Overview:
Connecticut’s coffee scene is brewing stronger than ever — from cozy local cafés to bold independent roasters redefining what quality means in the Northeast. Writer Rachel dives into two standout coffee shops that embody the state’s passion for caffeine and community, exploring what makes Connecticut a quiet powerhouse in America’s coffee culture. And as our editor notes, surviving — and thriving — in Connecticut’s ultra-competitive coffee world is no small feat. If you’ve kept a shop open for five years here, you’re doing something right.
The Lion’s Den by Vincenzo Infante
PLANTSVILLE, CT – “It’s not what you find in the grocery store,” Vincenzo, “Vinny,” Infante said on October 24. Choosing fruits of the highest quality ranks at “Grade A” for shoppers. For Vinny, his choicest offerings completely circumvent the supermarket.
Infante isn’t only on the hunt for the best strawberries or grapes. He strives for every espresso and latte to be the best you’ve ever had in Connecticut and even beyond. Opening and running a family business is never easy, but Infante is determined to be both the best husband, neighbor, and businessman he can be.
Daily Grind
Infante understands the importance of showing up and standing strong. Family values, instilled since childhood, reinforce Infante’s commitment. Italian roots – Sicilian, in particular – give Infante a link to the “homeland” and shape his worldview.
“My grandfather owned a pizza shop,” Infante explained in previous comments. The search for “un caffè” (one coffee) runs deep in the family. For most Italians, the day begins with an espresso, and Infante is no exception. The Lions Den Coffee Shop opened in late 2020, established upon heritage and the search for that perfect cup.
https://www.instagram.com/reels/C1iBZ2bvFDI
The care, timing, and precision in making a “good espresso” are not for the faint of heart or those caught up in the bustle of instant world. All good things take time. For Vinny, a perfectly crafted latte, cappuccino, or espresso is more than a “pick-me-up.” It is building relationships and taking the time to savor moments.
Willoughby’s Coffee and Tea by Barry Levine
Savoring moments and strengthening communities also lies at the heart of Willoughby’s Coffee and Tea on Chapel Street in New Haven. This year marks the chain’s 40th anniversary and its owner’s commitment to providing quality products in a convivial atmosphere.
When asked about his favorite coffee bean, co-founder Barry Levine replied, “Do you have a favorite child?” Levine moved to Connecticut in the mid-1980s and found himself struck by the lack of “artisanal” coffee shops as he’d frequented in New York. Starbucks had not expanded beyond Seattle at the time.
Bob Wiliams passed away
Levine and business partner, the late Bob Williams, decided to strike out on their own and open a place that not only served tea and coffee, but also roasted its own beans. According to reports, Willoughby’s became one of the first micro-roasters in the United States.
Located amid the bustle of Yale University, Willoughby’s not only endures but thrives with four locations. Two cafes operate in New Haven, one in Madison, and the newest location in Branford, where the coffee is roasted and distributed. A variety of blends are also available for wholesale and personal use, according to the website.
The Lions Den also provides take-home options for patrons, including a house blend and espresso beans. Both Infante and Levine believe in making their shops a place to gather, discuss, and find community.
The Good Life
In Italian, the concept of “la dolce vita” is more than an idea. It is vital. A heartbeat. The good life hangs not upon how much money a person earns. According to Infante, American society places too much emphasis upon a fast-paced culture.
“Our vision and mission set us apart,” Infante said on October 24. He went on to say the question someone should is “what can I bring?” By offering employees a viable wage, Infante seeks to improve lives on both sides of the counter.
For Levine, his mission springs from the same source. “We took the approach of, if you’re going to do this, as good as you could do it, how would you do it?” he said.
Global Recognition
Although based in Connecticut, Willoughby’s gains national attention as a roaster. Levine is still closely involved in the operation and travels throughout Central and South America.
Willoughby’s roasting methods follow the “cupping method.” The coffee is poured and brewed into 2-3 bowls and then assessed by tasting. In previous comments to CT Insider, Levine said, “I easily cupped a hundred coffees.”
Fellow-founder Williams passed away in 2013 after battling lung cancer. However, Levine says his business partner and friend is never far from his thoughts. Their mutual success is fruit of long hours and unseen struggles. Like the perfect blend, some things shouldn’t be rushed.
Looking Ahead
When asked how maintains balance, Infante of The Lions Den Coffee replied with a chuckle, “There is no balance. There are seasons.” As a husband and father, Infante often steals a moment by going home for lunch. Infante’s wife, Anisa, dedicates much of her time to “working behind the scenes.” Anisa also provides a majority of the artwork displayed in the shop.
“It’s the Italian way,” Infante explained. His life revolves around family and the life they’ve built together. Finding ways to engage with the public requires time, talent, and curiosity. Infante said 2026 will be a “big year” for the business as he seeks to expand. He has spoken with interested parties in Wisconsin and South Carolina. More details will unfold in the new year.
Similar Paths
Both Infante and Levine look forward to crafting quality beverages and forging ahead for their patrons and communities. If you find yourself traveling through Connecticut, you may find yourself near the Lions Den or Willoughby’s. Take the time to stop and avail yourself of these coffee shops, full of unique character and tasty offerings. Slow down and smell the coffee – plug into the community, if only for an hour, and find your own “la dolce vita.”
Editor’s Note:
One thing about Connecticut that might even rival Dave Portnoy’s favorite pizza spots? The coffee. I always tell people who’ve never been there — if you’re wondering what Connecticut is like, picture two Dunkin’ Donuts on every street corner. There’s coffee everywhere, and honestly, now I’m spoiled.To make it in the coffee scene here, it’s truly dog-eat-dog. Wisconsin doesn’t compare. NYC? Not quite. The Hamptons, Florida, Charleston, L.A.? Nope. Nowhere else competes like Connecticut. Even the gas station coffee raises the standard – Cumberland Farms wow – it just is high quality coffee.
If you’ve managed to keep an independent, non-franchise coffee shop open for five years or more in this state, you deserve national recognition as a coffee expert. I said it.
We are talking pure the product of the coffee itself not the atmosphere included in that factor.
— Editor, Presence News
More at Presence:
