Hurray for discovering a new neighborhood while simultaneously enhancing my NYC vocabulary! Welcome to NoMad — the neighborhood NOrth of MADison square park.
Madison Square park divides NoMad and the Flatiron district and consists of a tiny patch of grass, a bunch of trees, some great picture ops and a Shake Shack. From what I can gather from strolling around NoMad, it’s a less congested (less Asian) version of Koreatown. I passed by a lot of perfume shops, jewelers, delis and sports apparel shops on my way to the Starbucks on the corner of 26th street and Broadway. All in all, I wasn’t expecting much from this Starbucks.
However, when I entered I was forced to eat my words — well, my thoughts anyway. I don’t think I verbalized them.
Not only is this a large Starbucks, but it is a large Starbucks with a balcony of additional seating. It probably has the most variety of seating I’ve seen in a while, ranging from high top stools to small tables and random elevated padded seating blocks. It’s very eclectic but effective. Unfortunately the upstairs was just closing up when I arrived, but that fact that it’s open for most of the day is only an added perk. Most seating has available outlets nearby so those burdened with dying laptop batteries need not fear.
Also worth mentioning is the stylish decor throughout. Random coffee-related trinkets are shelved above the barista bar and espresso wood is everywhere you look. They’ve even got one of those coffee sack wall decorations hanging. All in all, I’m digging it.
The Good:
The Location… On the north west tip of Madison Square Park and by the N/R trains.
The Size… Two floors. Unfortunately the balcony closes earlier than the main floor.
The Seating… A variety of seating downstairs and even more in the upstairs balcony.
The Decor… Dark espresso wood throughout with little coffee trinkets shelved on the balcony railing.
The Bad:
The Crowd… A nice Starbucks like this is bound to attract a crowd.
The Restroom… Just the one.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Caramel Latte… Yum!
Overall Starbucks Rating:
A great Starbucks north of Madison Square Park… NoMad.
Starbucks and the City 
Leave a Reply