I'm here almost everyday, laptop in tow, internet button magic shooting out of my fingertips, my regular routine of big-mug-dark-roast (of excellent Intelligentsia Coffee) and a ridiculously buttery egg and cheese sandwich oozing through the airy crumb of rosemary focaccia. I'm lucky to witness the daily rhythm, from morning (groggy locals biking by for a latte and scone to go), through afternoon (when the grad students and stroller-toting guardians assume their places), to night (when live bands play to a captive audience lit by flickering ambient votive candles). In short, this cafe is a gem of Somerville, if not Boston. There's the regular rotation of (colorful! weird! amazing!) art on the walls, rustically pretty sandwiches piled high with seasonal greens and accompanied by a cute scoop of slaw, and expansive spaces for nuzzling with a book and tea (including the back room, with a central fireplace chute and board games aplenty; and the enormous vault, a vestige from Bloc 11's previous incarnation as a bank). The staff is extremely professional yet laid-back-friendly-like, vegetarians and vegans can eat contentedly, everything is designed to be reused or composted, locavorism is in full swing (from Taza Chocolate to New England farmed produce) and the outdoor seating area is a lush, landscaped refuge. Especially kick-ass: The postings board near the back, where multiple layers of eventful neighborhoodiness guarantee that Somerville doesn't even know what it means to be sleepy. Which brings us back to caffeine. Delicious, delicious caffeine. read more

I was, first of all, thrilled when I heard that this cafe was coming to the long-forgotten Union Square. I was, furthermore, pleased when I discovered that like its older "sister" Diesel, a garage-turned-cafe in Davis Square, Bloc 11 would be the transformation of a former bank. The idea certainly speaks to the kid in me, and they perform their makeover here with aplomb--the vault is preserved as a room where you can sip your coffee, the tables are made with the bulletproof material that protects bank tellers, and there are benches made from safe-deposit boxes. So I went there a few times, ordered dark coffee, a soy latte, a pot of jasmine tea. All of these things would score highly on my personal best-of-Boston scale. But it was the mocha I really LOVED. Bloc 11 is the establishment that brought back the mocha for me. It's so rich and thick and chocolaty, it makes the Starbucks version look like it was a new chocolate vitamin water flavor. The checkmate on Starbucks (and a lot of the others out there) is that this place is acutely aware of its surroundings. Considering all the artists in the Union area, it's appropriate that the cafe hangs local art and features a second-floor art gallery space. Like Diesel, you can sit and study or socialize for a while. Still, whilst I enjoy the novelty of the vault/extensive back rooms, I can't sit back there because it's too stuffy. For claustrophobes like me then, there are places to sit outside. Yayster. Did I mention the mocha? read more

This place is okay- if you can get past the intense hipster vibe and attitude. Good lattes and cocoa. Sandwiches okay. But seriously- the WORST name for a cafe (or any establishment). It's beyond comprehension that anyone thought this name was okay... creeps me out just thinking about it, especially with the vaults. Overall, I prefer Sherman Cafe. The pastries are homemade, way better, and I can bring my dog. read more

I can't believe I'm rating this place as high as I did - I think it's mostly for the newness factor and how cool a converted cafe (formerly a bank, complete with vault rooms) can actually look. Conceptually, it's a great. What I like: For a cafe, it's got a wide variety of food and drinks - not just your regular fare. Their sandwiches are phenomenal! The people working there are always friendly, despite the massive crowds that always seem to be there. What I don't like: The crowds. I know this is not their fault, but how is it that this place is always swamped with people? What did people in Union Sq do before this place opened? Sherman Cafe was never this busy! I like to find a place where I can set up my laptop and work on my papers, but even with the size of the place, it's not a lock to be able to get a table without waiting for a while. And even if you do get a table, there may or may not be a laptop plug around. The organization: Bloc 11 could have modeled the cafe to address the chaotic people flow that can at times be found at Diesel Cafe, but alas, they have not. For some reason, they have two registers funneling the line of customers in two different ways, and it's never clear what side of the island your sandwich or drink is going to appear on. It's hard to get through the mob while people are mingling, waiting for their order to appear. Twice I've had my food taken by other people that got my order confused with someone else! Price: Almost everyone else has mentioned it. Is it really necessary to charge the price they do for sandwiches and breakfast food when they are constantly busy? They could easily drop $1-2 off and still rake in a hefty profit, I imagine. WiFi: Why would I pay $13/month here when I can get it for free at Sherman Cafe right across the road? Overall, this place has great food (however overpriced it may be), but it's always swamped with people. I guess that's the sign of a good coffee shop, but it's also annoying. Between this place and Sherman, I like Sherman's baked goods and free WiFi, but I choose Bloc 11 because of the opportunity to find a seat! read more

