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Paddy's Coffee House

4.5 star rating
based on 45 reviews

Category: Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

3900 Smith St
(between Vallejo St & Watkins St)
Union City, CA 94587
(510) 324-8572
  • Hours:
    Mon-Sat 5:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
    Sun 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
  • Price Range: $
  • Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
  • Parking: Street
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: Yes
  • Wi-Fi: Free
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"Really great spot for drinks and studying or working.  It's a good size, nice atmosphere, plenty of seats with outlets, not too noisy.  Free…" read more »

45 Reviews for Paddy's Coffee House

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Photo of Mary T.

Elite '08

59

445

Mary T.

Sunnyvale, CA

5 star rating
04/17/2008

Paddy brought us our coffee, showed us where the sweeteners and cream were, and then asked us how we found out about this place. I proudly replied, "yelp." His response: "Oh, the people lie on there..."

hehe. So cute. Love the place, love the location, and loved his "got paddy's?" shirt. I don't think I'll be going back to Borders when Cal and I meet up to study in Union City anymore.

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Photo of Jen A.

 

18

21

Jen A.

Daly City, CA

5 star rating
04/28/2008

The hell with starbuck's.  Paddy's coffee house is awesome.  The drinks are way better unlike that syrup in a cup shit that starbucks serves.  Great atmosphere to lounge and kick it or study (what i usually do over there).  Fast and friendly service.  Seriously, we need to support our mom and pop coffee shops.

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24

22

mero cocinero k.

Newark, CA

5 star rating
04/22/2008

Now it's time to talk smack! Yes, I said it. Smack!. Not the sound of a kiss, the sound professional wrestlers make when they attempt to hurt someone.

Coffeeshop owners...I have bone to pick. Coffeeshops have lost their soul. There's a place where you can go to, to get it back.

Yes, good people!  There's a new shrine in town. It's Paddy's. It's the place where all independent coffeeshop owners should go to, to learn how to be a community-oriented, conscious coffeeshop owner. Folks can talk about being conscious because they have free trade coffee or the fanicest recycled cups, but how do they treat people when they walk in the door? how do they eminante their energy into the  whole space?

Paddy's ain't only about peace and love. Let me be clear --Paddy's is complex, it's not simple. So if you are an uptight jerk of a customer, go to a corporate coffeehouse. If you are looking for a place to be Punk, Poet, Political - whatever mask you are trying to put out into the world, go somewhere else to put on airs.

Paddy's is about folks being folks. Artists writing, creating. Students studying. We may not all get along, but at Paddy's, we can be who we want to be, without judgement.

This isn't the Punk Rock coffeehouse. Or the Christian coffeehouse. Or the artsy, bourgeois coffeehouse. This is the house that people come to reset, rethink, rebuild. For all my geeken brothers and sisters, It's the only manifestation of an Elven house we have on Earth.

Before you journey, before you rally, before you go to fight against the system that has oppressed you, go to Paddy's.

It will remind you of being human in all it's wonderful conscious complexity. It's the place where you can just be.

QuE ViVA PADDY'S!!!

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16

309

Chris C.

Union City, CA

4 star rating
04/01/2008

The fiance and I had the opportunity to visit Paddy's Coffee House twice this month while doing some shopping at the Union City Farmer's Market.

Paddy's is a nice change from Starbucks and the Pete's of the world, this place has a bit of character to it.  It's a small little independent coffee house and has a vibe that reminds that this place if near Cal or UCSC would fit in perfectly that offers free WiFi.  This place does support a lot of local artist and musicans and has a pretty decent schedule of stuff happening any given day whether it be an art exhitbit or the local musician playing.  The only negative I have to say is that there is no stage so usually they bunch up in the corner which takes away chairs and tables from an already small location.

The place is fairly clean though on a busy Saturday seating can be tough.  The outdoor seating is a bit limited set up as tables of two.  Everything is written on big chalk board which is both a blessing and a curse.  It's nice because it allows them to change things easy but the negative is that it's hard to read sometimes.  Pricing here is reasonable.  You're looking between $3 - $5 for coffee and teas depending upon what you order.  They do offer things like breakfast sandwiches, regular sandwiches, pastries, slices of cake, cookies, and all the regular cafe/coffee shop things you would expect.  Most items here are around $1.50 (cookies, muffins, etc) - $6 (sandwiches & salads).

