CORINTHIA.COM

The Upper East Side is renowned as a district of refinement and elegance. It's a neighborhood where every aspect of life feels exceptional and iced drinks are no exception. Expert baristas and matcha mavens compete with miraculous chocolatiers to dazzle the tastebuds of visitors.

At The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel we appreciate the need for a periodic caffeine infusion or a cooling matcha beverage when the weather is warm. Here are our tips for outstanding iced drinks to enjoy during an Upper East Side escape.

 

Shake up your espresso game at Sant Ambroeus

Our next essential Upper East Side gem is Sant Ambroeus (Madison Ave & 77th St) where the cool and invigorating Shakerato is a masterclass in Italian simplicity. Why Shakerato? Because this innovative brew combines the cool appeal of classic American milkshakes with the effortless élan of Italian espresso to deliver a consummately crafted coffee experience.

Sant Ambroeus' baristas vigorously shake a freshly pulled shot with sugar and ice until it transforms into a frothy chilled elixir. The result is a strong and smooth refreshment that sparkles with flavor.

The Shakerato's jolt of energy at the cafe's bustling Madison Avenue outpost is the ideal precursor to exploring the Upper East Side's artful treasures or a laid-back afternoon of people-watching. At any time, this spirited drink offers a tiny taste of Milanese flair right on the corner of 77th Street.

Take your time to savor Bluestone Lane's magical cold brew creations

Espresso shakes are ready in a flash, but some masterful coffees require time to prepare. That's certainly the case at Bluestone Lane (1085 5th Ave).

With its tucked-away location near Central Park, Bluestone Lane is a refuge from the city bustle. Their Cold Brew Float is also a masterclass in simplicity and indulgence. This irresistible creation is built on a 12-hour infusion. Slow-brewing results in a beverage renowned for its smooth rich character and lack of bitterness.

The slow-brewed nectar is then topped off with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream which gently melts into the coffee. The melting ice cream enriches the flavor and provides a visual delight as it ripples gracefully through the cold brew glass.

The Cold Brew Float tastes and looks divine. The bold coffee notes mellow into a sweet and velvety concoction that feels both sophisticated and playful in equal measure. It's the perfect cool refreshment after exploring the galleries and museums of the Upper East Side.

Blend fashion and fine coffee with a break at Ralph's 

Matcha takes center stage at Ralph's (888 Madison Ave) where the baristas range widely to discover captivating combinations. The menu is deliciously eclectic, but the Iced Matcha Lemonade is a local favorite (especially with The Surrey’s team).

This vibrant green elixir artfully balances down-to-earth matcha with a bright zing of lemonade. Each sip unfolds with a creamy yet sharp flavor that's invigoratingly smooth. Ralph's matcha lemonade feels both refined and playful - a quiet nod to the neighborhood’s understated elegance.

Whether you’re pausing mid-stroll or seeking a moment of calm, Ralph’s delivers a beverage that is as visually delightful as it is delicious. As part of Ralph Lauren's flagship NYC store, it's also ideal for fashionistas wanting to combine designer shopping with refined refreshments.

Sample Parisian sweetness at Angelina Paris

Our final recommendation is Angelina Paris (1121 Lexington Ave). This treasure leads visitors off the beaten track into a gorgeously furnished branch of the legendary French tearoom. Angelina Paris specializes in sublime chocolate infusions. Think decadence with a dash of Parisian refinement.

The cafe's iced chocolate is an unmissable highlight. Chocolatiers carefully cool Angelina's hot chocolate before serving it over crushed ice. This creates a thick and velvety texture resembling a luxurious frozen dessert. Angelina’s secret blend of three African cocoas also ensures a subtle and expressive flavor.

The grand Belle Époque setting perfectly complements this artful indulgence. Let the mirrored walls and soft light transport you to golden age Paris before re-emerging to enjoy the pleasures of the Upper East Side. 

 

The Surrey is an elegant base for exploring the neighborhood's most delicious moments. Ask our concierge for guidance to track down creations that catch your eye and indulge yourself in the best Upper East Side beverages.