Longstanding coffee shop and cafe on South Park Street. It's below ground and has an industrial but cozy interior. They roast their own coffee here. Variety of baked goods and sandwiches. Tried a Nanaimo bar - pretty tasty. A little bit away from the commercial parts of Halifax - several blocks off Spring Garden. read more

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Always fast and friendly service. Highly recommend. Ordered breakfast and coffees and it was just as ordered.

Very fast and nice service, plenty of seating, and a great atmosphere. Not to mention a big selection of breakfast / brunch items and every flavor / type of coffee too. Pictured below is a raspberry chocolate scone with a cold brew! read more

The Uncommon Ground - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

10 months later and I still enjoy Uncommon Grounds, though I admit I have found spots that I prefer. There are still about 5 million tables (okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration), which is amazing for working, studying or just enjoying your coffee. I love the huge windows on the one side of the cafe and always try to sit there when possible. It's so nice to have sun pouring in on me while I sip coffee and spend a lot of time on the internet. The thing that has dropped Uncommon Grounds down a star for me is how untrustworthy the wifi is. If I'm going to a coffee shop I can just about guarantee that I'm going to work, so when I buy a coffee and find that the wifi isn't working is pretty frustrating. That's my only issue though! I still like the coffee and snacks - try the scones please, they're delicious - but the wifi issue is tough to handle. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

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A lovely place, I love the cafe latte. Good price with a large cup. Can taste the flavor of coffee beans. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Cafe latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Uncommon grounds is my favourite coffee spot, and I'll tell you why. 1. They have TONS of table seating for working on laptops or spreading out books and papers for studying/working 2. They have comfy leather seats! A coffee shop must, if you're just there to sit and chill. 3. The staff are so friendly and make fantastic hot beverages. IE: the Bombay fog ( the snacks and great too) And best of all they let my best friend Odie come into the store with me. That's my dog, btw. I can get behind any store that lets me take my dog in. I'm sure they'd frown on him sitting and staying a while, but it's nice to be able to bring him in while I wait in line. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Coffee bar magic - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

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If you're looking for a quick caffeine buzz in the south end, look no further than Uncommon Grounds. Hidden away bunker style, this sleek spot makes me want to film a post-apocalyptic short film in it every time I walk down those concrete stairs. I wandered in when first moved to the south of Hali, and fell in love instantly. The London Fog here is decent, reliable and never varied. The staff here are friendly as adorable puppies, and are always willing to suggest something tasty to take home with you. The sandwich selection is small, roughly four kinds a day, and they go quickly. Come early if you want your pick of the litter. This is one of those spots with a creative tip jar system. There's a wicked streak of humour here that I get a real kick out of. The walls are papered with local event flyers and hung with cool shirts and other local products. I love my I Heart Local mug that I picked up here, but I have to admit it was a letdown to turn it around and see "made in china" stuck to the bottom. I've never stuck around to eat in, but the seating is varied and it all looks comfy. It's nice to have such a great coffee shop so close to home. Oh, how I'll miss it when I move. Somehow, I have a feeling I'll make my way back more often than not. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Multigrain bagel and London Fog. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

A lovely cozy spot to meet friends, groups, or curl up on your own. The staff are friendly and the treats are delicious. You can also pick up goodies from Sugah! among others, taking a fancy locally made chocolate bar or the like home with you, or back to the office. A long time local favourite, it can be hard to find this place your first time (plus second & third...) because the entrance is below street level and the sign blends in with the building it's a part of. Look for the outdoor seating and folks going in and out with their coffee cups! The setting is a bit industrial but covered over with cheery textures and colour to brighten it up, and it does feel a bit like you're escaping the city. This is definitely not Starbucks. Try the granola bar - it's more like a Magic Bar! Peanut butter, sesame & sunflower seeds...marshmallows too! read more

