Housing Works Bookstore Cafe Manhattan New York
A charming Soho bookstore and cafe that's also a non-profit, offering affordable used books and unique finds while supporting vital causes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe Manhattan New York
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Soho bookstore and cafe that's also a non-profit, offering affordable used books and unique finds while supporting vital causes.
"A lovely surprise, with great second-hand books at reasonable prices and a charming cafe inside."
🎯 Support a Great Cause
Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds!
☕ Cafe Hours May Vary
The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Second-Hand Book Treasures
Main Bookstore Area
Explore a diverse collection of pre-loved books across all genres at great prices. A true haven for book lovers seeking hidden gems.
Charming In-House Cafe
Back of the Bookstore
Enjoy a coffee or snack in a cozy setting. It's the perfect companion to your book browsing adventure.
Unique Trinkets and Finds
Throughout the Store
Beyond books, discover quirky trinkets and unique items that add to the store's eclectic charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover a Bookstore with a Purpose
Embrace the Cozy Cafe Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support a Great Cause
Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds!
☕ Cafe Hours May Vary
The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority!
📚 Genre Variety
From politics to fiction, find a wide range of used books. Great for diverse reading interests.
✨ Unexpected Treasures
Keep an eye out for unique trinkets and gifts alongside the books.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support a Great Cause
Every purchase helps Housing Works fight AIDS and homelessness. Feel good about your finds!
☕ Cafe Hours May Vary
The cafe is lovely but can be closed for events. Check ahead if it's a priority!
📚 Genre Variety
From politics to fiction, find a wide range of used books. Great for diverse reading interests.
✨ Unexpected Treasures
Keep an eye out for unique trinkets and gifts alongside the books.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Housing Works Bookstore Cafe for its dual appeal: a fantastic selection of affordable used books and a charming cafe, all within a space that supports a vital non-profit mission. It's a beloved spot for book lovers seeking both literary treasures and a feel-good shopping experience. While the cafe's availability can sometimes be limited due to events, the overall atmosphere and purpose make it a highly recommended destination.
"I stumbled into this bookstore in Soho by chance while trying to escape the rain — and it turned out to be such a lovely surprise. They had a great selection of second-hand books across many genres, all at very reasonable prices. On top of that, there was a small and charming café inside, making it a perfect spot to browse, relax, and enjoy a quiet moment on a rainy day."
Nurdan Kilincoglu
"A really lovely, quirky, and relaxed bookstore with a fun selection of used books and trinkets! The cafe in the back seems really nice too, but it was closed as they set up for an author event when I stopped in. Will be back!"
Kaitlyn Kline
"What a gorgeous bookstore! The staff was wonderful, too. The kids were able to find some things, I got a couple of dresses, and my partner is now swimming in books!"
Uni Clean
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is located in Soho. You can easily reach it via the subway. The nearest stations are Prince Street (N, R, W trains) and Spring Street (C, E trains). Many bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, it is very accessible by public transport. The subway lines N, R, W, C, and E all have stops within a short walking distance, making it convenient to visit.
For most visitors, the subway is the most efficient and cost-effective way to reach Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. It avoids Manhattan traffic and parking hassles.
While parking is available in Manhattan, it can be expensive and difficult to find. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to visit the bookstore.
Depending on your starting point, yes! It's located in Soho, a vibrant neighborhood, and is walkable from many popular areas like Greenwich Village or Nolita.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Housing Works Bookstore Cafe. It's a free-to-enter retail space and cafe.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the cafe section which may close for events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to browse the bookstore. You are welcome to explore the shelves and enjoy the atmosphere.
Reservations for the cafe are generally not taken, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, it's a cozy space, and you can usually find a spot.
Yes, Housing Works often hosts author events and signings. These can be a great reason to visit, but may affect cafe availability.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide variety of high-quality used books across numerous genres, including fiction, non-fiction, politics, economics, and more. It's a treasure trove for avid readers.
The prices for the second-hand books are generally very reasonable, making it an affordable way to stock up on reading material.
The atmosphere is described as cozy, charming, quirky, and relaxed. It's a welcoming space perfect for browsing and enjoying a quiet moment.
Yes, in addition to books, you can often find unique trinkets and other interesting items for sale, adding to the store's eclectic appeal.
With its cozy cafe and vast selection of books, it can be a charming and unique spot for a casual date, especially for book lovers.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, it features a small and charming cafe inside, offering a perfect spot to relax with a coffee or snack while you browse books.
The cafe typically offers coffee, tea, and light snacks. It's a great place to refuel during your visit.
The cafe is more geared towards coffee, tea, and light bites rather than full meals. It's ideal for a casual refreshment.
The cafe's hours can sometimes differ from the bookstore's, and it may be closed for private events. It's advisable to check their schedule.
Being in Soho, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the surrounding blocks, offering a wide range of dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, taking photos for personal use is acceptable, especially to capture the charming atmosphere. However, always be mindful of other patrons and staff.
The cozy cafe area, the stacks of books, and any unique decor or displays make for great photo opportunities. The overall ambiance is very 'Instagrammable'.
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's best to contact the store in advance to inquire about their policies and potential fees.
Absolutely! Sharing your book hauls is a great way to show off your finds from this unique bookstore.
Consider using hashtags like #HousingWorksBookstore, #SohoNYC, #BookstoreCafe, #UsedBooks, #NYCBuchhandlung, and #ShopForACause to connect with others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds, making it easier for little ones to navigate the aisles. The bookstore's mission also provides a gentle introduction to the concept of supporting good causes, which can be a valuable lesson for children.
📚 Budget-Conscious Bookworms
Beyond just the books, the cafe offers an affordable way to enjoy a coffee or snack while immersing yourself in the bookstore's atmosphere. The overall experience provides excellent value, combining the joy of discovery with the satisfaction of supporting a non-profit organization.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission Behind the Books
This commitment to social impact is a key differentiator. Unlike typical bookstores, a visit here offers a chance to engage with a community-driven initiative. The staff are often passionate about the cause, adding to the welcoming and purposeful atmosphere. It’s a place where conscious consumerism truly comes to life, offering a feel-good shopping experience.
A Haven for Book Lovers and Coffee Seekers
Complementing the literary offerings is the charming in-house cafe. This cozy nook provides the perfect ambiance to settle in with a newly acquired book and a warm beverage. While the cafe's hours can sometimes be subject to change due to events, its presence significantly enhances the overall experience, transforming the bookstore into a complete destination for relaxation and discovery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit