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2nd Cup Cafe - CLOSED
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
111 Brighton Ave(between Linden St & Harvard Ave)
Allston, MA 02134
Neighborhood: Allston/Brighton
(617) 782-8282
- Nearest Transit:
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Brighton Ave @ Linden St (193, 57, 57A)
Harvard Ave @ Brighton Ave (66)
Brighton Ave @ Harvard Ave (193, 57, 57A, 66)
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
93 reviews for 2nd Cup Cafe
Review Highlights
"Best iced lattees and free wi-fi ever."
(in 14 reviews)
"...can use your Boston Community change card here (you get a..."
(in 3 reviews)
"The honey mustard sauce on both made us say we're..."
(in 5 reviews)
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93 reviews in English
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Review from Sophie J.
Brighton, MA
8/23/2010
Ever since I moved here from my old neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn I have been craving the comfort of privately run cafes. Luckily Allston has a few, and I was lucky enough to go there yesterday afternoon to spend a rainy Sunday catching up with a friend.
The cafe is small and quaint, and I like that the tables are next to windows that could be open if it was raining. One of my favorite aspects was a large wooden table that could fit a big group of friends or study group. I just love places that have character, and that table shone small town cafe. Loved it! If you need a nice quiet place to work on a project (where you won't disturb people too much either) go there and grab that table.
Ordering a drink was a little confusing, since I think they are in the midst of a system change and didn't have the full drink menu written on the board, and some of the drinks they had written weren't offered (such as a latte, their machine was broken I believe). I also saw a guy bringing his bagel back to the counter saying that it wasn't what he ordered. I am a person who generally gets frustrated with things like this, but the man behind the counter was very gracious and explained to us what was being offered, and I found myself very comfortable, welcome, and going with the flow. I love how they have their teas set out so you can look, see, and smell them before deciding what you would like. Plus they have handouts about tea and its benefits, and I always love learning something new!
My friend and I ordered a teapot for 2 of the chai, which was just lovely, and coupled it with some of their homemade simple syrup. We sat and chatted for a couple of hours (each getting about 2.5 cups out of the teapot, which looks much smaller than that!) and the atmosphere remained lovely and relaxed.
I love sitting in cafes where people are just relaxing, doing work, and there was even a guy talking business at the big wooden table. It makes me miss college, and Willimsburg, and I'm glad I now have a cafe in Boston that I'll visit again and again. -
Review from christine c.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2010
So sad this place is dunzo.
Best iced lattees and free wi-fi ever? Such a good alternative to Panera and Starbucks for some serious homework time. -
Review from Monica R.
8/7/2010
Aesthetically, the inside is nice. The fact that the windows can be open makes the space feel so much bigger, and the decor is simple but appealing.
Unfortunately though, there is just a small selection of drinks/items to order from. The blackboard menu is in a sad state, it just looks uncared for. Additionally, if you actually peek behind the counter there's too much space and it just looks like there wasnt much thought put into even the work area.
Additionally, the 'condiments' section is a joke.
Lastly, while I was here the owner came in, yelled at a customer for putting their feet on his box-table (he could have asked in a better manner). His attitude was just off-putting.
There are better places to visit.Listed in: Coffee Joints in Boston!
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Review from Leighann F.
Astoria, Queens, NY
1/10/2009
Two words: honey mustard.
Whatever sandwich you get, whatever is on it, whatever kind of bread you prefer, you need to get that with some of Second Cups's honey mustard. It's quite possibly the best condiment ever made. Sweet, spicy, with a light and creamy conistency.
I only got the honey mustard because the owner, who was running the counter when I went in for a sandwich, recommended it...right after he insisted we try free samples of the egg salad.
This place is warm and cozy. Its run by a man who really cares about his customers. And, if that wasn't enough, they make a proper hot chocolate with steamed milk, Ghiradelli chocolate, a dash of cinnamon and whipped cream.
But really all you need to know about is the honey mustard and the kind man who is serving it to you.Listed in: Eats in Allston
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Review from Danae B.
Brookline, MA
10/1/2007
FINALLY, a place in Allston that actually tries!
