Royal Ground Coffee

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4 months ago

Very friendly staff . I only got a toasted bagel they had several things to choose from. It was a small but comfortable place. I was on my way to a class so I didn't linger. read more

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Eddi-ray C.

143

55

123

13 days ago

Very tasty decaf latte. Lots of older folks enjoying the area with their dogs and coffee/snacks. Great time and the people there were quite nice as well! Grab a book next door and relax! read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Iced latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Anita B.

Elite 17

1

138

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2 months ago

For decades I've enjoyed buying the regular and decaf beans to brew at home. The vibe is very friendly, for people and pups like our Bella. The food and pastries are top-notch, delicious and fresh. I like that they have a spicy chai and a sweet chai because I am more of a spicy person. The bathrooms are convenient to this café and clean. Besides the coffee itself, the service is another highlight. I also enjoy the view, where I can people watch pedestrians on 4th Street. Their new location is close to other coffee, shops, and across from Wells Fargo, but they are definitely worth checking out. It's the closest thing to a small town café, and the conversations I've had here with people who enjoy dogs (where I sit outside with Bella) were a blast. read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Michelle M.

158

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4 months ago

Family-owned, welcoming service, and really good coffee. Such a cozy place to relax while my son is at jiu jitsu practice. Definitely happy to have found this local gem in Marin read more

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Stephanie J.

0

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9 months ago

Enjoyed a yummy latte before heading out to Sonoma County wine tasting...and grabbed a couple bags of whole beans for Christmas gifts, too. Knowledgeable staff helped make our bean selection - the limited holiday blend and the Zachary read more

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Gabriel S.

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2

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1 month ago

I am a lifelong fan of this splendiferous coffee joint. They are so special to me...they know me by name & always give me star treatment whenever I show up. I will forever appreciate their service and excellent quality bagels and top notch coffee..impressed every time. We are lucky to have them! read more

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Heather C.

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2

1

4 months ago

Cheng and Lenny, the owners, have created the epitome of your local, friendly coffee shop. They greet every customer with a smile and make whatever your heart desires. It is the only place in the world where I can have my "bone dry" cappuccino every single time! I LOVE Royal Ground in San Rafael! read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Cheng' World Famous Bone Dry Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Daniel M.

242

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11 months ago

A great Tuna Melt with a great match green tea latte, my first time here , I'll be back , and a plus open on a Monday read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Look at this Tuna Melt wow it's big looks delicious - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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William W.

11

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8 months ago

Still the best espresso drinks with the freshest roast in town. My go to spot for excellent ambience, great friendly service, and delicious coffee and sandwich. read more

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Lisa L.

241

10

0

1 year ago

Royal Ground is the best coffee spot in Marin!!! Hands down! Why? They have the friendliest and best customer environment anywhere! The people that serve you are amazing, and kind, and friendly!!! Whether you get to meet Elizabeth, or Lenny and Chang are there... It feels like coming home! And the coffee is delicious!! You must come experience it! Tell them I sent you! read more

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Justin M.

0

1

0

7 months ago

A wonderful place to sit outside and enjoy a Saturday afternoon, especially with the sidewalk seating. The owner and staff are very friendly and help ensure your time at the cafe is pleasant. I went with my daughter for egg, bacon, and cheese croissants. They were tasty. And she really enjoyed her sugar cookie :-). read more

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Marty Y.

0

8

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8 months ago

Stopped in for a cappuccino and discovered a great tuna avocado toast, and walked out with some really great ground coffee beans. I live far away but would come back anytime I'm back in San Rafael. read more

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Brenda G.

10

130

518

2 years ago

Service was quick and efficient. This to me is a great grab and go coffee shop. Prices are really affordable compared to trendier coffee shops. And the taste of the coffee/ amount of the drink options are phenomenal. So many bakery items and hot items available. It can be overwhelming but I'm sure with whatever you choose it will be tasty! Iced oat vanilla late 5/5 Almond croissant 4/5 Fall leaf cookie 5/5 read more

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Mitch K.

194

1590

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2 years ago

Went to the book store, as their posting indicated coffee. Good idea! We could search for the books we were looking for while sipping coffee. But... the coffee was next door, Royal Ground Coffee 2. OK A very nice coffee shop with lots of unusual brews, or maybe it was ways to mix a variety of things into your brew. Baristas were a bit fussy, which is just fine, as you watch them concoct your order. And what we had were delicious, creamy, well blended coffees. And hot, also. Too bad we could not do our books with coffee, but the coffees were good enough to just selfishly enjoy. read more

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Jessica G.