As a writer and an artist - I'm always looking for the perfect, quirky coffee shop (location is key for inspiration); alas - I am left wanting in Watch City. I was out for adventure in Somerville (and in desperate need of caffeine) when I skipped by Bloc 11: opened folding glass windows reveal an artist-friendly community (hipsters, yes please). *"The Alpine" was my first choice (a minty mocha delight - and with a fun design swirled into the foam on the top!). Next time I visit B11 I will surely sample their breakfast/salad menu (everyone else seemed like they were really enjoying their selections). Salads and sandwiches look fresh and filling. *Amazing interior! So many places to sit: up front in the window - along the inside of the garden - around back - in one of the two vaults (no really...the doors are still existing) - or in the courtyard. The design as well as the establishment is exceedingly clean. *Staff is fun and friendly (they all seem like people I would hang out with); art-people *heart* Come with a book - grab a giant mug'o'joe - chill in the courtyard and enjoy your afternoon. I love that this place has delicious coffee, (assumingly) delicious food, unique seating options and I don't have to deal with the Starbucks yuppies in order to enjoy it all. read more

I walked down to Bloc 11 the other night with my man for a little rocket fuel before a long night of crafty work. I got an iced latte, and it was really delicious. My man got 1/2 lemonade 1/2 iced tea which was a little tangy for my taste, but he thought it was perfect. The space is cute, and it's a nice option for coffee, pastries, sandwiches, etc, which Union definitely needs. The front is all open and airy in the warmer months, which is nice. Good service too, and a very chill atmosphere. Perhaps I'll add more stars after I try a sandwich or 2 off their long list, but for right now, after my 5 minute experience, I can say that I like the place, so 3 stars it is. read more

I am usually fairly picky with coffee houses. they either feel too cramped, crowded, loud, negative to lingerers, sterile, overly expensive.... this place, based on some of the reviews I read, had potential of hitting at least a few of these chords. and yet, it didn't - it is huge - tons of well-spaced tables, with little out-of-the-way nooks for different vibes. The music was playing, but not obnoxiously. The sandwiches are a bit pricier than they should be, but tasted damn good. The americano I had was likely the best one I had in ages, and rang up right about the same as anywhere else in town. the staff were friendly and quick, and I didn't feel guilty hanging out for a few hours doing some work. read more

Bloc 11 has an amazing rear room with a fireplace. I was a little annoyed at first because I didn't know they had so much seating. I thought I was gonna have to challenge a hipster to a duel for a table, but I scampered on back and got one without having to smack anyone across the face with a handkerchief . They have an amazing vegan red lentil stew and a rooibos latte that's too watery for my taste. They play nice music and are conveniently located right down the street from the 87 bus stop. Cool place. I like it. read more

Bloc 11 makes a mean London Fog. On a recent rainy Sunday, I had to get away from the house for a little while to work on something, and the wife and I decided to give this place a shot. We weren't disappointed! We were treated to free wifi, plenty of power plugs, friendly service and great drinks- not to mention the food is pretty decent as well. I had breakfast (oatmeal and parfait) while my wife opted for a salad, and all was tasty. The place has a great atmosphere, too, so if you're looking for a local coffee shop to hide away in for a few hours while you crank out some work, this is a top contender. read more

Good coffee, lots of seating, and an adorable outdoor space. What more could you ask for? I had the pour over from Zambia last time I was there. The beans were great and it was expertly made. My husband has the London Fog. Super delicious, and I'll admit, I was a little bit jealous. Between the front room and the back, there's more seating than most cafés. Also, patrons here seem to be respectful of table hogging and don't set up camp for eight hour stretches like you see elsewhere. (May have something to do with lack of free wifi.) And lastly, I'm in love with their little outdoor space. I really miss having a yard, so it's great to know I can go hang out at Bloc 11 to enjoy the sunshine and a coffee :) read more