I've said it time and time again: the problem with Boston is that very few establishments actually try to be something more than just a hole-in-the-wall, even when it's very easy to set yourself apart with a few strategically placed designer chairs and a nice comfy sofa.
I wish I could keep this place to myself, so I would always have a nice study destination, but I can't resist spreading the word. This very nice coffee shop has managed to change the landscape of Allston in a small, but imposing way. Situated adjacent to LAB, that kick-ass tshirt shop, 2nd Cup Cafe is an inviting addition to the grungy, college-kid infested intersection of Brighton Ave and Harvard Ave.
A simple, but decidedly more high-end sandwich and salad menu is a welcomed sight. Rounded out by a superb coffee and tea selection, this little cafe is an indication of the changes being made to "the BU ghetto."
Oh, and did I mention they're cheap, the coffee is delicious, the guys wear chef's jackets, and there's FREE WIFI. -
Review from Kathryn M.
San Francisco, CA
2/4/2010
I really really want to support local small businesses over corporations and no more is that true than when it comes to my daily cup of coffee. And while the 2nd Cup Cafe has some great qualities (free wifi, friendly staff and owner, decent food, cool atmosphere, etc.) what they charge for a vanilla latte is downright criminal!
They begin with a modest base price of $2.85 for a small latte and then charge SEVENTY FIVE CENTS FOR A SHOT OF VANILLA! This means that a small late is close to $4! Comparatively, Starbucks charges .30 for a shot of syrup. Considering that I usually have at least one cup of coffee a day, we are talking over $270 a year for syrup. Not coffee...syrup. How is it possible that I'm happier with the prices at Starbucks than I am at 2nd Cup Cafe?! I know this shouldn't be a huge thing but it makes me feel like I'm being swindled every time I buy a cup of coffee. Oh well, I guess the search for a good coffee shop continues.Listed in: Mmm breakfast and…
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Review from Amanda L.
Brighton, MA
Updated - 7/25/2008
Toronto has a whole chain called Second Cup Cafe, which made me think of this place, haha.
This place is definitely better than the chain in Toronto (reminds me of Starbucks) and now that I've come here a few more times I feel like I can give a better review. The other day I came in and decided to read my book for a few hours (yes, hours) before I headed off to karate. It was thundering and lightening out and I had my bike, so I decided to come in. I ordered a Thai Iced Tea and got one of their salads with curry chicken on it. The price of the salad was not bad (I think it was around $6.00 for a small?) and there was a generous offering of chicken, which I appreciated. Thai Iced Tea was not the best I had, but definitely drinkable. The salad left me feeling content.
Many other people were sitting the storm out in the Cafe so I didn't feel bad for taking up room for a while. The people again are really nice, telling everyone to have a nice day, etc. I'm still a fan.Listed in: Coffee!?!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/4/2008
Very cute.
While waiting for the BF before heading over to Pubjab Palace, I stopped in here and… Read more »
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Review from Jenny N.
9/30/2007
Allston is definitely getting a makeover, and the Second Cup is one of my favorite new additions to the 'hood. The owner, Farzhad, (actually a cousin of Ali, owner of KooKoo Cafe in Brookline) is an absolute gentleman! It's truly a labor of love.
The space is just so cozy and inviting--marble tables, warm woods, and homey decorative touches like pumpkins on the side tables. There's ample seating for studying, and the front windows open up to the sidewalk so you can bask in these last warm autumn days...
I'm not a coffee drinker, but I I know Farzhad will go out of his way to make sure your cuppa joe is just the way you like it. In fact, there was a young woman in line ahead of me who had a complicated coffee order that took about 3 minutes to explain and Farzhad made absolute certain that he had it right--even recreating 2 of the 3 coffees because they were not perfect. They also have a nice selection of Mem teas and bottled drinks (including San Pellegrino aranciata) for those like me :) The food menu is also very similar to KooKoo's, although they also have a few salads, which KooKoo does not. The tuna and brie on wheat is delicious! And keeping the students and locals in mind, the prices are so reasonable, you'll really be tempted to stay for a second cup ;) -
Review from Roni E.
10/13/2008
I'm not sure if they're quite 4 star material especially since I'm really picky about my coffee shop hang outs. I finally came into 2nd Cup Cafe after a long ago scouting of places to study around here.