2

5

0

1 year ago

You have to stop here for morning coffee and beyond! Lenny & Chang took such good care of us every morning on our Mt. Tam hiking trip. They are welcoming and warm. Chang makes foamed milk like meringue! Every sandwich is made fresh and with lots of love. The place is spotless. Total gem! Highly recommend! read more

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Casey O.

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2

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8 months ago

lenny and Chang are the best, best coffee coffee,great vibe. cannot be beat in any way whatsoever. scarlet and Casey we are there minimum twice a day seven days a week Absolutely love read more

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Susan S.

236

461

143

3 years ago

Royal Ground has moved across the street on 4th and is now next to Copperfield's bookstore. The new Royal Ground is bright and modern and sparkling, but retains all of the warmth and hospitality of the old location. Lenny and Chang and barista Elizabeth are all still there greeting their regulars and welcoming new customers. The prices are still better than Starbucks and Peet's and their espresso is the best. Still my favorite latte. While Marin gets ever-more upscale to the feeling of being impersonal (eg. RH--Restoration Hardware--restaurants and The Real Real--inset eye roll emoji), Royal Ground is a rare gem of a neighborhood coffee shop. read more

Royal Ground Coffee - New location next to Copperfield's - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

Royal Ground Coffee - Inside the new location - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Amanda P.

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1

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10 months ago

Good food, friendly owners, and PRISTINE bathrooms = a great choice! Also outside seating was great for our pooch!

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Sydney P.

0

7

0

1 year ago

Great coffee, and great service. Very kind and ensured we enjoyed our coffees prior to leaving. Will be back!

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Crissie L.

12

25

36

2 years ago

Went here this morning and was glad I did. Coffee was so good, it makes me want to swear. My breakfast sammie, ham/egg/cheese on a croissant, was tasty and filling. Last but not least, I grabbed a pumpkin cream cheese bread slice, perfect ending. The sandwich was filling on its own, was only able to eat half, they do not skimp on the ham and egg. read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Delicious caramel latte and pumpkin cream cheese slice. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Keila P.

154

271

526

4 years ago

Stopped here to get coffee after being disappointed at another spot up the block. I was very enthusiastic about how good my mocha turned out. The staff smiled and greeted us and were genuinely happy to help. I will definitely be returning here ! read more

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Patrick P.

0

3

2

2 years ago

My favorite coffee shop in Marin. The owners and the employees are incredibly nice and work very fast. Their coffee tastes exactly the way you want it to. Their royal blend is worth taking home and their food options are perfect for a coffee shop. I try to visit weekly! read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Royal blend ground coffee. Thai iced tea. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Virginia N.

13

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3 years ago

Highly recommend! The owners were so sweet and made some delicious coffee! The coffee house is super cute as well and I would definitely love to come back for more drinks! read more

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Jack D.

0

11

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1 year ago

Fours later 9after my last rave review) and the excellence of service and delicious coffee holds up . Lenny rules !

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Nat F.

0

25

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3 years ago

The new location has seating indoors and outdoors. The veggie sandwich is simple and really delicious. The cheese is or tastes similar to velveeta, which i think works well on the sandwich, but you could swap it for cream cheese if you prefer. Could easily be made vegan if you omit the cheese. read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Veggie sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Nicole B.

0

17

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2 years ago

Love the coffee here and the baked goods as well. It's so great that it has stayed in business all of these years and is so nice to have a more local, non-massive chain option in the area. read more

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David C.

392

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6 years ago

Great service always. Yummy fresh pastries and kids cookies with fun shapes. Yummy sweet smoothies and boba flavors and fresh ground coffee all the time. Such a nIce experience. read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Nice set up - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

Royal Ground Coffee - A wide variety - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

Royal Ground Coffee - Best barista - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

Royal Ground Coffee - Covid clean - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Madelyn P.

91

4

2

3 years ago

This is my favorite coffee shop in the bay. Their coffee is excellent & strong (roasted in house!), and they have saved my life on several occasions when I was struggling through a long shift. The owner is super sweet, it's a true community coffee shop which is a getting harder to find with so many large chains. Support your local coffee shops! read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Ken J.

0

5

0

2 years ago

What a great coffee shop, locally owned. Great coffees, pastries and sandwiches, always has been excellent. The staff is super friendly, fast and efficient. This is always going to be my barista, best coffee house in Marin County. Always above average experience when I go here. Great job guys! read more

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Mike W.

