Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea – a local sweet spot in Smithtown

Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea in Smithtown is a bright, refreshing and cozy place to enjoy a coffee, fresh muffin or light fare.

Opened in November, 2019 by Jeff Wong and his two business partners, Lou Puleo and Chris Varvaro, Sweetwaters also offers free Wi-Fi so you can catch up on E mails, work or the latest news. Jeff, a Pharmacy Tech by trade, explained how he met his future business partners in the healthcare field and shared how he, Lou and Chris were becoming disillusioned in healthcare with the never-ending regulations and paperwork. It was this discussion that led to the premise and eventual reality of opening a Sweetwaters franchise together.

When questioned about the transition from healthcare to the food industry, Jeff explained “it was all foreign to him and his partners and mistakes were made along the way.” However, they persevered and met the challenges unique to this kind of business. They now have 15 employees with the long-term goal of opening more stores on Long Island.

Jeff is very proud of Sweetwater’s involvement with the Smithtown community. Some of the projects hosted at Sweetwaters include “coffee with a cop,” collecting for the local food pantry, and sponsoring an “adopt a family for the holidays” fundraiser. In addition, and adding to the decor, the walls are adorned with the works of local photographers to enjoy. Many are available for sale. There is even a large chalk mural adjacent to the deserts display case.

When discussing the Covid-19 pandemic, Jeff was quick to say it was their drive-thru service that enabled them to remain open and survive the lock-down. The drive-thru remains a core element for their business. Patio seating is also available.

Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea is currently utilizing their seasonal hours, which are Monday thru Friday, 7:00-6:00 PM and weekends from 8:00-6:00 PM. In addition, the web site is state of the art, including a menu, or you can order thru their App for curbside pick-up. Packaged coffee, decorative mugs and gift cards are also available for purchase.