The Witches Brew
| Address: | 311 Hempstead Turnpike, West Hempstead, NY 11552, USA |
| Phone: | +1 516-489-9482 |
| Site: | facebook.com |
| Rating: | 4.4 |
| Working: | Closed 12PM–12AM 12PM–12AM 12PM–12AM 12PM–1AM 12PM–1AM 12PM–12AM |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 5
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Fred Magovern
This is more than just a business or even a cafe - its a community. Its family-owned, and the employees might as well be family. The staff is welcoming & sincere. I once had a conversation with one of the owners and pointed out a way they could make more money by selling their tea online. I dont remember her exact words, but the gist of what she said is they are not looking to make as much money as possible - they exist for their community - in other words, for a higher purpose. This philosophy - their WHY, which so few businesses have - is communicated through everything they do. I have enormous respect for them, and will always be loyal. Their ambiance is unparalleled, and is updated every season. Their furniture are all wonderful, comfortable antiques. They have recently expanded their kitchen so as to be able to offer food, beyond their teas, coffee, and desserts. I havent been there since this update but am very excited to try their new menu items. The teas, coffees, and desserts are all amazing - youll definitely find something thats a perfect fit for you. If you need help deciding, ask your waiter/waitress and they are always great at assisting you find whatever best fits your mood. These are the type of businesses we should all be supporting: ones that see customers as more than dollar signs, but human beings to be cared for. If I ever make loads of money, and they are at risk of going out of business (which I think is highly unlikely), I will offer them an interest-free loan of whatever size they need. Update: I have been there twice since theyve expanded their kitchen to be able to offer main courses (not just desserts & beverages). I had The Farmer sandwich which was excellent. I took a bite of my friends Sloppy Joes which was also really good, if youre into Sloppy Joes. My sandwich came with a few side options - I choose a garden salad - it was good, but there was way too much vinaigrette. I suggest getting the dressing on the side. I also had the brownie sunday, which Ive had in the past, and it was incredible as expected.
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A Private User
Ive been going to The Brew for over 10 years now. It used to be a "counter culture" staple on LI. Some time around 2000ish the kids who used to drive by and yell "freak" started coming in [and creating huge wait times for tables] which changed the culture of the clientele more than that of the staff and owners. I dont begrudge The Brew their success but do long for the days when I could go I and see 1/2 my friends w/o planning on it. I am glad that this business is about 20 yrs old and is an iconic establishment on Long Island. * The coffee drinks are great and unique with over 20 signature drinks on the menu. * The espresso machine is still manual so the barristers have to be skilled to pull consistently tasty shots. * * The tea selection is vast and affordable. They charge a flat rate per pot so if you want to try a tea that is $20 per ounce you can w/o hesitation. * The owners really cater to people with dietary restrictions or preferences. Those who live a vegan, gluten free, natural sweetener, fair trade lifestyle can find many drinks and patisseries to suit their needs. * Customer service is excellent. No matter who you are or what you look like [freak or normal] the staff is always courteous and respectful. Even if theres a 2 hour wait at the door theres never any pressure for you to hurry up so that they can turn over the table and get more customers in, which is why people will wait for hours just to hang out and sometimes the wait is part of the experience. I made quite a few friends that way. * The gift shop is smaller than it used to be but it always has some gems in there and the inventory is always changing.
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Sky Downing
After passing this place for the better part of year, I finally had the chance (with insane work schedule) to go in. I was really looking forward to it, and wanted to eventually bring my mom here. BUT, I was incredibly disappointed in the way I was treated, to the point I left in tears. The dish I ordered had onions in it (in which I am allergic), but it was not listed on the menu. I tried to pick it out, but the taste exhumed the entire gnocchi dish that i finally asked the waiter if he could be of help. His reply was "I dont know what to tell you", and he then curtly walked away. I asked again, and he replied "If I had come here before." (Apparently the manager, had told him to ask that.) Not sure what that had to do with you not listing a vital ingredient in a menu item. It was finally replaced, but then the same waiter states "Hope you dont complain about this one, and walks away curtly." I finally had to ask a fellow waiter if there was something wrong with him. I looked forward to coming to this place for so long, and the behavior was atrocious. I honestly think they are only in business because there isnt much to do in the area (as its in the suburbs).
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Christopher Drummond
My daughter talked me into trying this place because she came here with her friends before. She said I would love it so I said lets roll because she knows what I like lol. First impression seeing this place is that it is a unique and eclectic experience for those who dont mind the extremely mismatched warn down furniture, hanging colored string lights and spooky, creepy ambiance....it truly lives up to its name lol. Fear not, though, for customer service and food is far from scary. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. Superb quality with flawless wonderful service from the staff. If you are a tea or coffee lover then this spot is a must visit. The menu has so many amazing exotic tea, coffee and latte options. Prices are a little high for portions you recieve but it does taste amazing and fresh so it is worth it. The only negative for me is they do not accept debit/credit cards which was a little annoying. Also menu is Vegan based FYI but you would not know the difference based on the taste and quality. I will definitely be back to try the Vegan deserts OMG !!! They looked so good in the glass.
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Sheekha Upadhyaya
Horrible experience! First of all the service was super slow! We went there just to have lunch and ended up spending 3 hours there. Every time our server got out of sight it was impossible to gain his attention for another 30 minutes. Second, majority of the things we requested they were out of, how can they be out of so many things when they just opened? Food was horrible, the only good things were the drinks and desserts, but entrees had no taste and were overpriced. Lastly, when the check was given to us 18% tip was added on. And seriously, cash only? This is 2017 who carries that much cash around. And if you dont have cash, you have to use their ATM which charges a service fee. When we left our cash and were ready to leave one of the servers there come to count the cash and miscounted how much we left so he thought we didnt leave a good enough tip and says to me "thats really rude" walks away and slams the clipboard and gives us a dirty look on the way out... sorry buddy not my fault you cant count. After that experience no way I am ever going back.
