Ground Central

great place! very tasty coffee, great service and great atmosphere. clean bathroom, but it would be better if the coffee was served in ceramics mugs, not paper cups. But it’s ok 👍

I really enjoy the cappuccinos here. I usually grab a cappuccino with macadamia milk. The service is great too. Definitely coming back.

During our family’s spring break trip to NYC, we stumbled across Ground Central Coffee Company at 441 Lexington Ave while walking to Central Park, and it turned out to be a delightful find! Located just steps from Grand Central Station, this cozy cafe was the perfect spot for a quick break. The atmosphere was laid-back and inviting, with a trendy yet relaxed vibe that made us feel right at home amidst the hustle of Midtown. The decor, complete with shelves of books and records for sale, added a quirky charm that we all loved. My wife loved her latte. The menu was straightforward but well-curated, offering espresso-based drinks, drip coffee, and a solid selection of sweet and savory snacks. The staff was incredibly friendly and approachable, making our visit even more enjoyable with their warm service. It was clear they’re committed to creating a welcoming space for everyone, from busy commuters to families like ours. While there wasn’t a ton of seating, we lucked out with a spot on their comfortable chairs, which made for a nice pause before continuing our walk to Central Park. Ground Central Coffee is a gem in the heart of NYC, offering exceptional coffee, a cozy atmosphere, and a true sense of community. We only stopped in once during our trip, but it left such a great impression—we’d definitely recommend it to anyone exploring the area!

Super cute coffee shops with walls lined with books. Blueberry muffin was yummy and latter was perfect. There’s a variety of seating available.

Great coffee, Great, Music, Great Staff!

Best cappuccino i have ever had in my 19 years on this planet. Every cappuccino ive had afterwards was a sad disappointment compared to the one from here

Wow. Stunned. This is my favorite on the go coffee spot. Good space to get some work done too. Had to write emails, and the music was great. Super close to grand central which made life a million times easier. The STAFF IS SO SWEET. Litterally the best experience with baristas I’ve had in NYC so I had to write this review somewhere!! Marilyn and Sadiya whipped up my drink in seconds and chatted my ear off. Made my whole day!! The space has great natural light, book cases, LGBTQ+ friendly, and will definitely be in my cafe rotation. Also — their vegan walnut banana nut muffin is TO DIE FOR!!

Sadiya & Antonia made us feel right at home. Providing an awesome experience and very tasty coffee! They were awesome! Highly recommend the location on Lexington. Thanks! 🫶☕️

The rainbow books immediately caught my attention! The black and white artwork all over the coffee shop added a factor that made you drawn in. And fun part, the coffee is delicious! I would hang out here and read. Just look at the vibe! It’s all so pretty. I also got my coffee pretty fast. So the service is speedy. Would definitely come back here to work or read my books. Wow! 🥹🥹🥹

Whenever I’m in NY, I stay a little ways up on Lexington and my first stop after checking in is always Ground Central. Their espresso is just what I need whenever I’ve travelled across the Atlantic, and it always sets me up for whatever long walk I’ve decided to go on (who needs the Subway anyway?). Funky decor, great soundtrack, friendly staff, vinyl records. Perfect coffee.

Visiting on vacation. I like strong flavor and great coffee. Vanilla late extra shot with oat milk. Best I’ve had in NYC!! This is what I have been searching for! Great atmosphere and service!

It's a fun place! Very good cappuccino! Very! I mean very nice staff!!!. The place is spacious with plenty of seating of different types. They even have a couch. Plenty of books around the place I don't know if they're for sale or for trade but I forgot to ask. Like all of these coffee shops or wide variety of snacks and pastries. Very spacious. Wheelchair accessible.

