In spirit of the Halloween season, I decided to try out a little Hempstead hole-in-the-wall. This coffee shop is located on Hempstead Turnpike in Long Island and offers something most places don’t. With the ever so fitting name of the Witches Brew, this place is certainly radiating Halloween style. Once inside, the atmosphere is a bit overwhelming, but in the most wonderful way possible. Each table is unique in style and completely mismatched from the surrounding tables. Some people sat in antique office chairs, others in grandiose, satin-looking sofas. This is all part of the Brew’s distinct charm. Aside from the seating arrangements, each room of the coffee house is filled with authentic looking props, finished off with overhead hanging lights. The best part? This one-of-a-kind charmer is open all year round. That’s right. Halloween is celebrated 365 days a year here. This continuous nature may seem a bit overzealous, but I commend any well-functioning establishment that can commit to a theme.

The food and drink options did not disappoint, either. In fact, the options are everything that would be expected. With a menu full of skulls and eerie typefaces, the Brew is authentic through and through. Though there are a wide variety of appetizers and snacks, this place is considered a coffee shop for a reason- it specializes in drinks. From teas to frozen cocoas, there’s something for everyone.

My only piece of advice is to plan accordingly. The Brew is a fairly small place and lines get very long, very fast. Don’t let that discourage you, though. Visiting in the evening is the best time to go. Just be prepared to hang around a bit before you get a seat. I highly recommend taking a trip to the Witches Brew. It is without a doubt, one of Hempstead’s best kept secrets.

Check it out here!