Coffee, Community and Fun and Games on the West Side
Hey Gen Xers out there, ever have a nostalgic yearning to hang out, 90’s style? In the era before smartphones, when people convened in coffee shops to chat (with each other), play board games, read books, and such? If so, you’re in luck. Snapdragon Coffee & Social, recently opened on Monticello Ave. on the West Side, is a funky two-floor ode to the beginning of coffee shop culture, with a modern menu to accompany their straightforward, delicious selection of coffee and teas.
The first floor has ample table seating and a cozy, eclectic vibe, with vintage-looking bikes and other funky décor. Head upstairs, and you’ll find gallery walls of art, along with a bookshelf and plenty of sofas and additional seating. Which is great, because the Snapdragon Coffee & Social is hosting a bunch of fun, hands-on, throwback group activities. There’s live music events, art shows, a weekly backgammon and chess club, and a monthly book club that are all invited to join. How sweet! Check out https://www.facebook.com/Snapdradonjc/for times and upcoming events.
Back to the food. Morning offerings include bagels served with extra sharp cheddar and guava, or with the traditional lox, cream cheese and capers. Lunchtime and onward, pick from a nice selection of quiches, empanadas, and sandwiches. There’s also a lovely cheese platter, with four craft cheeses served with fruit, nuts and bread. Our favorite, however, is the olive oil dish, which comes with parmesan, olives and bread.
Our thanks to Snapdragon for opening and offering us all a venue and an opportunity to put down our phones and truly connect with our wonderful fellow Jersey City residents. Oh, and to that, don’t worry. Snapdragon has free Wi-Fi. Old habits die hard!
Snapdragon Coffee & Social, 190 Monticello Ave. 201-878-3413