The two times the fiance and I were here, the experience was good.  The first time I got a Vanilla Chai and the Fiance got Mocha and both turned out well.  My Chai was fresh made and had plenty of spices and warmed you up the right way.  Another bonus was that even though Paddy's doesn't have a stage, in the corner I want to say a New Orleans Style Pick-Up Band played some music.  It was stuff like "When The Saint's Go Marching In" and other Dixie Land style music.  Very upbeat and fun and just added to the atmosphere.

The second time we came in, I got a Lemon Green Tea and the Fiance got an Americano and we split an Egg & Cheese Bagel.  I give Paddy's credit for actually brewing the tea for you instead of giving you hot water and a tea bag.  The tea was excellent and this is the way tea should be served.  The finance liked here Americano.  It took a while to get our sandwich, but one of the items I noticed was the woman who was making the egg part cracking some eggs and mixing it.  The sandwich turned out good.  It was a decent size and there was plenty of egg and cheese.  Better than something you would get at Noah's.

Overall, Paddy's is a good coffee house.  The fiance and I will probably be stopping here more often after we do our shopping at the Farmer's Market.  Overall, solid 4 star rating and worth a stop if you're looking for coffee and in the area.

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Elite '08

158

217

Vanessa R.

Castro Valley, CA

5 star rating
03/20/2008

I love Paddy and I barely even know him...yet.  This has easily become one of my favorite places to hangout at for many different reasons.

1.) Paddy.  He's kind, cool, and tries to get to know all of his customers.  From day one, I've always been greeted with a smile and friendly conversation.  When I come here and he's not working, it makes me cry a little on the inside.

2.) He supports local artists.  Every now and then there will be photographs and artwork hanging along the walls, or a live band playing.  Check the calendar on the wall to see what the next in-store event will be.  I'm currently working on a zine and once I'm finished, I'll be sure to ask if I could pass out a few copies.  

3.)  There is such a strong sense of community.  Whether you're studying, hanging out, getting your coffee fix, or playing a game of scrabble (for the record: nobody can beat me) , you are welcomed the moment you step foot inside this cafe.  It's just a cool place to be.  Great lighting, lots of tables, neat decorations, and friendly people.  The smoothies are my favorite.  I have yet to try the food, but I know he has a sandwich called 'the gobbler' and I'll have to try it one day since that is kind of an inside joke between me and a few friends.  

I'm actually shocked that there have been many less than 5 star reviews.  Few places like this exist and I'm lucky to have found such a place, and those that have been here should feel lucky as well.  I'll gladly make the 20 minute commute to meet up with a friend or to work on my zine.   There's free wi-fi as well, but unfortunately I'm too embarassed to bring my huge Toshiba laptop while everybody else is smoothly typing away at their macbooks.  But if I did decide to bring my giant/old computer, I know that nobody would judge me.

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Photo of Gina N.

 

33

103

Gina N.

San Leandro, CA

3 star rating
03/11/2008

Mexican Hot Chocolate: 3.5 stars (tasty and sweet, but not tooooo sweet. good price as well, $2.25 for a small, although I wish it was more hot.)

Gobbler Sandwich: 2 stars (turkey on grilled rosemary focaccia bread, with spinach, onions, and bellpeppers for $5.25, with a side of chips. Although it sounds yummy, i was actually quite disappointed as it was too salty for my palate. Much so, that despite my hunger, i was only able to finish half the sandwich)

Customer Service: 3.5 stars (The few people that were in the shop seemed like regulars, and paddy the owner would come and chat with them. I, on the other hand, was new to the place, and he didn't acknowledge my existence. The women that worked at the counter was helpful though, and actually even packed up half the other sandwich for me - i was too nice to tell her i didn't want it- in a paperbag when i left.)

