OQ Coffee Co.

Highland Park is lucky to have OQ Coffee in town for more reasons than just the great coffee. The New Jersey roasting company, which recently relocated to Highland Park from New Brunswick, is devoted to nurturing the community around it. In addition to providing a lively cafe to bring people together, OQ aims to educate its patrons and neighbors about roasting coffee and selling locally. The company even offers grants to support social justice projects in the community. This Ethiopian brew, which comes from Gelana Abaya, is juicy, bright, and articulate, with a complex acidity and clear notes of blueberry, lemon, and jasmine.

Often the name says it all. Producer Luis Alberto Balladarez Moncada’s farm – Un Regalo de Dios – translates to “a gift from God” and no matter what your spiritual beliefs, you’ll surely treasure this offering from Nicaragua‘s Mozonte region. Of course, such a gift hasn’t gone unnoticed; in 2010 it was voted best Nicaraguan coffee and placed 3rd in the Cup of Excellence. With humanity and social commitment at the heart of their operation, Luis’s team donated all the winnings to the community. OQ Coffee Co does its part as well, roasting you a lively and dynamic coffee with a juicy nectarine acidity, a syrupy, malty center and lingering flavors of cantaloupe and nougat.