Espresso 77

5/12/2014

Good god is this espresso? Deep and rich with after-notes of apple and honey? I didn't even know espresso could have such fresh flavor and this cup makes me wonder what I've been drinking at other, expensive coffee shops for the past 6 years. Feels good to be nice to myself when the last thing I need some mornings--emphasis on 'some'-- is an espresso that punches me in the nose. The service is also friendly and accommodating, with a good, simple menu that includes vegetarian options.

10/28/2013

Love at first sight!

I took a different route on my way to the train and stumbled upon this place. They had a colorful decoration on the front door and that's what drew me and inspired me to walk in, I didn't, I looked from the outside and I was like ummm, I had planned to go to Starbucks like I usually do. I literally walked to Starbucks, went in and said "I'm missing out on a possibly more authentic place, I should go back"

I walked back to Espresso 77 and asked for a Cafe Latte, light with splenda.

The girl was extremely helpful and she made a heart for me w/ the foam.

Made my day! I want to try everything on the menu.

1/27/2014

Jackson Height's cozy, quality, and chill coffee spot. There are a good amount of drink choices to choose from. However you pick your poison, it's hard to make a bad choice. The coffee/espresso here is good and does the job.

The environment is nice, quiet, and laid back as you would expect. The staff are friendly as well. Whether you're looking for a quick cup or want to sit down and enjoy a crafted drink, this place is definitely worth a look.

2/10/2013

I'm sorry, I could have sworn I wrote a review for Espresso 77 months ago! Perhaps my memory failure is due to wonderful delirium I experienced having a wellcrafted Double Macchiato followed by two glasses of house picked red wine? Oh.. maybe it was the cookies!! Yes, maybe that was it.

In any case, having worked Ma-bux for 7 years (and having been addicted to coffee since I was 10), Espresso 77 was truly a reminder of what a real residential coffee shop is supposed to be like (you know, semi-arrogant baristas who carefully handcraft their beverages and free-pour random latte art at will, coffee that's good black or seasoned into a dessert, a cozy layout surrounded by exposed brick and *unique* artwork that's for sale too, and the late night experience with live music from locals  served with a side of your choice between sugar (of something healthier), caffeine, alcohol, or.. if you're like me... all of the above).

Overall, a great place to sip and enjoy.

5/12/2014

Best coffee in the neighborhood.  I am always happy with whatever I get, brewed coffee, cappuccino, iced coffee... they do it all well.  I'm not surprised that they are opening a new branch in Park Slope, I wish them the best of luck there, and I hope they don't take the talented staff away from me!

10/6/2013

I'!! be sure to stop by next time I'm back in queens.  The environment is great.  The coffee is great and I want to go back and try their breakfast.  Staffs here are nice and polite.

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  Will be aback again next time when we are in town. Lovely little place great for Sunday brunch and good cup of coffee.

  Will be aback again next time when we are in town. Lovely little place great for Sunday brunch and good cup of coffee.

9/5/2013

The French Toast was amazing! It was much better than I expected, coming from a casual-looking cafe like this place. I ordered the half portion, which was more than plenty. I've also had scones from this place, which are also great. I like the atmosphere, though I've only stayed to eat once and it was a quiet morning. I look forward to frequenting this place.

4/28/2014

Terrible service. I was here once before and it wasn't bad, This time I was very disappointed. My french toast were burned  and nothing was fresh. The place was dirty and there was nobody to clean  Not coming back ever again.

4/24/2014

No idea why it's taken me so long to find this place but I finally made my inaugural visit a few weeks ago and was THRILLED. Barrista was super nice and happily answered my annoying laundry list of ridiculous questions about each beverage. I got an amaretto mocha with skim. Usually I'm not a fan of foam but they do the pretty patterns and I couldn't bring myself to stir it into oblivion. So I took a sip as was. Mind blown. No really though.  I never stirred my beverage and it was most excellent. Bit pricey but love the space, and the atmosphere and I was happy to have a seat and noone to bother me. A few regulars walked in, I like the mugs too, feels like home.  Reminded me a bit of Europe. So glad to have this in the neighborhood. So long starbucks.

