Cyrus: Chai & Coffee Company

Strongest damn coffee on the south shore. Awesome shop and the staff are extremely knowledgeable about their craft. Absolutely perfect!

Great place very cool inside and all the employees are well informed and very cool and friendly.
Great place check it out.

Believe it or not, a little coffee shop in Mississippi completely ruined coffee for me. It was the first time I’ve ever had a real cup of coffee, and since moving back to NY I’ve been looking for something to come close, which has been surprisingly difficult on the Island. Thankfully, I just found Cyrus which is even better than that little shop in MS.
I spoke with a guy behind the bar a little and was surprised to learn they roast their own beans in West Babylon. I’m an amateur home roaster and what they are doing with these beans is downright impressive. They put out samples of roasted beans to smell, and I was sure some type of flavor additive was part of the roast. The guy assured me no additives were used and it was actually the way they fermented and roasted the beans. I skeptically decided on an Indonesian pour-​over and was blown away with the resultant coffee. The smell of the beans are unique and powerful, but the taste of the coffee is very subtle, clean and balanced. I wish I could get in there to learn about their process!
I’m a big fan, and can’t wait for my next cup. Please give real coffee a chance and give them a try.

This business has done so much for our community. Cyrus invested in a neglected corner property, used and «re-​used» various eco-​friendly building materials and furniture for his décor, and made the place a gathering spot. I cannot speak for him, but my observation is he takes a completely wholistic view of his curated selection of coffees from around the world (from all the continents except Antarctica), and combines that with an overall philosophy of bringing together people, cultures and opinions into an effort we all just call life. It’s really about so much more than coffee, and we can never thank him enough for what he’s doing.
And for those people who don’t care for the way they make your coffee, there is no question that if you ask for an alteration in the process, they will prepare your brew the way you want it, and will continue to do so until it comes out the way you want it. And they will remember how to make it for you next time. Try that approach and I’m sure you will be happy.
PS: Blue Bottle doesn’t hold a candle to the coffee here, and I will paraphrase by saying I don’t think Cyrus is remotely interested in competing with places like that.

Quadruple C!!! I love you! This coffee place is awesome and off the beaten path near the train station… The location is ideal for train commuters, I absolutely would not mind coming here daily for some kind of crêpe and an awesome coffee. This place offers some of the best coffee I have ever consumed and I like to consider myself a coffee connoisseur. The Hawaiian beans were amazing, I would highly recommend that coffee… There are multiple options to choose from that will accommodate anyone’s palate and if you need help I’m sure the guy that works there (possible owner) will help you succeed in selecting the best option for you.
This place is cozy and warm, there is decent seating and I can def see myself posting up here with a coffee and my lap top. It has an awesomely relaxing feel to it and the art on the wall optimizes that as well.
We had the Nutella crêpe which was thin and crunchy, I really enjoyed it and would recommend it for sitting in there, don’t know if the Nutella would seep through on your ride home causing a soggy mess. Also had the grilled refucheeez on nan and it was awesome and spicy… SO GOOD. I have already told so many people about this place and will continue coming here.
Love ya Cyrus!

I really really wanted to like this place. I have given it 3 tries too with various forms of it (ex: latte, cappuccino). The staff is very professional, unique smell bean you would like menu, and personal décor. The stars are simply for that. They have a purist coffee mentality too (aka no syrups). I can respect that, but id rather give the heads up.
The beans are very nice smelling (I like the Zimbabwe and New Zealand). However it is the process when they make the coffee that makes it feel oddly watered down, and yet grainy? Cant describe the sensation, but it is a shame. As I mentioned I tried diff ways of their coffee, and that pour over technique they use must be the culprit.
It is very pricy for the quality I expect by far. I think if I do ever come here though I would try to buy the coffee bean itself and make it at home.

A great spot in a great little town! Beware, going here makes you never want to step foot in chain coffee shop again. The coffee and tea is high quality, exotic and responsibly sourced. You can sniff a few samples of coffee beans before making your selection!
Drinks are expertly and carefully prepared. They can do pretty much anything you want– I ordered a pumpkin masala chai tea over ice topped with whipped cream. I mixed it up a bit for a creamy, refreshing, tea drink!
They have a few snacks too– we tried the chocolate ganache muffin and nutella crêpe. As we expected, they were chocolately, decadent and delicious.
It’s a fun place to hang out and the owner, Cyrus, is the man.