They have free wi-fi - thumbs up for that. They also take credit, even though I had cash today. And they have seats!!! And I believe when it's warm out, those windows that I was sitting next to are probably open.
But there was just something about this place that's holding me back from 4 stars. Maybe it's the fact that I was told I can't put my foot up on the tree stump of a table I had when the chairs to table ratio was awkward when leaning back. Fine. Maybe it was the fact that my Vanilla Chai Latte wasn't so much Vanilla-y nor Chai-y enough for my taste.
For now... an A-OK 3 stars until I find something about 2nd cup that would make me a dedicated regular. -
Review from Jenn S.
1/27/2009
My friend had been raving about Second Cup for a few months, so I was looking forward to trying it.
First - the website leaves much to be desired - you can find the menu on Menu Pages.
Second - I felt it was a bit out of place on Brighton Avenue in Allston - surrounded by dive Chinese food places and Spike's Junkyard Dogs. Although it is next door to my favorite Indian place - Punjab Palace, so there's that - and there are some other good restaurants a block or two away.
Second Cup is a tiny place with about 7 tables - one of which is a long, picnic bench-style table - and a few chairs for casual coffee drinking. There were many people sitting around with laptops and school books, so we were unable to snag a cute little table by the window (it was VERY close to the table next to it and we didn't want to disturb the girl studying). We were able to grab another table though, but I think it's because we got there before noon on a Saturday. Note: this place started to fill up, so if you plan on eating there, go early or late.
The way it works: you order at the counter and then they call your order and you pay when you pick it up. Although the guy who took our order said he would bring it to us, but that's neither here nor there.
I asked for just a tap water and was immediately impressed when I got a HUGE glass coffee mug filled with ice & water. Definitely points for that.
The food comes on wax paper in low baskets - no washing or throwing out of plates! (I like that) - and it's just the sandwich. No pickle, chips or anything.
My friend ordered the Tuna with Brie Cheese (I was totally debating about getting this, but only like cheese with my tuna if it's a melt) on 7-grain bread.
In an attempt to be healthy, I ordered the Cajun Chicken sandwich with tomato, cucumber and honey mustard (according to Menu Pages), also on the 7-grain. In actuality, it had tomato & lettuce and I didn't taste honey mustard. To be fair, I think the in-store menu said lettuce, not cucumber. When I ordered, the guy warned me that it was spicy, and he wasn't kidding! It definitely had a nice kick.
Mine was rather greasy - way more than I expected - and very messy. So was my friend's. I think mine came out to about $6 or $7, which is reasonable for a good-size sandwich. I was pretty full after. But a pickle would have been nice. :)
We decided it's not a great place for a date - sandwiches are messy and the tables are SUPER close together = not good for private conversation. But it's perfect for a quick meal or a nice leisurely lunch with friends. I wouldn't be able to study there - too much people watching! -
Review from Ethan A.
Boston, MA
6/27/2010
Stopped in looking for a drink to pass some time. I was craving something sweet, and saw a bottled lemonade. Looked at it, then noted an iced tea menu. Ordered a pomegranate iced tea, and they guy noticed I had been considering lemonade, and offered to mix some in since he thought it tasted better that way. Agreed, and after tasting, agreed. Delicious.
The place didn't have A/C, but despite the hot weather, the big windows gave the place a really cool breeze. Free wifi, not crowded, and they had an extensive food menu. -
Review from marie c.
Somerville, MA
1/27/2008
Love it! I spent most of the day here yesterday and I can safely say it's great.
Comfortable, not super crowded and an incredibly helpful staff. I had an iced coffee and a tuna salad sandwich. I STRONGLY recommend their foccacia bread. The toast it before they make the sandwich so it's just the right amount of crispy.
The prices are good and the atmosphere is one of the best I've encountered in a long time. People seemed to be relaxing, it wasn't too crowded with students. I noticed more than one table where someone was marking up papers and blue books and the guy across from me folded up his sunglasses and snapped them away in their Dior case. Plus I was there, so you know they take all kinds.
A few things that really impressed me:
1. One of the women working there saw me wearing my coat and said, oh! is it too cold? let me go and turn up the heat! Even when I explained that I'm just always cold, she decided to turn it up a bit anyway.