1224

150

159

7 years ago

It's more than just coffee - these super-nice folks serve up a darn good lunch as well. Not a lot of fuss and bother (and nothing by good attitudes) this is a good go-to lunch stop for me. Had a chicken salad sandwich this week, nicely grilled in the panini machine - a little lunch love :) read more

Royal Ground Coffee - Chicken Salad Sandwich - panini grilled and SO delicious - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Margaret T.

0

3

0

3 years ago

It's Elizabeth, who has worked there for years and years, and Lenny, the owner, whose friendly welcomes make me return again and again! As I sit and relax and drink my delicious iced coffee, fixed just as I like it, I am amazed at how many people they welcome by name as they walk in the door. I usually just get a bagel with cream cheese, but I see the delicious looking sandwiches and pastries, others are enjoying. They have an amazing variety. The menu of coffees, teas, frappes, etc. is extensive and they seem to be able to fix them however you want. They roast their own coffee. The other day a couple came in and wanted some kind of special tea fixed some special way. When they got it, they raved and raved about how it was the best they had ever had! It's a "mom and pop" business. (Lenny's wife usually isn't there when I am, but she works there too), a neighborhood place, not a chain. I am so glad it is nearby where I live! read more

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Allie P.

191

483

1379

6 years ago

So far this is the best spot for a perfectly toasted bagel, lox and cream cheese that you can get in SR. The staff is friendly and efficient.the bagel is toasted to a perfect crunch yet still soft on the inside, lox, lemon, capers, onions and tomato complete this perfect brunch treat. Their in house coffee is lovely and their tea selections are awesome! read more

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Danon O.

0

16

0

2 years ago

I was a new customer today. I usually frequent Starbucks but today, it was a little bit farther than I wanted to walk. I came across Royal Ground and with hesitation, I decoded to give it a try in their new location. I ordered a large White Chocolate Mocha. I wen't on my way and while about halfway into my drink, something felt wierd and I decided to open the lid, only to find a little Black Bug swimming in my Mocha..YUK!! YUK YUK!!! I threw the Mocha away in the first garbage can I saw, and was really grossed out!! I thought it wouls be a good idea to call the owner to just let them know what I just experienced, nicely..as I would hate for this grotesque and unfortunate experience to happen to another customer, and give them a heads up, that maybe some ingredients needed a check out!?. When I called the owner, and let her know, she called me a liar and got extremely defensive and outraged. She told me to be quiet and stop talking. Really??? and said there was no way this happened. I told her I did not call to argue, but to just let her know, maybe she should check out the ingredients?? I know sometimes these pesky critters have ways of getting in powders etc. My drink had white choc powder! This lady was very ruud. I had to hang up the phone. Who has time for such ruud customer service, not to speak of a distusting experience!! There are way too many other coffee shops that would love and appreciate my business without such attitude and trouble she caused me. I would ABSOLUTELT NOT RECCOMEND this coffee house to anyone. Just the attitude alone!! Shit happebs and this bug situation could of happened to anyone!! But the aftermath made the situation way worse. Not good! Do yourself a favor and avoid this place. read more

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Cori R.

7

4

0

2 years ago

I'm visiting for a few days and came to Royal Ground Coffee, it was closer to my hotel than walking to my usual coffee chain. The gentleman taking my order was so kind and so funny! He brought a smile to my face and got the day started in a wonderful way. The iced vanilla latte was way better than my usual place. And the asiago bagel was perfectly toasted and delicious! read more

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Chris H.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Royal Ground Coffee is by far the best coffee in town. Great selections. They have moved to a new location. Everything is new, fresh and clean. The owners go out of their way to make sure every customer is satisfied with their order. I buy the Large White Mocha everyday for years and it has been top shelf every time. Coffee along with a breakfast sandwich or just a bagel, I recommend that everyone give this place a try. Please don't let mean people write dirty reviews to discourage you from seeing for yourself and enjoy! read more

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Penny H.

0

31

0

3 years ago

Best decaf vanilla latte and chocolate biscotti I've ever had!! Thin biscotti with solid layer of chocolate on the bottom! Friendly staff. Lovely sidewalk cafe option read more

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Stan R.

0

3

0

3 years ago

Our soy latte was terrific. Served in real glass mugs and sitting outside in the sun. Perfect afternoon coffee break

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Matthew C.

0

8

0

4 years ago

Great selection of food and drinks (especially the smoothies!), as well as quick (and friendly) service and a quiet place to study/work if you need to. read more

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Stephen C.

