“ Went to this cafe for the first time after seeing all the 5 star reviews and I can attest I love it! Although no indoor seating, you can wait inside for your order which was perfect for a cold day and I imagine in the summer I’d enjoy the outdoor window service! The people inside were so nice and kind and you could tell they had regulars because they knew people by first name and I love that! Will definitely be going back, the drinks were good too! ”

“ Balancero Astoria is easily in my top 3 coffee spots in the neighborhood. This little hole-in-the-wall, strictly to-go, serves up seriously good coffee – you can absolutely taste the quality difference. They also have pastries, but the coffee is the star. Be prepared for a line sometimes, which just goes to show how good it is. Yes, it's a bit pricier, but you're paying for exceptional quality. ”

“ This is such a lovely small spot for good coffees by Italian friends in the neighborhood. They were so friendly and visitors seemed chill and relax here. Cappuccino was good, the foam was not that perfectly creamy but the taste was great. I had a sip of drip coffee, I think they picked great beans since it was blond, balanced, and rich while not too bitter or blended. And mini donuts were sooo doughy with creamy filling!! Personally preferred the vanilla one. Definitely recommend to ya! And would like to visit again! ”

“ A true 5.0 is rare, so I waited to post this until I was sure, but this place absolutely deserves the five stars. Balancero is the most charming walk-up coffee counter. The iced latte is consistently great, and the pastries are fresh. What sells it for me though is that Balancero always has the best vibes. The baristas are so nice, and they have outdoor music and people roll up with their dogs and strollers. And AGAVE STRAWS! Why don’t more places use agave straws? Vastly superior to paper straws. ”

“ I am on a quest to experience top coffee shops in Astoria Balancero is definitely in the top 5 welcoming atmosphere, cozy space, very clean. You can tell that here they do care about quality of drinks, food and experience. Pastries are home-baked every morning. I got a chance to try mini vanilla creme donut that perfectly matched my flat white. Down side is that place is small. Hopefully soon they will be able to expand the space, and add stay-in glass cups Fantastic coffee shop, top quality! I am grateful I discovered this place ”

“ A favorite spot for coffee! The staff are friendly and engaging, and although there is no indoor seating, the space is welcoming! There are a few outdoor seats for pretty weather, but a great place to come for a quick, solid coffee. ”

“ Best coffee in Astoria. Everyone that works there is really nice and the drinks are always wonderful. I don’t know how they do it, but it just seems to be a cut above anything else around. It’s a small shop so you can stand at the small counter but there aren’t tables and stuff, but trust me, you need to try this place if you’re here. As good as anywhere in the whole city. ”

“ After my flight from California this was my first stop on my NY trip, couldn’t have started a better way. Coffee and croissants were very delicious, I even bought a bag of their coffee beans to go. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. Next time I’m back in NY this will be my first stop again and I recommend everyone to visit this place. ”