9/27/2014

The vibe here is so great! Coffee is great and the bagels are good - definitely recommend it

4/24/2014

At first I thought it has the perfect atmosphere...BUT I literally got kicked out for working there for more than 1 hour ("We're not a library" " We can't let anyone sit down for more than an hour"). NOT NICE! (and not polite) What happened to the amiable cafe culture??

10/10/2013

What a great coffee spot!!!! It's refreshing to find a cool cafe in JH, coffee was amazing , staff was friendly and ambiance is great !!!! A must go to place if in JH!!!! They serve Gimme coffee with their own twist.

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7/10/2014 Updated review

From first to worst! When I first moved into the neighborhood, I was enamored by 77, finding in its ambiance a touch of the neighborhood and coffee shops I left behind in parts of Manhattan, the small independent shops that one should patronize rather than supplicating to the goliath of Starbucks.  I frequently stopped by here throughout the year, picking up a coffee or a most excellent limonata on my way to work or after a run or hours of cycling.  In & out, easy. I often brought my running and cycling crew along with me, or directed them here whenever, short on time, I was heading directly home.

However, my experience today was like that of so many other reviewers below, those who dared to couch themselves for some time to read, or my word! for some time on a laptop or tablet! "The sky opened up, and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground..." Despite just having finished lunch no more than five minutes earlier (and with a plate still covered with the salad I left for last), despite having ordered a snack and a refill, despite having ordered breakfast before that, I was approached and told of the computer policy by the owner who was concerned about the patrons who would be showing up...eventually...just not at that moment when there were several tables available. [see smirk]  My original review spoke nothing of the time spent within and that has everything to do with today's scathing indictment of this locale. I sat down and was indirectly booted out, whereupon I went to another cafe in the neighborhood, utilized its free wifi and visited yelp for the fourth time ever just to relate my experience.  In & out and you won't be subjugated to the hubris of one of its owners.  But dare to sit and stay for a while...

3/7/2014

Nice local coffee shop - great expresso - the locals seem to enjoy it - smiles all around making it comfortable - easy to order - everyone behind counter look as if they were having fun serving all  of us that were on the go

1/5/2014

Love the coffee here! I usually get the daily roast with the au lait option (almond milk). I love the fact that they are one of the few places that offer almond milk. Wish they had more locations.

Next time I intend to try the food.

3/3/2014

Cutsy lil cafe. Got a chai (2 very enthusiastic thumbs up) and the breakfast wrap (alright, but totally not what I was expecting). I wouldn't recommend going here if you are in a hurry, but ill definitely be back because I love supporting local joints.

7/10/2012

Reggae music, ice cold coffee and a relaxing atmosphere makes for a very cool coffee bar.

I was in the area waiting for friends and needed an ice cold brew to cool off in the summer's sun.

This place is cozy and inviting. The cashier was super nice and chatty. he talked me into a New Orleans iced coffee, said it was strong, so I agreed to it.

He told me this place closes at 11pm on the weekends and they also serve alcohol. Whatever gave him the impression that I drink? Too funny.

In any case, I really liked the vibe in here. Jamming reggae with a very easy-going feel. I'll be back to have some ETOH on another night!

10/23/2013

So the other day i was passing by and went and asked for a coconut kiss coffee, it was by far the nastiest tar i ever tasted! I told the guy who made it to "please try again" and he responded with annnoyed look and said to hold on while he got the owner. The owner ( a highly rude and arrogant indian man) said in an aggresive man (with his arms up) "whats the problem! I explained, and he told me to get out and yellled something in indian. Dont waste your time, or money, this place was expensive for the garbage they sell. Also, this place is very tiny and cramped. Honestly, they are probably breaking maximum capacity laws. P.S. there is a starbucks around the corner from there.