The Uncommon Ground - Granola bar - but so much more! Peanut butter, sesame & sunflower seeds...marshmallows too! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Lovely design and ambience, looks like a fun place to get things done. Nice trinkets and coffee accessories as well as bulk fair trade beans. The art on the walls is very modern and contemporary and there's some comfy places to sit, although they are limited on electric outlets unfortunately. I have yet to try a lot of the things on their menu but the iced coffee I ordered came out pretty warm (no ice) and very weak. I had to get them to add more espresso and ice after drinking some of the half warm stuff down, but it still tasted very watery. Maybe I'll try some of their other products some time. read more

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A solid coffee shop that sells baked goods, snack & lunch foods as well as great drinks! They also have lots of merch and coffee-related gifts for sale. My favourite journals were actually bought here! I love that the space is kind of split into a work area (lots of tables) and a relaxing area for conversation and comfy chairs. It's always interesting to underground for a drink! Parking is available on the street and nearby side streets. A downside is that I don't remember it being accessible. read more

As a student at SMU I've spent a lot of time at Uncommon Grounds. I see it as the Halifax South End version of Central Perk from Friends. The atmosphere is quiet enough to study, but funky enough to go there for a coffee date. Plenty of seating in comfortable chairs and plush couches with tables to place your laptop and work on. Quality locally sourced coffee and great sandwiches. read more

Ashlee's baked goods are AMAZING! Everything is so fresh and delicious. Have you tried the carrot cake? 'Cause you should. Muffins? Best in town. The baristas are friendly and the espresso beverage are always made just how you want them. They also have mugs, glasses & plates for you to stay and relax. Also their Bodum selection is admirable. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Muffin offerings change daily but mine is an Apple Blueberry Oat. AMAZING! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

For Anna S. and I, Uncommon Grounds has been a regular study destination for us lately. It's the perfect spot for it - cozy seating, free wireless and an assortment of goodies to reward ourselves with! The atmosphere is what keeps me coming back time and time again. There is always ample seating available but it's still busy enough to create a buzz, which helps to keep this gal motivated! And the staff... don't even get me started. Seriously though - Everyone. Is. Fantastic. Always super friendly and helpful. The food is great too! Focusing on fresh, local ingredients - anything on their menu is sure to please. The treats are my personal favorite for a study break (think brownies, scones, muffins and cookies). And it's my favorite place to purchase Made With Local grandola bars! Whether you're there to study, sit with a good book or catch-up with a friend, Uncommon Grounds is a sure pick! read more

Alright, there's a lot places to get a cup of coffee around town. But I'm going to go out on a limb and say that this is the best one. At least in my experience. At first when you walk in it doesn't seem like anything special, until you notice the finer details of the establishment. Original local art is displayed on the wall, copious amounts of seating, free reading material, and a corner full of gift ideas for that special someone. Then there's the service, which is second to none. I decided to live on the edge a little bit and order a hot chocolate on my last visit. "Would you like whip cream on that?" the waitress asks. "You bet!" I was then offered the option of my drink being delivered to my table once it was ready. Whip cream with powdered chocolate and table service, take that Tim Horton's! If you're hungry or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, they've got that covered too. Freshly baked treats,soups and freshly made sandwiches are all on the menu. I really don't have anything bad to say about this place. If you're on South Park St. and hankering for a cup of Joe, then you've go to check this spot out. read more

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Good coffee, nice treats and delicious fast food. Staff are pretty efficient. It's a great place to come and do work and meet up with friends. It's spacious but can get loud. Definitely a nice gem in the South End. read more

I've been to the location in public garden and always enjoyed the service and coffee, today a friend and I went to the South Park street location and were asked to show prof of vaccination. The guy serving us said it really low behind a glass wall and a mask so we obviously didn't hear him properly, he began to make it out to seem that we didn't want to show our proof and was very rude. We were more than happy to show him our records but didn't understand why even after we did he felt the need to try to publicly be little us to the rest of the staff behind the counter. Felt uncomfortable in the situation and will most likely not be a returning customer. read more

I have huge mad juicy love for this place. I've been to both the barrington and the south park locations. I've got mad-er love for the south park location. It's rich in urban and eclectic surroundings. The south park location has the perfect mix of brick and leather couches to ease your school work needs. Not in school? That's cool. I often find myself cuddled up on the couch blogging away. They have a great selection of caffeine products that are freshly roasted from Nova Coffee. They ensure that every drop in your cup is rich and fresh in flavor. My personal favorite are the nice and big mugs that your drink comes in. I've had the cafe mocha, green tea, and latte here and interchange them rather frequently. Moving on to their baked goods and lunch items? Helllllllllo goodness. The cookies? Bomb. The oatcakes? Even bomb-er. Everything is baked fresh daily to please your tummy even further. They aren't the most gourmet snacks you'll ever see, but they fit the bill. They have a good selection of seating and I find the atmosphere sort of soothes you. Very versatile too! I've had an interview here and I've sat alone for the afternoon to get work done. Got kids? Bring them with, there is a little toy section at the back that can keep little Johnny entertained for hours. They have a great gift selection to boot! read more

This Uncommon Grounds location is an old favourite! I love that it's just a block or two off the beaten path and the basement location makes me feel like I'm part of a secret society once I start taking the few steps down into this cave of coffee. Well, cave is actually the wrong word because despite being partially subterranean, they keep a bright and vibrant atmosphere complemented by bold colours and modern interior design. Plus the fact that - at least back in the day - it was usually packed with attractive, bookish university students never hurt. Service is consistently friendly thanks to the cool staffers, drinks arrive quickly and nicely made, and there's a variety of baked goods and sandwiches for snack cravings although they can be a little dry sometimes. This is a super spot to curl up in big comfy chairs with hot drinks and good friends for a casual weekend catch-up! read more

A pinch of nostalgia crept in when I walked down the stairs and into this subterranean cafe yesterday. I worked at this java joint a couple of years ago, and remember the perpetually busy atmosphere and the early mornings with fondness. The place was quiet yesterday around 1pm, so I was able to step right up the register and place my order. The young man at the counter handed off my request to the girl working the espresso machine, and rang up my small iced soy latte promptly. He wasn't overly friendly or chatty, but did his job in a timely manner which is always appreciated. My java took no time at all, being handed over the counter to me from the smiling espresso young woman almost simultaneously to my actually ordering it. Props for quick service! I don't know what brand of soy is used, but it was creamy and not too "beany," which is often my complaint with some labels. I guess what am I to expect when the darn stuff's made of soy beans, it's probably going to taste like them ... I digress. So, the beverage was creamy with a nice java punch, and I left, coffee in hand and headed to Point Pleasant Park. My visit yesterday was quick, easy and tasty - a perfect way to get my weary engine revving with a yummy cuppa joe. read more

Great place. The coffee is decent, and they can make a flat white (sort of). The sandwiches are good, try the Cuban: it's value for money. You'll get lots of students on their way from SMU (probably) to Fenwick. It's comfortable. It's big, with tables and sofas, and wifi, and so is a perfect neighbourhood spot for doing work or meeting old friends (I've done both in the last week). This is the definition of a place that's good for loitering. read more

This is the third Uncommon Grounds I have gone to in Halifax. If I were to compare it to the other three, I would say this is the second best one. It would almost be the best one due to the fact that its just bigger than my favorite and it has a kids area which is great! But the customer service just doesn't make me want to add another star. Are they friendly at this Uncommon Grounds? Yes. Do they smile? Not so much. And its so easy to bring those facial muscles pointing upwards I don't know why they don't do it. So that is the reason for one less star but I will reiterate that the staff are good. Just not the best I have seen. Onto the good however. They have the best chairs out of all the Uncommon Grounds and some of the best in the city. One area has comfy lounge chairs while another one has the hard wood ones meant for students and people who need to write reviews about their shop while he drinks his coffee. So the layout is great and the kids area is such a great idea. I am a proud uncle of a beautiful Niece who is smarter and better than anyone else's kids (don't try to debate this with me.lol). So its great to find a coffee shop that can help a parent or proud Uncle rest for a bit and regain some strength while the child can be distracted. One downside is that this store is sort of below ground-level in a way. So there isn't as much sunshine that comes in as I would like and the light in general is quite low. I find it puts me to sleep but others haven't minded it at least on a conscious level. So at the end of the day I would say this Uncommon Grounds is a safe bet. But if you have a chance to go to the one on Argyle Street, I'd head there. There is the chance it could be too busy but its worth the risk. However, if you are keen on staying in the area this particular Uncommon Grounds sits on, you are in safe hands and I have no doubt you'll enjoy your Java drinking experience. read more

