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Fall Café - CLOSED
Category: Restaurants Cafes Cafes [Edit]
307 Smith St(between Union St & President St)
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Neighborhoods: Carroll Gardens, Gowanus
(718) 403-0230
- Nearest Transit:
-
Carroll St (F, G)
Bergen St (F, G)
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Alcohol:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
36 reviews for Fall Café
Review Highlights
"The free Wi-fi is obviously an awesome feature."
(in 3 reviews)
"The baked goods are dependable and "the Dave" is sure bet..."
(in 3 reviews)
"Very laid back, perfect place to study or do some work."
(in 3 reviews)
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36 reviews in English
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Review from Audio V.
New York, NY
9/9/2011 1 photo
Quit, pleasant, relaxed, place to work/internet cafe. 50% outlet convergence. internet is fast. One of the fav place in Brooklyn.
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Review from Richard G.
Staten Island, NY
10/31/2011
The staff is definitely friendly. But dreadfully slow. There are a few exceptions, but I would limit that exception to maybe one or two of the staff. If there's more than one person waiting to order, it feels like an eternity before I can place an order.
The coffee is good. Nothing unique. But good enough for me for my study sessions.
The free Wi-fi is obviously an awesome feature. -
Review from Colleen C.
Brooklyn, NY
8/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Probably not a fan. With so many great coffee shops in Brooklyn, I can't imagine coming back here...
I understand being protective of table space, and not wanting folks to camp out draining wifi (and camper outers, do take note...it's rude to use cafes as libraries especially when you aren't buying more than a $2 drip coffee!), but there must be a better way to communicate this.
The entire shop is plastered in signs warning wifi suckers to move along, or to buy more drinks, or to be mindful of other people.
I guess it if were me and I had this problem...I'd, turn off the wifi. Or, cover the outlets. Certainly I wouldn't post 15 fliers in a small coffee shop in bold letters, because frankly I wasn't even there for the wifi and I felt unwelcome. Adios! It's not very cozy anyhow and the whole place feels a bit grunge.
Also, the blackboard basically orders people to bus their own tables. Americano, Cappaccino (BUS YOUR OWN TABLES) Espresso, etc. Like, really? There's just a lot of rules to follow, and I'm just not into it. I prefer cafes where the social norms are understood and everyone can get on board without being admonished. This vibe is whack.
However, every place has a saving grace: the coffee! Well, here. OK. I ordered a simple iced coffee, and it was served to me in a hot cup. Which, I sort of hate. For $3, can I please just have a real-sized plastic cup that will keep my drink cold? It's 400 degrees. I do not want to carry around a hot cup with iced coffee in it trying to sip awkwardly out of a straw through the mouth hole. It's just uncivilized! I jest, but really...correct glassware is key. A worthwhile investment, especially for those of us that are paying customers dropping in for a quick coffee, and not the dreaded Mac-toting able tumors that grow and spread throughout the day.
Cash only.Listed in: Coffee Brooklyn, Carroll Gardens
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Review from Amal D.
6/15/2011 7 Check-ins Here
This place has been around for a really long time. I used to come here with my cousin back when we were 10 and annoy the cashiers and such. We live right around the corner so as stupid, rowdy kids do, we annoy local business.
Nowadays, this place is constantly filled with laptop-ridden folks, sipping away at their coffee or tea. No matter what the time is, you'll always find that every seat is taken and every person had a love affair with an Apple store with their glowing apple logos in front of them.
The coffee is pretty weak (I don't drink coffee but my friends and family do and they all say the same, too weak!). The food they serve is kind of bland and sometimes taste pretty stale. Free wifi....up until a few weeks ago when they posted a sign outside that reads "Wifi for paying customers only!" So I think they may have gotten sick of those people who sit on the two benches outside the cafe and jack some wifi...but who doesn't, seriously?? The couches are super comfy. I swear, this place has so much potential to be like Central Perk from the show Friends...but it just needs a better crowd, less yuppies and stronger coffee!
