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Ground Support Cafe
Master Critic Review
Ground Support Cafe
7.7
A SoHo staple since 2009, this specialty coffee shop serves lattes, simple sandwiches, and pastries with mellow, art-world-adjacent energy. Sidewalk benches and regulars’ dogs make it a casual pet-friendly stop for a light breakfast or midafternoon caffeine break.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Cheese on Sourdough, Breakfast Egg Sandwich, Cafe Latte
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: Long-running SoHo cafe balancing serious coffee, simple grilled sandwiches, and a dog-filled sidewalk scene.
Who should go: Coffee-first locals needing laptop space and dog-friendly sidewalk tables.
When to visit: Mornings before 10 or midafternoon to avoid crowds.
What to order: Latte, grilled cheese on sourdough, breakfast egg sandwich.
Insider tip: Grab an outdoor bench so your dog can lounge while you work or people-watch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on West Broadway fill quickly after 9am. Best luck on side streets before morning rush.
Dress code: Casual and practical—athleisure, jeans, and work-from-café attire all blend in.
Noise level: Moderate during peak mornings but generally conversational; outdoor benches are quieter.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; the café closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Light to moderate flow; usually no wait, though seating can be scarce from 12–2pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most sandwiches and pastries have vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 1–2 vegan pastries and the ability to build a simple toast or salad.
Gluten-free options: Some pastries and light bites vary daily; no dedicated gluten-free prep, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, low-stakes coffee date—sidewalk seating and mellow energy keep things relaxed, but it’s too informal for a more polished first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only. Indoor seats turn over quickly; outdoor benches are easier to snag during off-peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can hang at a café; limited space and no high chairs mean it’s less ideal for toddlers or strollers.
Best For
Better for: Quick coffee runs, grab-and-go sandwiches, solo laptop sessions, and relaxed dog-friendly hangs on the sidewalk.
Skip if: You need full meals, ample indoor seating, or a quieter environment for long work sessions—nearby full-service cafés may suit better.