Today I woke up to spring. Yesterday may have consisted of snow, rain, and dreary skies. But today spring decided to pay Manhattan a visit for the first time in 2013.
I don’t think I’ve ever looked forward to spring with such zeal. In Florida, spring was a simple reminder that summer was on its way. Meaning: stay indoors and crank the AC. But here in New York, I can feel the city’s eagerness for the bloom of spring — which is ironic considering our lack of greenery.
To further brighten my day, I decided to sample the latest addition to the Starbucks espresso family: The Hazelnut Macchiato. Like its sister-drink, the caramel macchiato, you can get this one hot, iced, or skinny. Not only are the macchiatos the most visually appealing drinks, but they are delicious and pack an espresso punch. Although I still prefer the caramel to the hazelnut (I think it’s the vanilla syrup) I appreciate the expansion of the macchiato family. Next, I’d like to see a mocha macchiato variant.
The Starbucks on 60th and 1st Avenue seems to defy neighborhood placement. It is north of Sutton Place — south of Yorkville — East of Lenox Hill — and is west of the East River and Roosevelt Island. All of these areas are relatively small sub-neighborhoods. So I guess we can just say this is another generic Upper East Side Starbucks. Which would explain its superior accommodations.
One of the most charming aspects of this location is that it is slightly tucked in form 1st Avenue, and rows of outdoor chairs have been staggered on the sidewalk – a concrete version of a park-bench, so to speak. This, combined with the natural lighting and studious crowd, makes it an excellent Starbucks to take a load off at.
The Good:
The Crowd… Very studious and low-key.
The Lighting… Natural light flows through the glass paneled walls and door.
The Seating… Although this location is slightly smaller than most, it has a plentiful supply of seats.
The Bad:
The Location… Pushed off to the East Side of Manhattan.
The Size… A little more room would go a long way.
Barista Friendliness:
Very efficient… but a little short with guests — reminded me of drill sergeants at times.
Drink of Choice:
Grande Skinny Hazelnut Macchiato… The latest and greatest from our friends at Starbucks.
Overall Starbucks Rating:
A bright and airy location.
Starbucks and the City 
I really like the hazelnut macchiato, especially hot. It’s a nice switch up from the caramel. I haven’t tried it skinny yet.
Several years ago, Starbucks introduced a marble mocha macchiato. It was white mocha, an expresso shot, and mocha drizzle – and it was delicious.