Porto Rico Importing Co

Must Visit for Coffee Lovers!

Porto Rico Importing Co. has three locations in Manhattan, and it’s one of those places that just smells amazing the moment you walk in.

The rich aroma of freshly ground coffee fills the air, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

They stack coffee beans high all around the shop, and you can either buy whole beans or have them ground on the spot, depending on your preference. They also sell drinks, brewing equipment, and other coffee-related goodies! It’s a coffee lover’s paradise, especially if you love trying new beans and experimenting with different flavors.

We visited the location near Washington Square Park, and since we got there right before closing, there were a few people rushing in for last-minute coffee. Even though the store was about to close, the staff was still incredibly friendly and eager to help, giving us plenty of time to browse and take in the atmosphere. The little buzz of excitement from other coffee lovers made it feel like a real community hub for caffeine enthusiasts.

Inside, just like in the photos, there are endless bins of coffee beans with all kinds of options — from flavored beans to decaf versions, and everything in between. The beans are neatly organized, but there’s still a feeling of excitement and discovery as you explore each section. It was super fun to just go around sniffing the different aromas.

Some of the beans smelled exactly like their names, which was so cool! For example, I sniffed a hazelnut-flavored bean, and the scent was so accurate that it was almost like I was biting into a fresh nut. Each bin has a distinctive smell that invites you to try them all, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Once you pick your coffee, you tell the staff which one you want, how many pounds you’d like to buy, and whether you want it ground or whole. If you’re grinding it, they’ll even ask what kind of grind size you prefer — whether it’s a coarse grind for French press or a fine grind for espresso. Love that level of detail!

They really take the time to make sure you’re happy with your purchase, which is something you don’t always get at larger coffee chains. This personalized service is a big part of what makes Porto Rico Importing Co. stand out.

It’s an old-school shop with a long history, and you can really tell — the small touches and care in how they do things show why it’s been around for so long. The shop has a cozy, no-frills vibe, but it’s clear that the people who run it truly care about quality coffee.

The smell of fresh beans, the classic feel of the old-fashioned tools, and the friendly staff make it a memorable stop for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee.

We didn’t buy anything this time since we’re not huge coffee lovers, but I’ve bought beans from here before as a gift, and it was a total hit!

The person I gifted it to is a big fan of sweet coffee, so I picked a dark chocolate–scented bean and had it ground for them.

The recipient told me it was one of the best coffees they’d ever had — not only was it delicious, but they also loved the rustic yet classy packaging. It gave off an artisanal feel that made the whole gift experience feel extra special. The coffee came in a simple brown bag, tied with string, and it was just the right amount of charming. Total gift win!

Sometimes the best gifts are those that are thoughtfully chosen and reflect the recipient’s tastes. I had so much fun picking out the perfect coffee beans for my friend, and the experience was just as enjoyable as receiving the gift itself. It’s a great reminder of how personal and meaningful a gift can be when you really think about the person receiving it.

Final Thoughts

Buying coffee for yourself is great, but picking out beans based on someone else’s taste and gifting it thoughtfully feels so meaningful. The beauty of Porto Rico Importing Co. is that it gives you so many options to explore. Whether you’re someone who loves experimenting with new flavors or you just want a high-quality, reliable coffee, they have something for everyone.

*If you’re ever wondering what to get for a coffee lover, this place is definitely worth checking out.

The experience of picking out your coffee beans is just as enjoyable as drinking the final brew!

Porto Rico Importing Co. is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a destination for anyone who loves coffee in all its forms. So, next time you find yourself in Manhattan and in need of a coffee fix, be sure to stop by one of their locations. You won’t be disappointed!