Joyride Coffee, Momofuku Milk Bar
Considering the fame of the Momofuku franchise, I was not surprised that Momofuku Milk Bar is one of my new favorite places in NYC.
But on that same thread, considering how successful Momofuku is as a business, I was surprised by the Milk Bar's modest design. The one I visited in East Village is not particularly chic or ornamental, but very incognito, except for the neon sign.
The inside is quite small, with a little bar along the window, no seats, a large chalkboard with the menu, and then the ordering area and kitchen. It also has a full functioning air conditioner (very relevant for the hot summer months).
Joyride Coffee, Momofuku Milk Bar
Before ordering, I asked what they recommended. One of the two very friendly workers gave me a sample of the "Cereal Milk" soft serve. I was absolutely blown away. Although it looks like any other soft serve, it tastes exactly like cereal and milk. So I went ahead and ordered that, with crushed corn flakes sprinkled on it.
While I was tempted to order cold brew, I ordered a Stumptown cappuccino based on a Foursquare recommendation.
Joyride Coffee, Momofuku Milk Bar
Before I received my cappuccino, the barista asked me if I wanted a bear or a heart as the design, and I said bear. I was given a cappuccino with possibly the most adorable design...ever.
Joyride Coffee, Cappuccino
The thing to do: take a scoop of the Cereal Milk soft serve and dip it in the cappuccino. Trust me.
While I was there, a girl came in and ordered a soy latte and left quickly, which suggests that it's easy to grab a quick, good coffee and go. But I also have come here in the evening, and it was quite crowded, with people primarily ordering desserts after a dinner, or in my case, a snack before a movie. It's a very versatile spot to visit for coffee, dessert, or a savory snack.
However, it's a little bit pricier if you want more than just a coffee. My cappuccino and soft serve came out to be just under $10.
Overall, the two girls working there were very nice, accommodating and quick. I also can't emphasize enough how amazing the Cereal Milk was. I very highly recommend it and Momofuku Milk Bar. I'll definitely be going as often as possible.
Coffee by: Stumptown
Momofuku Milk Bar
Manhattan
251 E. 13th St.
15 W. 56th St.
561 Columbus Ave.
Brooklyn
382 Metropolitan Ave.
360 Smith St.
