This Fall Drinks Matrix Will Point You to Your Next Fave Autumnal Beverage
October 20, 2026
There’s a chill in the air but the sun’s still shining, the leaves are changing but the trees aren’t bare. We’re smack in the middle of (arguably) the best season in New York City, and it’s time we start drinking appropriately. Therefore, we proudly present to you: The Autumn Drinks Matrix!
At first glance, you may notice the omission of the darling of fall drinks, the pumpkin spice latte. It’s not for lack of availability — almost every coffee shop and cafe in the nabe is serving up their version of the famous beverage, so we purposefully set our sights on more unique libations.
We split the downtown drinking scene into four quadrants: if it’s a chilly day, consider exploring the top of the matrix for warming cocktails, spiced lattes and seasonal tea blends. If you’re an iced-coffee-year-round-no-matter-what kind of person, or you just fancy something strong in a chilled glass, head south down the axis. Move from left to right, and you’ll start at creative mocktails and coffees before making your way to high ABV offerings like Pumpkin IPAs and killer martinis on the right.
Wherever you end up, have fun, enjoy the weather and tip your server! Happy Autumn, and see our Instagram for more downtown matrices.
main photo: Butterscotch Flip at Split Eights (Liz Clayman)
