists.”

Espresso:

The espresso shots were enjoyable when they were done well. However, the lack of proper puck preparation surprised me, particularly for a café of this caliber. The baristas would grind the coffee and tamp without any additional prep, which often led to inconsistent results. I experienced significant variability in quality, with many shots showing signs of channeling.

Additionally, their espresso style doesn’t pair well with milk-based drinks. Even the smallest milk drink felt overly milky, masking the coffee’s flavor. The presentation, especially with alternative milk, could also use improvement.

Service:

The service was the biggest letdown for me. While most baristas were friendly, a few individuals left a negative impression with their standoffish and snobby attitudes. I understand that working in a café full-time can be draining, but even a polite goodbye or a half-hearted smile would have gone a long way in improving the atmosphere.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re a fan of Sey’s roastery, it’s worth visiting to purchase some beans and save on shipping. However, manage your expectations when it comes to the café experience. If you want a drink, I’d recommend sticking with the batch brew to-go and skipping the pastries, which weren’t...

This review is meant for coffee enthusiasts who are serious about their pour overs.

I live over in Jersey and had always wanted to come across the river and visit Sey. I finally made that happen, but was significantly underwhelmed by my experience. I was prepared for what was a more expensive pour over experience, but after all this was Sey. It would be worth it I told myself.

I assumed that a roaster of Sey’s caliber would be preparing pour overs by hand and to order. Unfortunately, they have chosen to use an Aeropress, which does not highlight the craft of brewing. And to make matters worse, they have automated machines that take care of the whole brewing process for them. The “Barista” explained to me that the machine even agitates the coffee on various settings. That’s right, an automated machine prepares your coffee at this established and well-known coffee roaster. And if this weren’t enough, they charge in and around $13 depending on the particular coffee bean. And if you’re wondering, they dose 16 grams at a 16.25:1 ratio. The final product was fine, but I felt like I could have extracted more from those same beans at home. Yes, the presentation is special and the experience is nice. But you just can’t be at that price point and not have a proper pour over preparation. I’m sure they’re looking for standardization within the cafe, but it’s got to be one or the other. Charge less for an automated experience or charge what they’re charging for a barista to craft that brew. And then train your baristas. All this to say that I wouldn’t recommend anyone to come here if they’re looking for a unique pour over experience. You sadly won’t find that here.

If you’ve enjoyed Sey’s beans and have thought about visiting the cafe, I’d advise that you skip it. It simply won’t live up to your expectations. For that matter, I wouldn’t recommend that any coffee connoisseur visit Sey because the value versus end product just doesn’t line up.

It’s sad. After seeing an automated Aeropress machine at a top roaster, it makes me wonder if the craft is all but dead except for those of us who continue to brew by hand at home. Press on my friends with high quality beans at home and don’t subject yourself to an overpriced “pour over” experience billed as...

Tucked away on a quiet street, Coffee Haven is a hidden gem for coffee enthusiasts. As soon as you step inside, you're enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The natural light streaming through large windows instantly uplifts your mood, making it the perfect spot for a morning pick-me-up or a leisurely afternoon coffee break.

The coffee at Coffee Haven is truly exceptional. Their skilled baristas craft each cup with precision and care, ensuring that every sip is a delight to the senses. The aroma of freshly ground beans permeates the air, signaling the commitment to quality that this place exudes.

When it comes to taste notes, Coffee Haven does not disappoint. Their expertly roasted beans produce a range of flavors that cater to all palates. From the rich and chocolatey notes of their signature darker roast to the fruity and vibrant undertones of their light roast, there is something to please every coffee lover's taste buds. The menu also features a selection of specialty drinks, single pours and cold brews including the classics, lattes and cappuccinos, all made with the same attention to detail.

What sets Coffee Haven apart from other coffee shops is its emphasis on creating a cozy and inviting space. As you enter, you're greeted by the sight of adorable dogs happily lounging around, adding an extra touch of charm and warmth. The staff members are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help you navigate through the menu or suggest a new blend to try.

The interior of Coffee Haven is thoughtfully decorated with an abundance of plants, bringing a sense of freshness and tranquility to the space. The lush greenery creates a soothing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation or catching up with friends. Whether you choose to sit at a cozy corner table or perch at the bar, you'll find yourself surrounded by an aesthetic that fosters creativity and serenity.

In conclusion, SEY is a delightful coffee shop and roast ary that offers an excellent range of flavors, warm vibes, and charming touches. With its delicious coffee, friendly staff, adorable dogs, natural light, and abundant plant life, it's a haven for coffee lovers seeking both a great cup of joe and a...