2. They had hand moisturizer from Trader Joe's in the bathroom.
3. Very cool mirrors
4. A wide assortment of chairs. Comfortable chairs are crucial to a pleasant coffee experience.
5. It seems like the kind of place where the people who work there want to get to know you. I never seem to go to any one place often enough to actually make that happen, but I like being in that environment all the same.Listed in: Brunch!
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Review from Melinda M.
Allston, MA
1/25/2008
I hail from the land of coffee shops. I have spent countless hours in a countless number of them. After moving here, I was devastated to find that Boston's idea of "going out for coffee" meant either a 2-minute express trip to Dunkin Donuts, a room filled wall-to-wall with college students and an atmosphere more like a happening daytime bar, or easing uncomfortably into a sofa chair at a sorry excuse for a starbucks, praying that a homeless person hadn't wet their pants there recently (Not to sound like a jerk but I actually saw that happen...TWICE).
Needless to say I am extremely happy about 2nd Cup opening in Allston (its way too cold to walk to Andala at Central Square right now). True, the coffee isn't the greatest, but there is a promising tea and sandwich menu. The window seats are excellent (and surprisingly warm), the staff is really nice, and the atmosphere/decor as well. I'm worried that the small seating area will fill up too quickly as word gets out and it will turn into a 1369...1239...? Whatever. But for now, Second Cup is one of your best bets in Boston for "going out for coffee" in a place where you'll actually WANT to order a second cup. -
Review from Barney B.
San Diego, CA
6/3/2008
Allston Village is growing up from the pimply teenager it used to be to a hot college student everyone wants as their 'friend'
OK, maybe I am sounding like a really bad after-school movie, but I am pretty impressed with this little 'hood. Boarded up old stores are now turning into funky shops, restaurants, and cafes, yet the bohemian feel to the area (and the obstacle course of driving down Brighton Ave) still remain.
And tucked between these places is 2nd cup.
I almost popped into Spike's for a quick bite and saw this place, with its awning announcing 'cafe menu' and figured, well, Spikes can wait. Glad I popped across like Frogger to this joint and tried their falafel wrap - easily one of the tastiest ones I have had in town in ages. Light and fresh, but still full of flavor.
The vibe is perfect - quiet enough to read, even with windows open -but not so quiet that it feels like a library. Comfy chairs and tables, but not cramped. Seemed to be free wifi, but didn't ask - just figured likely since many customers were online.
And the service was ultrafriendly.
return trip, guaranteed -
Review from Denise W.
Cambridge, MA
3/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
I can't even be a hater considering I'm all up in this joint AS WE SPEAK, and I'm definitly a fan. Friendly staff, cozy feel, excellent coffee (I'm so stoked about my chai latte you don't even know), awesomely sunny, and sick decor. I, too, am a proponent of supporting local etabloshments, so when my girl suggested we shlep all the way from Medford out here just to get some new scenery, I obliged. The tables are basically stacked on top of one another, but considering the popularity, I guess it's necessary. Also, I just paid $4.25 for a chai latte so, yknow, shoot me. All in all, great local place but nothing to leave your own neighborhood for.
Update: I'm glad I didn't go ahead and post this earlier because it was at 3 stars and I've upgraded it to 4. (1) The bathroom was excellent and who even says that?? No, but it was cute and clean and I respect that; (2) I just finished my turkey and avocado sandwich and it was to die for. I still say the prices are a bit steep, but the place has cleared out like whoa since from when we got here around 2 (it's nearer to 5 now). It's a nice spot and I've been really productive with my studying here this afternoon. -
Review from Sueann G.
Allston, MA
1/9/2009
The sesame bagel I had was fantastic. Reminded me of sesame candy I used to eat when I was younger. The guy at the counter was quick and extremely friendly.
The place is great to chill out, read a book, use wi-fi or just chat with friends. It's got such a cozy feel that you don't really wanna get up and leave. -
Review from Sandra C.