Free Wifi: 2 stars (although i like the fact that they provide free wifi, it had a sucky connection while i was there, which was irritating bc that was one of the reasons I choose to come here, and i actually had to leave after about 15-20 minutes because I had to get work done, and the connection wasn't up to par).

Bathroom: 3 stars (Although this is not the restaurant's fault, the bathroom is actually located in the back outside of the center, and you have to get a key in order to use it. Very clean, except it sucks having to go so far away to get to a bathroom, especially when you don't want to leave your labtop unattended.)

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72

joanne h.

San Leandro, CA

4 star rating
03/16/2008

Paddy's such a sweet sweet little man.  his heart is made of gold.  
other than that.. great place to chill

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4

21

Claire C.

Berkeley, CA

4 star rating
02/23/2008

It's cute and I like that they have live bands sometimes. The drinks and food here is mediocre to me, but the free WIFI and great service make up for it.

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3

27

anthony m.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
03/31/2008

i love paddy, hes a great guy. im not much of a coffee drinker but from what i hear his is great. but other than the coffee his sandwiches are greats expecially the grilled mushroom sandwich. and the smoothies flavors interesting and delicious, even though paddy isnt a fan of cold drinks.

paddy also holds a bunch of local jazz and hip hop artists every first friday of the month. he also holds an open mic every once which i enjoy attending. the place always has art and photographs made by local artists and schools. during finals for collges Paddy's is open 24 hours for students to study. did i mention theres wifi in there too? also a small library with some donated books, chess and why i always go to paddy's. SCRABBLE

Paddy's is great place for getting your cup of joe, a snack, studying, and is  great place as a creative outlet. Paddy is a great guy, he does a lot for the community. i support this place 100%

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0

18

Mehh P.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
02/02/2008

Finally a coffee shop other than the usual chain at every corner! Paddy's is set in an "old town"  type of atmosphere just on the outskirts of Union Landing. I've been coming here for years. Great place to study, to hang out, and to people watch.  Paddy himself has made me various beverages and he always has a smile and something friendly to say. I've read and heard there are some live shows on Fridays and Saturdays, but I yet still have to experience that. Stop on by!

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4

51

Albert d.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
02/12/2008

I'm a sucker for coffee shops.  This is down the street from me and is not a chain.  Good coffee and great customer service every single time.  The decor is very hip with ton's of colors.  Paddy the owner is very generous and you can usually spot him on Saturday mornings at the farmers market picking up fresh ingredients.  Free WIFI is also available.  Pretty much a few days out of the week there is a community event happening ie., live band, talent show, bible study and many other events.

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Photo of Michael H.

 

11

201

Michael H.

Hayward, CA

3 star rating
01/25/2008

I've passed by the store front a couple of times yet never went in.  From the outside it looks quaint (small) and too typical.  Located on the side streets of the nearby Union Landing establishment/cineplex area, this coffee shop is surrounded by a handful of businesses.  After passing by the shop another time, I finally decided to give it a go.

From the outside, the store has good signage and looks welcoming.  Entering the store, I was amazed to find that it is much bigger than I expected.  There is ample seating and tables for about 40 people.  The shop has a contemporary feel to it.  Local art hangs on the wall and it is well lit from the side windows and track lights above.  A nice touch is a little shelf that separates part of the seating area.

The workers and the owner, Paddy, are very nice and prompt.  I've never felt uncomfortable.  It doesn't really feel like they're workers, but friends.  The menu is nice and there several items that I've never heard of before.  I've had their "Gobbler" sandwich.  It was tasty, kinda pricey, but really satisfying.  I've also had a good selection of their coffees and drinks.  I can say that it has never let me down.

The Wi-Fi connection is great.  I've never had a problem with it.  I spend hours here without a problem.  As long as you sit near a wall, you can access an electrical outlet easily.  There is an electrical outlet for every table near a wall (some with more that two outlets).  The place is never fully packed, unless there is a group meeting.  Typically there are 3-5 people on their laptops or books.  The parking in the back is alright.  About ten or so spots.  A great place for its comfortable atmosphere.