Comfortable, friendly staff, free wi-fi, freshly locally roasted coffee, in-house baked goods, this gets 4 stars in my books. The 5th star comes from the fact that they are the pioneers (or their parent company Uncommon Group) of the I Love Hfx Local group and the "local" movement in general. Rant starts here: for the negative reviews from the people who prefer Charbucks... you just don't get it. If you'd rather pay more for a franchise, artificially flavoured, American owned, anti-service, snobby, pretentious, beverage... go there, but don't bash the local little guy who's trying to make a living competing against the "green giant". End Rant. Keep it up Uncommon Grounds, you are rightly named and anything but common. read more

I have a girlfriend who lives near the Uncommon Grounds location on South Park Street, and because she isn't a coffee lover this is where we often find ourselves, looking for fresh treats. (If the decision were based on coffee alone this wouldn't be my preference). They have a wide selection of Nova Scotian roasted coffee beans, and a signature coffee "Fog Burner" which has more kick to it than I was expecting. The price for coffee is on par with other speciality coffee places, or about a buck more than a franchise. While this isn't the best coffee place in town, it certainly isn't the worst. Pluses for Uncommon Grounds include complementary WiFi connection for patrons, freshly baked treats and pastries, and a cool interior design that doesn't feel like a baseball dugout (like the entrance way does). Hot Hint: If you can't make it to South Park Street then check out the other Uncommon Grounds location on Argyle or Hollis. read more

Let's be honest - location has a hell of a lot to do with where you buy your coffee. And yeah, I like Uncommon Grounds because it's a 30 second walk from my house. But there's so much more to it. I've never encountered better or more friendly staff at a coffee establishment before. They make great drinks (I get a large caramel latte with skim milk, but only on weekends, in case anyone was wondering...which I know you weren't) but also sell delicious soups, sandwiches, baked goods and chocolate bars. An orange and pineapple muffin to go with my coffee this morning? Yes please! It's basically like living around the corner from heaven. It's also a great place to get work done. With free wi-fi and the choice to sit in a comfy chair or at a table, it's where I camped out starting at 9am every day when I was job hunting. So yeah, you buy your coffee near your home, office, etc. But if you're in the 'hood, check this place out. read more

Snuggled on South Park Street, Uncommon Grounds is frequently filled with students, young professionals and budding families enjoying locally roasted coffee. I am a usual visitor to this location, and I also visit the smaller shop on Barrington street from time to time. What I love most about Uncommon Grounds is the fact they focus on local products. As evident from their selection of "I Love Local" products, there is a sense of pride and community at this spacious coffee shop. For those who have a sweet tooth, they make fresh baked goods (i highly reccomend the nanimo bars!) and even offer lunch items - a variety of sandwiches and soups. My favourite item is the frittata - which I often order served on a bagel (with cream cheese - yum!). Coming in ham and veggie options, these breakfast delights are very popular and go fast, so to ensure you nab one - go early! The staff at Uncommon Grounds are always friendly and service is fairly quick as well. If you place your tip in one of the mugs on the main counter you'll be sure to learn something new with their daily trivia questions. Although I am often someone who takes their coffee to go, this particular location also offers a cozy atmosphere where you can sink into one of their leather chairs or comfy coaches and enjoy your afternoon. They also offer tables for those who need work space. Unlike other shops that may feel crowded and stuffy, Uncommon Grounds on South Park street is spacious and airy. Another plus - if you are parent who needs a caffeine fix, there is also a play section for children. Whether you are a professional on the go, a student looking to study the day away, or a family taking a break from errands; Uncommon Grounds will be sure to cure your caffiene craving. read more

