As you make your way down Front Street in Greenport, you pass different boutique shops, restaurants, even the infamous carousel on your right, but as you approach Main Road, on your left sits Crazy Beans—a 50s style breakfast and lunch spot that will serve you both delicious food and coffee.
Before entering, you already get the feel: a brick building, a bright red door, and a neon sign that reads “Soda Restaurant.” Simply glancing through the windows will have you automatically intrigued. The décor is as if you stepped back in time with its red theme, its black and white checkered floor, its 50s vintage chairs, and countless retro signs, even Norman Rockwell paintings.
I was delighted to learn that this was a family owned and operated business. Callie Brennan, who grew up in Stony Brook, opened Crazy Beans in Miller Place in 2012. After meeting Tim Martino, who happened to go into Crazy Beans on his birthday, the two fell in love, got married and later opened Crazy Beans in Stony Book in 2014.
In September of 2016, Crazy Beans in Greenport opened.
The Greenport location is not at all huge, but it sets the tone for a laid-back experience.
I started with the Glinda the Good Witch Latte – Strawberry and French Vanilla-flavored. I’m not one for anything sweet, I don’t even put sugar in my coffee, but I went for it. And I’m happy I did, it wasn’t too sweet with the right amount of flavor.
Apparently, the “Fully Loaded Homies” are one of the most popular menu items, so naturally I ordered them. Boy, are they dangerous! I never tasted anything like it, and I will be sure to return even if it’s just for them. They weren’t your average home fries. They had cheddar cheese, American cheese, bacon, sour cream, and scallions – a tastier version of a loaded potato. They were crispy and delicious, and I could NOT stop.
For my meal, I got the Avocado Breakfast Wrap, which was two eggs over easy, fried avocado, bacon, tomato, and chipotle sauce in a flour tortilla. For some reason, they were unable to give me fried avocado, but after having the “Fully Loaded Homies,” I didn’t mind, and I was sure that no matter what this place was going to give, I’d be happy. I wasn’t wrong. My breakfast wrap was delicious.
I was able to try some of the Pancake Quesadilla, which was scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheddar cheese served between two pancakes with Vermont maple syrup. This was HUGE – a very generous portion.
Not only was the staff friendly with all patrons, but I took notice of how they interacted with each other. I can honestly say it made for a very pleasurable experience all around. I also loved that I was able to Venmo the waitress a tip because tips were not accepted on credit cards. So instead of leaving, going to a bank, and coming back, they made the process as easy as can be.
I had the opportunity to speak with locals about Crazy Beans and learned of the crazy lines that this place generates all-year round. One woman noted that she waited a few HOURS to have a meal, but says that it is worth it. I can’t say I disagree. I already know this is definitely a spot that I will gladly revisit.
