Rook Coffee

I was visiting from out of town and like to support independent coffee shops so saw this on Google maps and gave it a try. I was surprised to find they have no espresso drinks and only do pour overs - they are certainly a rarity in the world of coffee shops. So no lattes or cappuccinos or americanos or such things. I am also pretty familiar with pour overs and watching their process was surprised at the outcome - it wasn’t bad. The person making the drinks dumps hot water on the grounds all at once. No bloom, no controlled agitation, no careful pouring from a pouring kettle. So the outcome is limited in what it can be. I got their Ethiopian and found it to be decently balanced and tea like in mouth feel. My wife had a decaf with oat milk that turned out ok once we added a more appropriate amount of milk. The store was quite busy - they seem to be quite successful with their product and clientele. There’s no seating - it’s a small shop for takeout only and no outdoor seating area either. I’d still recommend this over any of the main chain stores in the area. Friendly staff and they have a fun unique thing going on.

I love the lattes here; they're on a completely different level compared to the usual fast-food coffee. The richness and fragrance are exceptional even without sugar. I will definitely come back, highly recommended!

Overheard a worker saying “I love working, I love making coffee, and I love making people happy” we grabbed our coffee and she has made cute lil art with a message. Thanks Jules for putting a big smile on our faces on this lovely day!!! The best coffee in Jersey!

I think I make trips to NJ just to get my Rook fix. There is just something incredible about the place. The APP makes ordering easy, the staff is always hustling and cheerful, and the coffee is perfection.

My daughter loves rook coffee and this place makes it easy to pick it up and be a hero

I’ve never had a bad cup of coffee from Big Oakhurst. My favorite is the Guatemala blend with almond milk, Splenda and cinnamon 😮‍💨

Great local coffee spot, been coming here for a while now! The New Orleans cold brew is fantastic.

I like it, although they raised the cost of the coffee after everything from eggs to gas skyrocketed. Eh. Also everything is served in a plastic cup so you are ingesting microplastics which is not good. They should debut single use glass cups. We don't want to eat thousands of microplastics. Also for years I never see any African American employees here, no diversity just white even though they serve Ethiopean brew. How can it be authentic? Although the employees at this one are less weird then the little Oakhurst one. I think I am going to quit coffee as I do not want to use drugs, all it is doing is blocking the thing that says you are tired, not giving energy. It is like a credit card, borrowing energy from the future. Depleting minerals making you jittery and dehydrated eh is it worth it. The mocha is good yes but still. I wish they could have a raw milk option but it is banned in new jersey, the only state banning raw milk while still allowing cigarettes, weed, seed oils. Priorities not straight in the Garden State.

Rook is a NJ staple! I have come here many a time to fulfill some Cinnamon Vanilla and New Orleans cold brew cravings. It's good quality coffee and one of the few brews I enjoy without too many additives. Whenever i have stopped at a Rook location, the staff has been extremely kind and prompt. (I frequented the Rt 35 one since I used to work in the area). Glad I can ship it to others as gifts and to myself to get my Rook fix!

Rook is the best coffee around! Smooth, strong, and always fresh. The staff is super friendly, and service is quick

Excellent coffee! I've been hearing amazing things about Rook so on my way down to Asbury, I begged my boyfriend to stop on the way. As a huge coffee lover, it didn't take much convincing on my part! The shop was buzzing on a Saturday afternoon which is always a good sign. I opted for the cold brew which was smooth and delicious. I bought some cold brew to take home and also some ground coffee for my dad. My dad said the ground coffee was some of the best he ever had. I can't wait to go back.

I've never had a bad cup of coffee from Big Oakhurst. My favorite is the Guatemala blend with almond milk, Splenda and cinnamon ‍

Great coffee, they seem to have streamlined getting orders made and people in and out quickly. Even walking in and ordering seems to go pretty fast even if it's busy. Most people order on the app then just walk in and out. 2 things I miss and I think they should. Ring them back- coffee carriers, those cardboard things you jam a few cups in to hold them while you carry out to your car and the little black plugs to keep your coffee from spilling all over your car when you are driving home. Those 2 things should be available on the counter before you walk out the door.

