Overview

Grace Street Coffee & Desserts, located at 17 W 32nd St in Manhattan's Koreatown, is a Korean dessert café that has carved out a niche with its specialty drinks and handmade desserts. Operating since at least 2013, it attracts a mix of locals and tourists looking for a late-night sweet fix. The café is known for its Korean donuts, shaved snow, and premium boba milk tea. With a price range of $$, it's an accessible spot for those wanting to explore Korean American café culture without breaking the bank.

The food quality, however, is a mixed bag. While the Google rating sits at 4.5 from 3,435 reviews and Yelp at 4.2 from 3,730 reviews, the bingsu—a signature dish—receives consistent criticism for its lack of authenticity and poor execution. Reviewers describe the shaved ice as “barely airy” and the ingredients as mismatched. Despite this, the café maintains a Platinum City Hacked Rating with a score of 94, suggesting that other menu items might redeem the overall experience.

The Neighborhood

Koreatown in Manhattan is a bustling enclave known for its vibrant Korean culture, food, and nightlife. Grace Street Coffee & Desserts fits right into this dynamic area, serving as a dessert and coffee anchor amidst the Korean BBQ joints and karaoke bars. The neighborhood attracts a diverse crowd, from local office workers to tourists exploring midtown.

Nearby landmarks include the Empire State Building and Macy's Herald Square, both within a short walking distance. The foot traffic is a mix of tourists and locals, with many stopping by Grace Street after enjoying a meal at one of the nearby Korean restaurants. The energy on the street is lively, especially in the evenings when people flock to the area for dining and entertainment.

The Vibe

Grace Street operates more like a modern dessert café than a traditional restaurant. The space is casual with counter ordering and a seating area for those who wish to dine in. It's not a cash-only establishment; they accept digital payments through platforms like Grubhub and their own Square ordering system. The café tends to get busy, especially on weekends, with lines forming in the evening.

Service at Grace Street is not the focus of reviewer comments, which center more on the food quality. There are no standout mentions of staff behavior or service speed, suggesting that interactions are likely straightforward and functional. First-time visitors should expect a self-service style experience, where the emphasis is on the desserts rather than the service.

What to Order

The Tiramisu Latte, priced at $7.25, is a standout item. It's described as “the coffee of your dreams” for its perfect balance of coffee and cocoa flavors. Another must-try is the Premium Boba Milk Tea, ranging from $6.50 to $7.50, depending on size and toppings. The boba is noted for its chewy texture and rich tea flavor.

For those looking to explore more of the menu, the Korean Donut (Hotteok) is a popular choice, priced between $7.00 and $8.00. The Shaved Snow desserts, available in flavors like matcha and mango, are priced between $13.00 and $16.00 and are designed to be shared. A typical meal here, including a shared dessert and an individual drink, will cost around $18–$22 per person.

Who It's For

Grace Street is ideal for those seeking a late-night dessert spot after dining in Koreatown. It's perfect for small groups or couples looking to share a dessert and enjoy a specialty drink. The café's casual atmosphere makes it suitable for a relaxed outing rather than a formal dining experience.

However, if you're looking for authentic Korean bingsu, this might not be the place for you. The consistent negative feedback on the bingsu suggests that authenticity seekers should look elsewhere. For those who prefer to enjoy their desserts at home, Grace Street's presence on delivery platforms like Grubhub offers a convenient alternative.

Getting There

Grace Street is easily accessible by subway, with the nearest station being 34 St–Herald Sq. This station is served by the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W lines, and it's about a 3–4 minute walk to the café. The M34 and M34A Select Bus Service routes also stop nearby, providing additional transit options.

Driving in this area can be challenging due to limited street parking and heavy congestion. Most visitors opt for nearby parking garages around 31st–33rd Streets or rely on public transit. Given the convenience of the subway and bus routes, driving is often more hassle than it's worth.

Nearby Attractions

The Empire State Building is just a five-minute walk east of Grace Street, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring midtown. Macy's Herald Square is also nearby, offering a shopping experience within a short distance.

Grace Street serves as a perfect dessert break for those visiting the area for shopping or sightseeing. It's an excellent addition to a day spent exploring Koreatown's vibrant dining scene or visiting iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building.

Best Time to Visit

For the best experience, visit Grace Street between 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on weekdays. During this time, the café is less crowded, allowing you to enjoy your dessert without the long wait times that occur later in the evening.

Avoid visiting during peak hours from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, when lines are longest. The café stays open until midnight on weekends, making it a popular late-night spot, but this also means it can get quite busy.

The Reality Check

The most common complaint about Grace Street is the quality of its bingsu. Reviewers consistently describe it as lacking authenticity, with poorly executed ingredients that don't justify the price. This has led to a negative perception among those seeking a genuine Korean dessert experience.

Beyond the bingsu, there are no significant complaints about other menu items or the service. However, if you're a diner who values authentic Korean desserts, you may leave disappointed. Grace Street is not for those seeking a traditional Korean café experience.

The Verdict

Grace Street's Platinum City Hacked Rating and score of 94 reflect its popularity and the unique niche it fills in Koreatown. While it may not excel in authenticity for all its dishes, its role as a dessert destination with a diverse menu of Korean and Asian-style treats is undeniable.

Visit Grace Street for its specialty drinks and a casual dessert experience in the heart of Koreatown. Skip it if you're seeking authentic bingsu or a formal dining setting. Grace Street is where late-night cravings meet Korean dessert culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get to Grace Street Coffee & Desserts by subway?
A: Take the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, or W lines to 34 St–Herald Sq. It's a 3–4 minute walk.

Q: Is there parking available near Grace Street?
A: Street parking is limited, but nearby garages on 31st–33rd Streets offer alternatives.

Q: What is the price range for desserts at Grace Street?
A: Desserts range from $13.00 to $16.00 for shaved snow, with drinks from $6.50 to $7.50.

Q: Does Grace Street accept reservations?
A: No, Grace Street operates on a walk-in basis and does not take reservations.

Q: What are the busiest times at Grace Street?
A: The busiest times are Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.