The Grey Dog Coffee Shop

Days gone by when more than a smattering of funky coffee spots speckled the streets of New York. What's left in the wake is an unbroken chain of unimaginative slabs of beige soundtracked with populist music.

Come on confess. You've been. But that's because there's no other option... right?

The proliferation of Starbucks presents a dilemma: succumb to convenience or seek out "alternative" alternatives.

Despite its peppering of hipsters and hopeful writers The Grey Dog is more comforting than pretentious. It's familiar even, in its neighborhood feel. Haphazard accoutrements lend character in an age when character is often fabricated.

Opened in 1996, Grey Dog has become a favorite respite for a loyal group of savvy individuals seeking difference among sterility. The fact that its battled the onslaught of corporate breeding is a testament to its quality of character and strength of coffee.

"The goal was to build a small coffeehouse in the world's great city. We wanted to concentrate on little things that often get lost in big city life, like getting to know the names of our patrons and serving wonderful fresh foods at very reasonable prices." [source]

While the prices may not be the same steal they were in '96, the turkey sandwich with brie (#1) is superb, the dessert offerings plentiful and inviting from behind the glass case. Service with a smile serves well with beer offered on tap, and even a delivery option that brings the Dog to your door. Though for my money, you'll want to trade daytime soaps for sips at an aged wood table.

Stray. Dare to take to the ground less known, and may the Dog send the rest packing.

INFO:
The Grey Dog
33 Carmine Street (btw Bleeker & Bedford)
212.462.0041
http://thegreydog.com/