Our Story
Three generations of coffee love, family recipes, and neighborhood warmth.
It Started With a Dream
In 1962, Rosa Martinez arrived in Brooklyn with little more than her family's espresso machine and a collection of well-worn recipe cards. She had a vision: a place where strangers became friends over a perfect cup of coffee.
She found a tiny storefront on what is now Vintage Lane, painted the walls a warm cream color, installed six stools at a counter, and got to work. Word spread quickly - Rosie's coffee was different. It was made with love.
Within months, those six stools weren't enough. But Rosie never rushed. She knew that good things take time - just like a perfect espresso.
Through the Years
Rosie Opens the Doors
Rosa 'Rosie' Martinez opens a tiny coffee counter on Vintage Lane with just six stools and a dream. Her secret? The family espresso machine brought from Naples.
The Expansion
After years of loyal customers lining up around the block, Rosie expands into the adjacent storefront, adding her famous pastry counter.
Second Generation
Rosie's daughter Maria takes over daily operations, preserving mom's recipes while introducing new favorites like the now-legendary Cinnamon Roll.
Live Music Begins
Maria's son Carlos, a jazz enthusiast, starts Friday Night Jazz sessions. What began as informal jam sessions becomes a Brooklyn institution.
Third Generation
Carlos and his sister Elena officially take the reins. They commit to sustainable sourcing while keeping Grandma Rosie's spirit alive.
Still Family, Still Fresh
Three generations later, we're still serving coffee from that same 1962 espresso machine. Some things are too good to change.
Meet the Martinezs
Rosa "Rosie" Martinez
Founder (1962)
The woman who started it all. Her spirit lives on in every cup we serve.
Carlos Martinez
Co-Owner & Head Roaster
Third generation. Music lover. Obsessed with finding the perfect roast.
Elena Martinez
Co-Owner & Pastry Chef
Third generation. Guardian of Grandma's recipes. Makes the best cinnamon rolls in Brooklyn.
Our Values
Family First
We treat every customer like family. Many of our regulars have been coming for decades, watching their own families grow alongside ours.
Quality Always
From our single-origin beans to our locally-sourced ingredients, we never compromise on quality. Grandma Rosie wouldn't have it any other way.
Community Hub
We're more than a cafe - we're a neighborhood gathering place. Book clubs, first dates, business meetings - life happens here.
Sustainable Future
We source from sustainable farms, use compostable packaging, and support local suppliers. Good coffee shouldn't cost the earth.
Our 1962 Espresso Machine
This isn't just any espresso machine. This is the original machine Rosie brought from Naples in 1962, carefully restored and still pulling perfect shots to this day.
Every coffee enthusiast who visits asks about her. She's been featured in coffee magazines worldwide. But to us, she's just part of the family.
"A good espresso machine is like a good friend - it gets better with age." - Grandma Rosie
Come Be Part of Our Story
We'd love to meet you. Stop by for a cup of coffee and stay awhile.
Visit Us Today