Daymoves Brooklyn: James Murphy’s Cafe Venture

James Murphy, the visionary behind LCD Soundsystem, has stepped into Brooklyn’s vibrant food scene with Daymoves, a thoughtfully designed cafe at 295 Grand Street in Williamsburg. Opened in September 2019, this spot redefines the coffee experience by prioritizing relaxation over quick grabs, featuring high-quality brews, artisanal pastries, and an immersive audio setup crafted by Murphy himself. Connected to the acclaimed wine bar Four Horsemen, Daymoves evolves from daytime haven to evening lounge called Nightmoves, offering natural wines and creative cocktails.

The Genesis of Daymoves: From Music to Hospitality

Murphy’s foray into hospitality isn’t new; he co-owns Four Horsemen, a Williamsburg gem known for its curated natural wine selection. Daymoves extends this ethos next door, down a long hallway, creating a seamless hospitality hub. The cafe launched on September 19, 2019, around 8 AM, with the same ownership team: Murphy, Taïm owner Einat Admony (noted in expansions), Christina Topsøe, and Randy Moon. Their goal? A space “made for lingering,” far from the high-volume rush of typical coffee shops.

Williamsburg’s evolving landscape, blending indie music heritage with culinary innovation, provides the perfect backdrop. Murphy’s personal touch shines through custom oversized speakers playing vinyl from his collection, turning every visit into a sonic journey. This fusion of music and caffeine culture draws locals and fans alike, positioning Daymoves as a cultural anchor.

Daytime Delights: Coffee and Pastries That Invite You to Stay

Daymoves opens daily at approximately 8 AM, serving as an all-day cafe focused on quality over quantity. Coffee enthusiasts rave about the rotating selection from Brooklyn’s Sey Coffee and Coptic Light, plus NYC’s Café Integral. These roasters emphasize single-origin beans and precise brewing methods, resulting in nuanced flavors – think bright acidity from Ethiopian pour-overs or creamy Nicaraguan espresso.

Pair your brew with pastries from L’imprimerie, a nearby bakery celebrated for buttery croissants, seasonal tarts, and savory scones. The menu keeps it simple yet elevated, avoiding the clutter of oversized chains. In the weeks post-opening, Four Horsemen’s chef Nick Curtola introduced light dishes like avocado toast variations and grain bowls, enhancing the linger-friendly vibe.

• Sey Coffee: Known for experimental ferments and transparency in sourcing.
• Coptic Light: Brooklyn-based with a focus on light roasts and modern brewing.
• Café Integral: NYC staple for balanced, terroir-driven coffees.
• L’imprimerie Pastries: Flaky, flavorful options baked fresh daily.

Custom Audio: Murphy’s Sonic Signature

What sets Daymoves apart is its soundscape. Murphy, a DJ and audio engineer, installed bespoke oversized speakers that fill the space with warm, immersive sound. Vinyl spins from his personal collection – expect post-punk, disco, and electronica tracks that influenced LCD Soundsystem. This isn’t background noise; it’s an integral part of the experience, encouraging patrons to settle in with a book or conversation.

The layout supports this: communal tables, cozy nooks, and bar seating in a narrow, hallway-accessed space promote community without feeling cramped. No Wi-Fi signals the anti-remote-work stance – it’s for savoring moments, not spreadsheets.

Transition to Nightmoves: Evening Evolution

As day fades, Daymoves morphs into Nightmoves, a nod to Bob Seger’s anthem. This phase brings natural wines from Four Horsemen’s legendary list, alongside cocktails, mocktails, and possibly negronis on tap. The exact launch was fluid post-opening, but by 2020, it was fully operational, extending hours into the night seven days a week.

Expect low-intervention wines – funky pét-nats, crisp whites, and earthy reds – paired with small plates from Curtola. Cocktails draw from Murphy’s playful sensibility, perhaps with house-made syrups or unexpected twists. This duality makes Daymoves a versatile spot for date nights or after-work unwinds.

Why Williamsburg? A Neighborhood Fit

Williamsburg has transformed from warehouse district to culinary powerhouse. Grand Street hosts indie spots like Four Horsemen, making Daymoves a natural extension. Its location fosters walk-ins from music venues, galleries, and the L train, embedding it in the area’s creative pulse.

Visitor Essentials: Hours, Access, and Tips

Open seven days from ~8 AM, Daymoves operates without strict closing times, flowing into Nightmoves. Enter via 295 Grand Street; look for the discreet hallway from Four Horsemen. Cashless, pet-friendly (leashed), and kid-welcoming during day hours. Pro tip: Arrive early for prime seating; weekends fill with vinyl lovers.

The Impact: A Model for Cafe Culture

Daymoves has influenced Brooklyn’s third-wave scene, proving linger-focused cafes thrive amid hustle. By 2026, it remains a staple, with expansions rumored. Murphy’s blend of music, coffee, and wine sets a blueprint for multifaceted hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Daymoves still open in 2026?

Yes, it’s a Williamsburg mainstay at 295 Grand Street, serving daily.

What coffees are available?

Rotating from Sey Coffee, Coptic Light, and Café Integral – pour-overs, espresso, and more.

Does it have Wi-Fi?

No, intentionally to promote presence over productivity.

What’s Nightmoves?

The evening extension with Four Horsemen wines, cocktails, and small plates.

Can I buy merchandise?

Limited Daymoves swag like mugs occasionally available.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a LCD fan, coffee aficionado, or wine seeker, Daymoves delivers. Pair with Four Horsemen for a full evening or solo mornings with a record spinning. In Brooklyn’s ever-changing scene, it endures as an authentic gem.

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Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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