___

Update 3/31/08

I'm taking away 1 star.  I've been coming here for quite awhile, but they've changed it up a bit.  They have these wireframe stands that display local student art.  It's kinda bothersome and it makes the place feel cluttered.  I prefer the art to hang on the wall so I don't have to walk around them and I can look at the menu from my seat.

They also added several cushioned chairs and couches.  These take away the tables that are near electrical outlets.  So now every time I go, these tables are always taken, leaving me waiting for a person to leave even though the place isn't full.

While these changes may be beneficial to some, they don't improve my experience as a wifi user.

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0

29

Where Is Barstow ..

Fremont, CA

5 star rating
03/02/2008

Truly wonderful coffee house. Customer service is exceptional. Drink selection and quality is nice. Sandwiches are available and grilled fresh, served with chips.

A nice change from Starbucks....

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4

42

Rosie T.

Fremont, CA

4 star rating
01/28/2008

I haven't been there in a while, but my friends and I used to meet there every Wednesday night.  We called our Tea Time at Paddy's.  Since we all get busy with work and family, we tried to set up a day in the week where we all could get togther.  We chose this place because of it being in the middle and because it's more reminiscent of a hometown coffee shop, rather than the crowded chains.  

I normally would drink tea, any kind, and then always had to get the grilled cheese sandwich. You wouldn't think anyone would make a big deal over grilled cheese...but they're awesome!

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1

15

PNotHere E.

Honolulu, HI

5 star rating
01/19/2008

Love this coffee house versus all the other chain coffee places.  The place is very home-town where I see plenty of people all the time adorning the tables.  Plenty of study sessions, art, music and just people enjoying a cup of coffee.  Whatever you have done at the chain places... you can do here and feel at home.  I'm there at least once a week.  Regular coffee, all the "flavored" stuff and then some.....gotta check this place out if you have not.  Worth it.  I have not eaten here however there is food available on the board.

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3

21

Lainy P.

Union City, CA

4 star rating
11/11/2007

I've been to this place a couple of times. The drinks are mediocre, but the food there is great! The service is really nice and the place has a lot of room. They host a lot of events there, which is cool. Paddy also opens for 24 hours (i think?) during the months of May- June for college students who need a place to study for finals!!

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Photo of Ryan T.

Elite '08

65

317

Ryan T.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
11/06/2007

Very polite service. My first visit, last Sunday, the coffee house was closing early for a private event, so they were sure to mention this to everyone walking up to the counter. The big miss was the vanilla frappe; while the staff were very nice about adding an espresso shot per my request, the drink seemed over-iced and consequently, lacking in flavor.

Pleasant digs, and lots of space to work. Perhaps I'll have to come around more often with iBook on hand for homework at this place, especially with the free Wifi.

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5

7

Noel A.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
03/12/2008

love Paddys. also love Paddy the man. this place is down the street from the generic McShoping center that is Union Landing and next to Bronco BIllys pizza palace.  the place is clean and always has excellent sevice. personal favorites are the Mexican Spice hot chocolate and the Green Tea Mango freeze drink. Paddys also supports the local arts.  the space is shared by local photographers and painters who display their art on the wall as well as musicians and spoken word performers who find a corner to do their thing. stop by and support. together we can defeat starbucks!

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Elite '08

21

83

James N.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
10/07/2007

For those who on a pilgrimage to find great and unique Coffee shops. It's hard to find a small coffee shops these day with the massive amounts of Starbucks and big chain coffee shops. Hidden in the where Union City's downtown used to be located. They offer high quality coffee, brewed just right. The coffee here is good enough to drink black. They also offer a good selections of muffins and bagels.

The Coffee House also offers free WiFi Access if you want to surf the internet or get your work done here. I also heard that there is sometimes have such events like spoken word which I have yet to witness myself.

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25

86

Emma B.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
08/14/2007

Been meaning to pay Paddy's a visit since Yelpers have raved about it.  I finally got a chance today.  My family and I were on our way to Great America so I just ordered to go.  My husband was in the mood for something cold, so I got the cookies and creme frappe for him.  I wanted a hot coffee drink but couldn't really decide, so Jayda (sp?), Paddy's super nice barista, suggested a caramel latte.  Sooo good - loved the fact that it wasn't too sweet and that I could still taste the coffee (which was excellent!).  Also had an everything bagel with cream cheese., which Paddy lovingly prepared for me.  :)  Though it was my first visit, I felt welcome; Paddy gave me a big smile and said hello.

