The Nocturnal Café
103 S Geneva St, Ithaca, NY
Crema's Take
“Tucked in a moody basement in Ithaca, this is where coffee and community collide in the best way—the owner is genuinely invested in both your drink and your evening, whether you're exploring their thoughtfully curated espresso selections or trying kava for the first time. The shabby-chic aesthetic, live music, and rotating art create an inviting dark-lounge atmosphere that feels like a secret everyone wishes more people knew about, where lingering over a cup (or tea, or creative signature drink) becomes an experience rather than a transaction.”
What to expect
Espresso-focused, with creative signature drinks, matcha and tea options too. A slow-sit spot, good for meetings.
Google Reviews
Interesting place, puts the emphasis on shabby in shabby chic, but it is a totally relaxed lounge/basement vibe. Interesting decor and art make the darkened atmosphere inviting. Owner/bartender was nice, tea was excellent.
I love this place! Its a truly hidden gem and my wish is that everyone discovers it, and loves it as much as I do. Kindness, love, dancing, music, art and a large selection of teas and coffee is what my experience was made of and it was glorious. Check it out!! Live music isnt…
I just had the most incredible night! The atmosphere was absolutely amazing, and I loved every moment with the wonderful people there. The tea was fantastic, and the live music—simply breathtaking! What an unforgettable experience.
We had a really fantastic experience here. The owner was extremely knowledgeable and helpful on our first experience with kava. The whole place has a chill vibe and he had a drink with us on our first try too. Highly recommended, we would revisit this place next time we're in…
I was traveling through Ithaca and a friend of mine suggested I stop in here. I’m glad I did! It was a very quiet Thursday evening, so I spent a lot of the time speaking with one of the owners who was working behind the bar. He was super knowledgeable about kava and I asked a…
I love this place! It has great atmosphere, music, art, special events, a dance floor, Kava in flavors and great organic teas and tasty treats. The owners are awesome and the staff is always friendly. I highly recommend a visit, especially if you enjoy eclectic, artsy places…
Crema Reviews
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