WOODBURY- Ever since opening in 2015, local cafe Ayla’s Bagels in Woodbury has been a bustling destination for Nonnewaug students wanting a bite to eat and something to sip on.
(Sam Savulak ’29)
For many, a quick stop at Ayla’s has become a part of students’ daily routine.
“I probably go almost every day,” says NHS freshman Julinana Fazzino. “Their food and drinks are so good, I probably couldn’t go a few days without coming back.”
Her love for the cafe goes even further. Fazzino admits that she has been late just so she can go in the morning.
“I’ve been late more than a few times because I went to Ayla’s,” Fazzino says, “But honestly, I think it’s worth the lunch detention.”
Some students even go as far to say that they’d much rather go to Ayla’s than a chain coffee restaurant.
“While I must admit Starbucks and Dunkin are pretty good, Ayla’s is so much better,” freshman Avah Charles says. “Their food, the cozy environment, and the friendliness of the workers is something those coffee chains just can’t replicate.”
Freshman Charlotte Toon also recognizes how popular Ayla’s is among students.
“I always see people in the hallways passing by with an Ayla’s drink in their hand,” Toon says, “or I hear people practically begging for their parents to take them after school.”
Not only are Ayla’s food and drinks popular, but the overall serene environment keeps Nonnewaug students and teachers coming back.
“It’s kind of like a play date spot,” says Darcy Lockwood, an interventionist/ELL coordinator and frequent customer of Ayla’s. “You could have a little coffee, and hang out and relax for a while.”
Lockwood also notes that Ayla’s has a strong local feel to it.
“I always see someone I know when I’m there,” she says. “I’ve seen parents with their kids, the same middle school teacher who comes in to draw everyday, and teachers who often get together after school there. It really just feels like a community spot.”
Through their delicious food, drinks and local environment, Ayla’s Bagels and Coffee knows the way to Nonnewaug students’ hearts is truly through their stomach and their soul.
