UPDATE: The beloved coffee cart run by brothers Adrian and Catalin Manmanole is back in its original spot on 66 St and Columbus after a sudden and controversial relocation caused distress among local customers and the vendors themselves.
For nearly 30 years, the Manmanole brothers have been a staple of the Upper West Side, serving coffee and breakfast to countless New Yorkers since 1994. However, a recent construction project led to a dramatic change just days ago, when a heavy concrete flower planter was placed in front of their cart, forcing them to move down the street.
“When we left for just a moment, they moved the pots and marked us illegal,” Adrian told Eyewitness News. “Now we cannot park anymore. They put the flower pot there, no explanation, no anything.” The brothers reported that the new location, underneath scaffolding, drastically reduced their income—making less than half of what they typically earn.
The relocation sparked concern among their loyal customers. “It’s killing my business,” Catalin expressed. “This spot is too far from the corner, too far from the subway, too far from everything.” In response to the brothers’ distress, Eyewitness News reached out to 2 Lincoln Square, the building management responsible for the construction. They stated they wanted to keep the cart away from their entrance.
However, the NYC Department of Transportation informed us that they do not approve displacing vendors, especially those who have built a strong rapport with construction workers and the community. “The food is fresh, everything’s perfect,” one satisfied customer noted. “Where do you see that in New York anymore? He’s an immigrant, he works hard, he pays taxes—these are the people we want in this country.”
After discussions with the city and a reminder of DOT regulations, 2 Lincoln Square agreed to relocate the flower planters, allowing the coffee cart to return to its original location. Within 24 hours, the Manmanole brothers were back at their corner, greeted by cheers from regulars.
“I was missing them, I didn’t know where they went, I finally found them,” a postal worker exclaimed, highlighting the emotional impact of their return.
The Manmanole brothers expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support and the swift action taken by the city. “Definitely 7 is on our side, thank you,” Adrian said, relieved to resume serving their loyal customers from their original spot.
This story underscores the vital role that local vendors play in community life and the importance of protecting small businesses in urban settings. Stay tuned for further updates as local vendors continue to navigate these challenges in New York City.