5/27/2010 5 Check-ins Here
I'm actually surprised that 2nd cup is so well-rated, but I'm going to go throw off the scale now. The drinks here...were good. I'm rating this 3-star solely based off my tuna salad sandwich. Which I didn't like too much. I've definitely had better, and I had higher expectations from 2nd Cup. On the bright side...the restaurant is beautiful and really reminiscent of Panera to me. Lovely sunlight shining through the glass windows, and comfortable environment, friendly people--I think there's wifi here too.
I would probably come back again to grab some iced mocha and then drink it while reading a good book sometime this summer. It's also a perfect place to have a light lunch with a friend. -
Review from Haley T.
7/22/2009
My absolute favorite place to get some tea or lunch and study.
Free wi-fi, nice atmosphere, great lunch and scones and an excellent selection of hot teas.
They play soft rock, usually (which is my only reason to complain). It's a little pricey, but not any more so than any other coffee shop around here, and tends to be pretty quiet (mostly full of people working/studying) in the afternoon. I recommend the mediterranean plate, its huge and delicious.Listed in: Free wi-fi in Allston
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Review from Bailey M.
8/5/2009
I came here based on Giuseppe F.'s review, and I can only agree with everything he wrote! I spent the whole afternoon here, drinking 1 cup of coffee and a bagel with cream cheese. Delightful atmosphere, fun radio music playing, and basically 100% of patrons reading or studying.
I came all the way from Porter Square, and it was worth it. -
Review from Rachel H.
Brighton, MA
7/19/2010
I've never ordered food here, though they have an extensive brunchy type menu.
I go here when I'm not in the mood for the loud atmosphere at Allston Cafe. I like their coffee better, but their service less--they're less friendly and seem more concerned with getting you away from the counter ASAP. Normally this wouldn't be a big deal, however, their menu is completely unreadable. Large scrawled cursive over chalk board, about a walls worth, is really too much to expect a new customer to walk in, find what they want, and order it in a minutes' time.
All of that said, they have free wi-fi, better coffee and tea, and a less annoying crowd than Allston Cafe. It's all about the scene you're looking for. -
Review from Q S.
Somerville, MA
4/3/2008
YES!!!!
A place with free wireless and a clean bathroom. Something I've been dreaming about for a long time.
The only downside to the 2nd Cup is that the tables are a bit small and the cafe doesn't have enough outlets for the number of people with lap tops.
But with that said, I am still super grateful that I can type away on my laptop in a nice, clean and welcoming coffee joint.Listed in: Best Breakfasts
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Review from Nate B.
Dorchester, MA
10/12/2007
I can't remember the last time I went to a coffee shop/cafe with as much potential as the 2nd Cup Cafe. Open about three weeks ago, this coffee shop brings a fresh new approach to getting your daily caffeine fix. It's a hidden spot in Allston on Brighton Ave. that proves its signature deli sandwiches are not a side show.
I've been here twice now and have thoroughly enjoyed both sandwiches I've eaten. With signature sandwiches at $6.25 you'll be glad you spent your money on these tasty morsels. I've had both the Curry Chicken Salad sandwich and the Cajun Chicken with tomato, cucumer and honey dijon mustard. I can't believe how good they were, and how large the sandwiches were. They give the option of many fresh baked of breads: ciabatta, foccacia, pita, 7 grain, baguette.
The coffee, is ok. As a high in the sky caffeinated 9-5er I didn't get much of a jolt from their coffee. The flavor is not quite as robust, or strong as I'd like, but their presentation almost makes up for its lack in character.
The place is practically uninhabited by anyone other than its friendly baristas and owner who tends to always chat with customers.
If you've read this far, you're definitely eligible to hear one of the reasons that the 2nd Cup Cafe takes the cake. It has FREE WIRELESS INTERNET. Yes, that's right, free wireless internet access. You won't find many coffee shops with this sort of draw, but I can guarantee that as time goes on this place will be hopping.
Stop by sometime and make sure you try a sandwich, I doubt you'll be disappointed. -
Review from J.J. M.
Northridge, CA
5/18/2010
Nice neighborhood cafe. Ample seating. Free wi-fi. Decent prices (although I've seen cheaper). $1 to refill a regular cup of coffee?
There's a variety of salads and sandwiches on the menu, but I wouldn't be able to say much about it. I was in more of a pastry mood, and the only ones on the menu were croissant, brownie, and cookies--all of which weren't on display.
