Pour It Out Café opens at Railroad Plaza in Bay Shore

Dorris Claudio has always loved coffee. After decades working in childcare, the lifelong Bay Shore resident decided it was time for a change — and a chance to give back to the community she calls home.

That vision is now Pour It Out Café, a cozy new spot at 1 Railroad Plaza serving specialty coffees, breakfast sandwiches and pastries.

“The café aims to create a warm and inviting atmosphere,” Claudio said. “It’s perfect for anyone stopping by for a quick beverage or snack.”

The idea had been brewing for years.

Claudio said she first began thinking about opening a coffee shop nearly four years ago, but it wasn’t until this past September — when she found the right vacant space — that things started to fall into place. After a full transformation of the storefront, the café officially celebrated its grand opening last weekend.

“I love coffee,” she said. “It was time to make a change in my life. My kids are grown, my grandkids are in school. I needed something new.”

The space itself has come full circle. Once a coffee shop years ago — and more recently a retail store — it has been reimagined into a warm, welcoming environment with cozy booths and seating for customers looking to work, relax or catch up with friends.

“It has a homey feel,” Claudio said. “Walking in is like stepping into someone’s living room.”

Pour It Out Café sources its beans from the Dominican Republic and pairs its coffee with a growing food menu, including chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese and loaded tater tots.

Among the early favorites: the coquito latte and flan latte.

“We want people to feel comfortable here,” Claudio said. “Come in and stay a while.”

Pour It Out Café is open Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.

Top: Meet the team at the new Pour it Out Café in Bay Shore. (Dorris Claudio courtesy photos)