Where can you go to have coffee in a super-sweet former bank with huge, often open picture windows, lovely wooden tables, a beautiful courtyard, fireplace, and VAULT? Bloc 11, that's where. If those aren't reasons enough to head up to Union Square, then I should tell you that I work in a coffee shop, and Bloc 11 is where I go to hang out on my days off. I feel like that's somehow significant. Also: I went so far as to buy a mug from Bloc 11, which is some serious commitment. I like to order the delicious and simple breakfast sandwich (served all day), and a roobois latte. Then I enjoy sitting for hours while reading recently purchased comics from The Hub next door. Okay, seriously, get on your bike and visit Bloc 11. The staff are super friendly, and good looking (hello!), and it's an awesome place to just do your thang. read more

Bloc 11 is part of our routine, in between local shopping trips, or as a break from working around the house. The staff is always friendly, the coffee great and strong, and the sandwiches and soups are well made and flavorful. About a year ago, they pared down their menu to stick to local ingredients and they honestly haven't suffered at all for it. Union Square is becoming a locavore hub, and it's great to see another business hop on the wagon. They also removed all trash cans, using all recyclable & compostable products for take-out cups and napkins. The noise levels can vary from normal conversation to very quiet, depending upon where you sit, but except for the busiest of days, there's rarely a wait to find a place to settle down. I do wish they had some more variety in their baked goods, or perhaps just a few more cookies. read more

Pricey ($9 sandwiches! $4 drinks!) but an occasional treat because it's just so luxurious: the big vault doors, the revamped bank/steampunky setting, the gourmet nibbles and awesome beverages. Try the Brazilian limeade - condensed milk and lime juice; simple, and stunning. It fulfills it's cafe obligation of being comfortable and inviting on a lazy Sunday afternoon: great place to sit and read your Derrida/Foucault/hipster graphic novels, looking/feeling cool and consuming some fanciness while idling the day away. Bonus: Union Square is fab for a stroll, and the comic book store is a stone's throw away! Oh yeah; and they do open mic nights. read more

Great coffee, friendly staff, good sandwiches. Lots of nice space and a very cool atmosphere what with the bank vault and all, and the fireplace in the back, and the safe full of board games. But ... $8 a day for wi-fi? W ... T ... F?? Is this 1998 or something? I rreeeaallly want to sit in here for hours on a cold day and work on my laptop. This place is so nicely designed for telework. But I'm sorry, I'm just not going to spend money for a wireless connection when I know at least 2 places in walking distance where it's free. read more

Can't beat the space. Old bank. You can sit in the old vault and pretend that you are loaded, Which would be helpful, because it costs too much for coffee here. $2 bucks for a mug of coffee, no refills. And it's in UNION SQUARE. This joint ain't on the Freedom Trail. I think it's a bit steep. I understand their motivation: build a cool space that costs a lot of money, and then people just come and hang out and suck the life out of it and drink a lot of free coffee. But I'd at least like one other cup for my $2. I mean, I can get a whole pot at my house made from organic beans for $.70. You'd be better off giving one free refill and having me sit in the window looking like a poet or a stockbroker and drive some other business into the joint. Not that they need it. The space and the fireplace speak for themselves. read more

This is the kind of coffee place I've been looking for in Boston. Hip, chic, laid back, good coffee and other drinks, and better- outdoor seating available! I drove by this place a couple times and finally went with a few friends one perfect weekend when it was nice, sunny, and 75 degrees out. My friends got coffee which they said was really good but I saw that they had raspberry lime rickey!!! on the menu so I couldn't resist not getting that! Of course, it was fantastic and we found some seats outside which looks like someone's nice backyard and we sat there basking in the sun on one gorgeous day in Boston. I didn't know until I skimmed through the reviews here that this is a sister store to Diesel Cafe which I've heard people rave about, so I gotta try there too sometime.. But basically, Bloc 11 Cafe is like those nice little cafes on Newbury cept it's in Union Square where it's much quieter and less touristy :) read more

