Ground Central Coffee Company — Restaurant in New York

One of the best Italian (espresso-) coffees in town! Let me explain why since not everybody understands so much about coffee...!

1. The sizes are Italian, not American
2. The balance between temperature (not too hot), mild taste (absolutely not bitter or sour), not too much foam (sometimes you get only foam instead of milk) and last but not least no cacao on your cappuccino: everything is excellent!
3. Since I also alway check first how they "manage" their sizes and if real cups are available (I think the taste is better is real cups, not in carton cups to go) here no discussions are needed, they know more about coffee than me, I am only a European coffee lover, but Italy-experienced!
4. The oat milk cappuccino is my favourite, even the Italians can learn something about it.

Besides all of this, the atmosphere is nice and relaxed, especially the small "library lounge" in the back where you find comfortable, lazy armchairs and a couch.

I totally understand why people stay over for a longer period.

If I have to find something which could be improved: for my taste (as a classical musician) the music was too loud to be able to work or talk to other people at the same time.

I'll be...

I’ve been here several times to work because it’s a place I can actually get comfortable for that – like the chairs aren’t at a weird height relative to the tables, etc. It’s always crowded with people parking for a long while, so sometimes I have to wait or shuffle around as better seats become available.

The problem here is the staff. Some are perfectly friendly, but so many others seem like they’re disgusted to have to speak with you at all. It can feel like a hostile environment.

When over the especially loud music one day I didn’t hear them call my name when my espresso was ready, the barista acted annoyed when I asked about my drink. “I CALLED your name.” She remade the espresso but with a side of annoyance, thanks.

I actually asked if they might turn the music down just a bit, and I was told no because the music was important for atmosphere. Um, I get that, but on aggressive hip-hop day we don’t also need extra volume. I usually like the music here, but if it’s too loud it’s hard to focus or have a quiet conversation.

By the way, the Wifi never works. Expect to use your...

I am somewhat picky about coffee. I roast mine at home and I like mid roast, not burned (sorry Starbucks fans). When traveling, I like finding local places where the baristas take your drink with dedication to add to an already great product of nature and process This is one of those places.

Great location if you are near Times Square. Ambience is relaxed and somewhat eclectic. Great music! Reminds me of great coffee shops in the PNW. Lots of space for people watching by the window or on the street if you are flying solo (8th Avenue, so lots of good fun stuff happening) . Plenty of room to sit and chat w friends. Baristas greet people by their name as regulars come in, so this is a local spot.

My Americano with steamed milk on top was delicious and a great start for the morning. Mid roast that allowed many layers of flavor to stay there for a while. Temperature was perfect, I did not have to wait too long to start indulging on my morning addiction :) not dark roasted nor bitter. Perfect.

They also have pastries, which I will try next time and...