Yes Virginia, there is a great organic cafe on Staten Island and it's called Duzer's Local in Stapleton.
Anyone who has visited Staten Island knows that it is one of the best kept secrets of New York City - and that's just how some locals want it.
Since it became part of New York City in 1898, Staten Island has been a retreat for rich families such as the Vanderbilts who wanted a place to chillax close to home. They chose Staten Island because it contained acres of forest, miles of beaches and a plethora of nature trails. The perfect antidote for the hustle and bustle of life in Manhattan.
Staten Island still contains more parkland and beaches than any other borough in New York City, earning it the moniker of "Borough of Parks". But amidst all that greenery are quaint little towns whose main streets are lined with businesses providing everything a visitor, vacationer or local will need.
Restaurants, live theater, museums and art galleries are scattered throughout the island but most are located on the north shore near to the St. George Ferry terminal which connects to all buses and the Staten Island railroad.
The Staten Island Ferry is a New York City icon providing riders a free 20 minute trip between lower Manhattan and St. George. Two railroad stops away from the ferry
is Stapleton, a town created by visionaries William Staples and Minthorne Tompkins who, in 1836, operated their own ferry between Stapleton and lower Manhattan.
Since then, Stapleton has been noted for having a thriving business district that services the stately homes located up in the hills. It's no wonder that Duzer's Local owner Annette Bruno chose Stapleton as the town to open a companion shop to her Henry's Local in Downtown Brooklyn.
Duzer's Local is located in a 1930's building containing high tin ceilings, hardwood floors and large glass windows looking out onto the street. The decor inside resembles a turn of the twentieth century general store with chalkboard menus, metal tins and large glass jars displaying baked goods.
The tasteful decor really compliments the architecture of the building, but the real "taste" is provided by the food. Duzer's Local menu of organic coffees, teas, muffins, waffles and bread pudding is beyond tasteful and it doesn't end there. Duzer's Local also has a savory menu serving up brilliant combinations such as goat cheese and figs on a croissant, hummus and sun dried tomato on a baguette and bacon and zucchini baked in a quiche.
Prices at Duzer's Local are as friendly as the staff with the most expensive coffee running under $5 and menu items under $10.
Duzer's Local was opened in 2016 but it has already been woven into the fabric of the community. Most days the shop is filled with locals discussing everything from hiking to politics and all the subjects in between.
If you are tired of paying high prices for mediocre food offered by chain coffee shops, stop into Duzer's Local located at 387 Van Duzer Street just blocks away from the Stapleton train station between Beach and Wright Streets. Present this coupon for 10% off your next visit.
Download the Staten Island App for more unique discounts from Staten Island merchants.
The outside of the shop is inviting with large windows adorned with pink and plum cupcakes leaving no mistake as to what lies within. Inside is a delight for the senses. The smell of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the sweet bouquet of chocolate, citrus and nuts makes your mouth water. 