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If its a warm, sunny morning in Union Square, I'd love to be on the tiny patch of grass abutting Bloc 11. They serve what I consider to be the perfect cup of coffee (dark roast that isn't simply torched and then watered down) and I love the staff (Hi, Steve!) HOWEVER... A perfect cafe these things do not make. Not being a sweets person, I don't jump for joy at the sight of pastries, muffins or donuts and being a blood-thirsty animal "lover", I don't care if they're vegan or soaked in pigs blood for that matter. If I'm going to treat myself in the morning, I crave the perfect breakfast sandwich. To sum up the bloc 11 sammich: Flavorless, unseasoned, overcooked, CRUMBLY eggs on focaccia bread that absolutely cannot hold up to it. You CANNOT eat this sandwich on the go and frankly, you can't eat it at a table, either. Ham cannot save this sandwich and even the default cheddar cheese just sits there. It cools and becomes firm almost immediately because the bread is hardly toasted. May I suggest an orange, melty and somewhat salty Gloucester Cheddar? In my business, if you can't cook eggs, you shouldn't be cooking at all. Bring me a sandwich I can eat without having to pack a fork (or a net to catch all of the eggy bits jumping ship) I'll change my review. Oh, and talk about overpriced wifi! Go to the Sherman Cafe, instead. read more

Best sandwiches in town. Bar None. And they have the price to prove it. I'd put the 777 or the terrace up against anything you got. BUT. its all pretty expensive. The staff are pretty insular and unfriendly and the sides of your sandwiches shouldn't be included as they are just a disappointing teaspoonful. The place could be much better if it had free wifi and allowed dogs on the patio. read more

Stopped in for an iced coffee. Unfortunately it was pretty terrible especially for almost $4 for a large. Burnt tasting even after a good dose of cream. I expect coffee houses to have outstanding coffee. Sadly iced seems not to be their forte. Great location, awesome staff and cool atmosphere. Outdoor patio as well. Tried the food awhile back and vaguely remember my sandwich being tasty. Kinda overpriced but I expect the rent is pretty high for HipsterVille. I'll need to try it again with the hope of redemption. read more

I live in the neighborhood. I stop by for my morning tea after I run. Their oatmeal is yummy. I really enjoy stopping by this place and I've come here a couple times to work. Yeah, it's hella hipster and there's no real unique personality (if you been to a cafe in camberville where people work, you've been to all of them). However, I did find it dope to see a woman breastfeeding her child and no one batting an eye. So that's a first. And you know how I love to have peoples humanity affirmed in spaces where I spend time or make an investment in. Although I did see a dude watching the Paul Ryan town hall meeting on his laptop but I won't deduct points. ;) What else? I've been here a number of times and I've haven't felt unwelcome, so stop by and werk werk werk werk werk. read more

What an interesting place- a bank recycled into a coffee house- even the old bank vault and safty deposit boxes were made into a part of the decor-A very friendly staff, and excellent coffee and sandwiches... I decided to frequent this place rather than Diesel, as I live close by, plus it's not as sardine packed as the Diesel..... The vault may be interesting to look at, but is actually quite claustrophobic to sit in, and an echo chamber for those who desire a discussion within...I usually sit by the window...A nice place, a much needed and a welcome addition to Union Square. read more

Great neighborhood cafe. Friendly staff, and good food. They brew Direct Trade (Intelligensia) coffee, which is delicious, but expensive for bean purchase (16 dollars per pound). Bloc 11 displays art (local?) and has a bulletin board in the back near the vault-- building used to be a bank. Biggest drawback is having pay wifi, but it's understandable to stick with a plan. Keeps the seats clear, but the place still full. read more

Severely understaffed and very slow. Things are hard during Covid so I get it but as a customer I'd rather eat at home than spend $22 on two coffees and a sandwich that take half an hour. read more

I paid about 9$ for a bacon, egg and cheese on a bagel here whilst walking in on a whim during a busy Saturday morning. I waited 30 minutes for it. Tasted amazing, sure. Paid for the atmosphere mostly, definitely, The symbolism in the art emasculated men, without a doubt. read more

