Pond Coffee

@ Small Mart, 2700 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70117, United States
$$$ Cafe
(99 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Pond Coffee sits tucked inside Small Mart on Chartres Street, offering a cozy nook for anyone needing a solid caffeine fix in the Bywater neighborhood. It’s the kind of place where the coffee really matters—their cortados and espresso shots clearly come from baristas who know their craft. Pair that with straightforward menu highlights like a plain bagel with chive cream cheese, and you get a no-fuss, quality-focused caffeine stop.

The atmosphere leans into intimacy and comfort rather than hustle. With a few small tables and counter seats, it feels less like a bustling café and more like a neighborly spot where familiar faces might remember your usual order. Because Pond Coffee shares its space with Small Mart and a separate bagel counter, there’s a low-key, local market vibe that’s casual but thoughtfully put together.

Visitors should come during quieter morning or mid-afternoon hours when you can really appreciate the friendly, down-to-earth service and the subtle interplay of coffee aromas and small community bustle. It’s well suited for locals looking for a reliable daily cup or a brief pause in the day, rather than destination tourists expecting a sprawling coffeehouse experience.

Though the café is small, the connection with surrounding businesses enhances its appeal; this isn’t just coffee, but part of a neighborhood rhythm that includes grabbing a quick bite at the bagel counter or popping into Small Mart. Small touches like accommodating various milk options and flavored syrups show attention to personal preferences that make repeat visits feel like returning to a familiar spot.

While the space is welcoming, it does have a quiet, focused vibe rather than being a dog-friendly hangout, which may matter if you’re hoping for a pet-centric experience. Overall, Pond Coffee depends on well-made drinks, personable baristas, and that understated charm that comes with growing steadily as a local staple without the need for flashiness.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Quick bite
Best for
Table service
Parking
Free of charge street parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

99 Reviews
Brian Chew

26 Dec 2025

Pond in Small Mart is a great cafe, with super coffee, expert crafters and friendly personable service. The bagel counter, also inside has terrific options as well (separate business, I'd also rate as excellent).I haven't been here in six months but the barista who I recognized remembered my drink. Now this might be because I was an annoying customer or dropped my dishes (I didn't) but is an example of someone who pays attention, cares about their work, and is invested in what they do so well. Top notch. Food is for the adjoining bagel sandwiches at the same location.

Sierra S.

19 Dec 2025

I came here because of a recommendation, and I am SO glad I did. Customer service was exceptional, baristas were incredibly friendly. It's located in a small mini mart with a bagel/deli type establishment. I believe they get their coffee from Pretty Coffee. I ordered a plain drip and a hot vanilla latte. They have whole and oat milk, and offer vanilla, lavender, maple and mocha syrups. Drip is very smooth and has a nice mouth feel. Espresso is very good as well. Milk texture on my latte was perfect. I also ordered a bag of their coffee. You get a card for a free coffee when you buy their coffee beans.

Steve Replogle

25 Nov 2025

This little shop, adjoining Small Mart, offers delicious coffee, lattes, and espresso. The staff members are so friendly and helpful you feel like you could just take them home with you for an extended visit! There are a few little tables, a few counter seats, and this coziness, rather than a distraction, adds to the feeling of comfortableness and community. Lovely artwork on the walls, interesting things to look at and read everywhere you turn, and such delicious, beautifully made hot drinks. A great place for the start of the day.

Courtney K

25 Nov 2025

The coffee and service were great! However, I was under the impression that this was a dog-friendly place. I came in holding my 11 lb Shih Tzu/Poodle mix and wasn’t acknowledged regarding my dog, which was fine — until another customer came in with their dog. The staff immediately offered them complimentary dog treats from the counter, but nothing was mentioned or offered to me. The same staff member who served me even looked over after giving the other dog a treat, but didn’t say anything to me, which left me a little confused. I didn’t want to make it awkward by asking, but I’d love to know if there was a reason for that. Overall, I really enjoyed the coffee and the service otherwise, but that small moment made me feel a bit left out. I’ll give this a 4-star rating for now, just because it could make other dog owners feel the same way. Maybe I just misunderstood how dog-friendly this place is!

Joshua Grippo

12 Oct 2025

These guys opened during the pandemic and it has been amazing to watch them grow. It's been even more amazing to see them keep the same level of care and kindness that made them successful in the first place. Every cup of delicious coffee is made thoughtfully and served with a smile. Pair that with the fact that they seem tailor made to share a space with Small Mart, and you have an unbeatable combo. Pond has become a neighborhood treasure. My personal favorite is the oat milk latte. It's smooth and subtle with no need for sugar. Even on a hot New Orleans day, you can enjoy it iced.

Josh Van Heck

04 Oct 2025

I hadan amazing experience at Pond Coffee from the second I walked in I was greeted by the welcoming staff. After exploring the many local roasters and espresso houses this one is my favorite. The bean used to make the espresso has a great depth of flavor without being bitter. Definitely a place to try if you love coffee and espresso.

Maureen Gallagher

02 Oct 2025

We stayed above this coffee shop and it was so lovely to start our day here! Excellent cappuccino and service. If I lived in Nola no doubt I’d be a regular. I loved their cups as well.

Grace Coppinger

22 Sep 2025

This place is a must stop! Fantastic coffee and bagels! I got an iced latte with honey and a Plain bagel with Sun dried tomato cream cheese. Felt like a spot where the locals go and the vibes are lovely!

Join the Pond Coffee Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.