Ara Coffee — Restaurant in Rutherford

Nice location right near the rotary in the middle of Rutherford. Small space, but they have some long tables in the middle of the shop and some bar top style seating against the windows. One of the coolest things I noticed about this place is that their roaster is RIGHT BEHIND THE COUNTER! I’ve never seen a setup quite like this. It’s pretty cool. Don’t worry though it looks like it’s been setup with some special walls and ventilation. I have to say my experience was a little strange. I’m from out of town, but I’m often in the NY/NJ area for work and I like to just do some quick Google searches for specialty coffee shops in the area. Ara Coffee has some good reviews and seemed like they would be a great choice. I walked in, was gruffly greeted by the lady behind the counter. I asked if they were doing pour overs today and she looked at me like I had 8 heads. “What’s that?” I crudely tried to explain that it’s like a drip but made for a single serving. She said “Ohhh hand drip.” Yes! That was definitely what I was looking for, but just hadn’t heard anyone refer to it as a hand drip before and not know what a pour over was (I hate sounding snobby, but they DO pour overs here - It’s not like I was trying to quiz a Dunkin’ Donuts worker on specialty brewing methods.) She mentioned a couple of the bean options so I asked what she recommended and for me the fruitier and sweeter the better. Again, blank stare. I just went with the Ethiopian. The coffee was very good. It was well brewed over a V60 and had a very nice spicy, fruity flavor to it. I would definitely go here again, but for those seeking a more interactive experience this may not be the place for you. I love having a conversation with the roaster about what they have, what makes them different, and what gets them excited about the coffee. Aside from the coffee itself, that’s my favorite part of visiting a roaster and ordering a fresh pour over. This wasn’t a bad experience by any means, but it would have been nice to have a pleasant greeting and to learn a bit about what these folks are doing, especially since they clearly have a very interesting roast operation right...

Ara Coffee is a hidden gem for coffee lovers and those looking for a cozy spot to relax or work. The moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The décor is modern yet comfortable, though seating is somewhat limited, so it’s best to arrive early if you’re hoping to find a spot.

The coffee here is exceptional, and one of the standout features is that they roast their own beans on-site. This ensures that each cup is fresh, flavorful, and crafted with care. Whether you're enjoying a rich espresso or a smooth cold brew, the quality of the coffee is evident in every sip. For those who prefer other beverages, they offer a nice selection of teas and some delicious pastries and snacks to accompany your drink.

The staff at Ara Coffee are friendly and attentive, always ready with a smile and eager to make your visit pleasant. The service is quick, even during busy times, and they make an effort to accommodate special requests.

Overall, Ara Coffee offers a perfect blend of great coffee, welcoming ambiance, and excellent service. Despite the limited seating, it's a spot worth visiting if you’re in Rutherford, and you'll likely find yourself...

I’ve been coming to this place since the day it opened, and no matter how many times I return, I simply can’t stay away — the coffee is extraordinary, but it’s more than that.

There’s something genuinely special about the owners and their entire family. Every time I walk through the door, it feels like I’m stepping into a second home — a place where warmth lives in every corner, and kindness lingers in the air.

Their presence is gentle, loving, and sincere. They greet me with the kind of energy that softens even the hardest days. Over time, I realized something simple but profound: They have always treated me with unwavering care, no matter what.

In a world that often feels rushed, indifferent, or transactional, people like them — calm, gracious, and deeply human — are rare. You can’t fake a heart like that.

And that’s why I keep coming back. Not just for the coffee, but for the people behind the counter — the kind of people who restore your faith in the...