I want to like this place. Great atmosphere, nice crowd, fantastic place to get some reading or work done, gorgeous outdoor seating. But I've been here five times since moving to the neighborhood, and four of those times the staff has either gotten my order wrong, or lost my order entirely. Seriously, the median time for making my iced tea so far is like ten minutes. I don't begrudge a staff making the occasional mistake, but four times out of five is a little much for me. Hopefully in another few months I'll get better service and can bump these guys up to the four stars I feel like they deserve. read more

Bloc 11 is a fantastic edition to the Union Square vibe and they also serve awesome coffee/tea confections as well. I'm a big fan of Chai Tea and their Chai Tea Latte was even better than the one I had recently at their sister coffee shop, Diesel in Davis Square. It was delicious, flavorful and not too thin or watery. I took a sip of my husbands hot version of the same item and it was sincerely awesome, too. Plus, they have exceptional foam art there. My friend ordered a sandwich filled with fresh veggies and goat cheese and she looks super satisfied. There is a large amount of seating throughout the place - outdoor seating, people watching seating, and quiet, dark seating in the back. read more

Wandered in here on an early Saturday afternoon looking for a slight hangover cure, and I found it. Bloc 11 reminds me of the South End -- in decor, in selection, in employees and in clientele -- yet it's tucked neatly into this cute Somerville square where parking may not be quite as bad. The long line was a little annoying, but it wasn't due to laziness on the part of the staff; they were just that busy. But, there is ample seating inside and out, so don't worry too much. Everything is made to order, so be prepared to wait a little while. Pick up your drink and just soak in the atmosphere. This is a cool spot for people-watching. And, if you're unhappy, let them know, as they are quick to remedy any disappointments. I had the egg sandwich and an iced Americano. Standard breakfast fare, but done well. I would love to come back for lunch as their standard mid-day offering seemed intriguing. read more

I have never been impressed by any of their breakfast offerings - the eggs are kind of dry, the scones don't have much flavor to them and the sandwiches don't do it for me. But the hot chocolate! Holy hell! I didn't know hot chocolate could do that! It's stupidly good. Get the hot chocolate. Can't personally recommend anything else. read more

Coffee snobs, you'll surely love the coffee here. They serve Intelligentsia coffee here! Bonus -- if you buy a bag of coffee beans, you get a cup of coffee on the house! The sandwiches were all solid... If you love avocados, they're really generous with the avocado portions on the sandwiches. Woohoo! I got the Terrace and it was so yummy... I inhaled it. After rereading the menu online, I wonder what caramelized greek yogurt is. I got to try a sandwich with that ingredient that next time! The cafe is cute and modern. Wifi I believe is $5 an hour, which can be good since there was ample seating when I came. The place is a bit pricy, though... $10.25 for a sandwich and ~3.50 for an iced coffee is pretty steep! read more

I'm in Bloc 11, reviewin' Bloc 11. This is maybe the 5th time I've visited Bloc 11, and every time I come here, I'm more and more impressed. The sandwiches are off-the-hook amazing. Better than anything I've had elsewhere (I'm looking your way, All Star Sandwich Bar). The espresso is the best I've had in Boston. The drip coffee is made from Intelligentsia beans, one of the best roasters in the country. Though a mad house on weekends (like any coffee shop around here...), it's empty and quiet on weekdays. Super nice environment, friendly staffers. Overall my favorite coffee shop in Boston. read more

I love their food. I come here often. Today I got a sandwich to go and it fell out of the wrapping while I was walking. A whole sandwich wasted on the sidewalk! I came back and explained what had happened and they made me a new one !! So so nice of them! read more

This cafe is so cute! From the edgy and trendy baristas to the selection of pastries, breakfast sandwiches and other baked goods, to their black & white deliciously creamy and chocolatey latte, you're sure to have a better morning after one visit. If you're in the area, drop by, buy a beverage, get your stamps, and redeem for a free drink on your 11th cup. They also sell Stumptown coffee varieties by the pound. (Thank you, OR and the general Northwest, for supplying the nation with great coffees!) read more

Somewhere between three and four stars. I'm new to the 'hood so I'll be generous. + : awesome space, good music, delicious food and coffee - : not enough outlets and worst of all - NOT free internet. Internet actually not a huge rip off, you can pay by the hour and by the day or buy a monthly service. Monthly service will bill you until you cancel, but by the day it's only for every day that you actually use it. I think the daily rate is like $10-$12? But seriously is it necessary to charge for an hr? There should be like a free 30min-to-1 hr allowance. I have no problem paying to use it for a long period of time but 30min to an hr should be free read more

