Ninth Street Espresso, my favorite coffee spot in the city for people-watching and drinking superlative cappuccinos, has just opened an outpost on Tenth Street, next door to Life Cafe. Instead of tables this location has a long bar with a few stools, and seems generally less crowded than the Ninth Street locale. But the baristas still make some excellent espresso, and the same Balthazaar bakery treats are available. Plus it’s right across the street from Tompkins Square Park, so you can fill up between trips to the dog run to watch the puppies.

Ninth Street Espresso 341 East 10th St. Near Avenue B