If I lived closer, this would easily be my "go to café." As it is, I have been frequenting this place more and more ... frequently? "But why," you might rightfully ask. Well, for a great many reasons. For one thing, it's a local joint, which is always nice. Uncommon Grounds is a big fan of local businesses and that's good to see. And they're doing lots right: yes, they have lots of seating at this location but they also have a variety of types of seating. Some couch/chair combos for socializing and board games (fun fact: they have their own crib boards for you to use), some chairs just for when you want to read and tables if you need to get work done. They have lots of different types of drinks (coffee, teas, etc.) and, equally importantly, lots of snacks. The overall vibe is very relaxed and this place always feels very welcomign. read more

For the most part, I'm a BIG fan of Uncommon Grounds. It's close to my office which automatically makes it my usual spot. Positives: - They have delicious veggie fritatas. I'm salivating just thinking about the them! Order the fritata bagel with cream cheese. So yummy and a great start to my day! - I like that they usually post the morning offerings on Twitter (2 types of muffins, and 2 types of scones). The coconut white chocolate muffins are so good that every single day on the bus, I sit there and refresh their Twitter feed every 30 seconds in hopes that they'll have made those delicious muffins. However, they don't always have ready what they say they do on Twitter (see negatives). - The coffee is amazing! Best coffee I've had in the city! - Great selection of baked goods. If you ever see that they have ginger cookies made, do yourself a favour and get one. Big, soft cookies, with pieces of candied ginger in them. One of the best ginger cookies I've ever had. - I love that they are local, and sell local products from Sugah! and Rum Runners. Negatives: - On one of my morning bus rides, after frantically refreshing their Twitter feed - I finally saw what I was desperately craving. They were serving the coconut white chocolate muffins. 20 minutes later I arrived - eyes wide and mouth drooling. As I approached the counter, disappointment struck! NO MUFFINS! How could this be? I asked the gal at the counter if they had any ready, she gave me an abrupt no. I politely asked her if she wouldn't mind checking with the kitchen, which she reluctantly did, and came back again with a firm no. If it's advertised on Twitter, it should be available. I did tweet them with my disappointment, and received an apology. - The staff are usually hit and miss. For the most part they are friendly, but sometimes they're a bit abrupt. - I ordered a pumpkin latte last week, and I hate to say it, but it was revolting. I don't use that term lightly, either. Try to imagine a combination of rotten food and metal. I had my coworkers just smell it, and one almost threw up. Had I not already made it to the office before I tried it, I would have asked for a different drink. A waste of nearly $5. All that being said, I keep going back to Uncommon and sticking with what they do best - frittata bagles, muffins, scones, ginger cookies & coffee. Yum! read more

There's something appealing to me about a hip, cozy coffee shop tucked unassumingly into the bright basement of a brutalist eyesore of an apartment tower. Somewhat off my beaten path, I find myself retreating to this UC when I need to get a bunch of work done. It's private and chill, but bright and busy enough to keep you from getting restless. Personally, I'm kind of a fun of the aloof, casual attitude I get from the staff! Their americanos are perfect, great selection of baked goods and prices are way reasonable compared to a lot of coffee shops in the city. This is the kind of place you can hang out at for an afternoon and not feel claustrophobic or rushed. Now I just have to get off Yelp and get some actual work done! read more

I like the funky red sofas and chairs, and the overall industrial feel of this shop - but sometimes. It can be a bit cold and drafty, and all that concrete can be a bit offputting if you're really looking for a cosy spot to relax with a warm coffee. Good place for a photo shoot or a video interview, if you want a hip-looking backdrop, though. I find the coffee here quite bitter in general, and their cappuccinos are not good at all. Counter staff are quite consistently unconcerned or uninterested in me or my order. Feels a bit like a club for the cool kids which I have clearly not been invited to join. read more

Uncommon Grounds, you are dangerously close to my university. What with your London Fog lattes and delicious brownies. They are definitely a great place to sit and do work or meet up with friends. The atmosphere of the place is great but the only complaint I have is that it tends to be a bit chilly. Service is consistently decent and they have awesome, affordable prices. read more