Ground Central Coffee Company on “Lexington ave and 44th St” is a gem in the heart of New York City. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy retreat from the bustling streets outside. The decor is charming, with comfortable seating and a nostalgic touch of classic rock & roll playing softly in the background. The coffee here is exceptional. Whether you prefer a robust espresso or a smooth latte, the skilled baristas craft each drink with care and precision. The menu also offers a delightful selection of freshly baked pastries and savory food options, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. What truly sets Ground Central apart is the friendly and knowledgeable staff. They go above and beyond to ensure every customer feels welcome and satisfied. Their passion for coffee and dedication to excellent service is evident in every interaction. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to work, a spot to catch up with friends, or just a great cup of coffee, Ground Central Coffee Company is the perfect destination. It's more than just a coffee shop; it's a community hub where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

I really enjoyed this coffee shop! The atmosphere was great and so was the coffee! The employees were friendly and helpful. I have to give a shoutout to the bathroom as well. It was not only clean, but the theming of it was awesome! I loved the city life wallpaper in there and the all black fixtures!

Really good matcha! Their Nutella banana bread is delicious as well. Also, reasonable prices on everything 👍🏻

This is the best coffee place and coffee I had in NY. The coffee tastes bold and they offer vegan milk. This also had the best seating (sofas and tables) and most relaxed atmosphere I had while staying in NY.

Just WOW! I know Ground Central is known by their unique and comfortable style with good quality coffees, but this latest location is their best version of themselves. Baristas are incredibly talented and can make your drinks exactly hiw you want to drink. You can just take a seat and read the most popular books even you didn’t bring them with you while enjoying your drink. So impressed, you go guys!

Daniel Molina

Sadiya & Antonia made us feel right at home. Providing an awesome experience and very tasty coffee! They were awesome! Highly recommend the location on Lexington. Thanks! 🫶☕️

Matthew Smith

Whenever I’m in NY, I stay a little ways up on Lexington and my first stop after checking in is always Ground Central. Their espresso is just what I need whenever I’ve travelled across the Atlantic, and it always sets me up for whatever long walk I’ve decided to go on (who needs the Subway anyway?). Funky decor, great soundtrack, friendly staff, vinyl records. Perfect coffee.

Francis Dominic

The rainbow books immediately caught my attention! The black and white artwork all over the coffee shop added a factor that made you drawn in. And fun part, the coffee is delicious! I would hang out here and read. Just look at the vibe! It’s all so pretty. I also got my coffee pretty fast. So the service is speedy. Would definitely come back here to work or read my books. Wow! 🥹🥹🥹

Wes Duff

Visiting on vacation. I like strong flavor and great coffee. Vanilla late extra shot with oat milk. Best I’ve had in NYC!! This is what I have been searching for! Great atmosphere and service!

Natalia Trou

Really good matcha! Their Nutella banana bread is delicious as well. Also, reasonable prices on everything 👍🏻

Justin Davidson

I really enjoyed this coffee shop! The atmosphere was great and so was the coffee! The employees were friendly and helpful. I have to give a shoutout to the bathroom as well. It was not only clean, but the theming of it was awesome! I loved the city life wallpaper in there and the all black fixtures!

EDWIN

It's a fun place! Very good cappuccino! Very! I mean very nice staff!!!. The place is spacious with plenty of seating of different types. They even have a couch. Plenty of books around the place I don't know if they're for sale or for trade but I forgot to ask. Like all of these coffee shops or wide variety of snacks and pastries. Very spacious. Wheelchair accessible.

Umid Adilov

Ground Central Coffee Company on “Lexington ave and 44th St” is a gem in the heart of New York City. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy retreat from the bustling streets outside. The decor is charming, with comfortable seating and a nostalgic touch of classic rock & roll playing softly in the background. The coffee here is exceptional. Whether you prefer a robust espresso or a smooth latte, the skilled baristas craft each drink with care and precision. The menu also offers a delightful selection of freshly baked pastries and savory food options, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. What truly sets Ground Central apart is the friendly and knowledgeable staff. They go above and beyond to ensure every customer feels welcome and satisfied. Their passion for coffee and dedication to excellent service is evident in every interaction. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to work, a spot to catch up with friends, or just a great cup of coffee, Ground Central Coffee Company is the perfect destination. It's more than just a coffee shop; it's a community hub where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

NJ

This is the best coffee place and coffee I had in NY. The coffee tastes bold and they offer vegan milk. This also had the best seating (sofas and tables) and most relaxed atmosphere I had while staying in NY.

