[tensafefrogs]

I always see a bunch of people w/ laptops at the Bar at Cocoa bar: http://www.yelp.com/biz/cocoa-bar-new-york

Also there's usually a couple laptops out at Coyi Cafe up the streeet on Ave B.

Though I do agree that there's a shortage of good spots to hang out w/ a laptop for a few hours during the week daytime.

(not that this has any effect in my mind as to whether NY is better than SF for startups, but whatever)