Candelaria Espresso Bar

Candelaria brings NYC-style espresso to Main Street in Matawan, and people drive over from Aberdeen and Old Bridge for it. You'll spot the bold sign from a block away. Inside, the lighting's low but the windows are big, and the seating runs from bar chairs to couches.

The iced cortado is the drink regulars hold up. Almond milk lattes are solid, and there's a matcha mojito and a matcha OJ if you want something different. Traditionalists can get a café con leche.

The food's worth a visit on its own: burrata toast (often with avocado), an apple-brie-prosciutto sandwich, fresh guava croissants, and pastries. Outlets are limited, so if you plan to work for a while, come early or at an off-peak hour.