Saide Nur ALP (saide’s)

Just WOW! I know Ground Central is known by their unique and comfortable style with good quality coffees, but this latest location is their best version of themselves. Baristas are incredibly talented and can make your drinks exactly hiw you want to drink. You can just take a seat and read the most popular books even you didn’t bring them with you while enjoying your drink. So impressed, you go guys!

Elly Ventura

Welcoming and creative. Equal parts busy and chill conducive for visiting and for working.

Артем Павлушин

great place! very tasty coffee, great service and great atmosphere. clean bathroom, but it would be better if the coffee was served in ceramics mugs, not paper cups. But it’s ok 👍

In short, this place has a nice vibe, very friendly staff, and make the best Mocha I’ve found in the entire country. I travel frequently for work and one thing I love to do is try every local coffee shop that I can. I ended up staying at a nearby hotel once a month for the past year, and have come here at every opportunity. I’ve always had a great experience with friendly and polite staff, a very clean seating area, and oh-my-god-amazing coffee. Get the Mocha. Or a peppermint mocha.

I go in weekly for a wonderfully tasting Blueberry Crumb muffin! Always greeted warmly by the servers, one who has always been most gracious and welcoming. The atmosphere lends itself to a comfortable coffeedestination.

Small space but cute, good music, nice staff. A few seats but comfortable. Good carrot cake muffin. Very fast service, reasonable prices.

Chester Taylor

In short, this place has a nice vibe, very friendly staff, and make the best Mocha I’ve found in the entire country. I travel frequently for work and one thing I love to do is try every local coffee shop that I can. I ended up staying at a nearby hotel once a month for the past year, and have come here at every opportunity. I’ve always had a great experience with friendly and polite staff, a very clean seating area, and oh-my-god-amazing coffee. Get the Mocha. Or a peppermint mocha.

Good vibe there . The moment you stepped in, the relaxed ambiance washed over you . Coffee is well balanced in taste and aroma. The delightful pastries add to the good dining experience. Would definitely be back !

Beautiful location with very nice design, including a mural running a full wall. The location felt airy (open doors) with ample seating (stool, chairs, couches). Top of the art LaMarzocco machine and grinders. Good coffee, albeit there was no decaf options in neither the cold brew and nitro. Selection of croissants and donuts and other pastries priced along local market. This new location offers wifi and a convenient stop for Grand Central commuters.

+4

***** See UPDATE Oct 2025 below ***** Currently my favourite coffee place in mid town. Why? The coffee they use. It's beautiful. Great service too. And croissants fresh as a daisy, crispy outside, chewy inside, delicious. Keep it up please... ***** UPDATE OCTOBER 2025 ***** Oh no, it's Monday lunchtime and here I'm with my coffee and croissant. Except this croissant wasn't made this week. It's so stale and I've just thrown it in the bin. What a shame. Absolutely no excuse for this. If you haven't had a delivery of fresh croissants then say so. If you got scammed by your supplier, more fool you. But please. Please do not do this! Your reputation demands you do not go down this route. Utterly disappointing.... ....good response from GC owner. And, this being my favourite coffee haunt in Manhattan at the moment, when I'm back in NYC in ten days or so's time, I'll be sure to return and hopefully see things returned to the status quo, when I shall happily re-instate the full FIVE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A beautiful and stylish spot to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. It’s a shame they don’t offer proper cups for drinking on the premises—only plastic ones. It would feel even cozier with real mugs!

A surprisingly tasty blueberry muffin. Seats available to chat with a friend and not rushed to leave.

Good coffee, definitely better than your typical Starbucks. Although it's far from European specialty cafes, it stands out well compared to chain stores in NY.

A great place to stop on your morning or evening commute, Tucked across from Grand Central Station (Lexington side) between 44th and 45th. The cafe is small, so seating may be at a premium, but do not let that you prevent you from visiting. If you are ae.to get a table, the cafe has a great vibe - friendly, happy, a little modern-city-edge... a very good balance. The espresso is a little lighter than many other coffee houses (tested it with an americano), but that differentiation is meaningful. The lighter touch brings out a wonderful nutty-sweet quality. This makes it enjoyable with minimal (read none) additions. Also, excellent hot or cold; I savored mine a bit too long, and surprised with how much I enjoyed it as it cooled.

