If you’ve ever spent a summer weekend fighting for a parking spot in Surf City or Barnegat Light, you know the vibe. Long Beach Island (LBI) has a specific rhythm. And for a lot of us, that rhythm starts exactly at the counter of How You Brewin. It isn't just a coffee shop. It's a landmark. But honestly, the How You Brewin Coffee Company menu can be a little overwhelming if you're standing there with a line of twenty people behind you and a toddler pulling at your leg.
You need a plan.
Most people walk in and panic-order a plain latte. Don't do that. There is so much more happening behind that counter, from their cold brew signatures to a food menu that actually holds its own against the caffeine. Let’s break down what makes this place a staple of the Jersey Shore coffee scene and how to navigate the menu like someone who lives here year-round.
The Liquid Gold: Coffee and Espresso Breakdown
The heart of the How You Brewin Coffee Company menu is their commitment to quality beans. They aren't just buying bulk pre-ground stuff. They take it seriously.
Their house drip is solid, but the real magic is in the specialty lattes. You’ve got the classics, sure. But the "Jersey Shore" inspired flavors are where it’s at. Have you tried the Mounds Bar latte? It’s exactly what it sounds like—chocolate and coconut—but it’s not that sickly sweet syrup flavor you get at big chains. It feels balanced.
Then there's the "White Russian" latte. No, there's no vodka in it before 8:00 AM. It’s a mix of white chocolate and kahlua flavors (the syrup version, obviously). It's creamy. It's rich. It's basically a hug in a cup.
Why the Cold Brew is the Local Secret
If you’re visiting in July, hot coffee is a bold choice. A sweaty choice.
The cold brew at How You Brewin is legendary for a reason. They slow-steep it, which cuts the acidity way down. If you usually need a ton of sugar to mask the bitterness of coffee, try their cold brew black first. You might be surprised.
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They also do "Cold Foam" toppings now, which is basically the law of the land in 2026. The salted caramel cold foam on top of a nitro cold brew? It’s a game changer. It creates this textural contrast—the thick, velvety foam hitting the sharp, crisp coffee underneath.
It’s Not Just Caffeine: Exploring the Food Menu
A lot of coffee shops treat food as an afterthought. You know the type—a sad, plastic-wrapped muffin that tastes like cardboard. How You Brewin isn't about that life.
The breakfast sandwiches are the real deal. They use actual eggs. Their "Sunrise Sandwich" is a go-to. But if you want to feel a little more "LBI Chic," the avocado toast is surprisingly sophisticated. They don't just schmear some green mush on bread. It’s got seasoning, maybe some red pepper flakes, and it’s served on bread that actually has a crust.
The Bakery Case Temptations
Look, the muffins are huge. Like, "share this with a friend or you'll need a nap" huge.
The cinnamon rolls are a local obsession. If they’re warm, get one. Don’t think about the calories. You’re on vacation, or it’s Tuesday, or you just survived the Causeway traffic. You deserve it. They also have gluten-free options that don't taste like sadness, which is a massive win for the inclusive dining crowd.
The Atmosphere: More Than Just a Menu
You can’t talk about the How You Brewin Coffee Company menu without talking about where you’re eating it.
The Surf City location has that "Mocktail Bar" feel in the evenings sometimes, and the vibe is very communal. It’s a "sit and stay a while" kind of place. They have plenty of seating, which is a miracle on the island. People bring their laptops, families bring their kids, and surfers bring their post-session hunger.
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The Seasonal Shift
One thing to keep in mind is that the menu changes.
In the fall, the "Pumpkin Spice" madness hits, but they do it better than most. They use real spices. In the winter, things get cozy with peppermint and gingerbread. The locals know that the "off-season" is actually the best time to visit because you can actually hear yourself think while you sip your macchiato.
What Most People Get Wrong About Ordering
Most people think "Macchiato" means what it means at Starbucks—a giant caramel latte.
At a specialty shop like How You Brewin, if you order a traditional macchiato, you’re getting a double shot of espresso with just a "mark" of foam. It’s small. It’s strong. If you want the big, sweet, layered drink, ask for a "Caramel Latte with a drizzle." The baristas are super chill and will help you out, but knowing the lingo helps avoid that awkward "Oh, I thought this was bigger" moment at the pickup counter.
Another pro tip? Use their app.
If it’s a Saturday morning in August, the line will be out the door. Ordering ahead on your phone lets you skip the chaos. You just walk in, grab your bag from the shelf, and head to the beach while everyone else is still deciding between a blueberry or corn muffin.
The Healthy-ish Side of the Menu
If you’re trying to keep it light, they have plenty of options.
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- Oat Milk and Almond Milk: They don't upcharge an insane amount for these.
- Fruit Bowls: Fresh, seasonal, and actually cold.
- Protein Boxes: Great for taking on a boat or to the beach.
The smoothies are also underrated. The "Green Machine" style blends are packed with actual nutrients, not just sugar water. It’s a solid way to reset after a night of pizza and boardwalk fries.
How to Navigate Pricing and Value
Is it more expensive than a gas station coffee? Yes.
Is it worth it? Absolutely.
You’re paying for the roast quality and the fact that these people actually know how to steam milk without burning it. A burnt latte is a tragedy. At How You Brewin, the milk is silky. That microfoam matters. When you look at the How You Brewin Coffee Company menu, the prices are pretty standard for a high-end specialty shop in a resort town. Expect to pay $5-$7 for a specialty drink and $9-$14 for a substantial breakfast item.
Why It Matters to the Community
This isn't a faceless corporation.
The owners, Dan and Kim Flynn, have put their hearts into this place since 2004. You can feel that. The staff actually seems to like being there, which is rare in the service industry these days. They support local events and have become a "third place" for LBI—that spot that isn't home and isn't work, but where you feel comfortable.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
Ready to head over? Here is how to make the most of the How You Brewin Coffee Company menu experience:
- Download the app before you get to the island. Seriously. The cell service can be spotty when the crowds hit, so have it ready to go.
- Try the "Nitro" if you're a caffeine fiend. It’s smoother than regular iced coffee and hits harder.
- Check the "Daily Specials" board. They often test out flavors that aren't on the permanent printed menu. Sometimes it’s a weird combo that sounds questionable but tastes incredible—like a lavender honey latte.
- Grab a bag of "LBI Blend" beans. It’s the best souvenir you can buy. Your kitchen will smell like the shore for a week after you get home.
- Look for the seating in the back. Everyone crowds the front windows, but there’s usually a quiet corner tucked away if you need to actually get some work done or read a book.
Instead of just grabbing the first thing you see, take a second to look at the "Signature" section. Those drinks were designed by people who love coffee. Whether you’re at the Surf City flagship or the Barnegat Light location, the menu is built to be explored. Skip the plain black coffee just once and try the "Coconut Joy"—it might just change your entire morning routine.
Everything on the menu reflects a balance between "vacation treat" and "daily necessity." Whether you need a massive breakfast burrito to fuel a day on the waves or a quick shot of espresso to survive a family reunion, they’ve got it. Just remember to tip your baristas—they’re the hardest working people on the island during a heatwave.