So cafe grounded has had its spot on Gloucester road for maybe around 2 years now and its a welcome addition. It appears to have lifted a fair amount of inspiration from 'the lounges' that, although once quaint, interesting places to go, are now beginning to monopolise in many districts of Bristol.
The feel of grounded is suspiciously similar to the lounges, and whether thats co-incidence or intentional doesn't really matter. It works as a cosy, inviting place to grab a coffee and a quick bite and is equally at home as a place to go for a few drinks and something a bit more substantial. The atmosphere can very from day to day, it is sometimes a haven for groups of young mums, and can get really noisy at times with lots of children screaming and playing, I don't mind this personally although when you are looking for a quiet relaxing drink it can get too much. There is one of the lounges nearby so if you do really want this relaxed informal style of cafe and the sound of children's laughter and screams really are a problem you shouldn't be put off making the visit.
The food is of a good standard, although the menu doesn't seem to change and sometimes feels more like a business model rather then a labour of love. It really would be nice to see some specials up there. Having said that, I've been here many times and have never had a bad meal.
On an evening they offer pizzas in addition to the eveing menu, I would say they are the niciest pizzas in Bristol, however I am yet to try Napolita pizza in st werburghs which fellow Yelper David P assures me is exceptional. Think we need a 'pizza off' to settle this one.
I went there recently to meet my mum for a cheeky midday brunch.
I've noticed sometimes the food does take rather a long time to come out and this time it was exceptionally long considering the fairly simple order. This can be frustrating at a lunch time when time is against you.
My food was lovely, I went for bacon and scrambled egg on toast, they told it came with fried egg but they accommodated my request for scrambled with no fuss. It was a simple, fairly light option so I wasn't expecting to be blown away. But it was really nice, the bacon clearly from a butcher and left me wondering whether it was from Daltons butchers a few doors down.
My mum had the scrambled egg and salmon, and was raving about it so much I had to try it. It really was exceptionally nice and I am looking forward to having this on my next visit.
Despite all my criticisms Grounded gets 4 stars from me. It's a great place to go for either a coffee or an alcoholic drink in a more relaxed, intimate environment and you feel equally at home having either. read more