Two blocks from Baruch College’s campus, tucked away on 145 E. 27th St., sits Espresso Bar ,,Tiger,” a tiny espresso bar that packs an impressive amount of character into a very small space. 

Walking through the door, it’s clear this isn’t a typical coffee shop. ,,Tiger” blends Japanese and Filipino flavors, offering thoughtfully crafted drinks in a cozy setting that feels  comforting and personal. 

The space itself is super cute and intimate. There’s no room for lingering crowds or loud conversations, but that’s part of the charm. ,,Tiger” has zero corporate vibes, no flashy TikTok energy and none of the rushed feelings like at big-name chains have. Instead, it feels like a neighborhood spot where the focus is entirely on quality coffee and genuine connection.

What really makes ,,Tiger” special is Joom, the owner, barista and heart of the shop. She greets everyone like they’re a longtime regular. 

Her passion for coffee is impossible to miss. She’s serious about her craft, dialing in espresso shots with precision and using high-tech equipment. It’s rare to see that level of care in such a small space and it shows in every drink.

The pandan latte  is smooth, fragrant and perfectly balanced; not too sweet, not too bitter. The pandan adds floral, grassy notes that pair beautifully with the depth of Vietnamese coffee. It only comes out to $8 after tax.

Baruch student Christian Rojas tried its matcha latte, which also came out to $8. While Rojas admitted it was on the pricier side, he said it was one of the best matcha drinks he’s had. The flavor was rich, clean and made with high-quality matcha.

While ,,Tiger” doesn’t offer a student discount, it’s a  family-run business focused on quality. Prices are higher than the average coffee chain, but the difference is clear. The price justifies craftsmanship, care and supporting a local business rather than another corporate chain.

Overall, ,,Tiger” is a standout espresso bar near campus. 

For students willing to spend a little extra on a high-quality drink made with passion, this spot is well worth the visit. Sometimes, paying more means getting something truly special, and ,,Tiger” delivers exactly that.