Two enterprising young women are owners of this gem of a popular West Bench neighborhood gathering spot that they created in what was an old dump of a 1950's era strip mall space and funded in part with crowd sourcing. Being curious since they opened this in Fall'ish 2024 and finding myself in the neighborhood, this was a destination stop for my husband and me when we went in about 11:30 on a weekday for coffee and a nosh. Pride of ownership shines in the clean and funky feeling interior and it is clearly popular because it was full, almost every seat, of people that seemed from the neighborhood, including a number of parents with young children. They advertise this as coffee and market, but I honestly didn't notice the market part, in that things for sale didn't jump out at me. That may have been because I was just trying to navigate to a seat in and out in the crowded space. THE MO: Coffee and the limited menu for food is ordered at the counter, carry to your seat and bus your own when finished. Although we were the only people at the counter and there were two people in the kitchen, it took quite some time for someone to come to take the order, although once someone finally saw us, they were pleasant, if not welcoming, in taking the coffee order and then again when my hubby went back to order pastries to go with it. MENU: Coffee, other beverages and a very small option of eats is listed behind the counter and on a paper menu there. Options included soup of the day and Gaston's bakery pastries. There were some breakfast sandwiches by local provider Poppyseed Bakery in the fridge section, we weren't told about them but seeing them when passing by the fridge on a trip to the loo, asked if they could be heated and were told they could be. We chose a couple of pastries ($5.50 each) and were reminded why we seldom buy Gaston's products for being too buttery and one note. The cortado ($4) were good. I noticed a woman at the table across from us who was sipping a beverage and eating what looked like a sandwich she had carried in. I don't know if that is part of allowable stuff or not. The pottery used for all of their coffee service, ours and the mugs at other tables, is great. AMBIANCE: They did an admirable job here of making this light and bright and just funky enough with pride of ownership and loving care in maintenance sparkling through. Seating includes a few level in, not step up, booths along one wall, a sofa and chairs near the front and many standard height tables and chairs (maybe too many when all full as getting to seat is tough) and a play area for kids in the corner. It had far less comfortable 'breathing room' space than I anticipated from photos. But I didn't take interior photos to post because I think it is rude to do that when lots of people are going to be in them who maybe don't want to be. ;-) LOO: There are two and both are uni and sparkling clean with great murals on the wall and good plumbing fixtures. My husband even pointed out the "cool" sink. Both are ADA compliant so kudos to them for that. (Yes, it is law and code but you'd be astounded by how many ignore both.) ACCESSIBILITY: One ADA parking spot right outside the door. (There are too few spots for the parking lot but that is not the coffee shop owners' failure. That is the lot owner's issue.) Level in the door. All on one floor. The tables would probably work for a wheelchair user to roll under. But it would be near impossible, based on my experience yesterday (I have had multiple sclerosis since age 20 and sometimes use a wheelchair) for a wheelchair user to get between tables and chairs for a clear path of travel to get to seating or the loo. read more

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Fantastic coffee shop! It's buzzing on the weekends so seating can be hard to find during peak hours. The service is quick and friendly! I loved the vibes of the place, too. I picked up a croissant and it was yummy. Definitely recommend checking this place out! read more

I was over in this area today and needed a caffeinated beverage so it was only common sense to stop into Common Grounds. I haven't seen this area since they started gentrifying this strip. I have heard fabulous things about it so now I finally get to see it in person. I'm amazed at how beautiful this strip is now. It's new, clean and inviting. It was about 1 when I stopped in and boy this place was buzzin! People chillin outside and people enjoying themselves inside. This joint is colorful and inviting. I was instantly greeted by the barista behind the counter. I got a simple iced americano with sugar free vanilla with room for cream. While my drink was being prepared, I just hung out and appreciated the vibe. I love the fresh flowers everywhere, inside and out. Fresh flowers give such a comforting vibe, like home. I appreciate the huge American flag on the wall! There is nothing prettier than seeing those stars and stripes. There's goodies and all sorts of things to look at, especially the baked goods on display. The goodies looked so good but i just opted for the drink. My americano was perfect! It wasn't watered down from too much ice. I got to put my own cream in it which was nice! The condiment bar was nicely stacked with your essentials. They didn't have the blue sugar which is fine, I keep some in my car. It was the perfect iced coffee! I'm happy I got to stop into this joint today. Clearly I have been missing out cause there was hella people here chillin. I'm going to have to make my way in this direction more often. It was great stopping in, supporting a local coffee joint and getting a dope iced coffee. I look forward to coming back in for another one. read more

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I love finding unexpected gems tucked in the middle of neighborhoods and parks. Common grounds coffee was hopping on a Tuesday morning! Inside the interior is very light, bright with just a touch of funky. I had the Wiseman and a chocolate croissant. The coffee was perfection- I highly recommend staying on location so you can sip out of a gorgeous piece of pottery. The chocolate croissant was soft and flaky, golden! This is a perfect spot to meet up with a friend for a chat, but you might need to wait for a spot to come open. Trust me it's worth the wait! read more

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I was greeted as I entered, and was surprised at how busy it was! It's a bit out of the way for me, but I had heard a lot about it, so wanted to give it a try. I was delighted with the space...lots of tables and chairs, felt open and inviting, and had some cute products available for purchase, plus some handmade local eats in their "market" fridge for a quick snack or lunch. I don't remember the actual name of the drink I ordered, but it was a honey matcha cold drink that was very refreshing with a mild sweetness that was perfect for a hot day! If you haven't been there yet, I think it's worth your time. ;) read more

Wonderful staff!! Fabulous coffee and great pastries! I even tried the breakfast sandwiches and they were yummy too!