I was walking around Grand Central area recently and stopped in to this coffee shop to get out of the rain. There was also a food fair on Lex. Inside it is very laid back and casual. Quite a few seats on sofas, stools and chairs. Service was very fast and professional. Had a decaf Americano and it was done just right! Stayed about an hour. Not too busy due to the rain but a steady stream of people in and out. Self serve water is a big plus. And the toilet was easy to find! An overall nice experience.

The coffee was alright. I had a Nutella banana bread, it was way too sweet. Nice small space with sofas inside and high chairs. It looks like it can suit laptops too, although does not look too comfortable for laptops.

THE EXPLORER

I was walking around Grand Central area recently and stopped in to this coffee shop to get out of the rain. There was also a food fair on Lex. Inside it is very laid back and casual. Quite a few seats on sofas, stools and chairs. Service was very fast and professional. Had a decaf Americano and it was done just right! Stayed about an hour. Not too busy due to the rain but a steady stream of people in and out. Self serve water is a big plus. And the toilet was easy to find! An overall nice experience.

Rav

The coffee was alright. I had a Nutella banana bread, it was way too sweet. Nice small space with sofas inside and high chairs. It looks like it can suit laptops too, although does not look too comfortable for laptops.

GH

Good vibe there . The moment you stepped in, the relaxed ambiance washed over you . Coffee is well balanced in taste and aroma. The delightful pastries add to the good dining experience. Would definitely be back !

Vitalijus Zuikauskas

A beautiful and stylish spot to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. It’s a shame they don’t offer proper cups for drinking on the premises—only plastic ones. It would feel even cozier with real mugs!

Great coffee shop, but it could be improved. The regular (house) drip coffee tastes a bit watery. Additionally, the loud music clashes with the cozy interior featuring books on shelves.

Edit: I have since learned that NY cafes just typically do darker roasted coffees than what I’m used to in Toronto. This place seems to be on par with other well reviewed ones in the area. Coffee is not bad, but temper your expectations, given the high rating. It’s your typical decently prepared medium/dark roasted coffee - a bit bitter and not very complex, but better than big chains. One thing I didn’t like is how hot my flat white was - I couldn’t drink it for like 10 minutes after getting it.

Ground Central Coffee Company feels like the set of a movie where a screenwriter imagined what a “cool New York coffee shop” should look like—dark walls, subway-tile chalk murals, rainbow-coded bookshelves, a name with dry humor, and a slogan out front declaring the owner has read Dorothy Parker: “London is satisfied. Paris is resigned. New York is always hopeful.” (Yes, it is hopeful, at least there are other cafe that roast their own beans). The vibe is noir-chic, dialed up to 11—like someone maxed out the contrast slider in your iPhone photo editor and called it ambiance. The music is algorithmic and risk-free, as if someone typed “coffee shop vibes” into Spotify and walked away. The pastries are there, technically. So is the coffee. Ah yes, the coffee. La Colombe’s off-the-shelf dark roast: burnt, bitter, just fresh enough to count as liquid. It tastes like it commutes from New Jersey. You can tell they’re trying—they even offer latte art. Mine arrived in the shape of what might have been a heart, possibly drawn after three YouTube tutorials and a prayer. There’s no crime in being decent. And Ground Central is, in fact, decent. A soft seat, a wall outlet, free tap water, a place to meet someone who’s running late. But for those of who want coffee to have soul, not just caffeine—it’s hard not to feel like the spirit got left behind in the concept deck. Not bad. Just Central—not quite Groundbreaking.

Not a bad coffee shop. I ordered an oat milk cappuccino and a chocolate chip scone. The cappuccino was just okay, a bit too milky and had a bitter aftertaste. I’ve had better in the city. Service was good though, and it seems like a great place to study.

