First Look: Central Perk Coffeehouse — inspired by 'Friends' — opens in Times Square
The newest "Friends" experience opened its doors in the heart of New York City — and this one is permanent.
Central Perk Coffeehouse is a 3,000-sq.-ft. eatery based on the memorable hangout that had a starring role in the popular "Friends" television sitcom, which aired 1994-2004. Unlike the series’ Central Perk Coffeehouse, which was nestled in Greenwich Village, the new cafe is located in Times Square on the corner of Seventh Avenue and 47th Street. It is also a permanent cafe, unlike the Friends Experience: The One in New York City — a pop-up installation that debuted in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood in 2019.
This is the second Central Perk Coffeehouse to open. The first outpost, which opened in Boston in 2023, was created by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, Central Perk Coffee Co., and CenPer Holdings, LLC., and designed by architecture and interior design firm Glen & Co. Architecture.
“However our intention was always to open in New York City,” Glen Coben, president of Glen & Co. Architecture told Chain Store Age.
The design firm teamed up with food and beverage experts, including “Top Chef” judge and James Beard Award Winner Tom Colicchio, to bring the Times Square cafe to life.
“The project took approximately six months to complete, giving us a quick turnaround,” Coben said. “Our goal was not to recreate the nostalgic Central Perk experience, but to give customers their own experience at Central Perk.”
Drawing inspiration from the beloved setting and hallmarks of the series’ iconic coffeehouse, the team put a modern spin on the series’ neighborhood gathering spot. For example, contemporary design elements and expansive glass windows invite curious customers inside the space.
The team gave the show’s iconic orange couch an upgrade, creating a cozy “Orange Sofa Room” (complete with a stained glass floor lamp) designed for dining and Instagram moments. A row of orange banquets, a hightop bar and stools and traditional marble-top tables provide additional seating. Further complementing the orange furniture, the space features natural brick and design elements — including a cup-and-saucer-inspired chandelier — highlighting neutral and jewel tones.
- Central Perk Coffeehouse made its debut in New York City’s Times Square.
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Central Perk Coffeehouse made its debut in New York City’s Times Square. -
Central Perk Coffeehouse made its debut in New York City’s Times Square. -
Central Perk Coffeehouse made its debut in New York City’s Times Square. -
Central Perk Coffeehouse made its debut in New York City’s Times Square.
The cafe also showcases the artwork of renowned pop artist Burton Morris, whose vibrant, high-energy works appeared in more than 130 episodes of "Friends." To localize the experience, Morris’ "Empire State Building" image is featured as a large-scale graphic facing the exterior. Meanwhile, his recognizable "Coffee Cup" image is located on the wall between the coffee bar and the Orange Sofa Room.
The Times Square location blends other nostalgic references to the sitcom including a mural of the fountain seen in the show’s opening credits, Phoebe’s “A-Z” bookends, and a silhouette portrait of Joey and Chandler’s chick and duck.
The cafe’s full service coffee bar features a full menu of fresh food, snacks and beverages, including six original "Friends"-themed coffee blends. The shop also sells exclusive, newly-created merchandise.
“Central Perk Coffeehouse Times Square is not just for Friends fans — it is a space for all customers to gather for great coffee, beverages and a bite to eat," Coben added.