Who knew there was a 6 1/2 Avenue in Manhattan?
Okay, okay… so it’s not actually an avenue — more so a crosswalk, but still spotting the street sign today was a pleasant surprise. It’s like the Platform Nine and Three-Quarters of NYC. And since this Starbucks is placed on the south side of the crosswalk, it must be a magical Starbucks indeed.
If you’re looking at the image above and thinking something looks familiar — you’re probably right. The One57 building (which stands directly across from this 57th street Starbucks) is the same one that received national headlines when its construction crane snapped during Hurricane Sandy last year. I remember trying to cut through the area a few days after the storm only to be greeted with road barriers. That massive crane hung limp over 57th street for over 10 days at least. The building is still under construction and is slated to be Manhattan’s tallest condo skyscraper.
As for the Starbucks across the street… it’s just so-so. Although there is not nearly the crowd I was expecting, it lacks the proper seating accommodations to adequately fill the space. There is a row of tables-for-two in the front and a community table across from the barista bar. It’s also larger than I suspected — not complaining — with only one bathroom and mostly covered up power outlets.
The Good:
The Crowd… A small crowd by Midtown standards. I think the fact that it’s on half an avenue helps.
The Location… Just below Central Park and right between the 6th and 7th Avenue trains.
The Line… Not bad at all for a Starbucks in such a popular area.
The Bad:
The Power Outlets… All covered up where there is seating.
The Seating… They could easily squeeze a few more in here.
Restroom… Only one, which kind of surprised me since they have so much seating.
Barista Friendliness:
A very friendly bunch.
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Coffee
Overall Starbucks Rating:
The only Starbucks I’ve seen on half an avenue.
Starbucks and the City 
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