Sawada Coffee

Love the coffee - especially military latte and black camo latte! Service is prompt, only thing is because it’s sharing a space with another establishment, it’s hard to hear when your order is ready and there is very limited seating. Great for grab and go!

You can never tell from the outside that there’s a coffee shop in a warehouse looking space! Def a hidden gem. The military drink was something I’ve never had before that blew my mind! The sprinkle cookie was pretty big and yummy too.

Just based on the iced oat milk latte I had there: 10/10. The oat milk they use is so smooth! There was no line on a Sunday afternoon (around 12). Not too many places to sit but there are a couple of tables. The entrance is kind of confusing bc they are in the same space as au cheval. Overall great coffee and the pastries looked amazing too!

A really great place to grab a quality cup of coffee. If you're in the area and don't mind venturing down a random NYC alley, you'd do yourself a disservice to not come here for coffee. I highly recommend the military latte (matcha latte with a shot of espresso added). It's really delicious and not something I've seen on a menu before. The shop low key, intimate, and the baristas seem great. 5 stars.

A amazing coffee shop hidden in a little alley and inside a restaurant. I got a military latte. Perfect balance between matcha and espresso. Taste very smoothly with little sweet. And the latte art was amazing!

The military latte is my fav strong drink that consist of espresso shot and matcha. Great soundtrack playing through out. Fun fact, the shared space restaurant is also where Carrie Bradshaw went for a date and puked on the date’s shoe outside on the street in Just Like That.

Located inside Au Cheval, this is a little gem of a cafe with skilled baristas serving up unique concoctions and classic brews. I had the black camo latte which is a blend of hojicha, a shot of espresso and steamed milk. The foam was heavenly and the taste divine. Will be back.

Really recommend here for a different taste of coffee drinks. It’s a Japanese-fused place. I got the black camo latter which is made with hojicha and espresso shot. It was amazing! Creamy, thick, rich, and tasty. Wanna go back for other drinks. And I agree with some comments here. I’ll say this is a take-out coffee spot. The space was dark and noisy since it was a shared space with with a restaurant. Not ideal for long stay.. you have to speak loud inside.

This is the most delicious coolest coffee tea blend ever. The vibe in Au Cheval is super cool and being down a wee alley makes it even cooler. We had their 2 iconic coffees the Military and Black Camo. The originator hails from Japan and wow he knows his stuff. Please follow @joannasable on instagram for more food and travel fun

+2

Trendy coffee shop serving high quality coffee drinks in a large warehouse/restaurant space, accessed via Cortland Alley. Per the recommendations on here ordered the military latte (espresso+matcha) which was unique and tasty. Also ordered a regular latte which was 👍

My favorite coffee shop of all time. The people working here are extremely sweet. Their cookies are gigantic and gooey. And of course good coffee -Can't go wrong!!

Super cool and super nice. The hostess (Mia) was welcoming and friendly even though it was very busy. She hustled to get us a table and the coffees/teas/food make the visit worth it. Will be back every chance we get. Black camo coffee/latte was the overall favorite

Serving some of the best coffee and tea in the city. Unique flavors, consistently excellent drinks, and a genuinely welcoming staff. The food menu could be expanded, and it’s a shame they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays — but I still keep coming back, always thirsty for more.

joaquin and juan are so helpful! paid such close attention to my large order and were very detailed in explaining each drink to me. love coming to this spot, everyone is so friendly on top of the drinks being so delicious <3

I know why they say coffee is cheaper than therapy- because it is. might be better too, should you frequent this place. Tucked in the alleyway near Canal is this gorgeous coffee shop. Coffee is nice and strong and made with care by the loveliest people. I’m probably spelling the name wrong, (sorry dear!) Esti made a hojicha coffee that was absolutely wonderful and recommended the blueberry muffin, (made on site!) It’s now my go-to brekkie in the area. A beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. I went back for the mocha and Juan made it extra lovely with fresh grated orange zest. What a gorgeous boost to my coffee, made my whole day.

