Local Coffee — Restaurant in Montclair

Can't say enough wonderful things about this place and the staff! Aside from the very solid coffee, tea, and pastries, Local stands out in so many great ways. If you're the type of person who sticks to the same order, they'll know it off the top of their heads within a few visits. If you tend to mix it up day to day, they've good solid advice on what you might enjoy trying. The mix of laptop-friendly tables and laptop-free tables is a nice touch, and fits well with the sense of community that the place and its staff foster, along with pieces around the shop from local artists. While the shop is relatively small and can get crowded, I've never seen a line get noticeably backed up, which speaks to both the staff's familiarity with their customers and their drink-making skills. Furthermore, if tables are filling up, the staff and customers are always more the happy to help rearrange seating to make some space for those just arriving. Additional bonus points for a solid sense of humor (the musings on the sign are always entertaining), a good mix of music, and keeping treats on hand for any canine passerby. Having grown up in the area and recently returned, Local reminds me of all the sorts of staple spots around town that become a fond part of so many peoples'...

On multiple occasions the baristas were very condescending and disrespectful, especially the tall blonde with tattoos. We would frequent this establishment some mornings, of which the Donuts that they sell have been really good, on numerous occasions this barista and the other barista rolled their eyes, made snarky comments, and were not polite in their answers to our questions. Understanding this is an imported outside vendor they get their donuts from and might not have every flavor each time. The eye rolling, whispering behind the counter as I witness the baristas actively making snarky comments to one another about the fact that we were disappointed we “missed” the donuts or they didn’t have the ones we like. This establishment used to be one we would frequent but I vow to never return. Even though the one gentleman was kind and respectful it happened on numerous occasions and I would not return to an establishment that makes fun or mocks our patronage. To the management, it would be wise to establish clear ground rules for baristas to treat all with respect. You seem to practice inclusion and respect on the surface but deep down your disrespect to me and my partner have been appalling. I’ve taken my...

Local is the BEST coffee shop in the area. I moved here over a year ago and tried as many coffee shops as possible. Local has amazing coffee, friendly staff that go above and beyond, the kindest regulars, yummy pastries, rotating local artwork, and adorable dogs that stop by outside for treats, what more could you ask for!?

Within a few visits they had my drink order down and greeted me by name. I settled on local as my coffee shop because of the staff (other places I felt like just another customer they were rushing through the line and out the door). So thanks for making me feel like family Kevin, Brenna, and Deb!

I really appreciate that the shop is dedicated to being unique. Brenna's ability to magic up seasonal drink concoctions is unparalleled (and these are NOT the sugary Starbucks knock offs you find in other well known shops). Her barista skills slay. Deb's kindness and attentiveness astounds me. She watches everything and anticipates customer needs before they even ask for things. Kevin listens to his staff and gives them autonomy in ways that enables growth and happiness, it's commendable for a small business owner and adds to why there is not high turnover.

Don't even bother with the other...