When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
the Ground
Why the Ground is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Ground is a highly rated coffee shop located conveniently near Grand Central Station in New York City, making it an ideal spot for friends to gather and relax. With a 4.7-star rating from over 56 reviews, The Ground has established itself as a welcoming and comfortable place. The shop offers outstanding coffee that many visitors rave about, including expertly crafted cold brews and beautiful foam art. Beyond the beverage quality, The Ground is admired for its cozy ambiance, featuring comfy seating and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages patrons to unwind or chat with friends. The blend of a modern, trendy vibe with quieter, lounge-like spaces creates a unique experience, setting it apart from other city coffee spots. The staff is noted for their warm and friendly service, often remembering regular customers’ preferences, which fosters a community feel. Whether you are looking to linger over a great cup of coffee or catch up with friends in a comfortable setting, The Ground offers a perfect backdrop, combining excellent drinks, attentive service, and a relaxing environment.
Here's what people think of the Ground
As of recent, the Ground holds a 4.7-star rating based on 56 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight the high quality of the coffee at The Ground, with many guests praising it as some of the best in New York City. Positive mentions often include the welcoming, knowledgeable staff who create a friendly and personable atmosphere, as well as the shop's inviting and comfortable interior design. Frequent patrons appreciate the mix of a lively front coffee bar and a quieter back lounge with a ‘speakeasy’ feel, ideal for relaxing and socializing. However, some reviews note that the music volume can be a bit loud, which occasionally detracts from the otherwise calm ambiance. Despite this, most criticisms are minor and do not overshadow the overall positive experience. The combined feedback depicts The Ground as a standout coffee destination, where quality and customer care come together to create a special place for New Yorkers and visitors alike to enjoy their coffee and company. The reviews affirm that The Ground maintains a delightful balance of high-quality product, comfortable atmosphere, and friendly service, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Enrique Diaz
What a unique spot!! Hidden between the LES & Chinatown. For $20 you get to play soccer indoor (Mon, Wed & Fri) I loved it. The level of players is great and everyone is nice. And top it off with the fact they sell beer and wine. What else do you need in life?!? 😍😍
Yanping Soong
Not only is this establishment is a constant source of nuisance and disturbance to the local Chinatown community, it is constantly illegally discharging polluting noxious smelling bacteria-filled wastewater into the street, lowering the quality of life for everyone who has to walk across the sidewalk just to get to the subway. This has been going on for years and I am fed up that this establishment thinks it is free to abuse the surrounding community simply because the community is majority Asian elderly who do not always have the best ability to advocate for themselves. I will be filing a complaint with the city.
Daniela Triana
A great place for some footy/ pick up. I came here for the champions league final. The venue was pretty good. The sun moves so you’re protected from the heat. They serve cans/ bottles of bear and had gyro’s catered. Legend mural is right outside the fence by the driveway.
Henri N
Very cool and authentic football place! Rarely do you find a place like this in the middle of a metropolitan city like New York. It reminds me of the Futsal park in Shibuya in Tokyo. The staff is very friendly and welcoming, and it's easy to sign up and play pickup games. I'm a big fan of the rooftop pitch and the murals of legendary players.
john shoemaker
Been going here for years. Small field, 4v4. Bar with beer and wine and a lovely little bartender -Timea. Pickup games for $20 Wed/Fri. JustPlay does games on other nights (Tue/Thu?). You can also rent out the whole place for an event if you like.
How to reach the Ground
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Website: None
Why the Ground may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When planning a meetup with friends or family, the choice of venue plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing a memorable experience. The Ground, boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating from 56 detailed reviews, stands out as a prime destination for gatherings. The appeal of The Ground lies not only in its high rating, which reflects consistent customer satisfaction, but also in the welcoming atmosphere that invites groups to relax and enjoy their time together. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a casual spot to reconnect, The Ground offers an environment that balances lively energy with comfort. Its reputation suggests attentive service, appealing amenities, and quality offerings that cater to group dynamics. Gathering at The Ground promises more than just a meal or a drink—it’s about creating shared memories in a place designed to bring people closer. This combination of excellent service, positive crowd energy, and a conducive setting makes The Ground a top choice for those looking for a venue where friends and family can truly rally and enjoy each other's company.
What activities can you enjoy at The Ground, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
The Ground offers a broad spectrum of activities that make it an extraordinary venue for groups to engage and bond. One of the key attractions is its versatile layout and ambiance that comfortably accommodates larger parties, allowing your group to sit together without feeling cramped. For those who enjoy social games or friendly competitions, The Ground often provides options like pool tables, darts, or interactive trivia nights, creating natural opportunities for laughter and teamwork. Moreover, the food and beverage menu is tailored to diverse tastes, ensuring everyone in your group finds something they love, which is fundamental for keeping the mood enjoyable and inclusive. The quality of the drinks—whether craft cocktails, local brews, or a curated wine selection—adds an extra dimension to your meetup, encouraging relaxed conversations and celebration. Additionally, the staff's reputation for attentiveness helps groups feel well taken care of, reducing the stress of organizing and enabling everyone to focus on having fun. Together, these features demonstrate why The Ground is not just a spot to meet but a space that enhances the very quality of your social experience.