I recently visited Sawada Coffee in Tribeca, NY looking for Starbucks, and it was an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere was chic and hip but welcoming. I have to give a special shoutout to Daniel V., who was incredibly courteous and helpful throughout my visit. His attentiveness made the experience even better compelling me to share this. The cappuccino was absolutely fantastic – rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced. It truly hit the spot! And the blueberry muffin was a standout – large, fresh, and bursting with berries and flavor. It was the perfect pairing with my coffee. Whether you're in the mood for a great cup of coffee or a delicious treat, this place seems to have it all. Highly recommend stopping by for a wonderful experience!

Inside Au Cheval. Military latte is delicious. Have seating section dedicated for the cafe

Super comfy spot with warm lighting and a great playlist—easy place to linger. Coffee was a touch over-roasted for my taste; a lighter roast would make it perfect.

Inside AuCheval, to the right. Service was great. The cortado was delicious. Definitely a go-to coffee spot.

Amazing coffee, friendly staff. Great place, entrance from the side street. The muffins and cookies were incredible.

Chill little coffee spot - connected to Au Cheval which opens up around noon. Vibe was very cozy and the black camo latte was spectacular. Restrooms downstairs were super clean and seats were comfy. Outlets were a bit hard to find. Baristas were super friendly!

Great space. Keeps the vibe, feel and quality coffee from the Chicago location.

If you’re in the Chinatown/Civic Center area, just below Tribeca, and need a great cup of coffee, look no further than Sawada on the tiny little side street, Cortland Alley. The company was founded by award-winning latte artist, Hiroshi Sawada; the first outlet in the US was opened in Chicago. Great coffee and great staff! Love the street art down the block reminiscent of Italian laundry.

The cafe's space is shared with a restaurant so it's quite noisy but it's surely worth visiting at least for a take-away as their coffee is magnificent.

I had a chance to stop by Sawada Coffee and had a fantastic experience! The coffee was rich, flavorful, and perfectly brewed—definitely one of the best I’ve had in a while. The service was exceptional; the staff was friendly, attentive, and made me feel very welcome. I also loved the ambiance—stylish, cozy, and just the right vibe for relaxing or getting some work done. Thank you for such a wonderful visit!

Sylvia Rupani-Smith

I know why they say coffee is cheaper than therapy- because it is. might be better too, should you frequent this place. Tucked in the alleyway near Canal is this gorgeous coffee shop. Coffee is nice and strong and made with care by the loveliest people. I’m probably spelling the name wrong, (sorry dear!) Esti made a hojicha coffee that was absolutely wonderful and recommended the blueberry muffin, (made on site!) It’s now my go-to brekkie in the area. A beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. I went back for the mocha and Juan made it extra lovely with fresh grated orange zest. What a gorgeous boost to my coffee, made my whole day.

Shuanger

Inside Au Cheval. Military latte is delicious. Have seating section dedicated for the cafe

John P

I recently visited Sawada Coffee in Tribeca, NY looking for Starbucks, and it was an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere was chic and hip but welcoming. I have to give a special shoutout to Daniel V., who was incredibly courteous and helpful throughout my visit. His attentiveness made the experience even better compelling me to share this. The cappuccino was absolutely fantastic – rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced. It truly hit the spot! And the blueberry muffin was a standout – large, fresh, and bursting with berries and flavor. It was the perfect pairing with my coffee. Whether you're in the mood for a great cup of coffee or a delicious treat, this place seems to have it all. Highly recommend stopping by for a wonderful experience!

Kira

Chill little coffee spot - connected to Au Cheval which opens up around noon. Vibe was very cozy and the black camo latte was spectacular. Restrooms downstairs were super clean and seats were comfy. Outlets were a bit hard to find. Baristas were super friendly!

Olga Shamarina

Super comfy spot with warm lighting and a great playlist—easy place to linger. Coffee was a touch over-roasted for my taste; a lighter roast would make it perfect.

Francine Laura

If you’re in the Chinatown/Civic Center area, just below Tribeca, and need a great cup of coffee, look no further than Sawada on the tiny little side street, Cortland Alley. The company was founded by award-winning latte artist, Hiroshi Sawada; the first outlet in the US was opened in Chicago. Great coffee and great staff! Love the street art down the block reminiscent of Italian laundry.

