ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Moka & Co
7.7
A newer Yemeni café (established 2024) that brings Middle Eastern coffee culture to the Upper West Side with spiced drinks, sweets, and a sit-and-sip rhythm. Come for one signature latte or tea plus one pastry or cake—treat it like a focused coffee-and-dessert stop, not a full meal destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yemeni coffee drink, Pistachio latte, Saffron milk cake
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A Yemeni coffee-and-sweets café that feels built for lingering.
Who should go: Coffee people and dessert-first meetups
When to visit: Weekday mornings for the calmest seats
What to order: Yemeni coffee, pistachio latte, saffron milk cake
Insider tip: Order one drink + one dessert—don’t turn it into a sampler platter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and competitive in the evenings. Public transit is the easier option.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual—jeans, sneakers, and relaxed coffee-date outfits fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—generally calm with background chatter and music that won’t overpower conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak afternoon and early evening hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most of the menu (drinks and desserts) is vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—some drinks can be made with plant-based milk, but dessert options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—most pastries and cakes contain gluten; best for drinks-only if avoiding gluten.
Best For
Better for: Lingering over spiced coffee drinks and Middle Eastern desserts in a calm, aesthetically pleasing setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full meal, lots of savory options, or a quick grab-and-go coffee experience.