New Main Street Coffeehouse Has Ribbon-Cutting

, the coffee shop which shares its space with the new branch on Main Street, had its  on Nov. 13 and 14.

The store's owner, William Closson, a 30-year Patchogue resident and forensic toxicologist, said the shop's reception by the community has been better than anticipated.  "We've been open for five weeks, and we've seen traffic increasing on a daily basis," he said.

The store plans on roasting its own coffee beans in-house with a roaster ordered from Turkey. For the ribbon-cutting ceremony, a temporary roaster was on display at the shop.

In addition to roasting and selling their own premium quality coffee beans right on the premises, Closson said, "We only deal with coffee we can certify as sustainable, which means people on the plantation make a living wage to support a family."

Roast boasts an extensive coffee selection, organic and fair trade tea varieties, along with muffins, giant cookies and other desserts.

A ribbon-cutting held on Nov. 13 was attended by Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri, elected officials, members and Patchogue Village Trustees.

Chamber of Commerce member Elaine Borowski commented that the new coffee shop is "a great asset.  We needed something like this."

The coffeehouse is the only one of its kind in the downtown area of Patchogue, the closest Starbucks being on the North Service Road of Sunrise Highway outside of the village.

"It's very convenient for people on Main Street.  We pick up sandwiches for lunch, then come back here in the afternoon for a pick-me-up," Hoag said.

The cozy shop has leather couches, free Wi-Fi and showcases rotating exhibits courtesy of local artists.

Evan Closson, the owner's son, will be working in the family business on weekends.  "The whole family wanted to do something in Patchogue for a long time.  We're lifelong residents and coffee fanatics," he said.

Open Mic nights are held for local poets on Mondays and local musicians on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the coffee shop.