I have to say, though, that it's an ideal place to people watch while sipping a drink. The floor to ceiling windows that open up to let the air in are very conducive to that kind of activity.
There's also a good number of seats with some variety (regular stool, padded, bench, etc). You'll have to strategically place yourself, though, if you need an outlet. I can imagine it would be difficult to get to one if the cafe is packed. -
Review from Jess R.
Boston, MA
1/27/2008
the location is fantastic for me. I can crawl out of my bed and mosey my walk down to the second cup for a coffee. They have george howell's coffee which is delicious! and they have orangina! woohoo!
I like their sandwiches, they're cheap and healthy with falafel, tahini, and other things of that nature.
The staff are incredibly friendly and very accommodating. I just wouldnt come here if i were in a rush because sometimes they're too accommodating if you know what i mean asking too many questions, being a little bit too friendly. thus slow. this is boston dammit!
anywho, i like it. -
Review from Rosie F.
Brookline, MA
12/27/2008
This place is lovely; clean, fast, friendly and QUALITY drinks. and oh lordy the baked goods are great as well (ditto to the sandwiches wraps salads ect.)
The woman who works here is such a sweetheart, totally friendly and wants to make you exactly what you want.
The cafe its self is pretty. With big tables and small, and different assortments of chairs this place is perfect for any size group and for activity, weather it be studying, chatting or some solitary reading 2nd cup is perfect. -
Review from Amy L.
Dover, MA
8/25/2009
I love this place!
I went to grab a quick lunch at here with my friend today
and it was my first time....I like the interior design since I am a designer :) I felt very cozy and welcoming ... and love the vintage style!
Anyway..back to the food.... We ordered Orchard Harvest Salad and Iced latte today and the salad was amazingly fresh and yummy!
They used a handful of cranberries and I think...cinnamon tasted pecan was so good :) I'm going back to try all sorts of salad next week and just love this place!! -
Review from andy n.
Portland, OR
2/11/2008
After several months of living near Packard's Corner with NO coffee shops nearby, I would have been happy to have ANY coffee shop open up. Imagine my delight, then, when 2nd Cup opened up. Not just any coffee shop, by any means, but in fact one of the best coffee shops I've ever visited.
The owner, Farhad, is frequently in the house and always in high spirits. he seems to know every soul that's ever visited the place, whether they stop in daily or only on occasion. The rest of the crew is equally affable and courteous. I've never witnessed even a hint of rudeness. This human atmosphere is complemented by comfortable, worldly decor, and beautiful hardwood floors.
The coffee, George Howell's, is excellent and, as far as I can tell, always fresh. The loose leaf tea selection is equally impressive. More importantly, though, is 2nd Cup's practice of serving their drinks in REAL mugs. To-go cup users take note: once you enjoy your favorite beverage in an proper mug, YOU WILL NEVER GO BACK. The baked goods, sandwiches, and salads are also top notch. The place smells great all the time.
There are some problems of course. It's sometimes hard to get a seat near a computer outlet (though I rarely have trouble) and the cafe closes around 8. Still, these complaints only arise when a place is so popular and likable that everyone wants to be there all the time.
And 'all the time' is about how often I am there. In fact, I'm there right now :) -
Review from Alice W.
Allston, MA
1/12/2009
If Allston does anything well, it's coffee houses. I've already given In House 5 stars, so I feel a little promiscuous giving them to 2nd Cup as well. However, promiscuity is another thing Allston does well, so here we go...
Things I love: baklava, coffee drinks, individual tea pots, Rooibos tea, lovely bathroom stocked with all kinds of lotions available, enormous seating area, ham cheese and eggs on a crescent roll, the location right around the corner from me.
Just great. Everyone is very friendly there, if a little disorganized.
Word of warning, however: avoid the seats near the windows mid-morning to mid-afternoon on a sunny day. Unless you enjoy that lovely eggs-in-a-skillet feeling. -
Review from Julie R.
6/11/2008
This place was a well needed addition to the Brighton Ave. strip. I've been to Second cup a few times and always enjoy it. They have great bagels and awesome Chai tea. The tuna and brie sandwich I had on Iggy's foccacia was amazing. The servers are super friendly and accomodating.
