Welcome to Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood, where a Danish coffee chain has become the unlikely hub for tech professionals and innovators. Nestled across from OpenAI’s new office, La Cabra has quickly emerged as a must-visit destination for those seeking both caffeine and inspiration. In this article, we explore why this minimalist café has captured the hearts—and taste buds—of New York’s tech elite.

Discover the Secret Spot Where Tech Meets Taste

A Cult Following Brews in SoHo

Since OpenAI established its presence in the heart of Manhattan, a unique phenomenon has taken root just steps away. La Cabra, a Danish coffee chain known for its meticulously crafted brews and artisanal pastries, has become an unexpected focal point for the city’s tech community. The café’s minimalist design and high-end offerings have drawn a steady stream of professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who now consider it their go-to spot for meetings, brainstorming sessions, and casual encounters.The line outside La Cabra is a testament to its growing popularity. On any given day, you’ll find a mix of tech workers, shoppers, and locals queuing up for a taste of what’s been dubbed “the next Blue Bottle.” Inside, the atmosphere is buzzing with energy. Patrons linger near the bar, sipping on iced matcha lattes and nibbling on freshly baked treats. Baristas move seamlessly through the crowd, balancing trays of pain suisse and other delicacies that keep customers coming back for more.

An Illustrious Neighborhood Makes Its Mark

La Cabra’s rise to prominence is not solely due to its exceptional coffee. Its location across from the Puck Building, a historic landmark owned by Kushner Companies, adds to its allure. This red-brick structure has become a nexus for some of the most influential players in the tech industry. Thrive Capital, with its impressive $25 billion in assets under management, occupies several floors, while Plaid and OpenAI have also set up shop within its walls. Together, these companies have transformed the area into a thriving ecosystem of innovation and collaboration.For many, La Cabra serves as an unofficial extension of this vibrant community. Tech investor Amanda Herson, who frequents the café, notes that it’s become a natural meeting ground for professionals looking to connect over a cup of coffee. While seating can be limited, the allure of La Cabra’s offerings often outweighs this drawback. Jason Liu, a tech consultant based in San Francisco, echoes this sentiment, saying he makes a point to visit whenever he’s in town for meetings at the Puck Building.

More Than Just a Cup of Coffee

What sets La Cabra apart from other cafés is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Founder Esben Piper and head baker Jared Sexton, a former Dominique Ansel protégé, have created a menu that caters to discerning palates. The $9 pour-over brews are a highlight, with each cup carefully prepared to bring out the nuances of the beans. But it’s the pastries that truly steal the show. The cardamom buns, in particular, have garnered a cult following. Dense yet airy, these knotted pastries are infused with a piney warmth that leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try one.During my visit, I sampled both the ham-and-cheese croissant and the cardamom bun. The croissant was a revelation—a perfect balance of crispness and buttery richness, though it did skimp slightly on cheese. The cardamom bun, however, was nothing short of extraordinary. Its chewy texture and subtle sweetness made it a standout, and I could see why it’s often sold out by midday. To meet demand, La Cabra makes multiple deliveries from its East Village bakery throughout the day, ensuring fresh stock is always available.

Blending Style and Substance

As I sat at the counter, savoring my cardamom latte, I couldn’t help but notice the eclectic mix of patrons around me. Unlike Silicon Valley, where company logos are proudly displayed, New York’s tech scene is more subdued. Here, the emphasis is on blending in rather than standing out. Tech executives and builders alike opt for stylish, understated attire that reflects the city’s fashion-forward sensibilities. Yet, despite the lack of overt corporate branding, the buzz of conversation reveals that this is where ideas are born and deals are made.La Cabra’s minimalist aesthetic mirrors this ethos. With its natural color palette and rattan-inset cabinets, the space feels like a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Baristas, dressed in beige shirts designed by Copenhagen-based Another Aspect, add to the understated elegance. It’s a place where form meets function, where the pursuit of excellence in every detail—from the coffee beans to the pastry recipes—creates an environment conducive to creativity and connection.As I left, feeling the caffeine kick in, I knew I’d be back soon. Whether for a meeting or simply to enjoy another bite of the pain suisse, La Cabra has cemented its place as a cornerstone of New York’s tech community.