New Restaurant Alert: Common Grounds
Common Grounds, a new coffee house in Bed-Stuy, opened in early March as the latest addition to the burgeoning Tompkins Avenue strip. I first heard about it when the owner of Ibo Landing, a block away, insisted that we go over and check it out. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and patrons in their…
Common Grounds, a new coffee house in Bed-Stuy, opened in early March as the latest addition to the burgeoning Tompkins Avenue strip. I first heard about it when the owner of Ibo Landing, a block away, insisted that we go over and check it out. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and patrons in their church clothes warmed up with coffee, relaxing on the couches in the back to a soundtrack of gospel music.
When we walked in, the first thing we noticed was the aroma of freshly made Belgian waffles wafting through the air. The waffles are served hot off the griddle with crisp edges and a soft, fluffy middle. Common Grounds also serves panini sandwiches, soups, salads and pastries, but clearly the main attraction is the waffles, which come topped with maple syrup and butter, honey and walnuts, or fresh fruit. Personally, I’m waiting for the homemade ice cream, which will be available in coming weeks.
Also coming soon is a large outdoor seating area in the backyard, which should be ready by the summer.
Common Grounds is definitely a work in progress. As of last week, food was still served in aluminum trays and the folks behind the counter were still figuring out where everything was, so service was a little slow. Given how friendly and open the atmosphere is, it’s definitely worth the wait while they work on the finishing touches.
376 Tomkins Avenue, Bed-Stuy; (718) 484-4368.
–clay williams
Photo by ultraclay!
Warm atmosphere, good tea selections and great treats. Definitely the sweetest spot in the hood!
RR
Hooorayy!!
I have stopped in this wonderful shop a few twice and I have tried both the waffles and that Red Velevet Cake both guilty pleasures – the Prices are Great, The Shop is Stunning, The Staff extremly Friendly… YEAH!!!!!! GO BEDSTUY! I really love that place. I even love it more Because it’s in Bedstuy!
Good Day Everyone. Its Malcolm, one of the staffers here at Common Grounds. I’d like to thank everyone for coming out and showing CG some support and love. I see a lot of customers who are coming because of what they read here and on other blogs. So once again thank you all. I hope to see you soon, you can try one of our Frozen Smoothies or Frosted Latte drinks and chill out with me. Also remember Common Grounds is a Wi-FI hotspot.
Logically_Speaking
Peace Malcolm
This shoppe is a bright light on the block and in Brooklyn. The waffles are GREAT and the toppings were plentiful. The decor is great and the food and service excellent. I can’t wait for the outside garden to be opened. Best to you!
Common Grounds is an asset to the city of brooklyn, and the best thing to happen to tompkins ave and bed stuy this year.
Congrats Tremaine, can’t argue with good buzz – and the picture looks great, really captures the warm colors.
Common Grounds is a great spot. I look forward to having my weekly waffle in the shop. The staff is great!! The pastries and smoothies are excellent as well. I am glad that it is in my neighborhood.
Dear Tremaine, I am so happy for you! The place looks absolutely gorgeous and Bruce and I cannot wait to try those waffles. The next time we stay at Rachel’s house we will be sure to come. We are so proud of you. Much love, Sharyn