Sheridan Square is the very heart of LGBTQ history in New York City and, with the opening of Whynot coffee and wine in midyear, the pulse rate of Christopher Street, between Seventh Avenue South and Sixth Avenue, quickened noticeably and real estate values soared.
Located at the southwest corner of Christopher and Gay, the café’s purposefully eclectic décor skillfully evokes the atmosphere of The Village beat poet coffeehouses of the past, while encasing the whole in 21st century floor-to-ceiling plate glass windows to eliminate the barrier between interior and exterior.
A vintage turntable and radio set provides understated musical background, punctuated from time to time by excellent live performances.
A broad selection of fine coffees and teas are accompanied by delicious pastries, mini-quiches, and sandwiches to suit every diet. Highlighting the menu is a selection of the best croissants west of the Seine, baked in-house, each with its own provocative support. Almond, chocolate, raspberry zest, and goat cheese with marmalade are my personal favorites.
There is a revolving roster of skillful, friendly, attractive, and well-informed baristas too numerous to name here, but I am always happy to engage in conversation with Ralph, Joe, Sam, or the location’s spitfire manager Christian.
In addition to the comfortable seating inside, there are unusually commodious benches outside, with armrests designed to accommodate cups and plates.
After 5 PM, candles are lit, and fine French red and white wines, champagne, and Tokay as well as charcuterie and cheeses are available until midnight.
Unhurried conversation is always possible, and visitors are encouraged to both inscribe and contribute drawings to the always-available guestbook, which by now includes neighborhood types, Greater Metropolitan area residents in transit, and celebrities incognito.
Discover Whynot coffee and wine and become a regular. Whynot coffee and wine is open Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to midnight; Friday 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.; and Sunday 8 a.m. to midnight.