Move over blue bottle, Cyrus Chai and Coffee has something in store for you.
You don’t need to hop on the LIRR to get exquisite, flavorful pour over coffee. After being disappointed by a MUCH touted long island roaster to the west of bay shore (*ahem* not naming any names) I was ready to try someone new.
Cyrus and his staff have a cool, relaxed demeanor as they welcome you, despite the sheer abundance of caffeinated beverages that surrond them on a daily basis.
The unique interior leads itself to be an excellent space to catch up with friends, read a book, make random Dr. Who jokes or perhaps even play a board game at one of the wood tables??? Cyrus’s vibe is careful, local and a touch artisanal without the «nose in the air» type of nonsense you may experience at other specialty businesses.
Much to my initial bewilderment, there’s no menu or prices posted. You sniff, point and name your size. It’s a little confusing a first… especially if you find yourself under-​caffeinated or in a rush. So far, I’ve tried three coffees in cold brew and hot. Two tasted a bit amaretto-​pistachioy (Hawaii and Turkey) while the Zimbabwe was a bit more roasted and acidic. I’m looking forward to try the rest. If what my nose tells me is true, they’re bound to be good. Cyrus also offers loose teas to sip as well, displayed adjacent to the coffee beans.
I’d really encourage them to offer more food options… even if it’s small bagged munches. Perhaps put the prices up too? Nothing is super expensive but at first glacé it IS a little confusing. Tastings would be fun too, if the time and staff allowed for it. I’d imagine it would operate like the way blue bottle does it… but better, with the abundance of knowledge, a chemex and little tasting cups.

Just came here for the first time. Was definitely impressed by the look and feel of this little coffee shop upon first entering. My boyfriend and I were greeted by a very sweet employee who took his time to explain how to smell the different coffee beans (and/​or tea leaves) in order to make a coffee decision. My initial thoughts were pretty positive. It was a very calm and serene experience choosing which deliciously warm coffee we’d be drinking on that cool January afternoon.
It was very warm and inviting while having a very professional, yet relaxed vibe. One slight comment I have is that there was no other noise; no music, no people talking, no cars even going by outside, which made it seem a little too quiet inside, but that’s easily fixable. Apparently they do get very busy sometimes, so I’m sure there’s a lot of chatter going on frequently.
As for the coffee, it was pretty good. It wasn’t expensive at all and it was definitely enjoyable. My boyfriend got the Hawaiian blend and I got the Brazilian blend. Both were satisfying, however I think my flavor became a little muted because of an excess of half&half, and my boyfriend’s (who takes his coffee black) was very strong and a little too pistachio-​ish by the end. Regardless, I would definitely return to find my niche — there’s a lot to choose from and I know upon returning I could find a good blend/​concoction that better suits me (i.e. Next time I won’t get the half&half).
If you’re expecting this place to be a Starbucks, you’ll be disappointed. This is an authentic coffee shop that appreciates coffee beans and the brewing of coffee. Your order is made right in front of you fresh, so don’t be expecting a caramel frappuccino.
All-​in-​all it was a pleasant experience, my boyfriend and I will definitely be returning.

Amazing teas and food. Menu is limited but the what is available is delicious. The grilled cheese is fabulous and a must order. Can’t wait to come back and try the coffee!

I bought the Hawaii to grind at home. Taste is amazing but I’m convinced there is added flavor. Been drinking coffee for 35 years and never experienced these flavors. Can someone confirm if in fact there is absolutely no flavor added to these beans?

