Everyone has come to love New Bedford for its fresh seafood, authentic Portuguese cuisine, and…coffee?

The local coffee scene specifically in the downtown area of New Bedford is turning into something special. From a European cafe on cobblestone streets to a small batch roastery on the waterfront, there is a uniqueness to the New Bedford coffee scene that is hard to match.

Many would say the downtown and waterfront areas of New Bedford are experiencing a renaissance. Between the South Coast Rail, Vineyard Wind, Cisco Brewery, Killburn Mills, and now luxury apartments. I believe there is no doubt that more amazing local coffee shops will be popping up with the growth we are seeing in New Bedford.

But until then I present to you the 5 best local coffee shops in New Bedford as of 2023!

5. Cafe Arpeggio

Established in 2004 and located in the heart of downtown New Bedford at the intersection of William and Purchase street, Cafe Arpeggio is a staple in the city and should make everyone’s list. They offer micro roasted coffee, liege style waffles, smoothies, smoothie bowls, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and freshly baked pastries!

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4. Green Bean

Located at 740 Purchase Street in Downtown New Bedford, the Green Bean has high ceilings, large windows, a minimalist aesthetic, and great coffee! They are vegan friendly and offer coffee, smoothies, fresh juice, breakfast & lunch sandwiches. This is a great spot to sit down and get some work done on your laptop!

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3. Tia Marias

Tia Marias is a European cafe nestled in the heart of the National Historical Whaling Park along the cobblestone streets of New Bedford. Some might get angry that I rank them so highly because they are really a full service restaurant rather than a “coffee shop”, but you can walk in and order coffee & pastries at the counter therefore they are a coffee shop in my eyes! They also just finished a major expansion which features a cozy bistro bar and fireplace.

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2. Groundfloor Coffee

Groundfloor Coffee is a small batch roastery located at 61 Merrill’s Wharf on the waterfront. Putting them at #2 could ruffle some feathers because they have only been open for about a month at the time of writing this article, but I am here to tell you that age is just a number. This coffee shop is phenomenal! Inside is a sleek modern aesthetic featuring a “Modbar Espresso machine” and a vegan friendly menu, although they do serve non vegan options as well! With a prime waterfront location, a beautiful interior aesthetic, and great coffee, this coffee shop answered the prayers of a lot of New Bedford coffee lovers!

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1. Dough Company (DoCo)

In my opinion Dough Company otherwise known as “Do Co” is one of the most underrated places in New Bedford. Dough Company is a local-focused cafe and eatery located in the Kilburn Mills in the south end of New Bedford. They are walking distance to West Beach and the New Bedford Cove Walk, and under the same roof as dozens of amazing local stores, art galleries, fitness studios, and many other exciting things the Kilburn Mills has to offer. Do Co has all sorts of craft coffee beverages made from locally roasted coffee, delicious pastries, as well as full service breakfast and lunch. Inside it has tall ceilings, tons of plants, and two floors of seating.

Today is the 8th Annual Southcoast Lemonade Day thanks to BayCoast Bank.

Kids across the Southcoast will become the newest, small(est) business owners in our community, working hard to earn money through great customer service. Bay Coast Bank’s mission is to help today’s youth become the business leaders, social advocates, community volunteers and forward-thinking citizens of tomorrow…one lemonade stand at a time!

You can find out more about their mission and see ALL of the lemonade stands on the SouthCoast here.

One mother wanted to showcase the effort that her daughter went through to craft her own lemonade stand in preparation for the special day.

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“My baby girl Amariannah’s lemonade day is Saturday rain or shine. Please show your support or send friends and family as she worked very hard on her own lemonade stand.

I’m very proud of her! She will be supporting #autismawareness #autismacceptance and also #specialolympics.

Her stand will be from 11:am-5:00pm at Eddy James Park at 70 Barrett Street in New Bedford’s north end.

Please share for my baby girl Amariannah.Thank you!”-Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas.

Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas photo.

Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas photo.

There is never a shortage of Mexican restaurants in America as we’ve had a long love affair with Mexico’s cuisine. Proof of that is apparent to anyone who has had a heated discussion about who makes the best burritos or tacos.

While everyone loves authentic, “made just like down in Mexico” fare and the experience that comes from heading one of the many great Mexican eateries in greater New Bedford, sometimes you just want to be in and out quick. There are many who despise chains, but when it comes to making Mexican food, Chipotle is a destination at the top of many people’s list.

When it was announced last September that Fairhaven would be opening a Chipotle of its own, a countdown began for Fairhaven locals or those who work in Fairhaven. We all know how brutal Rt. 6 in Dartmouth can be around lunch time, so the idea of being spared that commute is attractive to many.

S&W Contractor’s photo.

Of course, the restaurant is not just convenient for the Fairhaven-ites, but residents of Marion, South Dartmouth, New Bedford, Acushnet, Mattapoisett, North Dartmouth and Rochester.

The wait is now over and Wednesday, June 14th, marks the official opening of the the Fairhaven Chipotle at 14 Plaza Way right next to the McDonald’s and almost a stone’s throw from the popular Frontera Grill Mexican Restaurant, which is likely intentional. They will be open daily from 10:45am-10L00pm.

The 2,325 square-foot restaurant will feature the brand’s signature ‘Chipotlane,’ a drive-thru pickup lane that allows guests to conveniently pick up digital orders without leaving their cars. Be forewarned: just like the McDoanld’s next to it, there isn’t an entrance or egress to Rt. 6, so you’ll have to get to the ‘Chipotlane’ via the plaza itself.

Chipotle photo.

While all your regular favorites, i.e. salad, burritos, burrito and lifestyle bowls, tacos, sides and drinks are available at the new location, a new menu item that many Chipotle fans have been anticipating eagerly, will be offered: the Chicken al Pastor. The chain is offering the ” protein option that levels up any go-to Chipotle order with a sophisticated flavor profile and elevated taste” worldwide for a limited time only. This is the first time the Company has launched a new menu innovation globally.

The interior of the Fairhaven location is surprisingly large and is set up similar to the one in Dartmouth with the large groups tables with stools and separate tables seating up to 4. Many locals thought it would be a small, or express location focusing on take-out, but the dining room is just as large as the Dartmouth location. It also has the counter-style seating along the large pane glass-windows that many of us really enjoy. For those that enjoy sitting outside when the weather is amenable, you’ll be happy to know that their patio deck is slightly larger than the Dartmouth location.

S&W Contractor’s photo.

In addition to gift cards, catering and group order offerings, the Fairhaven Chipotle will proudly offer Fairhaven residents fundraisers through Chipotle to benefit local causes.

Of course, a question on some people’s minds is “Are they hiring?” The answer is “yes!” A typical Chipotle has around 25 full- and part-time staff. Many leave when they head of to a university, relocate, or other lifestyle change, so generally they are perpetually hiring. The offer competitive benefits which include a crew bonus with the opportunity to earn an extra month’s worth of pay each year, a debt-free college degree program, access to mental healthcare for employees and their families.

You can find out more about a career with Chipotle here and about working at the specific Fairhaven location, here.

With the arrival of spring, bears waking up after a few months hibernating and hungry, have been spotted throughout New England and in many cases capturing the attention of photographers and on occasion, the news.

A little more than a week ago, the greater New Bedford area had a bear that became a celebrity of sorts as he traveled through people’s yards looking for something to ease his hunger pangs. Initially, people were a bit worried if the bear would present a danger, but as he moved from Fall River, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fairhaven, Acushnet, Rochester, and Wareham it was apparent that the near was not aggressive and, in fact, was more scared of humans than we were of him or her.

Taste by Spellbound photo.

