ORIGIN:
When this Darien location opened in October 2023, the original Manhattan shop was celebrating its' seventeenth anniversary. Gregorys (no apostrophe) was founded by Gregory and Shalaine Zamfotis, a husband and wife team, with initial support and inspiration provided by Gregory's father, a fast casual restauranteur based in NYC.
CONCEPT:
Gregorys was initially inspired by a perceived gap -- there were no exceptional and quick options for coffee in Manhattan. Gregorys strives to sell baked goods, prepared sandwiches, and beverages with an orientation towards (1) high quality (they roast their own coffee and bake their own pastries); (2) nutritional considerations (a professional nutritionist on the team guides product development); (3) provision of a wide range of plant-based (vegan) options (Gregory follows a plant-based diet himself).
LOCATION:
The Darien shop marks the 42nd location, with five sites in DC and the remaining scattered across the tri-state area (home of the Zamfotis family). It is positioned across the street from the Noroton Heights Station parking lot in the new Darien Commons. It is also a short and convenient swing off of I-95. An ideal location from multiple fronts!
AMBIANCE:
Gregorys stands independently at the entrance to the commons, and I dare say impressively, surrounded by a terrace, and festooned with lights. A large multi panel glass garage door was open, allowing the late afternoon air to swirl inside. With a prominent location and attractive appearance, it is impossible for Gregorys to go unnoticed by visitors.
The interior is stunningly designed as well, with white marble cafe tables and black curved wood, wicker-backed chairs. A living room area with upholstered sofa and chairs invites relaxing lingering. Numerous windows, including a set of clearstory windows, guarantee streams of sunlight throughout the day.
EXPERIENCE:
Gregorys offers a more creative and unusual menu of beverages than national coffee shop chains, and I arrived with the intention to try Excuse You, a hot latte composed of Gregorys' Night Vision espresso, oat milk, and seasoned with both citrus and yuzu syrups. I asked for guidance at the order counter and was assured this was a good choice, however the person working beside him encouraged me to catch the seasonal Fall Oat Boy as it has been a local hit. It winds up this person was Gregory himself! The family lives nearby, and the fact that the founder and CEO was actively working alongside his employees reflects the level of care that is the foundation of the expanding business's success.
The Fall Oat Boy was a unique alternative to the pumpkin spice lattes that herald the season in the North East. It is a flavorful mix of Night Vision espresso, oat milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and hazelnut and maple syrups. I was so glad to have been nudged to try it. I ordered the flavor-packed Vegan Bar to accompany it, knowing that this item is reportedly a favorite of Gregory's wife. House-made date syrup envelops and joins rolled oats, apples, coconut, apricot, and peanut butter, pairing beautifully with the recommended beverage.
Curious as to how the egg sandwiches would compare to Starbucks, I also ordered the Deluxe -- egg, American cheese, and sliced turkey sausage links encased in a croissant. The croissant was warm, toasted in a small oven. The interior combination was deliciously seasoned.
Before I left I shared with Gregory my positive impression. Although this location is an hour south of my home, I was happy to have learned about Gregorys and will look to visit locations in New York and DC in the course of my travels.
TIPS:
Gregorys roasts it's own coffee in Long Island City. Bags of beans (12 oz and 5 lb) can be purchased at shop, via subscription, as well as online. Each bag (12 oz around $14) can be ground in advance with three options (course, medium, and fine). With each bag a pair of glasses is donated.
Don't have a Gregorys nearby yet and pining for their baked goods? Individual purchases of ten packs, as well as subscriptions, can be arranged through their website.
Ceramic mugs and cups are in the works and will be available upon request.
Open everyday, but closes at 6 PM. read more