BREAKING: In a swift victory for local street vendors, brothers Adrian and Catalin Manmanole have successfully returned their beloved coffee cart to its original location at 66 St and Columbus in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, just 24 hours after facing an unexpected displacement.
For nearly 30 years, the Manmanole brothers have been a staple of the community, serving hot coffee and breakfast to busy New Yorkers. However, their operations were disrupted when a heavy concrete flower planter was placed in their designated spot following construction at the nearby old Channel 7 Studios. “We have been here since 1994,” they shared with Eyewitness News, emphasizing their deep-rooted connection to the neighborhood.
The sudden relocation forced them to move down the street, where they struggled to attract customers under scaffolding. “This spot is too far from the corner, too far from the subway,” Adrian lamented. “It’s killing my business; we make not even half.”
After the brothers reached out to 7 On Your Side, the team investigated the situation. The building managers from 2 Lincoln Square explained they wanted the cart relocated due to their entrance preferences. However, the NYC Department of Transportation confirms that vendors should not be displaced without cause, especially those who contribute positively to the community.
“We reminded the building managers of DOT regulations regarding vendor displacement,” a representative from the news team stated. Upon hearing this, 2 Lincoln Square expressed support for small businesses and acknowledged the importance of the Manmanole brothers’ cart in the area.
The next day, the flower planters were relocated, and the coffee cart was back in its original spot, much to the delight of their loyal customers. A postal worker exclaimed, “I was missing them, I didn’t know where they went, I finally found them!”
With their business restored, the Manmanole brothers expressed gratitude for the community support and the swift action taken by the city. “Definitely 7 is on our side, thank you,” they said, relieved to be back on their corner serving fresh coffee and eggs.
This incident highlights the ongoing struggle street vendors face in urban environments and the importance of community advocacy. As New Yorkers rally around their local favorites, the Manmanole brothers’ triumph serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and support in preserving small businesses.
Stay tuned for further updates on local vendor regulations and community support initiatives.