9/23/2013

Have been here several times during househunting.  Really like it!  Can't go wrong with any selection.

7/8/2012

Fun cozy place. I'm glad this opened to give JH a more diverse coffee selection.

They had a decent selection of drinks and tables. Wifi is available and service was friendly. There's a bench outside for the nice days ..... when it's not occupied.

2/26/2013

I'm really on the fence about this place. I want to love it  because there's no place (save for Starbucks) like this in Jackson Heights, and they brew Gimme! which is awesome. I love the merchandise they sell, too! I'm glad they're all about promoting Queens, and Queens artists. I can definitely get on board with that.

The food on the menu seems a bit steep for the neighborhood, but everything sounds really good. I really like their ginger tea in the summer. The chai latte is really good, I'm sure it's from a powder, but whatever. Yum!

I don't come here to work, and I've only heard things like they're stingy with the wifi, but it's way too tiny of a place for people to be sitting there all day!

Friendly staff!

9/11/2013

Explanation of my rating system.
1 full star for cleanliness (this is a good thing)
1 full star for atmosphere / vibe (quite inviting)
1 full star for service (if people say they are hipsters, they certainly don't have an attitude. I felt they were really nice)
4th start not granted due to taste (see review below)
the 5th star is always if the place is above and beyond awesome

It is ALWAYS positive to see folks take a chance and start a coffee joint which is not Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts or McDonalds. Chains often lack that little something something to make a good cup of coffee.

But alas...I came here when it first opened years ago to try an espresso. I figured since it is called Espresso 77, the least they could do is make a fine espresso. It was so burnt, I had to walk out of the cafe to rid myself of this coffee without offending anyone. I thought..Ok, maybe it was an off day.

I went back again and had lunch...but this time, I had a beer. The food was just ok for me.

Recently, I went back again, this time for a latte. I really hate to say this but it was positively the worst tasting latte I have had in a long time. Something was seriously off and there was this acidic aftertaste. I have had Dutch and Colombian INSTANT coffee which tasted better. It was so disappointing and I really don't feel that I am that picky. Coffee should have that lovely robost aroma and flavor...but the coffee here just left a bad taste in my mouth.

I really REALLY want to support this establishment..but lordy...if you are going to have a cafe...you simply must make a lovely cup a joe.

11/28/2012

Words cannot describe how much I hate this place. It's stupid, hipster-ish vibe, the suffocating smokiness of the tiny room, the douchebag owner who insists on putting his paintings on the wall. I wish I could shake all the people who come here, and tell them that they don't need to come here, just because it's New York and it's hard to find a place to sit down. Here are just a few way better options:

Head toward 37th and turn left for "City Coffee," which has spacious rooms and deep, nutty Columbian coffee. There are a lot of regulars, and you can sit and talk for  a long time. The food is actually good here. A few blocks east on 37th is Cafe Columbina, which has easily the best coffee in the neighborhood. The chairs are not comfortable, but you can sit and work for hours. For more standard fair, Starbucks is to blocks away, delivering reliable, mass produced quality with cushy comfortable chairs, a pleasant ambiance, and constant quiet (unlike E77, which is incredibly noisy). It works like an office for dozens of people. And to the right is Dunking Donuts, with no wifi, but with hearty servings and unannoying staff.

In all seriousness: no one should settle for this crappy place.

2/5/2012 Updated review

Kinda of sad, because an employee took it upon themselves to speak for the coffee shop and collect a dept. There was a horrible mis-understanding..

I will not go back..but the owner had nothing today with it...

It is a great place togo with some great people working and going there..I still recomend this shop to everyone..

10/30/2012

I went to Espresso 77, thinking I could get a nice iced caramel latté the day after the Hurricane left us. I am a usual Starbucks customer (it was closed!), but I went to college in a small town in Massachusetts, and I had some of my best "coffee shop" experiences at the local coffee bar. I thought Espresso 77 would remind me of my college years; unfortunately, I was wrong.  