The staff is always very friendly, even on a Saturday when they could be doing better things than serving your coffee and listening to keyboards tick away. Props, kids, because if it were me, I'd chuck those stale pastries at some of these upper crust customers! -
Review from Allison W.
New York, NY
9/24/2011
Service takes forever and the food isn't *that* great either. Some old guy took the guy's order before us, then ignored us for about 10 min until some other dude in the back came out to take our order. The old guy was more concerned with his magazines - which he then went out into the cafe to read - than with concerning himself with his customers.
The atmosphere is not very welcoming for the area - although there are a lot of mom & pop shops in Carroll Gardens/Cobble Hill that sort of don't seem so welcoming (Winn, anyone?). Feels dark and dingy. More so, there are rules and signs everywhere for how long you can sit without buying anything. (Maybe use a password and timeout?) "We want you to be here, but please respect our business." The only problem with that is that their actual business, customer service and being a cafe, isn't so great. I also noticed a sign on one of their 4-seater tables that said, "This is a 4 seat table. If you are working alone, you need to share. This isn't your office." Really?? How rude. I was just eating with my boyfriend, who was going to stay and work, but I felt really put off by all these rules. I think Fall Cafe needs to get over itself.
Also cash only. Not worth tipping here. -
Review from Par S.
Brooklyn, NY
4/8/2011
Was killing some time, felt hungry for a snack (always), walked by this place and it seemed relaxed and cozy. When I went in I felt a little on display and I realized later that it was because it was absolutely silent in there. No music, no chitchat. Ok since I just wanted to read for a minute, but I think it'd weird me out if I stuck around.
Can't speak to drinks, but pretty sizable selection of baked goods, including vegan bars! Had the peanut butter treat (pb rice crispy bar with a creamy layer on top and a delicious fudge-y chocolate layer over that) and it was really great. $3.50 felt sorta steep, but it was definitely made recently and with love, plus I really dug that bar and vegan goods are usually more expensive and it was a big piece (two snacks worth for some, maybe). I didn't mind the ramshackle decor (I find that pretty welcoming, actually) but I'm not over the moon about this place yet. Give me some light music and I might be! -
Review from CG C.
New York, NY
10/16/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Awesome local coffee house. Very laid back, perfect place to study or do some work. The staff is very friendly and the food and drinks are pretty fresh and tasty. Free WIFI.
Philosophy: you share the WIFI, Why not share the tables too.
Some times, if you are here when they close for the day, you get to take home some free pastries. -
Review from Shannon W.
Metuchen, NJ
7/25/2008
The staff actually seem to enjoy working together, which is pretty unusual in the "Land of Weary Hipster Coffee Shops". I have never seen a staff member on their cell phone. Sometimes they seem tired, but I chalk that up to just enjoying life.
There was a new guy there last week, and when I walked away with my coffee, I actually heard him say "The customers here are so nice." Where else do you hear that kind of compliment from the staff?!?
Frankly, I don't really know or care how good the food and coffee are. The coffee is just fine (much better than Bagels on the Park, my other option during my morning commute). I go here because I like the way I feel when I walk out. Coffee shops are for hanging out and socializing, first and foremost - just ask Starbucks. -
Review from Bob N.
Brooklyn, NY
8/11/2008
I tried to like this place, I really did. Especially since for a long time (B.S., ie, Before Starbucks) it was the only game on Smith St. But all it did was make me pine for a Starbucks, mediocrity you can at least count on.
Is Fall Cafe pretentious? Well, if not putting any effort into the space is pretentious, than yes, they might as well have an urinal hanging on the wall. And that's the problem, it's not a place you'd want to spend much time in. The seating was all rescued from the curbside and most of it should have stayed there. It's like a hostel coffee bar, a homeless shelter with muffins and free wifi. But maybe you're just grabbing a cup on the way to the train? In that case definitely skip this place and hit the bagel place on the corner or Dunkin' Donuts. -
Review from Lily H.
