Whynot: Much More than an Ordinary New York Coffee Shop

WINE DINE & FOOTLIGHTS

Whynot Coffee & Wine occupies an enchanting corner on Christopher Street in the West Village.–courtesy of Whynot

With no shortage of convenient little coffee stops, New York is a town where caffeine addicts thrive. From the $1.25 cup on the corner to indie faves like Joe, Birch, and Cafe Grumpy, as well as chains like Starbucks and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, outposts brewing the city’s preferred beverage keep popping up all over town. Although NYC boasts a mile-long list of wireless java shops, few are as unique and inviting as Whynot Coffee, which has recently become Whynot Coffee & Wine. During my recent visit, I felt as if I had been transported to 1970s Paris; but in reality, I was at the corner of Christopher and Gay in the West Village.

Beyond the Blue Bottle Coffee and impressive yet well-priced French wines by the glass (I’ve tasted quite a few of the selections), undoubtedly, it’s the hip yet relaxed vibe, and simple, vintage décor at Whynot that draw the crowd. Spacious and overlooking Gay Street, the interior makes for a fitting atmosphere to dish on the latest celebrity buzz, or polish off another chapter of a best-selling novel.

Start your day off right with a Blue Bottle Coffee.–courtesy of Whynot

Croissants put me in a good mood, how about you?–courtesy of Whynot

Chow on charcuterie and cheese boards ($15-$25) during mid-day or evening hours with a glass of Chateau Damase Bordeaux ($10); or splurge on Mille-Feille pastries ($2-$5) with your morning cappuccino ($4). 

Lofty ceilings, big windows, colorful retro artwork by Brooklyn-based Jeremy Penn, and old-school vinyl streaming at this Downtown shop, make Whynot the kind of place where I’d want to work or just hang on any day of the week. 

Now, if only Whynot Coffee and Wine would venture to my pocket of the Upper West Side. Then, you’d know where to find me.

Whynot, will you ever come to the Upper West Side?–courtesy of Whynot

Whynot Coffee & Wine
14 Christopher St.
New York, NY  10014
(646) 756-4145

Posted on November 11, 2013