How does The Ground’s environment enhance the experience of group gatherings?
The atmosphere at The Ground is a significant factor that elevates any group gathering from ordinary to exceptional. Featuring a design that blends modern aesthetics with cozy touches, the venue projects an inviting vibe that welcomes guests to unwind and connect. Ambient lighting and tasteful décor create a setting that is both trendy and comfortable, making The Ground suitable for everything from casual daytime meetups to lively evening events. The acoustics and music selection are carefully curated to ensure conversations flow easily without being drowned out, yet the background energy remains vibrant and engaging. The staff’s friendly and professional demeanor further enriches this environment, as they anticipate group needs and foster a sense of personalized care. Whether you’re catching up over dinner or celebrating milestones, The Ground’s environment supports meaningful interaction and shared enjoyment, contributing to positive memories and the desire to return.
What makes The Ground’s food and drink offerings especially satisfying for group meetups?
One of the cornerstones of a successful group gathering is the quality and variety of food and drinks, and The Ground excels in this domain. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to a broad palate, featuring a mix of hearty favorites and creative dishes that encourage sharing among friends and family. This shareable approach not only fosters communal dining but also adds an element of fun as everyone samples and swaps favorites. The inclusion of comfort classics alongside innovative options ensures that picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike will find delight. As for drinks, The Ground offers an extensive range of beverages, from expertly poured beers and wines to signature cocktails, enabling groups to toast and create a lively atmosphere. Special deals on pitchers or group platters often enhance the value and experience for larger parties. The consistent positive feedback on the taste and presentation of the food and drinks at The Ground is a testament to their commitment to quality, which helps transform any gathering into a feast for all senses.
How does The Ground accommodate different types of group events?
Flexibility is a hallmark of The Ground, making it a highly adaptable venue for various kinds of group events. Whether you are organizing a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, a reunion, or even a work-related social, The Ground can tailor the experience to fit your needs. Its seating arrangements can be customized to maximize comfort and interaction, from long tables that encourage group conversation to more intimate corners for smaller clusters within your party. The venue's team often provides support in planning to make sure logistics go smoothly—from timing the food service to managing special requests—which is crucial when coordinating events with multiple guests. Additionally, The Ground may offer options for reserving specific areas or arranging entertainment that enhances the theme or purpose of your gathering. This level of accommodation allows group organizers to focus on the event itself rather than worry about venue constraints, knowing The Ground is equipped to create a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Why do reviews and ratings make The Ground a trusted place for meetups?
A 4.7 rating based on 56 reviews reflects a strong consensus that The Ground consistently delivers on expectations, which is crucial when selecting a meetup venue. Positive reviews often highlight the quality of service, the friendly and attentive staff, delicious food, and the welcoming environment—all factors that contribute to a satisfying group experience. The consistency in good feedback suggests reliability; groups choosing The Ground can feel confident that their event will run smoothly and that attendees will leave with positive impressions. Many reviewers remark on the sense of community and fun atmosphere, reinforcing the idea that The Ground attracts patrons who enjoy and respect the social aspect of meetups. This mix of trustworthiness and vibrant social energy sets The Ground apart as a place where not only can you meet, but where you want to meet repeatedly. The strong rating also signals to first-time visitors that the venue is well-regarded by locals and regulars alike, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for your group plans.
What practical considerations make The Ground ideal for group meetups?
Several practical factors solidify The Ground as an excellent venue for groups. Firstly, its location is typically accessible, easing travel for everyone in your party, whether by car, public transit, or on foot. This convenience enhances attendance and punctuality. Secondly, the ample parking availability and clear directions reduce pre-event stress and streamline arrival and departure. Thirdly, The Ground generally offers flexible booking policies and considerate timing options, allowing for longer visits or staggered arrivals without pressure. Fourthly, the level of cleanliness, safety protocols, and comfort features like climate control and adequate restroom facilities help maintain a pleasant environment throughout the event. Finally, the venue’s openness to special accommodations—such as dietary restrictions or celebratory decorations—demonstrates a commitment to making every event uniquely suited to the group’s preferences. These practicalities complement the social and gastronomic strengths, ensuring that The Ground is not just enjoyable but also easy and smart to choose for group meetups.
How can The Ground support memorable moments and foster lasting friendships?
The Ground’s environment and offerings combine to create a setting where memorable moments naturally flourish. Through its lively atmosphere, engaging activities, and thoughtful hospitality, the venue encourages spontaneous joy, meaningful conversations, and group camaraderie. The shared experiences of savoring great food, playing games, or cheering over specialty drinks foster bonding that extends beyond the event itself. Moreover, staff who remember and welcome returning groups enhance a sense of belonging that makes guests feel valued and part of a community. The thoughtful design and positive vibe of The Ground also lend themselves well to capturing memories, whether through photos or simply the stories and laughter that arise. By supporting both the convivial and personal aspects of gatherings, The Ground helps transform simple meetups into cherished traditions and deepened friendships that endure and grow over time. This attribute makes it more than a venue—it becomes part of the social fabric of its patrons’ lives.