A nice coffee shop close to the united nations area, and a bonus for UN staff, because they get a small discount for coffee. So bring your badge. They serve good coffees, and the ambience is nice. They don't have toilets so beware. Overall, a nice spot for a quick coffee break. The lady staff was in a funk, and took our orders incorrectly. We ordered 1 ice coffee and 1 iced Americano, and she charged for three coffees, and when verified, she got annoyed, and wanted to charge extra for ice, which made no sense. Then, the lady got mad and walked backside probably cursing, which was very unprofessional. Luckily, the guy server was very calm and nice (in the photo), listened to our concerns, refunded for the extra coffee after we explained the mixup, and all was good. I recommend their coffees, but not sure about client care.

Yunong Shi

Ground Central Coffee Company feels like the set of a movie where a screenwriter imagined what a “cool New York coffee shop” should look like—dark walls, subway-tile chalk murals, rainbow-coded bookshelves, a name with dry humor, and a slogan out front declaring the owner has read Dorothy Parker: “London is satisfied. Paris is resigned. New York is always hopeful.” (Yes, it is hopeful, at least there are other cafe that roast their own beans). The vibe is noir-chic, dialed up to 11—like someone maxed out the contrast slider in your iPhone photo editor and called it ambiance. The music is algorithmic and risk-free, as if someone typed “coffee shop vibes” into Spotify and walked away. The pastries are there, technically. So is the coffee. Ah yes, the coffee. La Colombe’s off-the-shelf dark roast: burnt, bitter, just fresh enough to count as liquid. It tastes like it commutes from New Jersey. You can tell they’re trying—they even offer latte art. Mine arrived in the shape of what might have been a heart, possibly drawn after three YouTube tutorials and a prayer. There’s no crime in being decent. And Ground Central is, in fact, decent. A soft seat, a wall outlet, free tap water, a place to meet someone who’s running late. But for those of who want coffee to have soul, not just caffeine—it’s hard not to feel like the spirit got left behind in the concept deck. Not bad. Just Central—not quite Groundbreaking.

Lindsay Taylor

Not a bad coffee shop. I ordered an oat milk cappuccino and a chocolate chip scone. The cappuccino was just okay, a bit too milky and had a bitter aftertaste. I’ve had better in the city. Service was good though, and it seems like a great place to study.

cdtz82

A nice coffee shop close to the united nations area, and a bonus for UN staff, because they get a small discount for coffee. So bring your badge. They serve good coffees, and the ambience is nice. They don't have toilets so beware. Overall, a nice spot for a quick coffee break. The lady staff was in a funk, and took our orders incorrectly. We ordered 1 ice coffee and 1 iced Americano, and she charged for three coffees, and when verified, she got annoyed, and wanted to charge extra for ice, which made no sense. Then, the lady got mad and walked backside probably cursing, which was very unprofessional. Luckily, the guy server was very calm and nice (in the photo), listened to our concerns, refunded for the extra coffee after we explained the mixup, and all was good. I recommend their coffees, but not sure about client care.

A cute little “underground” spot with places available for working; unfortunately it smells a bit like mold though…

Coffee was ok. But the heavy set lady cashier looked like she was having the worst day. She was rude and a little off.

The staff at this location is rude. My muffin was stale and my coffee was blah. One star ⭐️ experience. I gave them an extra star because of the amazing A frame out front. It’s literally the best thing at this location.

It's a place I go to everyday and I love going there. There's no respect for customers anymore. As soon as I enter, the store manager says that the toilet is for customers. This is an idea that has nothing to do with being a manager and the disrespect for customers is so ridiculous. It's really a place I go to every day with 2 friends to have coffee, but I don't go anymore. And I will write in more detail everywhere on social media.

I ordered a chai and it tasted completely flavorless (gave my friend a sip and he said the same thing), so I went up to the barista and asked for a bit more chai concentrate, and he was very rude and denied my request. I tipped during checkout so I thought it was fair to make this request. any other coffee shop would have given extra with no hesitation. i go here often and staff are usually friendly ..

Wouldn't recommend. Got an almond milk latte. It was made with milk. Then I went back and let them know and they weren't apologetic, rather insulting demanding me to show them a receipt ...and not offering to remake it for me. How insane. I got so sick from the milk as I had a severe milk allergy. Shame on you. I even went as far as emailing Marilyn Castro before putting this review but she ignored it.