An Artisanal Coffee Gathering Place
Since opening its doors in 2006 and later on Park Road in 2012, J.René Coffee Roasters has been influential in establishing Connecticut's specialty coffee scene—not just as a café or roastery, but as a “Third Space,” a place beyond home and work where community, creativity, and connection thrive.
Our Story
The journey began when José René Martínez, a lawyer born in the South Bronx and raised in Puerto Rico, followed the scent of freshly roasted coffee beans and was instantly captivated by the aromas, history, and craft. Two weeks later, he found himself immersed in the art of roasting specialty coffee, and the story began. Today, he’s an award-winning coffee roaster, instructor, Q-Grader, competition judge, and more.
“For me, coffee represents more than just a valued food commodity. It is a social beverage capable of bridging two or more people together for meaningful dialogue. Our ability to bring about those special moments through coffee is why I describe our venue not as a coffee shop, but instead, as an artisanal coffee gathering place.”
- José René Martínez
Our Team
-
José René Martínez
FOUNDER, OWNER
-
Marie Engel
CO-OWNER, GENERAL MANAGER
-
Anne Mercer
CO-OWNER AT VICTUS COFFEE, MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS
-
Dana Borque
PRODUCTION ROASTER
-
Rui Correia
HEAD CHEF
Where Coffee, Craftsmanship, & Community Combine
At our cafe in West Hartford, Connecticut, we believe the pursuit of a memorable coffee experience can only be achieved by adhering to time honored practices and a respect for all those who labor long hours to produce it.
That experience begins with sourcing the right coffee and developing lasting partnerships with those who cultivate them. It continues with hours of roasting and cupping to identify the right roasting profile that highlights all the unique flavor attributes of each particular coffee. This journey continues with educating our baristas, not only on how to brew quality coffee, but in the art of sincere hospitality.
Combining our passion for specialty coffee, conversation, and connection, our cafe has intentionally remained WiFi-free since 2012. We invite you to join us at one of the communal tables that encourage real, face‑to‑face interactions, connections, creative gatherings, or cultural events. In a world where coffee is often rushed, we invite you to slow down, savor, and connect. Here, every cup is a gateway to community, culture, and creativity.
In The News
-
Mediterranean cuisine and nighttime vibe: Popular CT coffee shop brings something new to the table | Hartford Courant
-
There’s a specialty dinner coming to a CT roasting company. A space called ‘perfect for ultimate dining’ | Hartford Courant
-
A Coffee Drinker’s Guide To Connecticut | Sprudge
-
J.René Coffee Roasters | Unlocking Connecticut
-
West Hartford Coffee Shop Named SBA Connecticut ‘Minority-Owned Business of the Year’ | We-Ha.com
-
J.René Coffee Roasters | WFSB Channel 3
-
J. René Coffee Roasters offers fresh brews, tight community in West Hartford | WTNH News8
-
Need caffeine? New coffee shop opens in Hartford | WTNH News8
-
Coffee: Local Shops, Home Brews + Coffee History | Seasoned | CT Public
-
West Hartford Coffee Roaster Among Nation's Best | Patch
Visit Us
320 Park Road, West Hartford, CT 06119
Hours:
Café & Roastery:
Monday–Sunday, 7 AM – 2 PM
Analog & Aroma (Evenings):
Thursday–Saturday, 5 PM – 8:30 PM