7/8/2008
Lol, I was here just today. I liked it. I don't want service. I sat on a lumpy red couch and didn't ever feel like I had to leave. I left of my own volition within the hour. But I would definitely go back. The guy even gave me a pen to write with.
The cafe was full in the middle of a Tuesday, and several of them seemed to know each other. One of them, the woman who sat down next to me on the couch, pulled the table over closer to her without asking. Not that I cared, but still. Fewer people like that would be nice. Everyone else was cool or okay. -
Review from Justin L.
Brooklyn, NY
4/30/2010
Free
Wifi
Fine coffee
And they are the
Sole Smith Street coffeehouse for studying. -
Review from David N.
Brooklyn, NY
2/11/2011
This place serves as one of my remote meeting places. Working from a home office leads you to search for good places to do work outside the house, either to meet people or to just get away from the house. I have yet to find a place I love for this but Fall Cafe does the job for now. They have free internet which is key however they are little grouchy about people hanging out an using it for a long time. Understandable but if you're going to offer it then don't be pissed off that people use it. This place is also quiet, another great characteristic of a good work cafe. The food and coffee is average and servicable. Probably if I didn't come here as a place to work I wouldn't find my way here very often.
-
Review from Brianna R.
Stamford, CT
9/29/2009
I found Fall Cafe by accident and am so glad I did. This no frills cafe has an amazing house blend and for $2.50 you get unlimited refills which makes a caffeine addict like me very happy. Their menu is small but sufficient with breakfast sandwiches, oatmeal, granola with steamed milk, as well as lunch sandwiches and soups.
They offer free wifi and it is the perfect place to chill out with a newspaper or to study. The laid back atmosphere is inviting and there is no pressure from the staff to leave. I will definitely be back and wish it was on the walk from my apartment to the subway so I could go every morning. -
Review from Corine P.
Brooklyn, NY
9/6/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Great little coffee shop for a lazy afternoon. Typical selection of coffees and pastries. The best part about this place is the free wi-fi and laid back vibe that sets the mood for studying or surfing the web.
Listed in: Carroll Gardens & Cobble Hill
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Review from Allison h.
New York, NY
6/28/2010
I always come here whenever I need to make a trip to Stinky Brooklyn down the block. There is always at least two good looking men on laptops doing "work things" and looking oh so academic. The coffee is top notch and their zucchini/carrot bread rivals my mothers......and only costs a dollar.
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Review from Rachel K.
Brooklyn, NY
1/25/2010
You know what? I think the coffee and espresso at Fall Cafe leave a lot to be desired, but I still find myself going back again and again. Fall Cafe is one of the few places in the area with a lot of seating (and a number of outlets) - especially after the Tea Lounge branch on Court Street closed. Even when all the tables are taken, someone is always willing to share a table with you, which can be fun.
For the most part, I'm also quite fond of the staff there, but then again, I know when my favorite people work.
So... 2 stars for the coffee (I get hot chocolate there every time), but 4 stars for the ambiance and staff.
If you want good coffee on the go (seating is limited), head over to Cafe Pedlar on Court street and Warren where they have Stumptown coffee and delicious milk. (And while you're at it, bring that coffee over to BookCourt and take a look for a good read.) -
Review from Marty K.
Far Rockaway, NY
4/13/2010
I used the atm in the cafe one evening and less than 48 hours later I am notified by my bank that someone out of state is using my card or should I say my account # on a phony card. I only use my bank card for withdrawals-not debit- and I usually only use my bank's atms. Could be a coincidence. Just an fyi to patrons.
Wondering if anyone had a similar experience? -
Review from Tina E.
Alameda, CA
1/5/2007
The Fall Cafe is everything it needs to be. It is really the only coffee shop in Carroll Gardens and it doesn't disappoint. The staff that work there are friendly but not overly friendly. Many of them have worked there for years, so it is always nice to see a familiar face. The cappuccino has just the right amount of froth and the standard joe is pretty alright as well. The baked goods are dependable and "the Dave" is sure bet for breakfast. The decor could use a bit of improvement, but we are there for the coffee not the couch.
