Written by Isabella Aranda Garcia
Courtney Davis Walker Pick
Why she chose them:
“It’s my go-to gathering spot to work, meet friends and enjoy a great cup of coffee. I always leave with a smile—it’s such a perfect Pleasantville spot.”
What is the first thing you do when you open for the day?
Take out the butter! Have to let that soften for the first buttered bagel of the day.
What’s something you’ve gotten better at every year?
Listening and being open to different perspectives.
What’s one item you always have on hand?
I like to keep my multi-bit screwdriver close by.
What was your “I made it” moment?
I won an award from The Pleasantville Chamber of Commerce for being a business owner under 40. The award itself was nice, but the recognition and enthusiasm from the crowd when I received it was really special.
Tell us about your favorite local spot.
I’ve become a (very) frequent patron of Lulu’s Kitchenette. I crave a smashburger regularly after a long shift, but honestly the best part is the service—top notch, really kind people.
What northern Westchester business do you secretly (or not so secretly) love?
I (not so secretly) love Here Coffee + Beer in Ossining. Their coffee is expertly roasted in-house and they serve delicious food, coffee and beer. The vibe and owners are awesome.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing instead?
Probably some sort of office administration (seriously).
What’s the best advice you ever received?
Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.
How do you celebrate a big win?
Food, always food.
What’s your business’s unofficial motto?
“If you can lean, you can clean” (Attributed to previous owner, Michael Grant.)
What’s the smallest detail your customers notice—or that you hope they notice?
I had a customer notice that I put a border on all of the signs that I make for the shop – loved that. And I love the border.
What’s the one thing your business couldn’t function without?
My super awesome employees (and Italian Roast).
What’s one thing people often say when they first walk in?
“It’s so cute.”
What’s a word or phrase customers often use to describe your business—and do you agree?
“A community place.” I definitely agree.
What is your most popular item?
Straight up drip coffee, followed very closely by a scone.
Address: 7 Wheeler Ave Pleasantville NY, 10570
Phone number: (914) 495-3153
Website: blackcow.com
This article was published in the January/February 2026 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.
To view all 2026 Connect to the Best winners, click here.
Isabella Aranda is a designer, writer and social media specialist with an M.A. in emerging media from the New Media Institute at the Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communication. Driven by curiosity and inspired by timeless modern design, she blends creativity and strategy to craft compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences.
Her expertise spans digital marketing, content creation and UX design, with notable achievements such as co-creating the Georgia On Your Mind podcast and leading digital campaigns that significantly boosted engagement. A Venezuelan immigrant, Isabella brings a multicultural perspective to her work, enhancing her ability to connect with and inspire others.