The minus star is for when I get a chance to actually "drink in."  I look forward to giving it all five stars then.

===

UPDATE (Wed. 8/22/07)
Finally got the chance to "drink in" when I (and my infant daughter) met a friend (and her infant son) for a little tete-a-tete.  I love that it's so spacious in there.  I didn't feel claustrophobic (like I usually do in most Starbucks, esp when there's a ton of customers) nor did I feel compelled to feel apologetic for dragging my SUV...er... stroller in there.  :)  Paddy made our drinks and prepped our bagels and brought it all out to us.  What service!  *****Five stars!*****

Now I just wish that Paddy's was located closer to where I live - on the east end of UC.

P.S., I got the Mexican Spice and it was soooo good!  :)

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Elite '08

35

152

Juliana T.

Fremont, CA

3 star rating
09/23/2007

If it hadn't been for Yelp, I wouldn't have found this place.  It's in the old UC "downtown" area not far from 880.  Though my usual stops are Peet's and Starbucks, I'm always looking for that quirky, warm 'mom/pop' coffee shop where you can spend a leisurely weekend morning.  At first sight, it's not bad.  It's spacious and the wall colors are warm.  The iced latte that I'm having is pretty good and so is my bagel breakfast sandwich (piping hot when it arrived at my table).  The furniture is contemporary and from the looks of the patio furniture lingering in the corners, I'm guessing they spread to the outdoors on sunnier days (cloudy and cold today).  Plus, they have free WiFi.

My only pickle with this place is character.  With the potential to have it, it lacks its own unique personality that would make this a fantastic coffee house.  A nice sound system with soothing or upbeat music would be great (it's dead silent right now).  Personally, I like a little jazz on a Saturday/Sunday morning.  Eases me into my day.  More eclect music for later in the day.  Silence is too draining.  A few more couches or cozy chairs would turn this place into a comfy place to hang out.  The tri-city area needs more places like this to compete with cool areas like Palo Alto or Berkeley.  

I'd come here again but I hope they bring more character to the place.

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15

Jenny E.

Escondido, CA

5 star rating
11/14/2007

This is one of my all time places to set up the iBook to study for classes and sip on some fantastic tea. If Paddy is there he is always willing to give you suggestions on what to eat or drink that day. The staff is always super polite and quick on their feet. Most of all you have to love the free wifi!

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1

19

Catrina A.

Hayward, CA

5 star rating
11/08/2007

My favorite coffee house and study spot! . They have a variety of drinks, sandwiches and pastries. My favorite drink right now is the Mango Chai. The Green Tea Mango Frappe(? not sure what its called) is yummy too. I also like their tree hugger sandwich. All of the staff are super friendly, and they have free wi-fi.

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9

97

Lulu A.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
07/21/2007

Great service, clean place and just a great atmosphere all around. I initially visited this coffee shop because I didn't have DSL at home. But now I go there when I know I really need to concentrate for work and Paddy's is a place where I can do just that! The staff are hospitable and although the coffee is a bit too strong for me (yes, I drink the weak Starbucks stuff!) I bet it's perfect for the strong coffee lovers. My only recommendation is that they get more sugar free syrups. But I don't hold it against them ;) Definitely a hidden coffee gem in the East Bay.

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10

41

Zain K.

Oakland, CA

4 star rating
07/07/2007

What this place really has going for it more than anything else is service, and on that merit alone it probably deserves a full five stars.  I walked in on a busy Saturday afternoon, and the first thing Paddy did (without my asking him to do so) was deftly rearrange some of his customers' seating arrangements so that I'd have a place to sit.  At first I was uncomfortable inconveniencing others this way, but Paddy had such a genial way with his clientele (most of whom he knew by name) that I didn't concern myself with it for long.  Paddy also insisted on fixing my coffee and bringing it out to me himself, and even dipped into a secret stash of Equal for me when I mentioned I didn't care for Sweet-n-Low (people actually still use the pink stuff??).