Listed in: Coffee, My Old Neighborhood-Carroll…
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Review from Nathalie N.
Brooklyn, NY
6/30/2008
Uncomfortable decor. Pretentious atmosphere. Apathetic service. Vegan cupcakes. And most importantly, BAD COFFEE. There's just no excuse for that in this town.
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Review from Gabe A.
Oakland, CA
4/9/2011
Very chill place with lots of outlets. Would return here, but would _NOT_ get the chai. This place has the worst chai latte I've had in the city. Add in a 3.75 price tag and it's definitely a regrettable choice.
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Review from M T.
Brooklyn, NY
12/24/2007
I'm surprised so many people have given this cafe positive ratings. When I went there last week, the guy behind the counter was your typical weary hipster who took no pride whatsoever in making my mocha. The drink was one degree above lukewarm.
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Review from Paul A.
New York, NY
7/28/2010 1 Check-in Here
Very average. Coffee was bad and waaaaay too hot. Tempted by the free wifi but not worth another visit.
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Review from jessica l.
Brooklyn, NY
9/2/2008
pretty darn good version of the typical 90's coffee shops where i wasted my time during high school...
i don't really like the drip coffee, but if you get an americano, you'll be satisfied.
i know that it sounds weird, because there's no real secret to it, but their toasted bagels with cream cheese, tomato and onion are the BEST. delish.
oh, and the breakfast burritos are good too.
and i almost forgot how great the music is! they always listen to good stuff :) -
Review from red w.
Brooklyn, NY
5/12/2011
i love going here.
the staff is sooo friendly, and so adorable :) sigh.
great coffee.
great vibe. -
Review from Nada O.
New York, NY
12/12/2007
Yay, a haven open late amidst other amenities that seem to close at 7pm. Has a great selection of drinks and pastries, isn't too pricey, and the service is really jokey-friendly.
-
Review from Sasha N.
5/3/2009
saturday morning 9.30 am, location target, priority drill machine for girlfriend's new attraction towards hardware ... 11.30 am, location slope fitness, priority massage with morisha (fabulous) ...12.30am location fall cafe, priority to avoid carbs...
ordered: croissant (scratch priority off) brie (calories on an overdrive) and green apple (source of rich anti oxidant pure energy .. makes up for brie AND croissant! magical truly)
girlfriend ordered steamed scrambled eggs in a croissant - minus butter...
truly fabulous, healthy, unexciting to the tastebud kind of food...
did not order the cafe so would not know about the joe... was confused by the general "alternativeness"... it's very mainstream here... cute, v. cute... the sitting was tres uncomfortable
i am never going back but... i guess i should never say never... i've got nothing to complain it was interesting and nice.. hmmm -
Review from Lisa F.
New York, NY
9/6/2008
Eh. It's your typical neighborhood coffee shop... if your typical neighborhood is in the middle of an eco-conscious, DIY, hipster world... At least their coffee is better than Dunkin Donuts'.
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Review from christian svanes k.
Brooklyn, NY
4/30/2009
a bit of a ramshackle hole in the wall, with equally ramshackle people behind the counter, though this café is perfectly adequate for getting in a few hours of work on your laptop.
disappointed by the quality of the coffee - regardless of whether it comes as an espresso drink or a regular cup of coffee. it is weak and lacks depth and flavour. very middle of the road, so i find it a bit hard to believe that customers believe that they are being served anything more than an average cup. sorry.
since the café is right around the corner from my new home here in brooklyn, i imagine that i might stop by on occasion - though i'll be on the look-out for a better cup of coffee. -
Review from leahlivewire m.
Brooklyn, NY
11/6/2008
I moved here from Seattle where I was spoiled with Stumptown coffee roasters. Still, I knew there was something about Fall Cafe. Since I'm a West coaster I'll spare you the good vibe rhetoric but dude...Jonathan Ames & Dean Haspiel met here.
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Review from James V.
Montclair, NJ
10/20/2009
This place caught my attention because the name is from one of Albert Camus novels. The coffee is actually pretty good and the beat up chairs add to the charm.
