Character Coffee

171 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13501, United States
+1 315-570-3779
$$$ Coffee shop , Cafe , Tea house
(232 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you find yourself in Utica, NY, make it a point to stop by Character Coffee, a charming coffee shop that truly lives up to its name. Located at 171 Genesee St, this local gem is a haven for coffee aficionados, boasting an inviting atmosphere and a menu crafted with care and creativity.

Character Coffee isn't just another stop for your caffeine fix—it's an experience. The shop serves a variety of coffee styles, from the comforting hot drip coffee that warms you to your core, to the invigorating cold brew that’ll cool you down on sweltering days. Savor a Turkish Coffee for something truly unique, expertly brewed to highlight its rich, bold flavors. With prices that start at just $2.00 for a small hot coffee and go up to $7.00 for the Turkish offering, Character Coffee proves that quality doesn't have to break the bank.

But it's not just about the coffee—Character Coffee elevates the experience with a selection of homemade syrups that customers rave about. “Coffee with the most Character,” one loyal patron declared, emphasizing the shop’s dedication to coffee craft. Baristas like Emilia are not just employees; they are passionate coffee artisans committed to delivering exceptional customer service and quality.

The atmosphere is equally endearing. The shop is adorned with charming decor that creates a cozy nook for both locals and travelers to unwind. Visitors have noted how “very cute” the space is and how quick and friendly the service is, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a moment of solitude with a book in hand.

For those who prefer a twist in their drink, Character Coffee offers a range of add-ons like oat and almond milk, at only $0.50 each, allowing you to customize your beverage to perfection. The enthusiasm for quality does not stop at coffee; the range of teas, including special selections like Matcha and Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong, promise delightful experiences for tea lovers as well.

With reviews pouring in from happy customers like Elizabeth Budnik, who claims she loves coming here for their seasonal specialties, and Wren Howard, who highlights the baristas' efficiency, Character Coffee has solidified its place as a beloved local haunt. In a city that craves a personal touch, this coffee shop invites you to experience coffee in its truest form.

In essence, whether you are a local resident or just passing through, Character Coffee is a must-visit destination that offers not only great coffee but a sense of warmth and community that is often hard to find. Gather your friends, grab your favorite brew, and take a moment to savor the character of this delightful establishment.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Has live performances
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours

Monday

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

232 Reviews
Elizabeth Budnik

20 Oct 2025

I love coming here!! The baristas are always so nice. Their seasonal blueberry matcha is so good!!

Wren Howard

09 Oct 2025

Very cute space! Barista took our order quickly. Coffee was great and very impressed by the homemade syrups. Will visit again!

Miranda

31 Aug 2025

Coffee with the most Character This is the best coffee shop I have ever found in New York (and actually anywhere else). You will not find another shop that cares this much about the coffee craft within a 100 mile radius (at least). The most aptly named shop - it is full of great coffee and great character. Some of my highlights: *Attention to quality of the craft is immeasurable here. The fantastic barista, John and owner, Katie were at the bar, testing and creating flavors and combinations. You can really tell they have a passion for innovating in the coffee community - you can really taste it too! * The creativity is unmatched and inspiring. As mentioned above, the staff here make house-made syrup from scratch, and they have flavors NO other coffee shop offers (Pistachio syrup c'mon). They also experiment with multiple beans/roasts and methods of brewing, they are extremely knowledgeable about the craft *The genuine character the staff offers. I walked in this shop for a quick stop and ended up spending most of my Sunday here. John, Katie and the crew were so engaging and offered such interesting coffee talk. They were extremely friendly and kind - they truly gave the 'coffee shop culture' you only see in TV shows. You will never step into a coffee shop that has quite the character this one does, and even as I write this, I have the urge to return. You go for coffee and leave with an experience . I 100% recommend this for anyone stopping in the area.

David S

09 Aug 2025

Nice little coffee shop, with lots of "Character"! Way better than down the block, u-tica know what I mean... Lots of different styles, something for everyone! Didn't have any food just coffees. Try the cortado; half espresso half milk. ( Your choice, whole, almond or oat)

Jeevan & Sonakshi Dhale

23 Jul 2025

We enjoyed an exceptional experience at Character Coffee, where Emilia demonstrated professionalism and outstanding customer service, making it a highly recommended destination.

Heather Ann

18 Jul 2025

The Character Coffee Cart was selling their delicious coffee creations, at The Horn Farm event, when we unwittingly became fans. My daughter finished her drink on the ride home. She then started on mine as she was holding it for me as I drove. I was a bit disappointed to have “half” a coffee serving but was impressed with how much she enjoyed both coffees. Two hours later she mentioned going back to get another round. Unfortunately we had to wait a bit until I was able to get back for another cup. It was well worth the wait. When you see this coffee truck at your next event, in Lancaster or York, you may want to grab a cup or two. My little one now asks me to check Facebook for their location so we can grab a cup and have some “Mommy and Daughter Moments.” What a character!

Suzanna Gerasimovich

10 Jul 2025

It took me a minute to find this place, but the decor is amazing in this place.. love all the greenery. The maple latte was absolutely freaking delicious. They also have an assortment of very interesting flavors like honey lavender, and honey cinnamon.. definitely will be back.

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