Tucked along First Avenue, 1st Cup Coffee has quickly become one of Atlantic Highlands’ favorite gathering spots. Whether it’s your go-to stop for that first caffeine boost, a cozy nook to catch up with friends, or a quiet corner to get some work done, 1st Cup offers more than just great coffee — it offers connection.
I stopped by to chat with owner Bob Hespe, the heart and vision behind this welcoming café, to learn about his inspiration, community roots, and what makes 1st Cup such a local gem.
When Bob Hespe first spotted the space, it wasn’t part of a grand plan. It was a spontaneous moment that turned into something special. “I’ve owned coffee houses in the past and was thinking about getting back into the game,” Bob recalled. “About nine years ago, my wife and I were having dinner at Kunya Siam when I noticed a storefront for lease across the street. Six months later, we opened 1st Cup, taking the name from our location on First Avenue.”
That name, 1st Cup Coffee, couldn’t be more fitting. It not only reflects its address but also represents that essential first cup that starts everyone’s day. Inside, the vibe is exactly what you’d hope for: warm, relaxed, and community-focused.
The café serves all the classic coffeehouse staples, from cappuccinos and cold brews to creative seasonal drinks that keep regulars coming back. The latest addition, a Tiramisu Latte, has quickly become a fan favorite, blending rich espresso with a hint of sweetness that tastes like dessert in a cup.
But coffee is just one part of 1st Cup’s charm. The shop has become a small cultural hub for Atlantic Highlands, embracing and celebrating local creativity. “Promoting and enjoying the arts is part of 1st Cup’s DNA,” Bob said. “We host a monthly open mic that can draw over a dozen performers. Our area has wonderful visual artists, many of whom show their work at 1st Cup. Filmmakers love our space too, and it’s been used for shoots several times.”
That passion for supporting the arts gives the café a unique rhythm. On any given visit, you might find a local musician tuning up before an open mic, a painter hanging a new collection, or a filmmaker quietly setting up a shot by the window.
Sourcing matters too. Their coffee comes from a local small-batch roaster, and the food menu has that homemade touch that makes everything feel personal. Cookies and muffins come from a talented home baker, while Antoinette Boulangerie delivers fresh pastries daily. It’s the kind of detail that turns an ordinary coffee stop into a community cornerstone.
As we wrapped up, Bob Hespe smiled when talking about the town’s energy. “There’s always something happening in Atlantic Highlands,” he said. “This weekend we’ll have our Halloween Parade, and I’m looking forward to seeing all the little hobgoblins!”
If you haven’t visited 1st Cup Coffee yet, consider this your sign to stop in. The staff are friendly, the coffee is top-notch, and the vibe captures exactly what makes Atlantic Highlands so special: a blend of small-town warmth, creativity, and local pride. Whether you’re starting your day, meeting a friend, or discovering a new favorite latte, this neighborhood café is the perfect place to make your first cup of the day something to look forward to.
1st Cup Coffee
96 First Avenue, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
📅 Follow for events | 🎤 Monthly Open Mic Nights | ☕ Try the new Tiramisu Latte
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Written by Dean Cramer | Hello Highlands NJ
Local stories, community highlights & coastal living
🏠 Realtor – Weichert Rumson