In our Starbucks world, independent coffee houses aren't exactly on every corner, unless you live in Seattle. I adore the cafe culture of many European cities, but unfortunately we don't have that here. Americans seem to be perpetually on the go. But if you're looking for a relaxed, home-away-from-home vibe (think Central Perk on Friends) and want to support the independents, Cool Beans in Oradell, NJ, may be your place. You can linger with a good book or read the paper with little interruption.
There's only one vegan dessert. Luckily, it's a tasty one. Chocolate polenta cake ($3.96 + tax) and a small coffee, $1.54 + tax). Very decadent...probably enough to share. ZenSoy brand organic plain soy milk is available. They always have one fair trade, organic coffee option (this was from Nicaragua). Take a pound home for $14.50 (half pounds available for $7.50).
A tall soy cappuccino, $3.75.
A hodgepodge of kitschy second-hand furniture is in the shop, which I love. It's a form of recycling, and who wants scary over-sized leather couches? PETA's Cows are Cool site gives the low-down on the horrors of leather.
A meditative rock garden outside. With the arrival of warmer weather, outdoor seating is now available.
They also have Heart Thrive vegan energy bars for sale, but I'm not an energy bar fan.
Visit Cool Beans International Coffee & Teas, 304 Kinderkamack Rd., Oradell, NJ
Learn about Oxfam America's fair trade coffee campaign.
In New York City and looking for the Cool Beans vibe? Check out Grounded Organic Coffee & Tea House in the West Village (28 Jane St.) Vegan breakfast options include a tofu scramble wrap and bagels with Tofutti cream cheese.
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