If you have not tried this WONDERFUL coffee shop and meeting place yet, GO THERE! Always busy with neighborhood peeps and best of everything coffee. Wonderful atmosphere, baristas are amazing and the owners are THE BEST! Nice inside area, outside tables in front AND a beautiful patio out back. VERY WELCOMING and drinks are amazing. Want a libation? They have that too! Check them out on Instagram - there's ALWAYS something going on that you will want to be a part of! read more

Great place to sit relax, enjoy a drink of coffee, tea, cider, beer, sandwich or baked goods. Nice atmosphere for a meet or quick stop.

What a cool gem in Boise! Placed in an inconspicuous location, this little coffee shop was bustling with activity. We arrived for a quick pit stop before a meeting, the line was just about to the door It took about 7 minutes to get to actually order but the coffee came out within minutes. The coffee was delicious and strong! There was tons of seating and a friendly atmosphere plus a WiFi password. Definitely recommend this place!! read more

A great addition to the Winstead Park neighborhood. The vibes are chill, the people are friendly, and the coffee hits the spot. Check out their seasonal drink menu for some delightful but unexpected flavors. Love that they stay open late Thurs-Sat so I can stop in for a local beer or cider after work. read more

I love this place. I wish it were closer to home. Plenty of parking: check! Friendly employees: check! Easy to read menu board: check! Delicious drinks: check! Neat art: check! Comfortable seating: check! Chill outdoor area: check! Obligatory PSL: check! Pet friendly: check! Bike parking: check! read more

Common Ground Coffee and Market - The machine where the magic happens. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boise, Idaho

Great local spot!! Yummy good, good coffee and even beer & wine. Cute ambiance and lots of local goodies - can be busy but plenty of parking. read more

Common Ground Coffee and Market - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Boise, Idaho

Cheerful coffee shop squeezed into stripMall. Not all staff charming Good coffee - not inexpensive tho - wide selection of food and snacks Charming young kids corner read more

This is one of my favorite coffee shops in Boise!! They have fun rotating drinks and the matcha is delish/awesome pastries. Owners are lovely. They also have a cute kids corner. read more

Good coffee but ridiculous prices. Ordered a small paper cup of drip coffee for $ 3.00+ , served in a 6 oz cup! Coffee prices have increased significantly in the last few months, but not 50%! read more

Such a cute coffee shop Great variety of coffee and tea Fun gift items Welcoming environment with cozy seating Great service read more

LOVE Common Ground. What a gem of a place, unlike any other I've been in Boise. It feels so community oriented and cozy. The coffee is excellent and the atmosphere is welcoming. read more

Fun neighborhood vibe. Cozy. Great service. Love the options in the market. One of the best coffee experiences in the valley.

Coffee was great, atmosphere super nice. Will definitely go back. Staff is super friendly

Great shop, great atmosphere, and a perfect addition to the community. The neighborhood has needed more gathering spots like this and they V should do really well. read more

This new coffee shop on Ustick is a great addition to our neighborhood. It is warm and inviting...serves excellent coffee and pastry...has a dog friendly patio and a kid's play area inside. They are open at 6:30AM on weekdays for the early risers and have evening hours Thur-Saturday with wine and beer. The pantry is stocked with the essentials (milk, eggs, pizza dough, etc.) and they also offer wine and beer to go. Now that the weather has cooled a bit you see neighbors riding their bikes or walking...so great to have a coffee shop nearby! read more

Went yesterday, had a hot latte and a stout draft. My wife said she hasn't had coffee that good since Italy. Coffee is served in really fun mugs. They also have a small kids play kitchen area. read more

Service is great! Small area for the kiddos to play and socialize too. Laurie and Sarah and their staff make you feel so welcome. Will definitely visit again when we are in town read more

Rustling pages in a gentle breeze, Books and brews blend with effortless ease. A quiet corner, where thoughts take flight, In the warm embrace of soft candlelight. read more

Well, the Owners and the Staff are great. Friendly and sincere. The coffee is good. The Affogato is a delicious treat ! It's been a great addition to the East end of Ustick. Always a few customers up to a packed house. Random events keep it interesting. My wife has been to a couple silent reading evenings there. It's a comfortable place for a date night away from the house too. I even ran into a couple friends wrapping up their work day. The evening hours make it more than a pop in and go for morning coffee. Give them a try. read more

Such yummy drinks and pasties. Beautiful ambience and a great play place for small kiddos so their parents can actually enjoy a moment alone or chatting with a friend read more

Always friendly, comfortable seating / workspace options, great coffee and alternative milk options

Great to have a coffee shop on the West Bench. Convenient location. Excellent service. Good coffee and more!

Decided to stop and give Common Ground Coffee and Market a try, my drink had foam and I asked for no foam, thought the prices were abit steep, and the barrista didn't seem friendly. read more