Tazza Cafe is Open in Katonah

was buzzing with happy customers Tuesday morning, on the new shop's second day of business in downtown Katonah.

"We're definitely pleased to have it open," said Joe Mellusi, a North Salem resident decked out in cyclist gear, on a break from a morning ride. Mellusi is part of a group of locals who were regulars at the former Perks coffee shop in the space at 197 Katonah Avenue.

He said other members of his group, formerly known as "Perks Posse" (possibly pondering a new name for themselves), had stopped by yesterday and were also thrilled to have a new place to gather.

Owner - and Millwood resident - James Monica was at the store, greeting customers, and said he was glad the renovations were over and he could be open for town residents.

"We really hope this can be a nice place for people to start and end their days, or spend some time in between,"said Monica, who owns and operates Tazza Café in four other locations: , , Armonk—his first cafe—and

The store's manager is Dan Sampson, a Byram resident who recently graduated from New York University and has been working for Monica since he was 16 years old.

The menu includes fresh brewed coffee supplied by the Westchester-based coffee distributor, Barrie House. It's also available for purchase by the pound. Cold coffee drinks include a "low-carb mocha frozen latte," which Monica says tastes best made with half-n-half.

The display case was full of fresh wrap sandwiches including a turkey avocado option, along with cold chicken, tuna and tossed mixed green salads.

Tazza Cafe is open Monday through Saturday 6:30 am. - 7 p.m. and Sundays from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.