Westport is blessed with many things.
We have art and artists. We have pizzerias and coffee shops up the wazoo.
But we don’t have a “coffee bar” — a place that serves ultra-premium, USDA organic-certified roasts.
That changes soon.
Shearwater Organic Coffee Roasters — currently killing it in Fairfield — will open its 2nd location. The site is the long-empty Bertucci’s building, on Post Road East by Long Lots Road.
Shearwater will share the space with (of course) One River School of Art + Design, and Ignazio’s Pizza.
Owner Ed Freedman’s company started 6 years ago in Trumbull, as a small batch roaster. They supply stores like Whole Foods and Fresh Market, and restaurants including Jesup Hall, The Whelk and Kawa Ni.
Two years ago they opened in the Brick Walk. Freedman says that customers — many from Westport, attracted by the bright space, knowledgeable baristas and (of course) great coffee — urged him to open here.
As in Fairfield, the new Shearwater will feature drinks like espresso and cold brew, along with small plates and salads.
“It will be warm, inviting and friendly — a place for everyone from millennials to retirees to enjoy great coffee,” Freedman promises.
A rendering of the interior of Westport’s Shearwater, by architect Amber Freedman.
He is proud of his “top-notch” customer service. In Fairfield, he says, baristas “really welcome people. They engage them, and help them select the right drink.”
Freedman believes that many people “tolerate” Starbucks coffee. “They add all kinds of flavors and sugars. That’s not us.”
Floor to ceiling windows and high ceilings will help make Shearwater a “real destination.” Freedman’s daughter Amber — an architect in Boston — designed both his coffee bars.
The Westport spot will be a destination in part because of its location near the Sherwood Island Connector, Freedman says.
He hopes to open in July. Ignazio’s hopes to open next month. River One’s grand opening is June 15-16.
There is still space for one tenant in the building.
Maybe a bank or nail spa?