Blue Heron Tea & Coffee — Restaurant in Village/Town of Mount Kisco

A Rare Gem – The Coffee Shop Everyone Deserves but Few Are Lucky Enough to Have Nearby

From the moment I walked through the doors, I knew this place was something special. The atmosphere is unreal—warm, inviting, and brimming with the kind of thoughtful details that make you feel instantly at home. Whether you’re a first-timer or a daily regular, the staff treats you like you’re already part of the family. It’s the kind of hospitality that feels rare these days: genuine, kind, and deeply intentional.

But let’s talk about the coffee—because wow. Every single cup I’ve had here has gone beyond expectations. It’s clear that whoever is sourcing and brewing the coffee knows what they’re doing. The espresso is perfectly dialed in, the pour-overs are balanced and nuanced, and even the cold brew tastes like it was crafted by a team of coffee alchemists. Tea lovers, don’t fret—this shop gives just as much love to their tea program. Their selections are thoughtful and beautifully brewed, offering both comfort and complexity in every sip.

And the pastries? Heavenly. We’re deeply satisfying cookies, and seasonal bakes that make you look forward to each visit just to see what’s new. Everything feels homemade but elevated—like someone’s grandmother studied at a world-class patisserie and decided to spoil the entire neighborhood.

But perhaps the best part of this place is the community it fosters. You’ll find students studying, neighbors catching up, artists sketching, and new friendships forming at the sitting at the bar. It’s more than a café—it’s a cornerstone of connection. This shop doesn’t just serve drinks; it nurtures people, creativity, and conversation.

If you’re lucky enough to live nearby, congratulations. If you’re visiting from out of town, do not leave without stopping here. It’s more than a coffee shop—it’s a daily reminder that joy can be found in the small, beautifully...

I feel it’s important to share some background on the owner, Matthew Paratore, for those who may want to know who is behind this business. He previously operated Minerva Café and Hamilton’s in Manhattan, both of which closed permanently in 2016. I was employed at one of his former businesses and unfortunately experienced serious issues, including unpaid wages, bounced checks, and sudden closure without any communication.

Multiple former employees were similarly affected, and there were unresolved financial disputes involving rent and payroll. To this day, many of us never received our rightful pay, and attempts to contact him were ignored.

It’s concerning to see this pattern continue, and I hope those considering working with or supporting this establishment do their due diligence. There have been past complaints filed with the Department of Labor and IRS regarding his former businesses.

While everyone deserves a second chance, I believe in transparency, especially when hard-working people were left without answers or compensation. Please be cautious and informed.

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I believe it’s important to provide some context about the individual behind this business, Matthew, especially for those who may be considering working here or supporting it. He previously owned Minerva Café and Hamilton’s in Manhattan, both of which shut down permanently in 2016.

I was employed at one of his previous establishments and, like many others, faced serious problems, such as bounced paychecks, unpaid wages, and the sudden closure of the business without any prior notice or communication. Several employees were left in similar situations, and to this day, some of us are still owed money. Repeated attempts to reach out were ignored.

There were also reported financial issues involving unpaid rent and payroll liabilities. Some complaints were even filed.

While people can change and deserve the chance to move forward, I feel transparency is necessary, especially when previous patterns raise concern. If you’re thinking about engaging with this business, I encourage you to look into its background carefully and make an informed decision.

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