One of my favorite coffee shops in NJ! The coffee is top notch. I've tried many and have loved them all! During the week I'd say you're good to walk in. On the weekends, I'd order ahead through their app! The staff is kind and quick! This location is not stay and sip friendly, it is a grab and go. It gives off a little rustic or industrial vibe.

I had ordered a latte style cold brew with creamer and sugar. I received a banana flavored coffee. That wasn't what I ordered and I find banana flavoring repulsive. It was very gross. I had only taken two sips to confirm that it was the wrong coffee, but it was too late. It caused me to have banana flavoring burps and made everything after taste a little like banana flavor. The staff were helpful in replacing the drink. But my overall experience was ruined.

We ordered 3 pumpkin style cold brews! Each were $5 and this place is amazing. They don't charge extra for milk replacements. Go ahead and order your almond, oat milk or more! They got busier as we were waiting for our order. They sell merchandises like sweaters, cups and etc. Super cute! FYI the coffee is a little strong and typically it doesnt come sweetened- must ask for it!

Nothing like it!! my mother is obsessed. She got merchandise, and she never buys anything from stores.

Now I know why it's called Rook because they rook you on coffee and give you 75% milk every time.

New Orleans style cold brew with cream and sugar is a classic. Consistently good coffee and a regular stop when visiting long branch.

What is there to say? I pick Rook's over Starbucks any day. The menu is limited but that just means they do everything to perfection. There's a few snacks: tasty muffins and croissants and some organic bars. I always get the Turkish style (with cardamom) hot coffee or the New Orleans style (with chicory) iced coffee. Small batch coffee at its finest.

Okay, I'm hooked on Rook! I finally got to check out this local chain and it is everything I anticipated. Great people and a terrific variety. Excellent descriptions of all the offerings. I'm looking forward to becoming a regular but for now I'll remain a Rook-ie.

I ordered a hot coffee with milk because I thought it would be fast. I stood there for 5-10 mins with no communication from the staff. One barista put out an iced coffee and assumed it was for me. It was for the girl who ordered after me. He then told me they were still "making" it. I then realized that the girl behind the counter who was having a long conversation with a customer/friend was supposed to be "making" my drink. The guy who took my payment could have poured milk in my coffee for me. I could have poured it myself. It wasn't worth waiting for this employee to finish her personal conversation to make my drink whenever she felt like it. Good coffee with a great reputation. This location just needs to work on it's behind the counter system. Seems unnecessarily complicated and susceptible to avoidable delays.

Great coffee. Speedy delivery to my home in Florham Park. Highly recommend the 2 lb bags of whole beans. I've never stepped into their store, but after drinking their coffee at my kid's place I couldn't enjoy any other coffee as much. Try it and you'll agree.

This is a response to Rook Coffee's response on my review. I don't think it is worth it to bring your own mug, as they suggested, if you can't drink it seated. After bringing my own porcelain mug and having to take it home, I might as well just make my own cup of coffee at home. That's what I do instead of going to Rook Coffee. They know very well that better coffee tastes better when it is enjoyed in a porcelain mug while seated. Cheaper coffee is fine in a disposable cup that you grab-and-go. But Rook Coffee does not allow you to enjoy their coffee while seated. Hence, Rook Coffee is cheaper coffee at higher prices. It should also be noted that they either were not honest that they would give me a free cup if I emailed them, or their follow-through could be better. I wrote them a nice email, as they posted here. But they never replied to me. I do not recommend going here. Just go to 711, Wawa, Dunkin or Starbucks. The coffee is about the same quality for less money. Or, if you want better coffee, you need to search for a better coffee shop or just make it at home.

I come here once a year because I live in north NJ and this is my favorite cold brew spot. I come in and the girl taking my order already gives me an attitude and then doesn't even fill up my large. Why did I pay for a larger size for it to not be filled up all the way. I didn't bother say anything because I don't need a reason for my Labor Day weekend to be ruined. I'm disappointed because I was looking forward to this drive for days.

I have never been to a Rook coffee I was really excited about trying it ...I walked in to the route 35 in Oakhurst location..putting my mask on and they started to yell from behind the counter about putting a mask on ..I said "ok" and they yelled again... I felt like walking out ...young kids yelling at an older woman ...I will never ever return to a rook coffee ...by the way the girl behind the counter had gloves on and was texting on her phone and then handed me the coffee with her dirty gloves LOL! (Oh yeah, and the coffee was terrible)

If my coworker said Rook Coffee's the best cold brew he's ever had, mmm mm honey, if y'all ever in North Carolina, hit up Pure Intentions or a cafe carrying them. The theme of this coffee house is "Excuse me, but I just want to say you are absolutely beautiful". I heard that twice in 5 minutes from two different people to two other different people. The wait was pretty long. The original cold brew (got it with almond milk and 2 pumps of sugar syrup) left a film in my mouth and fell short of smoothness and flavor. Slightly over roasted thus leaving a taste behind. They don't toast their croissants so you're opting for cold pastries at hipster prices. Plenty of parking. Nice people. Probably the only other place to get coffee besides Starbucks.

SOLD! Best cup I've had to date when in NJ for my job. Don't even second guess going if you're looking for an amazing cup of coffee. Just go!

Love your coffee but I'm writing this just to let you know that whoever is handing out coffee this morning should probably go home and start her day all over. We are paying a premium for your coffee bc it's delicious. We usually have friendly service! It would be nice to be received with a smile and a thank you. We (many) are standing outside patiently waiting and basically being spoken to as of being scolded or as if she's disgusted with us. Lastly a thank you would be nice rather than Yep.

I've never had better coffee. Also had to come here to say the banana toffee is good. Like, out of this world good. I've never had anything like it. I'm inclined to say it's the best cold brew I've had in my entire life. Love you Rook!!!

Delicious coffee! I got a traditional cold brew for $3.20, which is a pretty good price for a coffee shop. Rook Coffee is a NJ institution!

Loooooove Rook! The Oakhurst location is one of my favorites because the store is a bit bigger making it easier to order and pay without feeling like your in everyone's way. Like all the other Rooks, the staff is super friendly, works quickly to get you your order and the quality and service is superb! This location is great because they serve bagels (not all locations offer bagels) and you cannot come to Rook without getting a bagel with fig butter. The fig butter is the best and if you could buy it to take home I most definitely would! The bagels are good but you get the bagel for that fig butter!

Oh how I love rook! Super quick service and wonderful tasting coffee...I usually make my stop here right before I head into work. I'm so happy it's close by! The staff are super friendly and speedy. Don't forget to grab your stamp card too! Buy 10 coffees and get the next one free!

Love Rook! My favorite coffee spot in the area! The owners are awesome and take pride in their coffee! The New Orleans style with almond milk is my staple! Either hot or cold brew, can't go wrong! Feeling autumnal? The pumpkin style is so good, no artificial taste, and not too sweet!

Wow this place deserves nothing less than five stars! I do my fair share of coffee drinking and have even turned into a bit of a coffee snob over the years. Rook makes hands down some of the best coffee I've ever had. I can say without hesitation that their New Orleans style iced coffee is the BEST ICED COFFEE I'VE EVER HAD! For the record, I do take my coffee with cream (I've been told that real coffee drinkers drink coffee black. Well I'm sorry, I thought this was America!). The gentleman serving up coffee couldn't have been nicer. He talked about their different blends and gave a whole new definition to service with a smile. I've been to two Rook locations and neither have seating available. However, the last time I came here, my girlfriend and I made the short drive to Red Bank (soon to be new location for Rook) and walked along the marina with delicious iced coffee in hand. Ahh life is good with good coffee.