That’s when the worst element of people came out: people wanted a photo opportunity so would pull out their phones and cameras in attempts to snap a shot. One person even filmed themselves chasing the bear down the street in their car.

A few days ago, bearmania came to an end. And another bear stole the headlines.

“We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All the sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling “there’s a bear in garage!”

Taste by Spellbound photo.

She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door.

We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could.

The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes a bunch of coconut cake. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe wasn’t hurt, as well as the rest of the team.”-Taste by Spellbound.

Video by Taste by Spellbound:

Great news for Fairhavenites that venture downtown New Bedford to get some of the best, most delicious breakfast, lunch, and coffee in the area. The Baker at 562 Pleasant Street next to the New Bedford Police Station and New Bedford Free Library has been an extremely popular destination for many in the Greater New Bedford area because of the incredible quality and care that the put into the ingredients and mouth-watering concoctions.

The Baker made an announcement on their Facebook Page on Monday:

“Coming late summer 2023: Olivia’s!

Come see what’s happening at Olivia’s Restaurant Fairhaven as I bring this vision of a neighborhood eatery and bar to life at the old Elisabeth’s on Middle Street.

#oliviasfairhaven #finefoodanddrink
#neighborhoodrestaurant #fairhavenma #newrestaurant
#letsgo”-The Baker.

It’s still early in the process, but we suspect in the coming days and weeks we’ll get updates on what the menu looks like and whether some of our favorites will be on it, or there will be entirely new creations.

“We would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and patronage over the last 48 years. It has been an honor to serve you and be a part of this wonderful community.

Unfortunately, we have made the difficult decision to close our business. This was not an easy decision, but after careful consideration, we feel it is the best course of action for us at this time. Our last day will be Friday April 7.

We want to thank you for your loyalty and support over the years. It has been a pleasure serving you. We will cherish the memories and the relationships we have built with all of you. We hope that you will continue to support small businesses in your community and that our paths may cross again in the future.

Thank you again for your business and support. We wish you all the best in the future.”-Everybody’s Pizza.

Everybody’s Pizza photo.

By Bailey Bisson

Who doesn’t love a good “home-cooked” meal at a reasonable price? With quite the homey atmosphere, this cute little diner is sure to fill your belly, and it may also fill your heart.

Before Munchies began serving the local community, there was ‘Dunk N Munch,’ now a beloved family-owned franchise in business since 1997. The very first location thrived, which was where ‘Munchies’ proudly stands today.

Located at 4263 North Main Street in Fall River is the beloved Munchies diner, open from 6am-2pm to serve guests breakfast and lunch. What many Fall River residents may not know is that, in addition to serving breakfast and lunch, for those customers who wish to order take-out/delivery ‘Munchies’ also prepares dinner until about 7:30pm.

All orders after 2pm must be placed online. Delivery options include DoorDash, GrubHub, and a lesser-known delivery service called ‘Toast.’

The owners at Munchies strive to make everyone’s dining experience a comfortable one and are eager to acquaint themselves with guests, not just to collect tips, but to ensure the happiness of paying customers and the overall satisfaction of their visits.

It’s easy to love Munchies, and even easier to place an order online.

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Munchies

4263 North Main Street
Fall River

Phone: 508-567-3773 or 508-617-8430
Facebook: facebook.com/benben7623
EMail: munchies4263@hotmail.com

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All photos by Munchies:

In December of 2021, we shared the news that Starbucks would be opening a cafe in New Bedford. Well, after many delays, and the possibility of Starbucks reneging on its decision to use the New Bedford site, it has finally happened! They are open for business.

The location is 157 Coggeshall Street, right next to Petro-Mart and Touchless Car Wash, and where Subway once stood. Yes, there is a drive-thru, mobile ordering, and an outdoor patio.

The New Bedford location is more similar to the Fall River location as opposed to the Dartmouth cafe. While the hours have yet to be announced, it is likely they will use the standard hours they use at most locations: Monday-Friday from 5:30am-8:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 6:00am-8:00pm.