I visited here on a dreary afternoon. The shop is kind of down stairs from street level so is we kind of dark and cool but somehow inviting. There was ample chairs but they were all full. I got their Fog burner and a Nanaimo bar. The Fog Burner was very good as was the bar. I was a little disappointed there was no place to sit, a victim of their own success and there was no wi-fi. The coffee and food were great and in the end that is why we go, isn't it read more

Oatmeal cookies are delicious and filling.. Try the Americano, GO healthy! read more

This is one of my favourite coffee spots in Halifax! It's less than a 10 minute walk away so it's convenient and when I feel like treating myself (which is often) I'll get a ham frittata on an everything bagel toasted with cream cheese. EVERYONE NEEDS TO TRY THIS. It's sososososo good. Also I like their attempt at a sliding lid. It doesn't really work.. coffee gets all around the cup but it's charming. read more

I have been a fan of uncommon grounds forever and it has yet to disappoint! They are some of the founders of local love in halifax! They roast their coffee and make their sweet treats! Both of which are awesome! The fact that they also are the reason to have rum runners and sugah is fantastic! The service is always worth the trip, even if you don't live anywhere near! Friendly and helpful service plus locally sourced and produced products equals my cup o' tea!... Or coffee. Either one. read more

I visited Uncommon Grounds for the first time ever today. I dig the location: easily accessible but not right smack in the middle of the insanity that is otherwise known as down town. I like that its in the basement, I feel like I should know a secret knock code to be able to get in. Its laid out well, well spaced furniture, and the furniture fits the space. And its comfy. I can see how people could curl up in one of the big chairs with a book and just hangout for an afternoon. My chai latte was good. Not spicy enough for my taste, but it was good. I had wanted to grab a sandwich while I was there as I had an appointment to get to right after leaving and didn't want to starve all afternoon. I have to say, $6+ for a sandwich is a bit steep for my blood. I had a hard enough time paying $4 for my drink that wasn't a Starbucks drink (another SB fan here!). I like that the coffee is roasted locally and that the baked goods are made inhouse. I also didn't find the service to be all that spectacular. There was one chick who looked like she hated life. And the other two were just sort of meh. Personally I find there are better coffee houses around. Not that UG is awful, but for me there are other places that have a better vibe, and more personable service. read more

Great coffee, great service, nice atmosphere. If I'll be in Halifax again I'll definitely remember this place :)

Ok, this USED to be my favorite coffee shop in the city but the unreliable wifi for like a year now is a deal breaker. It's really too bad... I hope you can get things sorted out someday. read more

The Uncommon Ground - Could be my favourite breakfast in Halifax. Uncommon frittata bagel and coffee. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Highly suggest to try another spot. The food is not up to health standards (grey chicken/mouldy bread), and they would sell you a cup of dirt water if it tasted like coffee and they could make a buck. read more

TLDR: Great coffee, good atmosphere, wifi more unreliable than HFX transit. I've been coming here for years, and if you're meeting up with a friend or want a place to read a book, this is your spot. Espresso-based beverages are decent, the drip coffee is cheap and good though (bring your own mug for that righteous discount). The music is usually funky but appropriate, and the staff are totally sweet. But man, if you want to get ANY work done you may as well pack up and go to the library. I would be surprised if the owners have upgraded the network since the place opened, it feels like I'm try to connect to 2005 level cafe wifi and I'm NOT living for it. But all in all, you got yourself a cozy little corner of the south end to sip some coffee, and maybe a place to shut out the world for a minute isn't the worst. read more

This is my favourite coffee place. I go literally every day while at work, and even on the weekends. The staff know exactly what I want when I walk in, and start making the espresso for me when I open the door. They're very friendly and quick. The location is also great for sitting down as there are lots of spaces, including couches, comfy chairs, and tables. The lattes are amazing. I've tried lattes from all over NS and down into NYC, Boston, and other states. But, this is always my favourite. Also. Frittata bagels. Wow. Just. Wow. Mitch and Emily are the best! read more