Snapdragon Coffee & Social, open since November 2018 and already taking care of a steady stream of regulars, is both a welcome and really welcoming addition to McGinley Square. Located at 190 Monticello Avenue just south of Jewett Avenue in a charming red brick row house, Snapdragon spreads out across two floors with space enough for any kind of coffee house pursuit, and it is immediately clear upon entering, it would be very easy to spend all day there.
The build-out took about a year and features hardwood floors, exposed brick, and a high tin ceiling with the perfect patina. The wood coffee bar runs nearly the full length of the ground floor along the left side and has an old school soda fountain counter feel, complete with a handful of red vinyl and shiny chrome bar stools. The overall look and feel is warm and rustic with lots of woodwork. Large tables with thoughtfully mismatched chairs and a bench flanked by old milk crates round out the seating.
A variety of tchotchke — vintage signs, antique appliances, a classic cruiser mounted to the back wall — finishes off the ground floor, making it feel more like your cool friend’s well-designed living room. And speaking of room to live, the second floor is an extension of the first with couches, big wood work tables, and cozy chairs, as well as local art and lots of windows for a light and bright space.
Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cold brew, and Kombucha are available along with a focused menu of staples like bagels, pastries, soups, and sandwiches plus a cheese plate, quiche, and empanadas for heartier options. Look for beignets coming soon which are certain to be a Snapdragon signature treat.
The shop’s sprawling space is great for events and there’s something for everyone on deck in the near future. Talk and trade Pokémon this Sunday, January 20; a Poetry Slam and Open Mic night is planned for February 21; art events and a Chess and Backgammon Club are ongoing. Private events can be arranged as well.
Snapdragon Coffee & Social, as the name suggests, is community focused and driven, much like owner Buzz’s other business across the street, The Bike Hub, which strives to bring cycling to everyone. While percolating on a name for his new venture, Buzz was inspired by the simplicity and farmhouse feel of NYC’s Magnolia Bakery, so flowers became a jumping off point, and Snapdragon stood out. Colorful and named for its fanciful resemblance to the face of a dragon, this flower offered a decidedly edgier name. Snapdragon sounds more like a tattoo parlor, Buzz joked.
Snapdragon is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. And a roof deck is in the works for even more space to spread out and soak up some sun — something to look forward to!