The second time I have ordered a flat bagel with cream cheese from this location, the flat bagel is so stale that i can't bite into it. It is like a rock. Very unhappy with quality.

Would highly suggest any location besides big oak. Completely and utterly mismanaged. Staff acts as though it's social hour rather than a place of business.

Horrible experience, terrible coffee. I would not recommend it to anyone, not even my worst enemy. COVID protocols were not followed. A man walked in without a mask and he was still served.

Literally my favorite place in the world. I CANNOT get enough of their Guatemala blend. It's seriously the most delicious roast and I've tried them ALL! I just keep going back to that one. Cute mercy, tiny store, and worth the visit.

There's just something about Rook coffee. If you live in Monmouth County, you get it. Generally I get coffee from that 'other' Seattle-based coffee chain for nothing other than convenience (drive-thru) and their rewards program, and shame myself every time--1. For not patronizing a local business and 2. For not getting myself better coffee. I love Rook, I've been to several locations and have never had a bad experience. The Lattes are perfect and the flavor of their coffee is so bold and complex. Rook, please open a drive-thru location!

Wow! My first time and I walked in clueless to what I wanted, just knew I was craving iced coffee. Such nice helpful, patient people work here. Asked me some questions and figured out a great recommendation for me to try. Home run! New Orleans Style iced coffee, almond milk, chicory has a smooth taste of chocolate without all the calories. Really great coffee, excellent experience. So excited one is coming soon to Holmdel. I know I will be visiting the new location as soon as it opens.

perfect coffee. Cold brew latte style is best!

This is my second favorite Rook location. The staff is friendly and knows how to handle a large crowd of thirsty patrons while still maintaining a positive attitude. This location is very cramped, but the baristas/cashier are good at getting people in and out in a timely manner. Rook has the best coffee (in my opinion), hands down. They don't sell espresso-based beverages and they don't have seating, at any of their locations, so keep that in mind! This location also has pastries and donuts, but they sell fast!

Felt a bit nauseous after having coffee here...cute ambiance and friendly staff. May revisit again for second chance if I'm in the area...

Just left and was very disappointed that Rook served the one and only person on a long line of people that didn't wear a mask for pickup. The sign in the window clearly states the mask is mandatory.

Was in town visiting some friends and needed a wake up with a bite to eat in the morning, so we Googled local coffee joints and this one came up at almost 5 Stars. Apparently, everyone who visits really enjoys a cramped setup, text pickup line that extends through the perpetually open door on a freezing day, and cold bagels with 3 times the amount of butter slathered on them as need be. The coffee was solid (partially in thanks to the psychological combination of paying more but not supporting "the man") but if you want anything resembling a comfortable environment with even mildly warm bagels (because you're an alien?) with a moderated amount of butter, skip across the street to Manhattan Bagels, which is what I did immediately afterward. They have actual room for tables and chairs, and you don't feel judged for not knowing that A. You have to order your food separately from the coffee, even though there's a hanging sign that says "Order Here" and B. they have flavored cold coffee, but they don't put flavoring in their hot coffee. Because...duh...

How can you not love Rook! They take the time to explain the coffees to you if you don't know what exactly you may like and every friend I have brought into a Rook has loved what they ordered. I am so happy one just opened in Freehold.

Coffee here is amazing! When I first heard all the hype years ago, about how totally amazing the coffee was in this tin garage, I was skeptical. Back then they only had the one location on Monmouth. I waited on a line that led halfway down thier parking lot for what seemed like forever. When I finally got my chance I ordered. Wow. They grinded the beans and hand brewed the coffee right then and there. Now I knew why I was waiting sooooooo long. The place was tiny but the coffee was and is the best I've ever had. I'm a summer Jersey shore guy, so in the winter, out of sight out of mind. Now they seem to opening everywhere. I saw a rooks in manalapan and I had to stop in. As usual, delicious. Which brings me to why review now. They deserve a great review, and I should have done this year's ago. Keep up the great work and maybe open in Brooklyn. Pretty please!

