Espresso 77 (Ilana Dadras)
Espresso 77 is a small coffee shop located off a busy side street in Jackson Heights. I stumbled upon the quaint establishment as I was scouring the area for parking, and ended up spending an enjoyable two hours in the shop. The popularity, clientele, and menu all intrigued me- each one of those things definitely giving insight into the changes occurring in the neighborhood.
Comfortable and Friendly Atmosphere
I was first attracted to Espresso 77 because of its decor and well designed facade. It seemed a bit out of place on a street filled with delis and ethnic eateries- a deep maroon awning lined with dangling Christmas lights, antique wooden benches outside and large expressionist paintings lining the walls. It wasn’t crowded, per say, but there were a fair amount of customers- some sharing lattes, a family eating pastries, and a couple of people taking advantage of the free WiFi. The beverage offerings rivaled Starbucks; flavored coffees, frappuccinos, tropical lemonades, and smoothies were just a few of the highlights off the extensive drink menu.
A Hot Cappuccino and Scone- Perfect.
The difference between this shop and Starbucks is the obvious relationship that there was between the workers and the customers. In just the short amount of time I spent in the store, multiple people had friendly conversations with the baristas and the owners came out to chat with a couple of “regulars” stopping in for an evening drink. The feel of Espresso 77 was homey and comfortable- not corporate in any way. I think the clientele, a mix of young hipsters with laptops, older couples, and the occasional family, recognize how important it is to support local businesses and keep them alive in a city where there is a Starbucks on every corner.
Another impressive aspect of Espresso 77 was its affordable prices and quality ingredients. The food menu included wraps, hummus platters, and specials such as the E77 salad (with mixed greens, pecans, cranberries, and blue cheese). There was a chalkboard on which the daily specials were scribbled- the most delicious sounding one being freshly toasted challah bread with real syrup and mixed berries. The prices ranged from $2.50 to $10.00, and the drinks from $1.25 to $4.50. Comparable with most chain coffee shops like Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, but not too bad considering the atmosphere and comfortable environment they offer customers. It was interesting to see there were shirts, imported coffees and bags for purchase, some simply with the name of the store but a few including the neighborhood. I can also say my experience was improved by the soulful music coming out of a few tactfully placed speakers- surprising when so many stores are blasting Lite FM or the z100 top 40.
Inviting Storefront, and Inviting Staff
More important than the menu, and more impressive than the decor was the friendliness of everyone who worked in Espresso 77. The barista who took my order was eager to tell me about the shop, which is the establishment’s only location and has been open a mere two years. Jackson Heights is becoming a popular place to move because of the easy access to Manhattan and wide assortment of schools and parks. In recent times it seems more students and younger working professionals are leaving the central parts of the city in favor of a quieter and more affordable neighborhood. As the Jackson Heights is evolving and attracting a younger crowd, I think the business at Espresso 77 should only improve.
