Good Karma Cafe — Restaurant in Philadelphia

I’ve lived near Good Karma for 3 years now, so am not saying this based on 1 or a few experiences - the staff here have attitudes. I’ve been saying it for so long every time I leave the place that today I finally was like ‘maybe… I should share?’

I can point to a few specific experiences, but it’s also a general vibe - I always feel like I’ve somehow done something to wrong or offend them; they’re short and snippy or barky. I’ve started using their cumbersome online ordering via Ritual to avoid it, but even leaving my apartment (which is literally parallel to them .5 blocks away on Clinton St) after it says my order is ready, I’ll arrive and it’s not, or I didn’t realize they canceled my whole order just because they were out of 1 thing.

I like supporting my neighborhood businesses and only have to interact with them for to-go orders, but if it weren’t for their bomb chai lattes, I’d have given up long ago. I buy a coffee almost every single morning so I don’t say this lightly either - their coffee is not good; Green Street has been getting that business from me forever. Sometimes Karma has good monthly bagels, but the statistical chance of actually getting can be slim, as they’re always running out of things at random times of the day.

Last - they’ve got an aquarium which is cool, but I get anxiety over the catfish. I’m by no means an aquatic or catfish expert, but I had a 32gal aquarium in my room growing up and 2 upside down catfish that somehow got too big for their environment size to actually thrive - and I feel claustrophobic on behalf of Karma’s catfish every time I peep it. But again, what do I know; maybe it’s happy as a clam eating their...

I really dug this place. I just wanted somewhere to go in the late eve (after 8) with comfortable seating, coffee and wifi. The place is gigantic, warehousian even. There is ample seating and I can't even imagine this place being totally full though perhaps during the daytime with the rush of students...? They do have a rule that you must share your table if someone needs a seat, and there are a lot of four-seaters so if it IS busy, don't expect to spread out your entire briefcase.

I admit I only ordered a simple medium roast coffee, but it just fine. No better or worse than anywhere else. The wifi was great, speedy and useful and I didn't get hassled by the staff for sitting with one coffee for 2 hours (though to be fair, it was only about 15% full so they hardly needed the space.)

The only downside to me is the music; I didn't find it too loud as others have complained, but I did find it boring to the point of distracting. It was this kind of horrible mix of trendy and "wedding reception"; IE: a Radiohead song followed by "Walking on Sunshine"... I would have almost preferred something instrumental or jazzy. Still, a small...

4.5/5 Stars

I recently discovered Good Karma Cafe and I'm hooked! This charming spot exceeded my expectations with its warm atmosphere, top-notch service, and delicious food.

The staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful, happily answering our questions about the menu. We indulged in their mouthwatering chicken sandwiches on sourdough bread, paired with refreshing lemonade and iced tea. The cozy back dining room, adorned with vibrant art and lush greenery, made for a pleasant dining experience.

Their breakfast and brunch menu boasts an array of tempting options, making me eager to return. Standouts include the Colonel Mustard sandwich and almond croissant.

Good Karma Cafe excels in:

Friendly, attentive staff Beautiful decor Excellent selection of hot and cold beverages Tasty sandwiches and pastries Ample seating Convenient WiFi and water for customers

Minor drawbacks:

Limited outdoor seating Coffee (large latte) was bitter and milk was over-steamed (though smoothies were great!)

Overall, Good Karma Cafe is an ideal spot for a satisfying breakfast or lunch. I'll definitely be...