Introduction to CopperLeaf
CopperLeaf Bakery and Wine Bar, a new cafe located at Frederick Douglass Boulevard and 114th Street in Harlem, is serving up sweet treats and hot drinks this winter. The business officially opened in December 2025, and their most loyal customers have been trudging through the January snow to get a taste of the eatery’s pride and joy: their freshly baked sourdough bread.
Menu and Drinks
The cafe’s drinks are a mixture of traditional and eccentric. Roberto Campan, the general manager, curated the drink menu throughout the fall, brewing a variety of recipes. Their signature drink is a maple seed latte. Another favorite is the “Rose in Harlem.” The mocktail features rose simple syrup, made in-house, and San Pellegrino sparkling water. CopperLeaf is not a typical cafe. The owner, Ruth Shin, wanted to make it stand out among the prominent eateries lining Frederick Douglass Boulevard. From their 8 a.m. opening right until closing time —5 p.m. on weekdays and 7 p.m. on Thursdays and weekends—they also have a full bar, serving flowery margaritas, spritz-y cocktails, pineapple martinis and a selection of wines.
Food Menu
The food menu is equal parts sweet and savory. The options include buttery croissants, sweet matcha and vanilla swirled pound cake, tangy avocado toast topped with a beet-pickled egg, charcuterie meats and cheeses served with toasted sourdough bread and, even more filling, a beef short rib sandwich that resembles Vietnamese bánh mì. The menu will continue to change, according to Shin, to maintain an element of excitement and surprise. But the current food options reflect Shin and her husband’s appreciation for a variety of global cuisines.
Mastering the Art of Sourdough
Shin has been in the kitchen since childhood. A part-time job at a restaurant in her 20s introduced her to the beauty of baking. About 15 years ago, she launched an independent catering business — primarily for wedding cakes and other desserts — but operating alone, especially with a young child, was not easy. Shin then transitioned to working in real estate and advertising for a few years, but she never abandoned her love of cooking and baking. During the pandemic, Shin endeavored to master the art of making sourdough. The bread was trending across the internet. For Shin, it was more than just a fleeting craze, though. “It’s a living organism,” she explained. ”And I finally started to really understand it.”
A Rose in the Concrete
Shin had a conversation with her husband, Tadas Nikulin, in 2024. “You know what my dream is?” she recalled asking him. “A hole-in-the-wall bakery.” She remembers him responding, “I’m in. I want to do it with you.” They started searching for a place at the end of 2024 and signed the lease in Harlem in March 2025. With a background in finance and advertising, Nikulin became her business partner and supporter in opening CopperLeaf. “I’m very passionate about baking and I have a lot of experience,” said Shin, reflecting on the nine months of renovations and preparation that led up to their December opening. “We are learning from the ground up.”
Location and Community
“Harlem was really the perfect area,” said Shin. She grew up in Morningside Heights, just a few blocks away from where CopperLeaf is now located. Becoming a business owner in the neighborhood years later feels like a full-circle moment for her. Opening during the winter inevitably came with its difficulties, but Shin says that week after week, it’s gotten busier and busier. “We are here for the customers, and that’s what we prioritize,” said Shin. CopperLeaf remained open for its loyal customers during the storm on Jan. 25 that left over a foot of ice and snow covering Harlem and much of New York City.
Conclusion
CopperLeaf Bakery and Wine Bar is a unique and exciting addition to the Harlem community. With its delicious sourdough bread, creative drinks, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. Whether you’re a foodie, a coffee lover, or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, CopperLeaf has something for everyone.
FAQs
Q: What is the address of CopperLeaf Bakery and Wine Bar?
A: CopperLeaf Bakery and Wine Bar is located at Frederick Douglass Boulevard and 114th Street in Harlem.
Q: What are the hours of operation for CopperLeaf?
A: CopperLeaf is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 7 p.m. on Thursdays and weekends.
Q: What types of drinks are served at CopperLeaf?
A: CopperLeaf serves a variety of drinks, including a maple seed latte, the "Rose in Harlem" mocktail, flowery margaritas, spritz-y cocktails, pineapple martinis, and a selection of wines.
Q: What is the inspiration behind the "Rose in Harlem" mocktail?
A: The "Rose in Harlem" mocktail was inspired by the idea of a rose growing in concrete, symbolizing the beauty and resilience of the Harlem community.
Q: Can I visit CopperLeaf’s website for more information?
A: Yes, you can visit CopperLeaf’s website at copperleafbakery.com for more information about their menu, hours, and events.
