Gryphon Cafe — Restaurant in Philadelphia

This was my favorite cafe until an hour ago. I never thought I would encounter x e n o p h o b i c behavior for the first time after living for 2.5 years in the US in a seemingly “cool” cafe.

My partner and I visited this place at 1:40 pm on Thursday, Jan 6th. My partner ordered and then I asked him to add another item to the order, and this is where the guy at the counter got annoyed. English is not our first language. Are we clear when speaking all the time? No. Masks make it even harder to communicate perfectly. Is it ok if someone gets mad and intolerant because of not speaking English the way they do? NO, IT IS NOT. That is 100% the duty and responsibility of anyone who is providing services to stay calm and politely ask us to repeat what we said. The guy instead acted as if we were causing problems for him.

Besides, he was staring at us all the time were at the table. After about 15 mins, the guy asked whether we had proof of vaccination. I understand that it is the requirement, but what stopped him from asking that question at the very beginning if it is law? I bet he was wishing badly that we don’t have our cards so that he could ask us to leave immediately.

What a day. I absolutely...

Gryphon is aesthetically pleasing with high ceilings, concrete floors, and music is playing softly enough to work or study, but loud enough to add to the atmosphere. The guests here are considerate of their surroundings. They all seem to keep their conversations to a soft chatter being sure not to disturb those working or reading around them. If you prefer to sit outside they have an outdoor seating area. Also, there isn’t too many people with children who dine in. If you are looking for a nice cafe to get some work done without being distracted, Gryphon is the best...

Meh... not that impressed. I do like that the space has indoor seating during COVID, and several outlets to charge devices. Those are the good things. The iced mocha I ordered had no flavor. So I politely took it to the front counter (rather than dump it full into the trash) and told them I didn’t care for it, so would like to get a coconut water instead. I fully expected the barista to offer to remake the drink, or at least comp the water. Nope! He simply takes the coffee (didn’t even ask what’s wrong it, then charges me for the water!) Don’t think I’ll be...