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The Station Cafe
Master Critic Review
The Station Cafe
8.1
The Station Cafe is a neighborhood coffee bar between Murray Hill and Kips Bay that leans hard into pastries and donuts alongside a serious espresso program. Opened in 2024, it has quickly become a morning stop for locals who want bomboloni-style donuts with their lattes rather than a grab-and-go chain experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bombolone Nutella doughnut, Nutella donut, Red Velvet Latte
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Italian-style bombolone donuts served in a modern, commuter-friendly cafe setting.
Who should go: Coffee lovers craving artisanal donuts and relaxed neighborhood vibes.
When to visit: Morning or midday for fresh donuts and mellow cafe energy.
What to order: Bombolone Nutella doughnut, Nutella donut, Red Velvet Latte.
Insider tip: Check the donut wall early in the day for the widest flavor selection before popular fillings sell out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited metered spots nearby and can be difficult during weekday mornings and late afternoons.
Dress code: Casual—sneakers, jeans, and athleisure all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold conversations except during the brief morning rush.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is primarily a morning and daytime cafe.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes during peak midday; little to no wait outside rush periods.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most donuts and pastries are vegetarian, along with several non-meat breakfast options.
Vegan options: Limited—occasionally one vegan-friendly pastry or donut depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—typically no dedicated gluten-free donuts, but some packaged snacks may qualify.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's relaxed, low-pressure, and cozy, ideal for a short coffee-and-donut meet without heavy commitment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations; just walk in. Seating turns over quickly except during peak morning hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids are welcome, but there are no high chairs or play areas, so it's best for quick visits rather than long stays with children.
Best For
Better for: Fresh-filled bomboloni donuts paired with espresso in a non-chain, neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You need a full sit-down brunch menu, gluten-free pastry selection, or guaranteed seating during peak morning hours.