Beyond service, Paddy's also has a spacious, comfortable interior and free WiFi going for it.  However, I found myself spending much of my time there fantasizing about how this place, with a few small changes, could be perfect: First, the coffee (half-caf Americano) wasn't the best I'd had, being a little bitter.  Second, the food menu was limited to a basic selection of sandwiches and pastries, and I couldn't find anything there that really tempted me (and I was hungry).  Finally, sound seemed to reverberate excessively in there, and every little noise (from the barista cleaning out the espresso wand to the passing-by traffic to the ring of a cell phone) was more distracting than it needed to me.

All things considered, a proprietor like Paddy is exactly the kind of guy I want to support with my business, and on this justification alone I'll be back...

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5

6

P M.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
10/17/2007

I remember when this place was just an empty store front.  I was thinking to my self, "hmmm this would be a great coffee shop on the corner."  Little did I know, Paddy was on his way, and what a great coffee shop it is.  This place has a lot of potential and is still developing.  I love how he gets the community involved through art and culture.  Evan on a sunset evening, his corner shop inspires a great photo op.  My favorite drink here is the Original or Spice Chai Latte.  The flavor is tremendously terrific on the taste bud.  I recently bought one of their coffee beans Sumatra Beans, very good smell and the flavor is delicious.  A bit pricey but well worth the purchase.  My only recommendation for this place is to add some sofas, that would be cool and adds more character. By the way they have live music and art shows too.  Just check their calender when you visit.

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29

pennington n.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
07/04/2007

I can't rave enough about Paddy and his staff. Paddy's is one of the few truly great things about Union City right now. I don't even like coffee but they fix it so I can choke it down and then drive safely to work even when I'm sleep-deprived. It's the place where I actually feel a sense of community. Thanks, Paddy! Keep up the good work!

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99

Grace K.

Palo Alto, CA

5 star rating
07/26/2007

Paddy is such a lovely man with an equally lovely little coffee shop.

Since I work across the street for the Farmer's Market every Saturday (come by the Beckmann's booth and I'll give you a sample!), I always find myself in Union City tired from the long drive over 17 and sweaty even though it hasn't even hit 8AM yet.  Paddy comes across the street to take coffee orders for all us hard-working marketeers and delivers them personally.  In addition, he's not the type to hassle you for payment when you are busy bagging up groceries for 15 customers and always waits until things have slowed down.  His service alone warrants a bajillion stars!

In addition, his coffee is good (although, I must say, not amazing) and the interior of his shop is very cute and clean.  Nice, dark-stained wood on the walls and floors and cheerful mango-colored walls.

Paddy's is the epitome of independent business... quality service and product with a knack for keeping things personal, rather than cold and corporate.

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Jamille G.

San Ramon, CA

4 star rating
10/02/2007

Paddy's is a really nice find in Union City, it's a wonderful alternative to your around-every-corner Starbucks.  The establishment connects it's community and it's people, they are very supportive of the art and local talents, hosting annualy shows and what have you....

On the downside the green tea smoothie could be better

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Henry Y.

Union City, CA

4 star rating
08/04/2007

Their Freezes are either a hit or a miss, but mostly hits! Located in a small street corner, it is a popular location for the locals. A great study area for the months that paddy's is open 24/7. I wish the drinks could be a little stronger, but overall I'm already a regular here and I've only lived in Union City for 2 months.

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Jay V.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
07/17/2007

My sis lives 2 blocks away, so I occasionally hit this place up to do work while I'm on the southside of the bay.  

This is a unique coffee house, in that they have relatively clean bathrooms, free wireless internet, and a solid variety of fraps/coffee/snacks.  Not to mention, parking isn't ridiculous like some other coffee shops I've been too and it's right next door to a few restaurants, so when you're logging long hours on the laptop, you can step out and grab something really good to eat just a minute away!  

I understand that Paddy's is open 24 hours for about 2 weeks during finals time for the CSU East Bay and SJSU students.  On fridays, they have jazz performances.  Pretty slick.