Although I nostalgically sought some memories of my liberal arts college days, I encountered lackluster service and seemingly untrained baristas. I waited anxiously to order - the place was packed today, so I don't blame them for that. The board left me optimistic about what was about to happen - it reminded me a lot of the local coffee shop by my alma mater. It took them about 4 minutes to reach the register, even though I was first in line. Three people were working behind the counter, so 4 minutes is a long wait. When the girl finally came, I ordered an "iced" caramel latté; I assumed they had it and she failed to correct me. Then I added that I would like whipped cream on the *iced* caramel latte. She charges me the $4.05 cents for the drink, and I go on my merry way to wait. She calls out the order to another staff member and he says, "We don't do whipped cream here," even though she charged me a separate 50 cents for the whipped cream. We're all consumers - how would you feel if you were paying for something you didn't get? At this point, I was pissed. I decided, oh well, at least I'll get my iced latté -and out he brings, a HOT caramel latté.  

I tried to be complacent, but then I tasted the drink - and it tasted like BURNT coffee. It did not taste like there was any caramel at all. By far, the worst coffee I've ever had - and not just because I had been inside for the previous 48 hours, but because it really was the *worst* coffee I have ever had.   I will never get my $4.05 back. I also will never get my dignity back; how terrible that I chose to support a Mom & Pop shop whose stuff is actually *worse* than the corporate alternative's.  

1  star for the nice, deceiving decor - it makes you think the service will be just as great. Don't ever judge a book by its cover.

3/29/2014

I am giving this place five stars because of their no laptops on the weekend policy.
That is so beautiful.
As a local who has been here before this place became hipsterfied, I can attest that the laptop people were annoying as hell. They would take up two seats and then milk a three dollar coffee for three hours. Meanwhile, the rest of us who wanted to a brief respite with a cup of joe would be out of luck because some arrogant hipster is loitering and taking up two seats while he writes what he swears will be the next great novel.
The owner should extend the no laptop rule into the week, so that more people can enjoy their delicious coffee.
The coffee and drinks really are delicious, but again, there's been far too many times when I've driven past Espresso 77 and not stop because of hipsters with laptops and empty cups.
From reading some of these reviews, I'm beyond pleased that ban is being enforced and locals are able to enjoy the coffee.

12/27/2012

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!!!!

Is a place where you can sit and do some work or bring a friend and have a cup of coffee. There is a lot of art around the café. Is a place that brings tranquility in a cup of coffee . I LOVE IT

7/8/2012

I really want to like Espresso, I do. And there are things that I really like about them. Pros include:
-great drinks (coffee, teas)
-delicious pastries (think: banana guava turnover)
-cute ambiance
-local art on the walls
-they sell fun "Queens" tees and totes

However, the big con for me is the food. It is always slow, even if you order something simple and the place isn't crowded. Also, I was super bummed to learn that they don't make some of their food in-house- something as simple as a breakfast wrap comes pre-made (I once asked for a breakfast wrap on a bagel instead and was told they can't do it, because it comes already in the wrap). The food can be hit-or-miss, too. Sometimes the breakfast wraps have been soggy, other times they've been so dry they tasted like cardboard.

Bottom line for me: come here to hang out and have a drink. But if you're coming for food, expect to wait a while and don't get your hopes up. It's a shame, because this place could easily win me over if they stepped up their game just a little. As it stands, I'm going to Juju's when I want food with my coffee.

11/29/2012

Came here to pick up a salad but really liked the place. This place has such a nice groovy vibe I can't wait to come back, sit and enjoy a glass of wine.

