I finally got down to Tribeca to Hugh Jackman’s place Laughing Man Coffee & Tea.  If you saw his documentary “Dukale’s Dream”, this is the place that came out of the coffee journey he documented.

Located at 184 Duane St (there is now another location further West by the water as well), the place is tiny and had a healthy line on a Saturday at noon.  One might expect this give the fame of the founder, but they make a very good cup of coffee!  And, it seems there’s a good supply of “regulars” as the baristas acknowledged several folks as they walked in the door.

I had a flat white, a favorite in Australia, Hugh’s native land…how could I not (Hugh even has a note on the chalk board behind the bar suggesting it’s his favorite.)

The espresso, a blend of Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Costa Rica (according to the barrista) shines through nicely.  The winey pop of the Dukale’s Ethiopian comes through the milk very well.  It is honestly one of the better milk based drinks from a bar I’ve had in New York.

Even though the inside is tiny, just outside is a small city project called Street Seats.  If the weather is nice, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy your coffee.  It’s an easy walk from either the 1,2,3 or A,C Chambers Street stops.  If you are in the area, give it a try.