A new local coffee shop that aims to expand across the Garden State and beyond is officially cutting the ribbon on their first location in Hoboken today, and all proceeds from discounted drinks on sale for the festivities will be going to a worthy cause.
Hudson Coffee recently opened their doors in the most appropriate place possible at 1100 Maxwell Lane. The redeveloped building was the site of the Maxwell House coffee plant, once the largest coffee processing plant in the world. The modern-day coffee spot features an industrial chic interior that’s a nod to the industrial past but within the evolution of Maxwell Place.
Nostalgic images of the old Maxwell House plant, Hudson waterfront shipyards, and more recent moments in Hoboken history adorn the walls. Some of the mounted artwork are photographs taken by owner Justin DePascale, a Hoboken native and police officer whose family has deep roots in the community.
DePascale says he didn’t develop a taste for coffee until he was assigned to the Anti/Vice Squad narcotics unit working mostly evenings. “I tasted some really bad brews during my years on the police force, so when I discovered truly good coffee, everything changed,” he says.
While Hudson Coffee pays homage to Maxwell House, the coffee is more of a premium, artisanal-style that’s made from the highest-quality beans from all over the world. Locally-ground seasonal blends, single-origin, and pour-over coffees are served alongside cold brews, fine teas, lattes, espresso, cappuccino, hot cocoa, and more.
Hudson Coffee also serves a selection of pastries, croissants, cookies, muffins, and scones. The shop is going for a true neighborhood vibe and will soon be hosting entertainment, open mic nights, and other events for the public. Their second location is slated to open later this year at 70 Hudson Street in Jersey City’s Exchange Place neighborhood, and the brand has big plans to further expand.
For now, the shop is celebrating its Grand Opening today via a ribbon cutting with Mayor Ravi Bhalla and other local dignitaries at 10 a.m. Hudson Coffee is offering half-priced coffee and beverages during their normal business hours of 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. and will donate all the proceeds to the Hoboken Police Department’s Police Benevolent Association, who will use the money to purchase safety equipment for Hoboken High School, where DePascale serves as School Resource Police Officer.
