Social Grounds Coffee Roasters — Restaurant in Jacksonville

Reflecting on the ambiance of this coffee shop, one cannot help but note a stark departure from the rich historical tapestry that coffee houses are known for. Traditionally, these establishments beckoned with wooden tables and cushioned seats, fostering an environment ripe for leisure and intellectual exchange, a concept deeply rooted since the 15th century. The English coffeehouses of the 17th and 18th centuries were famed as 'penny universities' where the furniture was part of the welcoming character, while the celebrated Viennese coffee houses, recognized by UNESCO, epitomized comfort with plush seating and marble tabletops. Even the Turkish coffee culture, with its UNESCO accolade, emphasizes a similar congenial setting.

This venue, with its choice of metal chairs, strays from the historical essence that made coffee houses the revered institutions of social life they once were. While metal chairs may align with modern design values of durability and style, they do not convey the warm invitation of their historical counterparts, which were not just places to sip coffee but spaces to relax,...

I have been here three times now and have had two iced coffees (maple spice), 1 hot coffee (Campfire latte) and a Cinnamon roll so dry that tasted like it came out of an MRE (military food ration). No real consistency, not overly welcoming even when they were pretty slow; I get it but man, even the "hipster" coffee shops can muster a "hello" or a "what's up" but the girl behind the counter with the septum piercing acted like I was bothering her when I asked for iced coffee. Also, they take FOREVER to get you your drink, regardless of what type of machine you have; iced coffee doesn't take 10 minutes. Additionally, parking was a nightmare and I had to do the "Mogadishu Mile" through the hood after parking my truck to get to the back entrance, which is totally unsecured and needs to be locked in that type of area as it is a massive security issue given the large amount of homeless, transients, junkies, etc. roaming all over the immediate area.

12/16/21: Extremely unprofessional ownership and juvenile, untrained management; this place is a joke. I will make sure no one I know goes to...

I just discovered this awesome little spot while I was training for a new position at work. I've come about 5 times in the last 2 weeks when time allows for a quick walk across the street or a stop before work. Everything is fresh brewed by the cup and the pastries are equally as good. Every time I've walked in they call me by name and Sergi is great at what he does. He's made every single drink I've gotten. I also had the immense pleasure of meeting the owner and being able to have a conversation with him was amazing. I found so many small connections between his world and mine AND it was great to see a business owner so involved in the day to day operations. This tiny little coffee shop on main street in Jacksonville will blow your mind and really stands up for what their name promises. If you're ever travelling down main and decide you want a coffee stop at Social Grounds, make a friend while you wait for your drink. You won't be...