by Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
57th Street Report
Uniqlo, the globally recognized Japanese retailer known for its minimalist and functional apparel, has officially expanded into the café business in North America. This week, the brand unveiled its first-ever Uniqlo Coffee location in the United States, introducing a fresh new concept within its sprawling Fifth Avenue flagship store in Midtown Manhattan.
A New Destination on Fifth Avenue
Located at 666 Fifth Avenue, near 52nd Street, the café occupies the second floor of the store, taking over a space previously home to a Starbucks that ceased operations in 2018. The launch marks a significant milestone for Uniqlo, which has long operated coffee shops in select locations across Japan but had yet to bring the concept stateside—until now.
A Curated Coffee Experience
The menu at Uniqlo Coffee is simple yet refined, offering a curated selection of beverages designed to complement the brand’s signature aesthetic of understated sophistication. Guests can enjoy a variety of options, including espresso-based drinks, cold brew, lattes, and rich hot chocolate. Freshly squeezed orange juice is also available for those looking for a refreshing alternative. While Uniqlo’s coffee shops in Asia often include a small selection of pastries and light snacks, the New York location currently focuses solely on beverages, in keeping with the brand’s pared-down approach.
Enhancing the Shopping Experience
A representative for Uniqlo described the initiative as an extension of the company’s commitment to customer experience, emphasizing that the café was designed to be a tranquil retreat for shoppers. “Our goal is to offer a warm and inviting space that embodies Japanese hospitality and provides a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle of the city,” they stated.
Early Reception and Future Prospects
Early feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors praising the café’s sleek, modern design and high-quality coffee offerings. While Uniqlo has not yet announced plans for additional coffee locations in North America, the success of this venture could pave the way for further expansion in key markets.
A Unique Addition to Midtown’s Retail Scene
As Midtown continues to evolve with new retail and hospitality concepts, Uniqlo Coffee adds an intriguing dimension to the area’s landscape. Whether it becomes a one-of-a-kind destination or the first of many remains to be seen, but for now, New Yorkers have a new stylish spot to grab a cup of coffee while browsing Uniqlo’s latest collections.
Want to learn more? Let’s talk!
All the best,
Howard Morrel & Leslie Hirsch
Christie’s International Real Estate Group
(212) 956-4823
mha@christiesrealestategroup.com
