Eats
American Bulldog Coffee Roasters It’s Not Just About the Coffee Here By Richard Posluszny
I
remember it just like it was the other day. I had been strolling along in downtown Ridgewood checking out the local scene when I was presented with something allnew that I hadn’t noticed before. It was a coffee shop on North Broad Street. But there was a certain something about American Bulldog Coffee Roasters when I first set eyes on it that made me take note. Perhaps it was the way “SPECIALTY COFFEE” was written boldly on the large picture window, or maybe it was the old-school look and feel of the space. Being shy, I decided to return another time as the business was busy as a beehive. As an early riser, I embarked on my first trip to Bulldog on a crisp Saturday morning. First in, first out is my modus operandi. As someone who typically abstains from coffee, it’s not a necessity for my daily routine — it was a rare treat for me. Arriving to find just one other patron in the shop, I was able to take it all in.
and fresh baked goods that hangs in the air. In the middle of the walkway that leads to the main counter was a truly massive American Bulldog. Looking awfully cozy and tired, I made sure to carefully step over the intimidating dog. Looking a bit closer at her face I had a realization: This dog’s mug is the company’s logo. “Cute,” I thought. Standing in front of the counter and observing two large chalkboards, I am sure it is a coffee lover’s dream scenario. As a novice, I quickly decided on a small vanilla latte. Then, the polite, baseball hat-wearing barista got to work. While my drink was being prepared, I curiously looked behind where I was standing — and into the kitchen — to discover a tall, blonde woman working feverishly on a tray of more fresh baked goods. From my passing glance I gathered it was a series of delightful-looking scones. Wandering into the seating area where I noticed the dog was working its way into a peaceful slumber, I looked closer at the decorations and details. Every piece from the vintage light fixtures to the original ice cream parlor tables to the solid wood benches dripped of charm and made the space feel warm.
Once you cross through the doorway you’re transported into an antique paradise. There’s no doubting that there’s a carefully curated vibe here. But Bulldog’s visual appeal is completely overwhelmed by the scent of strong coffee
“Vanilla latte!” was barked and it was my time to sample
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