American Bulldog Coffee Roasters

On a chilly Sunday in January, my friend and fellow Ridgewood resident, Rose and I made our way over to one of the newest additions to the downtown scene in Ridgewood, American Bulldog Coffee Roasters located on 31 North Broad Street. Owners Maleigha Liburdi and Gadi Gilan have expanded the American Bulldog brand, based in nearby Chestnut Ridge, NY, to bustling and upscale Ridgewood. This locally owned and operated coffee shop is now occupying a space that has long been vacant, so it is wonderful to see such a bright, well-run small business fill the formerly empty storefront.

Since opening opening its doors about three months ago, American Bulldog Coffee Roasters has attracted hordes of curious villagers and out of towners in search of a great cup of coffee and a relaxing atmosphere. The double-wide space that the cafe occupies on North Broad Street has been renovated and revamped, becoming an eclectic and nostalgic enclave that is bursting with character. Owner Gadi Gilan explains that almost every light fixture, chair, table and poster is an antique with its own history and character. Mr. Gilan told me that the intricate diamond patterned ceiling was in fact vintage and was delivered all the way from Detroit during renovations. The white stucco walls and wainscoting give the cafe a homey and vintage feel. The gorgeous antique light fixtures also contribute to American Bulldog’s old fashioned feel. Green and rust colored iron chairs and wooden benches truly delighted Rose and me, who really appreciated the attention to detail and the utilization of one of a kind, antique furniture which helped to create such an intimate atmosphere.

Rose and I had been to every other coffeehouse in Ridgewood many times over and it was clear that American Bulldog was far from any other run of the mill cafe in town. Mr. Gilan explained to me that all of their coffee is roasted fresh from only top quality beans that are both organic and ethically sourced. The wonderful (and enticing) variety of baked goods are all baked on the premises using only the finest ingredients. The kitchen where the baked goods are prepared is actually right next to the coffee bar, which was so nice to see as most other chain coffee shops serve frozen or outsourced baked goods. Our cappuccinos were fantastic and tasted fresh and bold, much better than any corporate chain cappuccino we’ve ever tried in Ridgewood. The russet earthenware our coffee was served in was beautiful and added a nice touch to our already outstanding experience at American Bulldog.

With its attention to an authentic interior, the wide variety fresh coffee and snacks and cozy atmosphere, American Bulldog Coffee Roasters is a must visit for coffee enthusiasts frequenting Ridgewood this winter. The friendly service and the cafe’s own resident bulldog, Delilah, will draw customers back to this cozy establishment that will undoubtedly become a village favorite.