The weather might be cooling off, but the better news is that the local coffee scene continues to heat up. A swath of fresh "third-wave" java joints are sprouting up at all corners of our region, bringing city sensibilities to the northern suburbs and countryside. Here are a few recent additions that know how to pour a serious cup to compliment your cardigan this fall:
THE CAFÉ AT KATONAH YOGA
Soon to open adjacent to Nevine Michaan's acclaimed Bedford Hills studio, Katonah Yoga's design-forward cafe, styled by Stephanie Michaa/the.interior, is a game-changer in Northern Westchester. Healthy bites will complement an innovative beverage program by Eva Twine Apothecary—charcoal lattes (steeped charcoal, cinnamon and cardamon with steamed milk) are a signature—with beans by Brooklyn Roasting Company. 39 Main St, Bedford Hills, NY
Charcoal lattes are the signature beverage at The Cafe at Katonah Yoga
E-SHOT CAFÉ
Finding a proper flat white on a Westchester cafe menu board isn't to be taken for granted. Steps from the platform of Larchmont's Metro North station, this serious espresso bar brings city coffee sensibilities to a cosmopolitan village that craves it. Skilled baristas sling Counter Culture coffee in a minimalist space outfitted with a community table and big picture window, making it as perfect for socializing as a grab-and-dash to the next express. 130 Chatsworth Ave, Larchmont, NY
ADA'S KITCHEN & COFFEE
Locals felt a deep loss when Ada "the Candy Lady" Cantavero, a neighborhood celebrity, passed in 2008, leaving an uncertain future for the beloved candy counter she ran for 60+ years out of Riverside's old post office. Thankfully, the story took a happy turn when it reopened this year as a community-focused café, serving Port Chester-roasted PATH Coffee and light fare spotlighting locally-sourced ingredients. 112 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT 0687
If you've ever dreamed of grabbing a cappuccino at the house from Up, Ada's is the next best thing.
ALL THAT JAVA
What this tiny, tech-loving roadside stand lacks in size is more than made up for by its output. Located off the Route 9 corridor, it's the perfect storm of convenience, cultured coffee and local breakfast fare. They're even developing their own mobile app to advance-order (but until, if you want yours waiting upon arrival, you'll just have to text it)—not bad for a humble coffee kiosk in the north country. Try the apple cider latte (pumpin spice is so played out), or a "frappienza" for those warmer days. 6579 Spring Brook Ave. Rhinebeck, NY
Find more local spots north of NYC