Elite 23

163

191

58

5 years ago

Loved stopping here on our drive to the woods. Got a proper macchiato, some smoothies, an americano, and an iced chai latte. All were excellent. I'd recommend this place. The young guy serving was clearly new and is working hard! read more

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Phyllis G.

0

1

0

3 years ago

Worst coffee ever. My husband and I just threw away our coffees after a couple of sips.

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More info about Royal Ground Coffee

1208 4th St
San Rafael, CA 94901
Directions
(415) 295-7022
Call Now

Hours

What time does Royal Ground Coffee open?

Royal Ground Coffee opens at 6:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Royal Ground Coffee opens at 7:00 AM on Saturday.Royal Ground Coffee opens at 7:30 AM on Sunday.

What time does Royal Ground Coffee close?

Royal Ground Coffee closes at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Royal Ground Coffee closes at 3:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon-Fri 6:00 AM - 5:00 PMSat 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMSun 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Royal Ground Coffee take credit cards?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Royal Ground Coffee have catering options?

No, Royal Ground Coffee does not have catering options.

Does Royal Ground Coffee serve alcohol?

No, Royal Ground Coffee does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Royal Ground Coffee allow dogs?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee allows dogs.

Does Royal Ground Coffee have TVs?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Royal Ground Coffee have bike parking?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee has bike parking.

Does Royal Ground Coffee have outdoor seating?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee has outdoor seating options.

Does Royal Ground Coffee have parking?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Royal Ground Coffee wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee is wheelchair accessible.

Does Royal Ground Coffee have free WiFi?

Yes, Royal Ground Coffee has free WiFi.

Royal Ground Coffee Reviews in Other Languages

Dutch
1 Review

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Barton's Bagels

3.9(190 reviews)

No frills No thrills…read moreStraight up good bagels at a fraction of the price they could be! Only $3.50 for a toasted sesame bagel with cream cheese! The scene is very '70s hippie like with bad art indiscriminately placed with no sense of aesthetic. A bit of a cleanup is in order and a little more attention to detail could spruce it up. But, there certainly is charm in its current state. Simply a great product at a low price point and fast, friendly service. Get your coffee next-door to avoid the air pot pump offerings here. (normally cold or nasty in those air pump things) This is strictly bagels- no need to push the caffeine despite the revenue loss. Just 30+ years of an honest bagel shop focusing on the BAGEL! A lot of variety for only 20$ a dozen. Grab a bag or two and take them to your workmates or your family. A solid satisfying chewy treat! And it can't be beat......

Unfriendly counter service…read more Undistinguished bagel. Plus, I asked for it to be toasted, they served it almost raw. No pitcher of water available, they begrudgingly gave me a cup of tapwater. Dreary atmosphere. Trading on past reputation, I would guess, and a choice location. Just, no.

Garlic Bagel + Garlic Chive Cream Cheese

Delightful cool rapper (wrapper)

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Sam C.

0

5

0

16 years ago

I love going to this coffee shop! The staff is so friendly. They've made a point to remember me each time I return. It's so nice to go somewhere and the staff greets you by name, and with a smile. My coffee is usually already made before I am done paying, because they also try to remember what returning customers usually order. They make you feel special. The coffee is great and has a much better, richer and deeper coffee flavor then the typical SB coffee shop down the block. I go back for the smiles and customer service, and the great coffee drinks. If you like to be treated like a person and not just a dollar sign....this is the place. Great people! I recommend this coffee house for its great coffee drinks and service! read more

Claudia H.

0

1

0

7 years ago

i freaking love this place so much!! first off, the boba is so good. they have great tapioca pearl drinks with flavors like thai tea, mango, matcha, taro, and even pina colada to name a few of my favorites. i come every week and the service is a 10/10. the owners of the store are so kind and i feel like i know so much about them even though i only come about two times a week. i love you lennie!! 10/10 would recommend read more

Sarah G.

51

10

6 years ago

Absolutely hands down the best croissant I have ever had in my life. I get the small one every morning with my black mango iced tea. This is a family owned business they know my order before I get to the counter. Never giving my money to a corporate coffee shop ever again. read more

Christina N.

0

6

14

6 years ago

The top coffee shop in San Rafael. Great service, friendly. Respectfully for many many years. My favorite place.

Jordan W.

5

17

0

3 years ago

The Coffee is fantastic and the staff are all wonderful people. One of my absolute favorite shops on the street.

vadim m.

305

126

4

13 years ago

Need to make coffee better. This is why I came here and I was disappointed with the quality

tiffany s.

0

5

0

15 years ago

great coffee

Royal Ground Coffee - coffee - Updated September 2026

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