Our first visit, above average coffee and look forward to trying their other products, like cold brew

Having come here on and off for about a year now, I'm feeling like the initial "wow" factor has kind of worn off - at least for me. Why is that? Well, a few reasons: First off, I've noticed the coffee has been quite inconsistent here. I normally ordered a regular Hondoruas with "just a touch of cream for color", since good fresh roasted stuff really shouldn't need anything in it. Apparently asking for a touch of cream is a tall order, since it almost always came back to me with a ton of the stuff, which kind of ruins the flavor of the coffee itself. "Okay", I thought, "I'll just order it black then, and put my own cream in at the office". This made me realize why the creamer always felt overbearing - some days the coffee was super watery, other days it had a decent body. Maybe their grinder isn't up to snuff, I don't know. On top of that, the couple of times I bought whole beans for my machines at home, I was a bit disappointed. Now, I'm no stranger to coffee - I own one of those crazy super-automatic espresso machines in addition to my standard drip maker, as well as a fairly high end burr grinder. The resulting brews from the beans here have been merely so-so, compared to places like Asbury Park Roastery or JSCR. Why it is, I have no idea, but the only guess I have is that in an effort to expand, they've lost a bit of that "craft" / small batch flavor. Don't get me wrong, Rook is still a solid choice for coffee in the area, and is *miles* ahead of the swill you'll get at places like Starbucks or Dunkin. That said, it's a tad pricy for a cup of coffee, especially considering they can never seem to get my order right, and the inconsistencies / quality from their rapid expansion is starting to show, at least in my opinion.

Coffee was the best in the area. The store is a little difficult to spot the first time. The location is not nice and is a pain to get in and out of during busy traffic hours. Staff was not friendly. I would prefer to add milk and cream myself instead of relying on the staff to try to get it right to your taste.

Great coffee to go along with the donuts from next door. I recommend Turkish style with cardamom, no sugar. Nice caffeine boost by itself.

One of my favorite coffee places! I got the Costa Rica (mild) blend with a little bit of cream and sugar and it was perfect. I got this coffee blend grounded very finely to take home. The service is very friendly despite being very busy!

Unfortunately, I have to take some stars away from my review of my favorite coffee shop. I frequent Rook almost everyday. I usually text my order in. Last week 2 days in a row I had to have my coffee remade it was so watery. The first time I just attributed it to a slip up of them having used skim milk in place of whole. The second time the manager figured it was the grind strength setting. And they compensated me for my troubles with a free coffee card. Awesome. But again today, it's just not the same Rook quality I've come to love.

Impressed with their coffee on many levels. Being from NYC im used to having a plethora of good small coffee places during those times I dont really want to go to Starbucks. But its a must here..... especially that cold brew.. MMMMMM

Note: this review applies to ALL Rook Coffee Roasters. Hooked? I would say I am "rooked!" How do I know? Well, I just slogged through 6 towns in the pouring rain, passing no less than 6 Dunkins and Starbucks in the process, to get an Iced New Orleans coffee. The purveyors of this "black crack" search the world for their beans. They impart the same passion for coffee onto their staff. Their service is top-notch. They will ask you what kind of coffee maker you have and then grind the beans optimally according to your machine. That's the tip of the iceberg on their service. Love Rook and can't wait for them to open in Wall!

Rook has decent coffee. If their hours were different, they could certainly rival a Starbucks any day. My only thing with Rook is that when I order a decaf anyway, I always wind up for a little headache. I order decaf because caffeine causes me to suffer from migraines. They also give you an odd look when you ask for a hot latte. Happens every time. Coffee does taste good though and prices are fair.