Ground Central
Ground Central — photo 2
Ground Central — photo 3
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Ground Central

441 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

★★★★★4.6(191 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Tucked just steps from Grand Central on Lexington Avenue, this intimate espresso-focused spot has mastered the art of being both a quick caffeine pit stop and a genuine refuge for lingering over work. The staff—particularly Sadiya and Antonia—make everyone feel genuinely welcomed, while the thoughtfully curated décor of rainbow books and black-and-white artwork transforms a small space into somewhere you actually want to stay, not just rush through. Whether you're catching your train or settling in with a laptop and one of their excellent pastries, the excellent coffee and laid-back vibe make this a neighborhood gem that feels like a real discovery.

What to expect

Quick grabWifiLaptop friendlyMeetingsEspresso focusedSpecialty drinksSlow sitTraditional drinksPastries

Google Reviews

Ashley Moran
★★★★★2 months ago

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!!

Michael Regier
★★★★2 months ago

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.

Daniel Molina
★★★★★4 months ago

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 EXPLORER
★★★★10 months ago

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.

Francis Dominic
★★★★★a year ago

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! 🥹🥹🥹

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