Coffee shops have always been a hub for social connection and relaxation, for people of all ages and walks of life. The beauty of the café is that it brings people together; patrons are united by the smooth, delicious coffee and the quiet environment to bring a laptop and type away in peace. The allure of such a place is especially relevant to younger people who, in recent years, have pursued the search for a “third space”: a social environment besides work or home where one can meet people and relax, without pressure to spend much (if any) money. On Long Island, cafés are some of the most popular places for young people to congregate; three coffee houses in particular are incredible local spots.
The Cup Coffeehouse in Wantagh is beloved by many young people for its whimsical, indie style and delicious food and drink. Indoors, it has both bar seating as well as tables— with comfy leather couches for large groups. There is outdoor seating as well in their patio. They have special, seasonal menus that change every month; recently, their halloween drinks have come in spooky cups, nailing the spooky October aesthetic. Famously, the Cup is open late; they open at 6 p.m. most nights, staying open until 11 p.m. (midnight on the weekends!). For young adults, these hours are revolutionary, since school and work schedules often inhibit the ability to go to cafés frequently. For those who are seeking a cool, cozy place to spend a night with friends, look no further than The Cup.
The Babylon Bean, located in the Babylon Village, is an adorable café located in a bustling town with many restaurants and shops. They display paintings and drawings by local artists, which are also for sale; in addition, they collaborate with local bakers and chefs, selling cookies and the like made by Long Island bakers. In that way, they are very participative in their community, helping other small businesses and artists to succeed. Their drinks are delicious, offering a wide range of coffee, matcha, tea, smoothies and açai bowls. They are open relatively late, until 7 p.m. on weeknights and 9 p.m. on weekends. The baristas are friendly and infinitely interesting to talk to, and the regulars are a joy to be around as well.
Massapequa Perk in Massapequa Park is an establishment loved by many, its name being a reference to the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. coffee shop Central Perk. The Perk not only has delicious coffee, but also offers incredible loaves and muffins in various flavors; some highlights include their red velvet muffin with cream cheese filling, their pumpkin muffin and their birthday cake muffin, all rich and delicious. Massapequa Perk is located on Front Street, directly across from the Massapequa Park train station and a quick walk away from dozens of other wonderful small businesses including boutiques, bakeries and more. They have menus that are hand-drawn on brown paper, often featuring doodles of Snoopy, and the inside (although small) has cozy leather chairs and a teal and brown color scheme. Massapequa Perk is positively delicious and fun; the only downside is that they close relatively early, at 4 p.m.