Of course, like anything new that opens in the South Coast, you can expect the cafe to be positively mobbed for a month or two which means long waits, grumpy customers, and some few Karens and Darrens causing delays. Please be easy on the baristas and exercise some patience!

Matthew Velez photo.

Matthew Velez photo.

Last June we shared with you the story that the popular Mirasol’s Cafe would be opening a third location in Fairhaven.

It hasn’t been a full year since the coffee shop opened their second location at the Wharfinger Building at 52 Fisherman’s Wharf located on Pier 3, downtown New Bedford.

The New Bedford location utilizes a sort of “grab-and-go” model. The “walk-through” window comprises 25% of their revenue alone and since the New Bedford location is less than 1/3 of the size of the Dartmouth location, indoor seating simply wasn’t an option. However, being so close to Rt. 18 means you can be in and out, hit the road for your work commute, or decide to grab your Chippi and stroll around downtown.

Luis Raposo, one of Mirasol’s managing partners, said that the cafe will soon open a third location in the old Benny’s building bringing their famous Chippi, delicious lattes, batidos, and of course, Latin-themed sandwiches. The artist’s renditon of the planned site shows it is a larger building than the New Bedford location and more along the size of the Dartmouth location. That means a return to the “old” Dartmouth version which had plenty of rooms for tables inside and on the patio.

There is hope for a drive-thru, something Mirasol’s owners and customers alike would benefit, however that happening depends entirely on the town’s approval.

Mirasol’s Cafe photo.

Mirasol’s Cafe photo.

Mirasol’s Cafe photo.

There is nothing more fresh than locally grown foods. Local Farmer of Stoney Creek, Erin Babbitt, has been organizing her market located in Swansea, MA at 1210 Wilbur Avenue for eight years and counting.

“I raise beef cows right at the farm, and I am one of the vendors selling beef at my own market,” said Babbitt.

Cow at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

During the spring and summer months, there is a surplus of produce, including berries, tomatoes, corn, and lettuce. Babbitt told the reporter that there are no fruits being produced during the winter. However, there are potatoes, squash and kale for sale. Hours of operation this winter are the third Saturday of each month, from December through April, at 10am-2pm.

Big tent at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

“We are a locally sourced market, so everything that we sell at our farm is maker only. We don’t do outside sales of any kind. We have a honey lady, a spice lady and a mushroom man,” said Babbitt.

Stoney Creek participates in the Healthy Incentives Program, (HIP) for produce sales only. This market also supports the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, (SNAP) which covers produce and honey sales.

Babbitt will be hosting a holiday event this month! On Dec. 17, there will be a hayride with Santa from 10am-2pm. A campfire will be lit for s’mores to be roasted. Hot chocolate is complimentary. Children are welcome for pony rides and the hayride, as well as a photo with Santa, all for just $10.00 per child.

Anyone can visit the farm any day and walk around to greet the cows, goats, rabbits and many other animal friends.

Horse at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

Babbitt also has a horse boarding business at the farm. “People keep their horses with me. I have 18 horses on the farm. We do birthday parties here.”

Stoney Creek offers pony rides during regular market hours, for just $3.00.

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Another local farmers market is Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI.

Bailey Bisson photo.

“Mount Hope Farm itself has a rich history in the town of Bristol dating back to the Pokanokets. The Farmers Market at the farm was established around 10 years ago,” said Katie Blais, community programs and events manager.

This farm is home to donkeys, goats, and chickens.

According to Blais, Mount Hope has a variety of foods for sale during the winter months, including apples, microgreens, baked goods, meat, eggs, seafood, cheese, maple syrup, coffee, and candles. They even sell shoes!

The Mount Hope Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9am-12:30pm, and the walking trails are open 8am-6pm daily, excluding holidays. However, there are no pets allowed.

View at Mount Hope. Bailey Bisson photo.