UPDATE: In a rapid turn of events, the beloved coffee cart operated by brothers Adrian and Catalin Manmanole has successfully returned to its original location at 66 St and Columbus on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. After facing unexpected displacement due to construction, the duo is back serving their loyal customers just 24 hours after city officials intervened.
For 30 years, the Manmanole brothers have been a staple in the neighborhood, providing fresh coffee and food to countless New Yorkers. Their cart, a fixture since 1994, was recently forced to relocate due to concrete flower planters blocking their access. The brothers expressed their distress over the sudden change, stating, “This spot is too far from the corner, too far from the subway, too far from everything. It’s killing my business; we make not even half.”
The situation escalated when the construction at the old Channel 7 Studios led to the placement of the flower pots, which affected their ability to operate legally. The city’s Department of Transportation confirmed that they do not approve measures that displace street vendors without valid reasons, especially those liked by the community.
Supporters of the Manmanole brothers flooded social media with messages, emphasizing the importance of their presence. One satisfied customer remarked, “He’s an immigrant, he works hard, he pays taxes, these are the people we want in this country.” The brothers have built a reputation for their kindness and community spirit, often letting customers pay later if they are short on cash.
After the intervention from 7 On Your Side, which brought the issue to the attention of the building management, 2 Lincoln Square acknowledged the need for an accommodation. They stated their support for small businesses and confirmed the coffee cart’s return to its rightful spot.
Just a day after the situation was addressed, the coffee cart was back, much to the delight of local patrons. “I was missing them, I didn’t know where they went, I finally found them,” said a postal worker and regular customer.
The return of the Manmanole brothers’ coffee cart marks a significant victory for small businesses in the area, showcasing the power of community support and swift action from local authorities. As they celebrate their return, the brothers extend their heartfelt thanks, declaring, “Definitely 7 is on our side, thank you.”
This urgent development not only highlights the challenges faced by street vendors in New York City but also underscores the collective effort required to support small businesses. As the city continues to navigate construction and urban development, the resilience of vendors like the Manmanole brothers remains crucial to the fabric of the community.
