Java in the Big Apple

In most areas of the country, the coffee-drinking scene is punctuated by the chains -- Starbucks, Caribou Coffee, Peet's and a few others. There are a few independent coffee shops here in Washington, D.C., but not many.

By contrast, New Yorkers can choose from a large number of independent coffeehouses or coffee-centered cafes. According to the New York Times:

Over the last two years, more than 40 new cafes and coffee bars have joined a small, dedicated group of establishments where coffee making is treated like an art, or at least a high form of craft.

At places like Bluebird Coffee Shop in the East Village, the espresso is so plush and bright that it tastes sweet on its own.

... Meanwhile, some established cafes around the city have made moves toward roasting their own beans. Cafe Grumpy is already doing it, and Abraco will by the summer.

Now, there's an appropriate name for a coffeehouse in NYC: Cafe Grumpy.