Java Regulars Jolted By Move
A group of loyal Java Nation customers carried the coffee roaster out the doors of the Sag Harbor shop early Sunday evening like pallbearers grieving over the end of an era.
Having lost its lease in the Shopping Cove off Main Street, the coffee shop, owned by Cheryl and Andres Bedini, was moving after 17 years.
Many lined up Sunday to have one more cup of coffee before they went. As the day came to a close, tears were shed and hugs exchanged to the beat of drums, courtesy of Dan Bailey, a local musician who said he “wanted to lighten the vibe and show support.”
“It’s sad,” Mr. Bedini said on Sunday afternoon, while packing. He will miss the kids, many of whom he watched grow up. He will also miss the international clientele, he said — regulars from a range of Spanish-speaking countries with whom he could chat in Spanish.
In a press release sent last week, Ms. Bedini announced that Java Nation would move its operations to 112 Maple Lane in Bridgehampton, near the railroad station. She said they will expand their roasting operation through private labeling, mail order, Internet sales, and farmers markets, and added, “We have space for a cafe in the front that should open in a few weeks.”
On Facebook on Monday, Mr. Bedini thanked “all those who got teary eyed,” and said, “It helps us to know that we have touched people’s lives. We may be back in Sag sooner than you think. But, in the meantime, come see us in Bridgehampton. . . . See how we are progressing.”
Their former landlord reportedly wanted an upscale business to take over the Shopping Cove location. Shane Dyckman, whose wife, Tisha Collette, owns the consignment shop next door, was to take the lease. By Tuesday, both Collette’s and the former Java space had been gutted.
Loyal Java Nation customers do not relish the idea of a replacement for their beloved coffeehouse.
“It’s as if they’re saying, if you like to roast coffee, have a theater troupe, or display public art on your property, please get out of Sag Harbor,” Mick Hargreaves said yesterday, referring to the Bay Street Theatre’s potential move from the village, and the zoning board’s decision that a Larry Rivers “Legs” sculpture must be removed from the side of a property on Madison Street.
On Facebook , people expressed support, good wishes, and sadness.
“It’s a terrible loss for Sag Harbor, for all of us that loved Java Nation right where it was,” Kate Mueth wrote. “It’s a tragedy,” said John Monteleone.
“We’re like lost puppies now,” Billy Sonenfield wrote.
Ms. Bedini reminded fans that they will be able to find Java beans in local restaurants and delis, such as Tutto il Giorno, Provisions, Dockside, and Cavaniola’s Gourmet in Sag Harbor, Breadzilla in Wainscott, and the Hampton Seafood Company in East Hampton.