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j g.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
09/12/2007

Paddy is one cool dude and the spiced chai latte is my off duty white russian.be sure to stop in and and look at the local art exhibit he displays as he is constantly giving back to the community.it s in my part of town that has starbucks popping like barnacles on the side of my community ..long live the independant shops!!

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Ella B.

Fremont, CA

5 star rating
06/13/2007

Starbucks schmarbucks, have you got Paddy's??

I can't believe i haven't reviewed Paddy's!  I have been a regular since they opened about 4 years ago?  or was it five?  can't remember...

Paddy is a great manager/owner b/c all of his staff are courteous and make a mean macchiato!   (uhm, and they KNOW what a real macchiato is, NO, there ISN'T carmel syrup in it!)  But seriously, Paddy remembers you, not only that, he definitely creates a place where kids can work and learn good work ethics.  

Great place to study, aside from the sound issue (due to the bare floors and openness of the cafe, sound bounces and gets a little noisy).  It didn't used to be crowded, but now it's getting a little crowded even on week nights - but it makes sense, great establishment and i'm glad that an independent business can thrive in Union City.  

Fantastic place to take a break if you are going to the farmers market across the street on sundays.

Get on his mailing list, you'll receive notification of events from movie nights, open mic and art shows.  
One of my FAVORITE coffee houses.  Thank you Paddy!

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Lilly O.

Hayward, CA

4 star rating
06/18/2007

This is a great little coffee shop in a cute part of town I had never discovered. The service was really friendly and they bring your drink to your table. The atmosphere is really laid back and I like the art around the place.

Good for studying: No.
This was my first stop on my journey to find a good place to study and I had high hopes. Unfortunately, the chairs were way too uncomfortable to stay in for too long. Sorry Paddy, your coffee and service are good enough for me to come back, but my ass is hurting too much for me to study there again.

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David N.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
08/09/2007

"got Paddy's?"

Whenever I'm home from school this is one place I always need to visit. Paddy's is one of the last independent destinations in this small town, and for that it deserves all the stars this has to offer. With delicious coffee, a spacious atmosphere (it can get a little loud because of the slight echo), and a down-to-earth owner from the Motherland, what's not to like?

The menu is pretty extensive, as well. Plenty of sandwiches, bagels, fraps, and fruity concoctions to decide from. If you're lucky, Paddy will make you a custom drink if you're a little indecisive that day. One of my friends asked him to make her favorite Italian desert, and now it's on the menu.

Long live the true coffee shop.

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c. w.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
06/10/2007

One of the best independent coffee shops ever. Paddy makes you feel like he helped to raise you. He remembers everyone that's been in there more than 3 times and makes sure that you feel special. There's free internet. He hosts some progressive art exhibits and makes sure that the local farmer's market vendors get their coffee on cold saturday mornings. That's a great guy and coffee shop. I appreciate the cold and hot drinks. But love the atmosphere the most. I hope everyone meets him one day.

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Casey and Carla C.

Union City, CA

5 star rating
02/15/2007

Carla's Take:

Good brewed coffee. Paddy is a sweetheart too!

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Anthony D.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
12/03/2006

Prompt service, great coffee, and a nice atmosphere to relax and catch up with friends.  The employees bringing you your coffee is a really nice touch.  Definitely a welcome change of pace from Starbucks.

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hello k.

Hayward, CA

5 star rating
11/03/2006

Paddy rocks! I love this place and consider it a second home. It's always clean, the folks are friendly, and the coffee is fantastic. I also love the community events that go on there and the artwork on display. It's a great community coffee shop and a great departure from Starbucks!

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case l.

Sunnyvale, CA

4 star rating
06/18/2007

everything the others said is right:  there's a lot of involvement with the Union City community, art exhibits.   staff is courteous and space is pleasant.

Smoothies are thick and substantial tasting and the grilled sandwiches  are prepared and presented nicely.

Until last week (6/15/07) they were open 24 hours a day for the students studying for finals.

The free wireless came in handy when my comcast connection was down 4 days out of 5.

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