Like coffee? I do! Or at least I thought I did…
Cyrus’ work changed all of that. The attention to quality which goes into the product being served here is evident in every aspect of this business.
Now I’ve seen the offering of different beans at Starbucks and 7 – 11, and truthfully I normally just get whatever strikes my fancy rather than making some sort of informed decision. I can’t keep straight what an arabica bean or a sativa bean taste like — coffee comes in sativa, right? I’ve never been to a coffee tasting, and really assumed it was all a bit pretentious — because I mostly drink my coffee medicinally.
So when you come to Cyrus (hereby known as CCCC), stop for a second. Take a moment and check out that little counter opposite the re-​purposed pew. Those jars with the beans inside — shake em a little, open em up, and take a whiff — I hope you brought your passport along for your nose, because it’s about to whisk from Hawaii to Turkey to Madagascar to Neptune* within the span of 4 small glass jars. Each bean has a corresponding flavor profile sheet with notes to pay attention to, and they are quite accurate. These simple jars did more for my coffee experience than anything else before — they let me experience the differing bouquets each roast had to offer, so I knew what kind of coffee I would be getting in the end when I ordered it.
Now, I haven’t even mentioned the expert baristas behind the bar here. While CCCC offers the best pour over coffee on Long Island, they also make an assortment of other coffee** and milk drinks as well (the Nutella hot chocolate is particularly addictive). Each person who has helped me here has been helpful and knowledgeable, offering suggestions and guidance as to what kind of bean might be served best in a certain fashion.
The attention to detail that CCCC pays to its coffee extends into the seating area as well — outlets are raised so laptops have easy access, and USB ports are standard in the walls — STANDARD! While we all love a good game of «find the outlet» from time to time, sadly this seems like a relic of bygone days at CCCC.
Paying attention to the community is also important — whether it is in sourcing beans from farmers directly or offering a space for community events in the evenings, and Cyrus does both quite well. The nights that I have stopped by, I have seen a small book club meeting as well as a paint-​night (private/​paid event). People inside have been universally friendly and willing to engage in conversation — it seems like about ¹⁄₃ of the people who come through the doors are regulars, and that really speaks volumes about the impact CCCC is making in town.
Pick up (buy) a sticker, that logo is sweet!
Don’t come in just trying to use the bathroom. Don’t even think about it.
* [edit: fact check — Neptune currently does not in fact have a coffee crop. Currently.]
** I didn’t even mention the NITRO COFFEE. That’s right. Nitro coffee.

Great coffee, great staff! I get my coffee here often. Don’t pay attention to the moron with the 1 star review. Stop in, get a cup, and you be the judge. Btw, if you’re looking for a corporate coffee place this isn’t it. It’s a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

I’m confused where these photos came from of cheesecake and sandwiches because when we came here they only had about 3 different kinds of muffins, a cheese plate, and granola bars. We even asked and she said this was it.
There was also no clear menu. Pretty much the coffee that’s in front of you is what they have. About 8 different kinds that you can smell to see which one you’d like. They don’t use any kind of artificial ingredients or syrups we were told. So no flavoring lattes.
They did have a Nutella mocha that we both got and I have to say it wasnt bad. One of the coffees I smelled i’d come back to try but that’s about it.
What was cool though is they brew the coffee right in front of you. So if you don’t have time, grab what they have currently Brewer.
Pretty much this place is just for coffee and tea. You can sit and enjoy the free wifi and some good coffee. But if your looking for some baked goods or food, which we were, this place is not it.
I think they’d do a lot better if they stepped their game up a little.

This place is fantastic. Best coffee in town. They have samples of the favors of beans on the counter for you to shake and smell.
The owner, Cyrus, and his staff, are really great too.
They support local artists by selling their art and having occasional shows/​receptions. They also have a few snacks in there. I wish there were more places like this on Long Island.

One of my favorite spots for cold brew coffee on Long Island. Great iced teas as well. I recommend taking advantage of their scent station (for lack of a better term). You can smell a variety of coffee beans and tea leaves. Zimbabwe is my personal favorite. Some may consider it to be a little pricey, but it’s well worth it!
Only downside so far is that they don’t open until 10am on the weekend.
2-​5-​2016 EDIT: They recently started offering growlers of cold brew. That deserves an upgrade to 5 stars in my book.

Cyrus Chai and Coffee sits on the NYC bound parking lot of the Bay Shore LIRR station. Can I have one of these in Brooklyn please? It’s better than a café — it’s an expertly curated lounge of caffienated cocktails, small batch cured and roasted, with comfortable seating. Music is loungy, rather than acoustic coffeeshop.
I was attracted to the chai sign with the Union Jack when I was dropped off at the train station. Eight months since my last cup of Delhi homemade chai, I was really craving a cup, and hoped the store would have some British Indian authenticity to its namesake drink.
On entering, there is an «aroma menu» of coffee beans and tea leaves. With around twelve varieties of tea and eight varieties of coffee, the beverage menu is well curated and full of subtlety. A handy chart tells you what’s best hot or cold or with milk. The coffees are sourced from all over the world, aged and roasted in store in small batches. (Coffee beans are available for sale if you’re in love with your drink).
The bar, if you will, is filled with many types of coffee brewing equipment, from French presses to siphon brewers, to Chemex glass coffee carafes. You’re welcome to sit at the bar, watch your drink as its prepared and ask questions about sourcing, prep, and how best to enjoy your selected beverage. The rest of the space varies from two top tables to couches and coffee tables. Feel free to bring a group to chat together, but note that they do not let patrons use their restroom.
Food options are limited, in comparison to previous reviewers. There were four options of tasty looking muffins and danishes, but that’s all. Too bad — I really could have used a savory snack.
Anyway, I ordered:
Earl Grey Lavender iced tea was refreshing and well balanced between black tea, bergamot, and lavender. It’s really a fantastic iced tea choice, lightly sweetened and not too much ice.
Masala chai was hot with whole milk, fruity and sweet, and a light blend of black tea with spices. It had more water than milk and lacked the strong black tea I hoped for. Unfortunately I was hoping for chai like his mother makes it, or a pro chaiwalla, not starbucks.
Coffee appears to be the favorite beverage of patrons here, so perhaps I was too overeager. Four stars overall, but I wouldn’t order the Masala chai again.