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Review from E J.
Brooklyn, NY
1/5/2009
A coffee shop is a coffee shop is a coffee shop... but what sets the Fall Cafe apart from many cafes in Brooklyn is the consistently friendly staff. The coffee and food is just what you'd expect: good sandwiches and pastries, the usual coffee drinks, a few special items (egg creams!!). But while places like these may be a dime a dozen, super-friendly baristas can be hard to find. It affects the whole atmosphere of the cafe-- everyone walking out seems to be in a great mood.
I did happen to notice a sign on the bathroom door mentioning that the free wifi has limited hours, at least for the time being. Be sure to check up on this if you plan to head over here to do work. -
Review from t c.
Brooklyn, NY
7/6/2010
At first, the dirty, unkempt look of the place didn't bother me much... until I regretfully ordered their chili one morning. I don't know if I had food poisoning, but I definitely got the Big D all week. And by "Big", I mean explosive. The coffee's okay though. However, I would watch out for the food.
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Review from carol t.
Brooklyn, NY
3/12/2010
a). I have never had the regular coffee there. well, once i had a sip of my friends coffee and didn't feel the urge to spit it back out, so i guess it wasn't THAT bad.
b). I find their soy cappuccino splendid! the best I've had in the hood. besides one place. Many coffee joints don't get the foam right with soy milk. so i'm extra appreciative when they do. When i want a real cap i wind up there. not that there's much of a choice.
c). they only have one vegan treat, the rice krispies treat. at 8am or anytime before noon i just don't WANT a rice krispies treat that's been smothered in peanut butter and chocolate. they make oatmeal, but that's not really anything to take on the go. i've requested more vegan baked goods and they said that "it's hard to get anything new on the menu there. like, impossible, they've tried." so that sucks.
d). the atmosphere is in major need of an uplift. major. it took me 1.5 yrs to even STEP FOOT into that joint because of the decor. I said to my friends that it seemed like the most depressing place to sit in all of Carroll Gardens. Harsh lights, bad seating, melancholy!!
e). on sunday nights they *might* offer you free pastries!! I've taken them to work for people, as they'd just throw them out otherwise...and though i can't say if they're good or not cause i'm vegan. I can say that my coworkers appreciate monday morning breakfast!
EDIT: 3.4.11
they have acquired more vegan bites! a vegan tofu scramble, a dark chocolate that is vegan...possibly something else I cannot remember. -
Review from jenna h.
Brooklyn, NY
10/6/2008
this place blows. makes me feel like i'm in a really REALLY crappy college town. the staff is nice enough but the place is dingy. and WHAT is with those TOKYO JOE cups?? come ON people. show some PRIDE. the coffee is not very good, the snacks are below par and generic (at best). the vibe is lame. a general bummer of a place.
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Review from Nikolas K.
Brooklyn, NY
6/26/2009
Great vibe, free wi fi. Food, not so hot.
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Review from saloni s.
Brooklyn, NY
9/20/2008
Nobody should give the fall cafe a 5 star rating. and I'm sitting in it as I write this,looking around & re-confirming my impression of it. I have not seen a less impressive display of sugary treats at a cafe. EVER. And I think it's pretty difficult to make a red velvet cupcake (or banana bread for that matter) look so ugly. I agree with the reviewer who said this place is dirty. yes, yes it is and I'm sorry to say, so is the staff. Well i don't know if they're actually dirty but they seem disinterested and thoroughly detached, and not in the cool, existential way (that some people might find cool).I just ordered a cappucino, it came w/o a sleeve and No, sleeves aren't available at the sugar/milk counter.That said, the 3 stars are for 1- okayish coffee (i actually almost like my cappucino even though, well, it looks ugly, & sort of...dirty), 2-good art work on the walls, and 3-free wifi, which allows me to write this :) Also I don't want to be mean. If you happen to walk by on this stretch of smith st, stop by. But definitely not worth a special trip. Instead, go to the Tea Lounge a block up on Court. Their house blend is really, really good.