A welcome haven for a truly decent cup of coffee on the east coast! It feels very "Portland," lol. Also a good selection of fresh/healthy foods. The service can be on the slow side when they get a small crowd going, but it's a great cafe when you're not in a rush. The patio is great as well in good weather. My only complaint is the way they told us that our dogs were not welcome on the patio. #1 it isn't posted anywhere. #2, they were being perfectly well behaved, and none of the other customers seemed to care. We were careful to sit along the side, keep the dogs tied up and out of everyone's way. This is just reinforced by the fact that it actually took them over 30 minutes to deliver the news to us--after at least two other customers took their little purse-creatures INSIDE the cafe. The waitress was rather rude about it, and it was unfortunate to have to tie or dog up along a parking meter just outside the fence (and thereby a long-ish distance away) after we had already been courteous customers for at least 30 minutes, and for the third day in a row. That little mishap aside, great coffee and a good addition to the neighborhood. read more

First off, what is with Boston and the lack of free internet in the cafes!?!?!!? Ok, now here's the skinny. I'm a diehard regular. Bloc 11 makes a banging expensive sandwich and very tasty lattes. Love the old bank safes etc. HIpster run it is, but they aren't the too cool for school folks and at least try to make conversation with customers sometimes. Unlike that coffee place around the corner--I won't name any names. If this is your local coffee spot, def stop in. read more

One of my favorite places in Somerville to get a little work done or meet a friend. Aside from weekend brunch-hour, I never have trouble finding a seat, and there's lots of variety: sunny spot by the window? Quiet, dim corner? Outside on the patio? Whatever you're in the mood for. And you get 1 hour of free wi-fi, so use it wisely. Coffee and food, while a tad on the pricey side, is always top-notch - fresh, local, yummy! read more

I for one love the layout of Bloc 11, it was deceptively more interesting than the front window area. I can't wait to drag someone into the vaulted rooms for a game on those ready-made benches! As for hard to acquire seating, there's always the grass adjacent; though it'd be nice if they added more seating outside. I don't know nothin bout no coffee, but I'm partial to tea beverages and it's nice to have a selection of iced options as most places seem to worship those Lipton instant boxes of stale hell. I've got to agree that the girls behind the counter were lovely and even indulged my chattering about the music they were playing. The price of sandwiches is on par with any other Bostonian cafe, they had me hooked with an apple sammich ($7ish). I ordered it as the Dogwood but someone else reviewed it as the Pallet- turkey, apples, fig puree, greens and carmelized onions. I nixed the latter ingredients and added sprouts. The puree was sweet but a pleasing balance to the crumbly cheese, I'm already craving it again. I'd give them another star if only they stayed open a little later! read more

I feel compelled to revise my review after this morning's stop at Bloc 11. After the big snowstorm, the place was pretty dead, but it took about 7 minutes for them to make one small coffee. There was a letter on the counter stating that they are switching to a new brewing system that will take 3-4 minutes to make a cup of coffee, and also that they are raising their prices. They're taking their two biggest weaknesses and magnifying them...not good! They do still have fantastic food, esp. the yummy bakery, but I will probably start going elsewhere for my snickety snacks. (Just don't hold it against me if you see me in there ordering a mint brownie...they're still the best on the planet!) read more

Chill cafe in Union Square that serves Intelligentsia coffee (my current favorite). Their coffees are pretty good, not the best but good, and the beans are almost the same price as you would get straight from the store in Chicago, so it's a pretty good deal. I love the space, the building used to be a bank and there's a cute little vault alcove still hidden in the back. The sandwiches are completely unique, mostly kind of sweet, and feature a good selection of options for veggie people. Worth trying if you're in the area. read more

Love their coffee creations! My coffee soda was a sweet, bubbly take on iced coffee and it countered my my savory turkey sandwich well. Overall, it's a very nice atmosphere and is accessible from the 86 bus. read more

Bloc Somerville - Coffee soda & turkey sandwich - Bakeries Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts