One thing the Left Coast does really well is coffee. Here in the East, we're still catching up.

Our prediction: Longfellow’s will help us close the gap.

Longfellow’s (www.longfellowscoffee.com) is a tiny drive-up gourmet coffee kiosk, located on the busy corner of Route 23 and Kinnelon Road.

Beginning at 5 a.m., the faithful line up for a java jolt that helps them make it through the morning rush. So things move faster, your order is taken as you sit on line: yes, they come out to you. The Record, offered free, helps pass the time.

The Longfellows (and gals) who take your order and make your change are invariably cheerful and helpful. At that hour, that is no small feat.

But enough about the experience. This is after all, about coffee.

The dark roast -- a specially created mix of beans from Kenya, Indonesia and Colombia -- combines the earthy, spicy flavors in a first class blend. The strong espresso also makes a great starter for a multitude of specialty coffee drinks.

Freshly baked bagels, pastries and muffins finish your breakfast. Or take the healthy route with a fruit smoothie. Pack up one of the home- made soups for lunch.

Longfellow’s is the creation of Bruce Jed, a former advertising executive who was spurred by 9/11 to fulfill his dream of creating a string of drive-ups. We think he’s made a great choice.

A second Longfellow’s is now open on Route 15 in Jefferson, though it’s not a drive-thru. Jed wants to put more of the tiny drive-thru kiosks along commuter roads throughout the state. Hope he puts a one near you? it’s definitely worth pulling off the road for.

Tomorrow: The hottest looks for on or off the slopes!