Woodbridge native and Rutgers alum Eric LeGrand is known for many things. He’s been recognized by Sports Illustrated, inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, and earned other awards as well. But now, he’s tackling a new challenge: owning a coffee shop. LeGrand Coffee House in Woodbridge serves all sorts of beverage and pastry options.
The business stems from a simple concept. “I wanted to figure out a way to bring people together,” Eric says. “Coffee brings people together for business, for friends.” However, Eric wasn’t much of a coffee drinker. In fact, he had his first cup in August 2020. “Now I have it every single day,” he says. “I can’t leave without having a cup.”
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A LeGrand Idea
Eric wants to inspire people with “a daily cup of bELieve” (capped for his initials); and remind guests to live life to its fullest. He aims for LeGrand Coffee House to be an inclusive place where everyone will feel comfortable; regardless of color, race, size, and disability. The interior seats up to 40 guests, in addition to some tables and chairs on pavers outside. After hours, the shop plans to host open mic events, book clubs, and charity events.
The new business owner suffered a devastating spinal cord injury while playing football for Rutgers University in 2010. Since then, he’s become an entrepreneur, author, sports analyst, motivational speaker, and philanthropist. His 1,864-square-foot coffee shop is part of a new facility with both apartments and retail space. He enjoys setting up shop in his hometown. “I’ve seen people I’ve grown up with who are now married with kids,” Eric says. “People from elementary and middle school. It’s nice to see familiar faces and new ones too.”
About LeGrand Coffee Shop
The shop sells single origin roasts, ensuring the highest possible quality coffee available. Options include coffee from Costa Rica, Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, and Sumatra. Meanwhile, the Believe Blend is their house roast; a medium-dark mix of Guatemalan and Brazilian beans with hints of grapefruit and dark chocolate.
Other beverages include lattes, cappuccinos, espresso, decaf coffee, and teas. In particular, Eric says their most popular drink is the Scarlet Knight, a latte flavored with mocha and chocolate raspberry. The honey almond latte is also a hit. But Eric says his favorite drink is a 24-ounce caramel iced latte.
LeGrand Coffee House is also home to baked goods and pastries such as croissants, Danishes and scones. But their signature monkey bread is Eric’s go-to pastry. A lunch menu is also in the works.
Staying Positive
Eric has never let being in a wheelchair stand in his way. “If I can do it, anyone can achieve their dreams,” he says. His attitude and determination help him accomplish his goals. “Our mission statement is coffee, comfort, and satisfaction,” he says. “We want this to be a spot in New Jersey that you must stop by when you’re in town.”
Aside from LeGrand Coffee House, Eric is the founder of Team LeGrand, a philanthropic organization. To date, Team LeGrand has raised over $2 million for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. His accolades include the 2011 Best Moment Award from Sports Illustrated and the ESPY’s 2012 Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. He was also inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2017, receiving the Warrior Award.
Visit LeGrand Coffee House at 10 Green St in Woodbridge. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © LeGrand Coffee House
