After what was a pretty long hiatus, I found myself at Sweetleaf, which is one of my favorite LIC coffee spots. Loving the original location on Jackson Avenue, I knew I was in good hands when I spotted their Center Blvd outpost while on my way to the LIC Flea.
Atmosphere:
It's strange to think of Sweetleaf situated on the ground level of a luxury apartment high rise, given its dark, grungy, indie aesthetic. I was wondering how they'd pull all that off in this modern new locale, but I was surprised at how well their original concept comes through in this space.
For starters, it's a lot more spacious and there's plenty more places to sit down and spread out (this is especially great when you have your laptop and a load of work with you). I love that you don't feel cramped and that the wifi works well, which isn't always the case with the other coffee shops in the vicinity.
A beautiful antique bar dominates the space with a vintage gilded clock as its center piece. I like that you can position yourself at the bar if you like, making you appreciate this coffee shop/cocktail bar hybrid.
Strawberry Iced Tea - Even though it's hard to pass up Sweetleaf's Stumptown coffee, I chose to go for the iced tea instead. Listed in their specialty drinks section, along with the Iced Rocket Fuel, it sounded refreshing and interesting, made of unsweetened iced tea, simple syrup and fresh strawberry puree. It totally delivered, and then some, providing you with a hint of natural sweetness from the puree, which was swirled throughout. Although I didn't get one during this visit, it would've been nice to pair it with Sweetleaf's freshly baked scones.
Service and Cost:
The service very much mirrors what you get at the old location - laid back, friendly but not in-your-face. All good things.
Costs are expensive but totally worth the quality. My iced tea set me back $4.25.
3 Mmmms
Sweetleaf - 46-15 Center Blvd, LIC NY 11101
347.527.1038
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Ave
www.sweetleaflic.com
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