I chatted with the owner one time and he really knows what he's doing. The atmosphere is very pleasant with hardwoods, exposed brick, gallery artwork, and comfy seating. It gets a student/young professional crowd most of the time and offers free wi-fi. Try to get a table in the open windows in the front for some good people watching. -
Review from Manfred S.
Medford, MA
1/23/2010
Went there by chance while waiting on a friend. The tea was good (but not out of this world) and it was no problem getting a hot water refill. Free WIFI did work flawlessly and was reasonably fast for my needs. Atmosphere was pleasant and relaxed.
Definitely a good place to work and chill. -
Review from Paul T.
Houston, TX
8/13/2010
A comfortable, clean cafe with excellent coffee and selection of food. I had a toasted bagel with cream cheese, avocado and cucumber. All components were fresh and tasty.
When the sun is out and temperature right, they'll open the front windows to the street, creating a wonderful cross breeze and urban atmosphere. Don't look for too many outlets, though, as there is only one under the back wall. -
Review from Susan J.
Chicago, IL
11/10/2009
I don't understand the craze.
I stopped by here with my friend to get some studying done, but we stayed for approximately 5 minutes and then BOUNCED because of two reasons.
1) The wifi was not working. We asked the woman working there, and she provided us with little to no help.
2) I ordered a small iced chai. THANK GOD I didn't get the large one. I am a huge, huge fan of chai... but at my first sip, my face contorted into a "ew-this-is-gross" face while my friend asked me how it was. Blech. It was like sugar-water with a strong kick of bitter cinnamon. I am not that picky with my food or drinks, but I actually had difficulty finishing this off. It only became drinkable once the ice started to melt and the bitterness became slightly watered down.
Although I haven't tried the food, this experience was bad enough for me to be reluctant to go again ... -
Review from Liz E.
Jamaica Plain, MA
4/7/2008
I was here in the morning on a weekday, hoping to get in some good work in a peaceful environment.
My cappuccino was excellent. However, I couldn't get any work done because the guy working was talking SO LOUD on the phone. I was the only patron in there. I guess I must have been invisible...
I'll go back here, but not to accomplish anything except a caffeine fix!
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6/5/08
Gave them another try, and had a great experience. The staff was so nice and friendly (if not a little too...). Great coffee, nice quiet atmosphere this time. They were playing NPR, bless them. I'll definitely be back; my mind is changed! -
Review from Ryan C.
Somerville, MA
9/16/2008
The interior is clean and beautiful, a very pleasant place to hang out for a few hours with a friend, a book or a laptop and WiFi. The chai latte I ordered was a little bitter for my tastes, but acceptable. The owner himself was working the register and quite personable. I'm partial to establishments where the proprietor is involved in the workaday operations. They also had free raisin cookies to nosh at the counter.
Also, they're one of the few establishments in Allston/Brighton that accepts the Boston Community Change card, so huzzah for that. -
Review from Lauren v.
4/28/2008
To quote Sid the Sloth: "Yummo!!" (Slur optional)
Second Cup Cafe is such a cute cozy little joint. I have been here for breakfast and just for a random coffee/tea fix but each time I am impressed with the number of menu items and the friendliness of the people behind the counter. The coffee drinks are good and the owner knows his teas!! Seriously, ask him some inane question. Tea nerds like myself will be impressed.
Two other things of note: free wi-fi and if you don't carry cash they don't balk at running your debit card even if the total is only $4.38.
On the warmer days, they open the front windows for an authentic cafe feel. I will be back because I just noticed that they put baba ghanouj on the menu. Heck yes!Listed in: My 'Hood
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Review from Joseph P.
Amherst, MA
6/7/2010
I really like the idea of this place but there are a few things that just seem to miss. The atmosphere of comfort seems a bit contrived. The menu is a mess both on the board and in concept. The music seems to be just projecting from radio in the kitchen...but they're playing the Traveling Wilburys is a saving grace.
The coffee is okay...a bit acidic.
My sandwich was sub par.
Maybe I'll have to try again on a better day.
(Maybe that's what they mean by 2nd cup.) -
Review from barbaric y.