9/29/2013

This place is great, try the New Orleans iced coffee. It has great ambience, just wish there wasn't a time limit to using wifi there. xD

10/10/2012

This place has a nice strong foothold in JH. I know that people will be fans of this location even if the drinks are all awful or severely under par because they would not be caught dead at "that other place" that JH has also become used to. This place seems like the artsy/hipster place you would always run across in Brooklyn and for the most part because JH is always changing, it is a welcome sight. I have had coffee here and since I am no connoisseur by any means I would just rate it as average.

4/19/2012

1- star for having the balls to open 70 feet from a Starbucks
1-star for showing local artist's works and being a "mom and pop" place (there is no mom and pop here, just not a corporation)
2-stars for the quality of food
The prices are a little high and they serve "gimmie coffee" the  epitome of pretentious coffee houses. So negative 1 star

11/23/2013

OVERPRICE, MEDIOCRE, and TACTLESS: I've been in the area about 2 weeks and have been getting my family their daily lattes, juices, and morning pastries from Espresso 77... but that stops today. It's a shame. I was called out, shown the door really, because I was working on my computer. I was not loitering or siphoning internet either. I was there an hour and a half and during that time I purchased over priced 'just add water' Quaker oats and three bitter almond milk lattes- totaling over $20.00. all of which is store-bought. By the way, there is nothing artisanal or specially made, besides the GIMME! coffee which they mange to make extremely bitter. I know, stupid right?- don't let this be you. I didn't see any visible signage, as I have seen in other cafes with strict policies, or anything that suggested I couldn't work on my computer. Apparently there's even a weekend ban on computers!!! Again, nothing noticeable that clued me in. I understand policies, but make them visible for customers to see. I was definitely called out for some reason. In front of me there were two men taking up prime window view real estate just as long as I was there. Not only that, only one of the gentlemen had purchase one cup of drip coffee. To the other side of me, there was a gentlemen on his mobile phone and newspaper. All these customers were there just as long as I was. I guess it is perfect to buy just a drip cup of coffee and have a one and half conversation, but not OK to spend 20+ dollars and work. I was a loyal customer for a few short weeks. They lost me as a customer today. In fact I joined YELP just to write this review so it does not happen to you, too. There was little tact shown while ushering me the door. Starbucks it is- they are more equal opportunity and have trained customer service employees.

4/8/2012

Espresso 77 opened up a few years ago near where I live, and it was a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Such a rare find to have a small coffee shop that's NOT a Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts nowadays.

It's a small space, with limited seating, but takeaways are their main business, and they get you in and out pretty quick. There is also a bench out front, which is often the hangout of many customers with four-legged companions. If you do stay, they do offer Wi-Fi (however you are on the clock and limited to about an hour, please remember to be courteous to your fellow customers and don't hog the internets.)

They have a nice big chalkboard menu that offers a variety of coffee (hot and cold), iced drinks, soda, handmade sandwiches, pastries, cookies, even beer and wine. They often display art from local artists, which rotates fairly regularly.

I am yet to try any of their food, or to really stick around and stay a while, but when I do drop by it's for my main fix. A Mocha Frappe. My "Crack in a Cup". A nice blend of Espresso and Chocolate, topped with whipped cream and chocolate syrup. Rich and delicious. Pure Awesome. If you're not in the mood for rich and sweet, I'd pick up a Honey-Mint Limonata or their New Orleans Iced Coffee. Drop by and support a local business.

2/12/2014

Great selection of coffee and tea, as well as a fairly diverse menu--the french toast is my favorite. They also have a nice selection of wine and beer (and make a tasty sangria in the summer). I love that E77 features a rotating gallery of local artists, and often has live music at night. It can get crowded, so be patient, it's worth the wait.

4/5/2012

Espresso 77 is the place I hide when I'm just not feeling too well and escape from everyone. Something about this place that helps me finds my center. Also I can get a lot of work done in this place, away from the madness. Im glad I'm not the only person who feels this way since the place can get pretty busy filled with couples, friends, kids, and grandpas. Also with the friendly staff, you'd definitely come back for not only their services but welcoming smiles. Sometimes I wonder are they usually this nice or they're just as caffeinated as we are? lol.

