Under Pressure: Where Coffee Meets the Local Scene in Astoria!
Good coffee shops are defined by the neighborhood that they are in. But with a great coffee shop, it’s exactly the other way around: the coffee shop defines the neighborhood. Under Pressure serves as a community gathering place. It is a great spot to see and be seen, gossip with friends, and grab a frothy coffee to go as you trek across town.
Under Pressure’s original Astoria location on 31st Ave. and 31st St. boasts plenty of outdoor seating, with about a dozen tables. On a sunny morning or afternoon, these tables fill up quickly. Sitting there with the N or W flying by feels like a quintessential city experience. And 31st Ave. is busy all day, which makes it ideal for people watching.
The coffee shop features a modern and sleek interior with plenty of seating if the weather isn’t cooperating. The inside has just as much seating as the outside, and the decor is unobtrusive, neutral, and ultimately, inviting. Even with all that seating inside and out, plan on getting there early. Again, these tables go fast.
Make no mistake, it’s all about the freddo drinks here, so decide on either the freddo cappuccino or the freddo espresso. Then prepare to examine Under Pressure’s food options, and there is a surprising amount to pick from. The menu isn’t just baked goods: there’s a wide selection that ranges in portion from snack to meal, so it’s great no matter how hungry you are. If anything, you might feel under pressure while you work your way through the queue; their selection changes often, and once they sell out of something for the day, that’s that.
Certain classic Greek items are readily available, like spinach pie. It’s a heaping helping of spinach and feta cheese baked into layers of phyllo, and it’s a must-try because it’s as amazing as it sounds. If you want something sweeter, try the yogurt parfait, fruit tart, or a homemade cookie. And if you happen to be craving a full-sized hot meal, that’s available too. Order the avocado chicken wrap with grilled chicken, baby spinach, avocado, fresh onion, tomatoes, and a sour cream spread.
Under Pressure’s website emphasizes their commitment to great service and superior quality ingredients. Their courteous staff is all but delighted to answer any detailed questions about their menu. Due to its popularity, Under Pressure recently opened another location in Astoria across town. Near the Ditmars subway stop, Under Pressure has expanded so that it can offer a different part of the neighborhood its same exceptional food and service. Stop by 23-38 31st St. and say hello.
30-19 31st Ave. and 23-38 31st St./ Ph: 718.433.9380 / underpressurecoffeenyc.com / Yelp 4.4
