A beloved coffee shop in Clifton is closing its doors after 30 years.
Sitwell’s Coffeehouse Act II co-owner Flor Garayoa announced on social media that she will be closing the coffee shop following the birth of her daughter with her husband and fellow Sitwell’s co-owner, Alex Barden.
“While I make the life of a small business owner look super fun and easy (JK!), it’s a huge responsibility and enormous time commitment. With a new member of the family comes a reimagining of where my time and energy is best spent. In the short term, I have decided to prioritize time with my family, including the freedom to more easily visit my home country of Argentina. As such, it’s time to let go of the hand of my first-born (Sitwell’s) in favor of my new-born,” Garayoa wrote.
Garayoa and Barden took over Sitwell’s in 2018 after former owner Lisa Storie decided to step away from the business. Storie first opened the coffee shop in 1995 and it became well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and as a popular hangout for local artists and musicians. After taking ownership of the shop, Barden and Garayoa, who had been an employee of Storie’s, were dedicated to keeping what made Sitwell’s iconic while adding their own philosophy and personality.
“It’s been the greatest honor to have been part of the Clifton family for so long, to have served organic and [fair] trade coffee & eclectic food from around the world. We’re proud to have hosted the finest jazz musicians, open mic performers, poets, indie rock bands, and artists that this brilliant city has to offer!” Garayoa said.
Garayoa says a dedicated closing date hasn’t been decided, but they are planning on closing near the end of September. And while it’s the end of her and Barden running the coffee shop, they are also interested in prospective buyers. Sitwell’s offers “name recognition stretching back (inclusive of the original founder and owner) more than 30 years, full liquor license, interior renovations, excellent vendor relationships, and most importantly, the best regulars in all the world!” says Garayoa.
Serious inquiries are asked to contact Garayoa at flor.sitwells@gmail.com.
Sitwells Coffeehouse Act II, 324 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. More info: sitwellsact2.com.