Boston, MA
3/23/2010
I like this place alright, especially when I lack the time to wander closer to Brookline village, or haven't yet made my way over to the In-House café, whose service, food, and overall niceness actually prompt me to stick around and be shockingly productive. For that matter, the service at 2nd Cup is pretty good as well. The owner has a sense of humor, and everyone else has gotten me my daily fix in short order, even on busy days. The café itself is lined with big windows on one side, which keeps it light (and on nice enough days) somewhat airy. I've spent many an hour hunkered down in a chair alongside, watching my left arm tan while my right arm makes notes in the pagination of my books.
At times the crowds keep my productivity to a minimum; I've only encountered two large outlets so far near the back wall, so unless you plan on keeping your laptop usage to a minimum, 2nd Cup might not be the best place to go on a busy day. On the other hand, their wifi is free-1369 should consider following suit. Once, during a particularly busy day the owner asked me to sit at the large table in the back to conserve space; I found myself seated amidst a crowd of BU students who obviously knew each other. Awkward much? Eventually I scooted to a vacated table and proceeded to get back to work fueled on bagel power.
The food is pretty good, but somewhat pricey for what it is. That being said, I tend not to eat here and instead order pots of lovely tea and the occasional chai. Ultimately, 2nd Cup is a great place for popping in for a bit; otherwise the lack of chair real estate/outlets and the presence of signs warning folks not to loiter too long/pressure to consolidate patrons tends to be a bit much for someone who expects to get much mileage out of their time. Definitely worth a try, and even a revisit, however. -
Review from Ambrose C.
Boston, MA
2/20/2010 1 photo
I came to this decent place to help an aspiring journalist write an article about one of my Yelp reviews. The owner, Farhad, who is Iranian was very hospitable, which is great, and not surprisingly, Iranians supposedly have a strong tradition of being a hospitable people despite what the news and media says about Iran right now. The place also has free wi-fi, which is great if you need internet. The bathroom was really big, and seems to be clean but the light needs more brightness.
My biggest regret was ordering their Latte coffee instead of the Mocchacino. The owner was able to let me sample the Mocchacino twice. While the latte was okay, the Mocchacino had Ghirardelli chocolate in it, making it really good. The next time I come, I am definitely going to drink that even though I am much more of a tea person than a coffee person.
I had the turkey sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and onion. I took Cambridge, MA Yelper Leighann F.'s advice and asked for their supposedly special honey mustard to be put on my sandwich. The sandwich was pretty good, and the honey mustard did make a significant difference. Although the sandwich and the latte was good, I thought the sandwich was kind of small. I paid a total of $9.34 for both the sandwich and the latte, and I did not get my stomach full. If you are looking for a hearty lunch at the best value, this would not be my recommendation.
So far, the major problem I have with this cafe is that the coffee they serve is pricey (even though the Mocchacino was good) and the sandwiches are disproportionately small for the price (even though the honey mustard made it good). Overall, great atmosphere, very hospitable owner, free wi-fi, tasty sandwiches (if you ask for them to put in their special honey mustard in it), and having drinking coffee with Ghirardelli chocolate as an ingredient still makes me give this place a generous four stars in terms of quality but not in terms of prices. -
Review from Danielle K.
Quincy, MA
1/19/2009
I went to 2nd Cup Cafe for lunch today. They have a coupon in the Greater Boston Entertainment book, but I checked yelp before heading out to see if the restaurant would be worth checking out.
You guys are right again.
The food is delicious.
I had a smoked turkey and avocado on 7 grain bread and my boyfriend had a tuna on french bread. The honey mustard sauce on both made us say we're definitely coming back.
Thanks for helping us find this gem! -
Review from Francesca R.
2/2/2009
This place is awesome! You will want to sit in here for hours, getting more coffee and re-fueling with any manner of delicious pastries, savories and sandwiches. The decor is simple yet wholly inviting, and it smells great. Free wi-fi is always a plus. Service is really friendly and efficient.
The only thing that put me off were all the passive-aggressive notes about not putting your feet on the tables and not stealing things from the bathroom.
Just a note - there's a minimum charge of $3 for credit cards. So if you're just getting a cuppa, bring cash.