Atmosphere– spacious, welcoming, and surprisingly quiet for being across from the train station. Prices are standard. Open-​mic nights offered
Staff– the owner is friendly and hospitable, offering suggestions but not imposing. His passion is clear as he imports and personally roasts the beans, has a unique tea selection, and carefully selected snacks.
Food– coffee and tea can be cold or hot brewed. Various dairy and vegan milk options are available. The peach rooibos tea had just the perfect hint of peach flavor. I very much enjoyed the Indian yogurt with agave, local berries, and fresh figs– not too sweet.
I will definitely be back for the coffee.

You can definitely tell walking into this place the owners are taking a lot of care with what they’re doing. I am by no stretch of the imagination a «coffee connoisseur», but I know what tastes good — and I absolutely know good service when I get it.
Aside from the food and drinks, which we’ll get into, the physical space has been decorated with a great attention to detail. The décor that all seems to have a story behind it; from the tables, to the ceiling — check out all the detail within the spot, and ask anyone working there about it.
The coffee and tea have been selected by Cyrus — and a lot of care and attention to detail are evident in his selections. He’s definitely not taking bagged coffee beans from Costco and serving them to you; each cup is brewed by the baristas as you order it, and the sources of the coffee beans are from all over the world. The loose leaf teas are laid out on the counter in little jars, and you’re encouraged to open them up and take a whiff while you decide what you want… and then they’re served in these adorable little teapots. The baristas are quirky and adorable, with great tattoos and nice hair; so they’re easy on the eyes while you’re getting your coffee made. AND the chic does a foam design. I’m such a sucker for that. Probably because I have no idea how to do it and absolutely no artistic ability.
FOOD — menu is still in the works — but I had a grilled cheese sandwich with a couple different types of cheese including a gorgonzola (my favorite) with a raisin jam to cut the salty bite of the gorg and add a little sweetness, on a big hunk of nicely crispy bread. And la piece de la resistance… nutella crepes. With nutella whipped cream. Cmon. I mean, I eat nutella straight out of the jar but when you wrap a crêpe around it and top it with a combination of nutella and whipped cream… hello, lova, I’m going to eat you.
The atmosphere of the spot is great too, Cyrus is a great conversationalist and has a lot to talk about… and there’s a delightful level of fiery quips that are more than entertaining Coffee Talk. Cawfee Tawk?

Full disclosure: I’m not REALLY a «Coffee Snob,» I’m more into food than I am coffee. I’m perfectly happy with a hot cup from Tim Horton’s. Cyrus made a «believer» out of me. The care and precision they put into brewing every single cup of coffee is amazing; it’s like watching a chemist at work making sure all the ingredients and conditions are «just so» in order to brew the PERFECT cup of coffee.
I’ve tried their Zimbabwean and Hawaiian coffees so far (they have an example from six of the seven continents). I thought I’d prefer the Hawaiian but much to my surprise I really preferred the Zimbabwean. THEN I discovered how PERFECTLY they brew a cappuccino and I really haven’t tried anything else since (I really should, but…).
The food is quite simple (the emphasis IS on the coffee, after all) but the three sandwich choices are all quite good and satisfying. Heck, I even liked the Vegan Banh Mi (and I usually make fun of people who eat Vegan). But then, that sneaky bastard pulled a fast one on me and introduced me to his Nutella Crepes. OH MY GOD, I think I died and went to heaven. So THIS is Nutella? I think the crepes are reason enough to visit.
You also can’t beat the clever, snarky abuse you receive from the host. It’s all part of the ambiance. I’d go more often, but I bounce off the walls normally WITHOUT the caffeine and I’m afraid if I went too often I’d just end up in orbit. Do try it, though… you won’t be disappointed!