La Cabra – New York, NY and Copenhagen

No matter which of the three locations you choose, walking into La Cabra instantaneously produces a pervasive sense of calm. Through a mix of warm-toned natural wood, linen-softened lighting, and plant life, La Cabra encapsulates quiet class in the form of a coffee shop. It is clear that this café is detail-oriented. From the clean, smock-like uniforms the baristas wear, to the hidden espresso machine, to the collection of handmade ceramics in use, La Cabra does nearly everything right.

The same elegant professionalism present in the interior design comes through in the service. Warm smiles greet you upon entry, and carefully thought-out tasting notes accompany not only the coffee, but also the matcha and tea. The baristas here share many traits with sommeliers in how they describe their craft—because that is exactly what it is. A craft. La Cabra turns the business of running a café into an art form.

Of course, the execution is as close to perfection as the rest of the café. Regardless of how busy it gets, each drink is made with careful precision, every movement seemingly choreographed into muscle memory. Their coffee is as pure as it is surprising, with single-origin stories abound. Each ingredient, process, and presentation is well thought out. This same care extends to the chocolate, matcha, and whole-leaf teas. And it would be a disservice not to mention the pastry selection—beautifully curated, with the cardamom bun as a standout (especially when paired with a morning cappuccino).

Best Bite: If you can manage to fit a bite of cardamom bun and a sip of cappuccino in the same bite.