Coinstar operates a network of self-service kiosks designed to provide consumers with convenient cash access and financial services at retail locations. This specific kiosk is housed within a Gristedes supermarket at 748 2nd Ave. in New York, NY 10017, making it accessible during regular grocery shopping hours. The company was recently acquired by Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC) as of February 2026 and has expanded partnerships with major financial institutions including U.S. Bank. Coinstar positions itself as a modern alternative to traditional banking services by eliminating the need to visit physical bank branches for common financial transactions.
The kiosk offers a comprehensive suite of services beyond basic coin conversion. Primary offerings include Coins to Cash conversion (the company's flagship service), eGift card exchanges from major retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, Apple, and Home Depot, cryptocurrency purchases through partnerships with CINQ by Coinstar and Coinme, Amazon Cash loading, charity donations through the Coins that Count program, and account transfer capabilities via Push to Card. The service accepts coins and bills (though this specific location shows "Accepts Bills: N"), and users can exchange currency for digital wallet funding or traditional bank deposits. Fees vary by location and service type, with some eGift card options advertised as fee-free.
This kiosk distinguishes itself through its integration of emerging financial technologies alongside traditional coin conversion. Unlike standard ATMs that only dispense currency, this Coinstar location bridges traditional retail banking with cryptocurrency access, making crypto purchases possible at a grocery store location without requiring a bank account or traditional financial credentials. The breadth of eGift card partnerships and the charity donation option add utility beyond pure cash conversion. The availability of cryptocurrency services (25+ crypto forms available) represents a notable differentiator in the broader ATM and cash access category.
However, potential users should note several limitations. The specific location does not accept bills for conversion—only coins—which restricts its utility compared to some competing Coinstar locations. All services carry variable fees that are not transparently displayed on the website, making cost comparison difficult. The kiosk's hours are limited to Gristedes operating hours, and reliance on cryptocurrency services requires smartphone apps and account setup in advance. While positioned as convenient, this remains a specialty kiosk better suited for specific transaction types rather than general-purpose cash access.