Java Joints
With the warmer weather all but a memory, Monmouth County locals are warding off autumn’s chill with a hot cup of coffee. Here are some of the area’s most popular cafés:
Rock Coffee
There are plenty of Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts in Monmouth County, but many locals flock to another chain: Rook Coffee. “My favorite coffees are definitely the Ethiopia and Guatemala,” says Little Silver resident Carrie Blodi. “And when it’s hot out, I’ll get their cold brew.”
Rook Coffee, Multiple Locations, ROOKCOFFEE.COM
August and Scout
This café’s owner came up with its name by pulling inspiration from her own kids: August & Scout are their middle names! That’s just one of the many sweet things about this place. You’ll find residents sipping on both their iced and hot chocolate, complete with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, and white and dark mochas as well. August & Scout also serves “edi-bowls” with blended fruit and granola, and Rice Krispy treats with whole marshmallows if you’re really looking to treat yourself.
August & Scout, 140 MAIN ST., Manasquan, 732.722.7445, AUGUSTANDSCOUT.COM
Coffee Corral
It’s October, and that means one thing: Pumpkin Spice Season is officially upon us! The folks at Coffee Corral are celebrating in an awesomely artistic way: They’re creating pumpkin-shaped designs in the foam of their pumpkin spice lattes. Also on offer: iced coffee with the cherished fall flavor as well as with other add-ins like vanilla and caramel. Coffee Corral also sells wholesale coffee to local businesses, which it sources, purchases and carries itself. Both sides of the business run all year long and make Red Bank the place to grab a latte or red-eye. Coffee Corral, 177 Dr. James Parker BLVD., Red Bank, 732.741.2326, COFFEECORRAL.NET
Turnstile Coffee Roasters
This coffee shop features java from some of the country’s best roasters, like Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Counter Culture Roasters, and also offers its own unique blends. You can grab a cup to enjoy in the café or buy a bag of coffee to bring home. Turnstile also offers whole-leaf specialty teas, served hot or cold, with an array of baked goods to pair with your drink. Turnstile Coffee Roasters, 1607 RT. 71, Belmar, 732.894.9012, TURNSTILECOFFEE.COM
