For many of us, coffee is a magic elixir that gives us the power to make things happen. Even if you’re not a fan for caffeine’s sake, coffee lovers of regular and decaf varieties will testify to the to the fact that coffee is life. That said, sometimes when out and about it’s easy to stop at a trusty franchise to get a quick fix. In reality, there are so many hidden gems in our area that offer excellent coffee, unique atmosphere, and that friendly staff that truly care. The best part? Supporting local businesses that greatly appreciate and benefit from your business!
I’ve compiled 5 local shops in the Paramus area to try- one being a smaller chain with a drive-through, because who doesn’t love an option from the comfort of their own car? Here they are:
Caffeine
360 Kinderkamack Rd.
Oradell, NJ
(201)599-8149
What we love: With a name that gets straight to the point, Caffeine offers a lot of variety menu-wise. If that intimidates you, fear not! Staff here are friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to point you in the direction of your new favorite drink. The space itself offers natural light that bounces off the green grass colored interior. If green isn’t your color, they offer a blue Unicorn Iced Tea (butterfly pea powder, lemonade) that’s truly pretty to look at. This is the place to go to for breaking your basic latte habit.
Coffee Break Hackensack
71 Main St.
Hackensack, NJ
(201)546-1629
What we love: Looking for an truly authentic Italian cafe experience, both in coffee and food? Coffee Break is just the spot. Father and Son run, a notable comment that is left on several reviews is that everything is “made with so much love”. With exposed brick walls and bright red chairs, the warm ambiance at Coffee Break creates a cozy spot that the whole family will love. Fans of Nutella must try a Nutellino, a hot coffee drink that’s a bit more dignified than taking a spoon to the jar. To top it all off, they offer free WiFi if your coffee break is a a working one.
CU Latte
8 Union Ave.
Cresskill, NJ
(201)266-8404
What we love: CU Latte (could that name be any more adorable?) offers a cozy little spot featuring organic coffee and delicious crepes. Organic varieties are hard to find sometimes, so that’s a big plus if it’s an option you’re looking for. Not to mention the lure of both savory and sweet crepes, an overlooked perfect companion to coffee, as well as a great option for kids. With a neutral vibe inside and a cute outdoor seating area, CU Latte is worth the visit next time you’re in Cresskill.
Tenafly Coffee Company
35 Highwood Ave
Tenafly, NJ
(201) 569-1461
What we love: Want the NYC coffee shop experience without the drive and crowdedness? Tenafly Coffee Company offers the urban industrial atmosphere, along with classic and creative coffee drinks, and superfood brunch items. This is an especially great spot to re-fuel while shopping in Tenafly, or before heading to an event at the Tenafly Nature Center.
Gregory’s Coffee
393 NJ-17
Paramus, NJ
(201) 857-7050
What we love: This smaller, regional coffee chain established in 2006 in Manhattan offers a totally different experience than the big dogs of coffee. This is the spot to try when you’re a little bored with your typical go-to drive through. I have to rave that the Paramus location features a drive through that’s not tiny or curvy (can you tell I’m a minivan mom??) The menu offered a lot of interesting options for both food and drink, but I decided on a popular drink called “Hall and Oats” (cold brew, oat milk, cinnamon and vanilla) and a vegan burrito. Both were truly delicious, and a welcomed change from the usual.
