I wouldn't say Willoughby's is the best coffee shop but it's probably the best here in New Haven. I order my coffee mostly mail order from the west coast (Seattle etc.). Personally, I like the smaller chains personally more than the behemoth national chains (e.g. Starbucks) which to me tastes burned and pretty much indistinguishable from one cup to the next.
I order both whole beans and single cups from Willoughby's - though mostly the former. They have a huge selection of French roasts and beans are dated to ensure freshness. I think the House Blend and the Downtown Blend are the best. I also like the French Roast Columbian for the French press.
The sales staff are helpful when buying beans though not as accomodating l when buying coffee supplies. But you could say New Haven isn't a very friendly place in general.
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