It is, for so many, so much more than just a beverage.  It is the steamy elixir of life, pumping the very daylight into their veins every morning.  It comes in many forms and many flavors, and it is a staple without which our very society might crumble.  Do not underestimate the life-giving power of . . . . .  .

COFFEE.

 

So where does one go to infuse this liquid manna from heaven into their mornings?  Fortunately, there are options in our area . . . .

 

Rockn’ Joe’s Café (5 Eastman Street in Cranford, and 20 Prospect Street in Westfield)

This place is amazing!  Awesome flavor choices, lattes, and particularly good atmosphere for hanging out to enjoy your DEE-licious coffee of choice. I often come here to get some work done! Comfy chairs with a great view!

 

Southside Roast/SORO (300 Centennial Avenue, Cranford)

This place calls itself “Your Neighborhood Coffee House,” and it truly is.  It is quaint, welcoming, and community friendly.  The kids love the smoothies and juice drinks, and the adults LOVE the coffee. The food is pretty fantastic, too! This place also offers things like story hour for kids, live music, and fund raising days for local schools.

 

Cake Artist Cafe (1 South Ave East, Cranford)

Although they are best know for their amazing  custom cakes, Cake Artist Cafe also offers some of the area’s finest coffee, delicious pastries, and sandwiches too! I am a big fan of their Pineapple Upside Down Cake!

 

Ahrre’s Coffee Roastery (104 Elm Street, Westfield)

While this place is a take-it-to-go one, they sell gourmet coffee by the pound as well as by the cup.

 

The Tea Spot (101 Miln Street, Cranford)

OK, I snuck this one in.  It’s not a coffee house at all, but an adorable little place to enjoy some gourmet teas in a variety of unusual flavors and blends.  This could be a nice change from the morning coffee routine once in a while, couldn’t it?

 

Starbuck’s (117 Central Avenue, Westfield, soon to open at 103-105 Chestnut Street, Riverfront, Cranford)

I believe it may be against some federal law or something to NOT have a Starbuck’s within a 10 mile radius of wherever you are.  With the new one opening at the Riverfront property which is under construction in Cranford, (Starbuck’s is the very first confirmed tenant), now you have an extra.

 

Dunkin Donuts (421 Central Avenue in Westfield, and at 333 North Avenue East, 6 South Avenue West, and 1230 Raritan Road in Cranford)

Love it or hate it, it’s an American standard.  Certainly the most economical of the coffee house choices, and with about one per square mile in this area, certainly very convenient, as well.  C’mon . . . . sometimes you just need a donut to go with your trash-can-sized coffee.  And America runs on Dunkin.

 

Bovella’s Pastry Shop (101 E. Broad St, Westfield 908-232-41490

This hometown favorite has been in business for more than 60 years… and there is a reason for their phenomenal success! The pastries, cakes, cookies, and treats are to die for…. AND you can grab a delicious cup of coffee as well! Bovella’s has been a favorite of mine forever! Nothing better than a cup of strong coffee and a sweet linzer cookie!

 

Breadsmith Artisan Bread Bakery (32 North Ave Cranford 908-276-2155)

There is more than just fabulous bread in this Cranford hot spot! Pick up some amazing dessert breads (my favorite is the chocolate pumpkin bread) and check out their coffee bar! Convenient location, too!

Carlo’s Bakery (21 East Broad St, Westfield 908-228-5525)

New to the area, but not new to the baking business, Carlo’s Bakery (of “Cake Boss’ fame) offers a wide selection of desserts and specialty baked goods… and an awesome cuppa joe!

Cafe Paris (106 Walnut Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016 (908) 276-8030)

Cafe Paris is a family-owned and operated restaurant established in 2001. They offer a wide variety of French cuisine in a charming atmosphere. Their coffee is the perfect complement to their outstanding crepes!

 &grain  (700 North Ave Garwood (908) 232-2233)

You will LOVE coming here! &grain is an Artisinal Bread Bakery & Cafe serving STUMPTOWN Coffee serving sandwiches, soups, salads, quiche, pasteries, and Artisan Bread. Convenient location and delicious, to boot! I love the bicycle that is often parked in front… so charming!

 

“Gimme a ‘C!’  Gimme an ‘O!’ Gimme a double ‘F’ double ‘E!’

Yaaaaaaaaaaay COFFEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can’t live without you!

 

And if you have any other local recommendations for coffee…. ADD THEM TO THE COMMENT SECTION!!