Vir Moore

I had a chance to stop by Sawada Coffee and had a fantastic experience! The coffee was rich, flavorful, and perfectly brewed—definitely one of the best I’ve had in a while. The service was exceptional; the staff was friendly, attentive, and made me feel very welcome. I also loved the ambiance—stylish, cozy, and just the right vibe for relaxing or getting some work done. Thank you for such a wonderful visit!

Robert Cook

Great space. Keeps the vibe, feel and quality coffee from the Chicago location.

Aleksandra

The cafe's space is shared with a restaurant so it's quite noisy but it's surely worth visiting at least for a take-away as their coffee is magnificent.

This is such a great spot! The atmosphere is cozy and stylish, perfect for a quick coffee or a relaxed catch-up. Their special coffee matcha is an absolute must — rich, smooth, and unforgettable. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and everything feels carefully crafted. Definitely one of my favorite coffee spots in the city!

So, after reading great reviews of this place, I tried it out today. Wow! I had the military latte and it was incredible! So full of flavor yet smooth. I loved the taste and I will return here for sure. The atmosphere is wonderful too and the staff are very friendly.

After many visits, I can confidently say this is one of the best cafe in NYC. Strong delicious drinks, amazing baked goods and phenomenal customer service. Cafe is discreetly located in au cheval restaurant in cordlant alley. Location is kinda weird trust me, it’s a must try.

cool spot! love to see mud (my little name for a dirty matcha) on the menu (the “military latte” here). it’s a drink I used to make myself constantly when I was a barista. so cozy and nostalgic to me, and this one was pleasantly grassy and nutty, not bitter at all. I got it without the vanilla. delicious. the oat and blackberry cookie goes crazy and is huge — will probably take me all day to eat it. crunchy on the outside with a soft gooey center. baristas were personable and the latte art was beautiful. will be back often!

Minnie Shi

After many visits, I can confidently say this is one of the best cafe in NYC. Strong delicious drinks, amazing baked goods and phenomenal customer service. Cafe is discreetly located in au cheval restaurant in cordlant alley. Location is kinda weird trust me, it’s a must try.

R Yamamoto

My favorite coffee shop of all time. The people working here are extremely sweet. Their cookies are gigantic and gooey. And of course good coffee -Can't go wrong!!

Sebastian

Serving some of the best coffee and tea in the city. Unique flavors, consistently excellent drinks, and a genuinely welcoming staff. The food menu could be expanded, and it’s a shame they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays — but I still keep coming back, always thirsty for more.

Heather

cool spot! love to see mud (my little name for a dirty matcha) on the menu (the “military latte” here). it’s a drink I used to make myself constantly when I was a barista. so cozy and nostalgic to me, and this one was pleasantly grassy and nutty, not bitter at all. I got it without the vanilla. delicious. the oat and blackberry cookie goes crazy and is huge — will probably take me all day to eat it. crunchy on the outside with a soft gooey center. baristas were personable and the latte art was beautiful. will be back often!

Kristina Zhegunova

This is such a great spot! The atmosphere is cozy and stylish, perfect for a quick coffee or a relaxed catch-up. Their special coffee matcha is an absolute must — rich, smooth, and unforgettable. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and everything feels carefully crafted. Definitely one of my favorite coffee spots in the city!

Marco Pelaez

Super cool and super nice. The hostess (Mia) was welcoming and friendly even though it was very busy. She hustled to get us a table and the coffees/teas/food make the visit worth it. Will be back every chance we get. Black camo coffee/latte was the overall favorite

A cosy coffee shop in the same building as Au Cheval. Not much seating, so I definitely recommend popping in for a grab and go drink. They do a nice mix of coffee and matcha

Nice ambiance. I got a military latte that has matcha but for me the matcha was very overpowering and the espresso shot is quite strong for a medium cup. Chocolate chip cookie was good.

Sawada coffee has a soft spot for me because I’ve been to the Chicago location a few times before and loved it. This NY one is identical and it’s even located inside of an Au Cheval restaurant (might be hard to find at first but walk inside the restaurant). Coffee wise I really enjoyed the strong drip. The flavors are incredible and it does remind me very much of the double shot strong coffees in Tokyo. My only complaint was the baristas were a bit slow the day I came and of course the pricing is a bit high so 4/5 instead of 5/5 but worth a try for sure!

