Most small coffee shop owners might feel threatened when a corporate giant moves in just down the block.
But not Corinda DeVingo, owner of Bean's, a java destination since 1974 on Church Street in Montclair. "We're totally different than Starbucks, I'm not worried," she says. "We have hundreds of loyal customers - many come here to buy their own custom blends, which we keep on file," Corinda told Baristanet yesterday, opening three drawers full of Rolodex cards. "A lot of our customers are mail-order clients," she adds.
Indeed. The quality and choice of beans is impressive. With over 30 varieties of coffee beans for sale, fresh baked goods, pastries, and shelves stuffed with rare teas, teapots, and gourmet gifts for the consummate hot beverage lover, no wonder the cozy little shop has its passionate devotees. Here's what one Bean's fan says:
"If you're into the brew: I drink coffee all day and Im into mixing beans this place is truly grand. With a million flavors-and decaff too, Ladies!"
With their new neighbor down the block, will it be business as usual for Beans?
"We realize parking might be a problem for our customers, so now we offer curbside service," Corinda added.
Beans is located at 42 Church Street, Montclair. 973-783-3575.
I'm sure I'll be the first of many to say: "We LOVE Beans, when you walk in, you can't help but notice the rich aroma... one just goes 'I'll have some of that please'...and you know why you keep on coming back."
And Corinda is the nicest person you'll ever find...a true sense of the community too.
Beans is MONTCLAIR...and will always be.