Vrushabh S.
Yelp
I wasn't even planning on stopping by here, but I'm really really really glad that I did. The cafe is located in this strip mall, but has a huge sign that reads Rook with an owl-like logo, so you really can't miss it.
As soon as you walk in, there is an unmistakable hipster vibe to this place. The signs are handwritten, the interior deco is all minimalistic, the color scheme is a beautiful black/white, and there are bar stands around the inside perimeter. There's one restroom, one line, and one entrance. They list out the steps on how to order coffee on the back wall next to the selection of coffees. I would say it was all straightforward and obvious to me, but the lady in front of me was definitely utilizing that information. They accept cash/credit/debit and you pay after you've ordered, not before. Also, I really like that they had free decals of the owl logo at the register!
In terms of the actual coffee - DOPE AF!!! Arguably the best along the shore, and the closest I've had to authentic roasters in Princeton/NYC/Boston. The menu is really easy to understand too; they list all the different kinds of coffee origins (Ethiopian, Costa Rican etc..) under the headings mild, medium, dark, and cold brew, so you can be as specific as you want. I ordered the New Orleans cold brew with 50% half and half/50% 2% milk with agave nectar. Definitely the star of the show here, and what two other patrons behind me also ordered. The tart flavors of coffee PERFECTLY married the mild sweetness from the agave and the thickness from the h/h. It was delectable, satisfying, and new to say the least. They make it just the way you like it, and you can ask them to fix your order if you didn't like it (unheard of! for local roasters). Also, the coffee comes in two sizes, but the small is huge, so unless your stomach is a gas tank, I'd avoid the large.
Come here if you need to get away from the crowds at the beach, need a morning/mid-day pick me up, or just want to experience the incredible flavors this cafe has to offer. I'm pretty sure no other venue in this area even offers New Orleans brews?? So, I rest my case.