Interesting concept cafe. Their lattes are unique. I had a military latte just out of curiosity - it was kind of a matcha latte with an espresso shot... It was actually pretty good. Seating was limited. Because it's located in a restaurant and crowded, I wouldn't recommend it for studying or reading books. Probably better for just taking a break or chatting with your friends.

Finally got to try their specialty latte. The hōjicha with espresso was pretty smooth and mild, less strong in caffeine than I had imagined which is good. I had it without the vanilla so it's sugar free and can better taste the roasted tea. We also had the cold brew jasmine tea which was super floral and refreshing.

N S

Interesting concept cafe. Their lattes are unique. I had a military latte just out of curiosity - it was kind of a matcha latte with an espresso shot... It was actually pretty good. Seating was limited. Because it's located in a restaurant and crowded, I wouldn't recommend it for studying or reading books. Probably better for just taking a break or chatting with your friends.

Mandy Kuo

Finally got to try their specialty latte. The hōjicha with espresso was pretty smooth and mild, less strong in caffeine than I had imagined which is good. I had it without the vanilla so it's sugar free and can better taste the roasted tea. We also had the cold brew jasmine tea which was super floral and refreshing.

very much preferred matcha to hojicha latte, it had more flavor. both drinks were good (didn’t try espresso based drinks this time) but honestly this place feels overhyped, also expensive (and oat milk is extra 75c).

Yulia Shekeladze

very much preferred matcha to hojicha latte, it had more flavor. both drinks were good (didn’t try espresso based drinks this time) but honestly this place feels overhyped, also expensive (and oat milk is extra 75c).

Just infront of the cafe, you see a road with grafitti which is amazing. The vibe around is great. Except we went by the reviews and tried matcha latte and roasted matcha latted but didnt like at all. :/

We tried the Military Latte and the Black Camo Latte. I expected a stronger kick from a matcha-espresso combo. The flavors were quite muted, tasting more like milk than anything else. They also had a strange chalky aftertaste. I wouldn’t order these again. They were beautifully presented though.

Tried the iced military latte and hot camo latte. Stick with hot latte. Iced version hardly had any flavor and the visual was very unappealing. Camo was better if you are looking for something different. But if you are looking for more traditional flavor then I’d stay away from these two drinks.

I appreciate the idea of this cafe and it was like a mystery to find the actual location. The cafe was located in between streets. It’s more of a “order to go” kind of shop. Inside it’s dark and because the cafe is connected to another food place it’s seems like there’s a lot going on, even at 10am. I had the Black Camo Latte and it was kind of interesting. Not as flavorful as it looked and sounded like but definitely a softer taste. Wish they had more appetizing pastry options. I did not get any pastry so my food rating is just off the late I ordered. If I’m around the area I would definitely still consider trying more options.

Visited this cafe based on their pour over as a ment item but was extremely disappointed to find out they did not have any beans to make even though they just opened. Settled for the drip coffee which was watered down. My wife ordered the pumpkin spice latte which was lukewarm and did not taste very good. Cool decor and atmosphere but the coffee was mediocre. Would not revisit.

Denise

I appreciate the idea of this cafe and it was like a mystery to find the actual location. The cafe was located in between streets. It’s more of a “order to go” kind of shop. Inside it’s dark and because the cafe is connected to another food place it’s seems like there’s a lot going on, even at 10am. I had the Black Camo Latte and it was kind of interesting. Not as flavorful as it looked and sounded like but definitely a softer taste. Wish they had more appetizing pastry options. I did not get any pastry so my food rating is just off the late I ordered. If I’m around the area I would definitely still consider trying more options.

Benjamin Cruz

Visited this cafe based on their pour over as a ment item but was extremely disappointed to find out they did not have any beans to make even though they just opened. Settled for the drip coffee which was watered down. My wife ordered the pumpkin spice latte which was lukewarm and did not taste very good. Cool decor and atmosphere but the coffee was mediocre. Would not revisit.