Like so many small, family owned businesses Waterfront Roasters grew from humble beginnings. Owner Bob Richter came from a long line of “coffee men,” but that didn't make the path any easier. Reaching back into the early part of the 1900's Bob's grandfather sold fresh roasted coffee from the back of a horse drawn wagon. His father continued in the business, starting his own roaster many years later, though after a few poor business decisions he was forced to shutter his operation. Not long after Bob's father passed away, and left the family with virtually nothing.

Compelled to give up his dreams of taking over the business he had once worked for, Bob was presented with the challenge of supporting a young family and his mother. He decided that the only way to get ahead was to work as a salesman for other established roasters. Throughout the years he learned the art of sourcing, roasting, grinding and packaging fine coffees. Skills he unfortunately was never able to learn from his father.

After many years of honing his skills he finally felt secure and confident enough to give it a go with his own roasting business. In 1984, after meeting his now retired partner Steve at a trade show, the two began Empire Coffee just outside New York City. Their mission: supply only the best, fresh roasted Arabica coffees while so many others were focused on quantity.

Over time Empire grew as they offered customers access to consistently exceptional coffees. Coffees they weren't able to get previously. Their reputation for creating smooth, exciting flavor profiles earned them loyal customers, many of whom have been with them for decades. Competition in the New York area for any business can be stiff, but with some success came an opportunity to create a new brand that would be available to anybody, not just their current customers.

The focus of Waterfront Roasters was simple. Offer the same great quality and consistency they had for so many years, but with an eye toward even more unique and diverse flavors. Sourcing coffee from regions across the globe and roasting each to its optimal shade is the hallmark of Waterfront Roasters. With an over 25 year history we hope to continue our story, with your support, for at least another 25. Thank you for visting our site.

- The Waterfront Roasters Family