Coconut Kiss is the drink I always get! I love it. However the flavor can be very inconsistent I guess it depends on who makes it but still ;[ I tried the grilled chicken, mozzarella, basil sandwich which came the salad. It was good, nothing to go goo goo gaa gaa over and the price to this plain sandwich is not worth it. Only maybe because lets not forget we are in Jackson Heights, the place known for its incredible affordable prices than comes this place? hmph. I guess its just the price we pay for something "different" around this part of neighborhood.

Another great thing about this cafe is that it has a lot of love and pride for Queens, HOLLA. "Queens is the future" yaoooooooooooooooooW The most underrated borough

8/18/2012

What a great little café in the middle of Jackson Heights. It can get super busy but if you're lucky enough to score a seat at a table, Espresso 77 is a wonderful place to people watch, check out some local art hanging on the walls, listen to a variety of great music playing overhead, or in my case, study. They have a wide variety of food with special pastries and other baked goods only available on weekends.

I'm not a fan of really sweet drinks, so I was a little apprehensive about ordering the mango mint limonata, but the staff was accommodating and adjusted the sweetness for me. The workers here are so kind! They've also got homemade pralines which are always a plus in my book especially up here in the northeast! On my first visit here, I ordered the hummus plate which came with a small side of salad. And on another visit, I tried the mushroom, goat cheese, fig, and pecan wrap. They've got options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner - and something for everyone! My only complaint about their food is that the majority of it isn't made on site so changes can't really be made. But the coffee selection! Geez - it's certainly overwhelming but a welcome change from the typical options. I certainly do hope I can make my way back here again before moving out of the area. It's a shame I didn't find this place sooner!

Oh! And they have wine and beer, too!

7/28/2012 Updated review

I keep coming back!
Ambiance: Great place to study. The servers are really nice. They adjusted the AC for me when i went in with a cold.  They are simply great; they leave you to do work while keeping it understandingly friendly, which always feels welcoming.

I will definitely continue to come back.

Great place to have lunch, or to study, or chat with some friends.

If your planning to go there to study it can get a tiny bit loud if its packed. I've seen some customers wear ear plugs.

Food: not much for vegetarians besides one or two plates. They do have a hummus dish and one sandwich selection. Price ranges mostly under $10.

Drinks: Way better then Starbucks and has many more other drinks to try. They have healthy drinks too like Banana Flax (using real banana).
I believe the other fruits are from frozen tubes. But I haven't tried the others fruit drinks so I cant say how good those are, but the banana flax is tasty.

I tried different variations of teas such as Chai tea, Tea lemon, and Tea Lemon w/ Ginger. All delicious for only $2 in a large mug. NICE. Enjoy!~

5/12/2013

Fabulous drinks, great ambiance, supports the arts. I only wish the space was larger so that there are tables for all. They have a nice selection of wines to choose from as well as baked goods. Delicious and fresh limonata.

5/27/2013

Right here in Jackson Height neighborhood, Espresso 77 gets along well with the community. It's sort of small but serves like everything within its well-categorized menu. Something great is this shop treats any type of its customers as nicely as friends, no matter kids and parents, elders, bikers, pets and owners. The barista kept chatting with anyone who wanna talk to him and making coffee simultaneously. Something not gentle is it's not a laptop friendly shop with one-hour wifi available only. There are limited tables for everyone could be its consideration. I don't think the rule is made for commercial strategy. Because the shop was supposed to be off after 9pm on Monday, but now I was there without disturbance till 9:50pm. The shop uses beans roasted by Gimme Coffee, which is one of my favorite roasters. The coffee taste is slightly stronger than La Colombe with bright latte art. Btw, Gimme has one in SoHo and another in Williamsburg if anyone wanna give a visit.

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• See all photos from Wei-Hsiang H. for Espresso 77