Back To The Grind

Category:	Cafe
Address:	3575 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501, USA
Phone:	+1 951-784-0800
Site:	back2thegrind.com
Rating:	4.5
Working:	7AM–11PM 7AM–11PM 7AM–11PM 7AM–11PM 7AM–12AM 9AM–12AM 9AM–9PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 15

Nogg Touch

This place was ridiculous,! I honestly couldnt believe how they were treating me. I went in to get hot water for my own tea that I needed to drink. I approach the man at the counter and asked if they can let me buy hot water, and he proceed to be very rude about it. He told me they cant just sell me the hot water, and told me they have there own teas for $2. I proceed to tell him I just want to buy hot water and it was to go. He tells me that theres a one drink min. to sit in, which I told him, I was taking it to go & "preferred" me to get there tea still. What if I was with a group of friends, and some of the people I was with didnt get drinks, are you telling me they cant sit with me? This was extremely ridiculous, I could of just gone to Starbucks and bought hot water or even gotten it for free and even would let me sit in without getting a drink. Very rude, Im never going to go again.

Ruben Reynoso

Do you know? Do you KNOW about this place? This coffee shop that will change your life if you let it? I mean, if you just want to grab a coffee (or a tea, or a smoothie, or a vegan cookie) then sure, this place is great. You know, support your local baristas. This place is the epicenter of local soul in Riverside. Its what a coffee shop should be - a venue for the community. I mean Jurgen Habermas would label this place as perfectly representing his concept of the public sphere - where people come to share ideas. Back to the Grind has weekly music and poetry events which will set your soul aglow. They host art galleries and concerts and meetings and festivals and... come here. Live here. Be a part of this.

Joey Numbers

This is a quirky cafe in the heart of Downtown Riverside. There are lots of things and spots to check out inside like a basement with (currently) pool tables and occasionally art/music shows, a classic outdoor patio in the back, and a balcony overlooking the cafe where you can catch a live music shows or poetry reading usually performed by amateurs going on downstairs. There are some couches inside and free Wifi. The coffee and food are good... okay... accepatble, but you are here more for the location anyway. Oh also there is another outdoor patio in the front where you can watch bar hoppers bounce around on the weekend as the cafe is open till midnight. One more thing, this place is pet friendly.

Gerard Gustilo

Back to the Grind is Riversides alternative coffee house. In business for over a decade, I would study here after school. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about their coffee. I enjoy their cappuccinos and various teas. They offer free wi-fi, have events (open mic nights, art exhibits, etc) all the time, and youre bound to see someone interesting looking when you come in. They probably have the best ceiling any coffee house has, and their bookshelves always have something interesting to pick out. Note: They are a cash only place, so be aware of it. ATM is available for you.

Henry Storer

Reminiscent of the European Coffee House and now that they serve alcohol and old western Saloon. Very unique calm relaxing atmosphere with open doors to everyone. One of the unique pleasures in Downtown Riverside California. It has a wide variety of menu item and leaving a part of the Art Walk downtown Riverside featuring local artists and their varied artistic endeavors. The venue is even available for rent for special occasions and many of their weeknights are themed. See picture live local bands at least one night a week.

A Private User

Hip cool place filled with downtown local regulars and friendly baristas serving quality beverages. Free WiFi, diverse live music shows from many genres. The place is bursting with art. From cultural paintings, to thought-provoking photography, engaging crafts and sculpture pop art, to the ever-changing ambiance of the enticing decor, the mood is set for a casual social experience. This is one of the staples of downtown Riverside, a welcoming place for any lifestyle or age group.

shakiba sadeghi

Cozy, amazing place to sit and relax, have a cup of coffee or some snacks and a great atmosphere to study or if you go in group sit in a couch and play one of those games they have, plenty of books too. The only sad thing is, they are so limited in their pastry and usually they aren’t fresh really. And they don’t accept card. So, don’t forget to have cash with you otherwise the ATM machine charges you a cup of coffee ;) Prices are good.

Carm W

I would describe Back to the Grind as a Rastafarian hippie cafe. The staff is very friendly and laid back. They serve coffee, smoothies, teas, ice cream, soup, sandwiches and salads. The venue also host live music, comedy and even yoga. They also It seemed like a lot of students from UCR were studying or writing their papers here. My only complaint is that this cafe is cash only but I guess that fits with the theme of the restaurant.

Krystal Hasiak

I love to sit here for hours studying. Free wi-fi, good coffee (my favorite is an ice blended Back to the Grind) and good food. Lots of choices whether youre a carnivore, herbivore, or vegan. Fair prices, just make sure you bring cash b/c they dont accept cards anymore (or be prepared to pay a $3.50 fee at the atm). The crew is really nice and theres a super eclectic mix of people who hang out. All feel very welcome.

SaBreena Lovelady

Prices great. Staff VERY friendly and accommodating. Downside is that there is only Daiya vegan cheese versus other types (cashew maybe) and no mushrooms. Husband and I had grilled cheese (add tomatoes), veggie burger, bbq chicken pizza, hummus and pita, watermelon smoothie, berry smoothie, caramel latte, and jalapeño poppers ALL VEGAN. The environment was welcoming and we will DEFINITELY come back soon!

Ashley Flores

I went a month ago to support my friends Band From Victorville , ca . Theyre called The Old west. Well i absolutely loved the place completely. i felt at home with an environment that makes you feel welcomed. The coffee and other drinks were magnificent. Food very tasty indeed. The workers made me feel great, and can strike up a conversation with them anytime. No complaints what so ever.

tori holder

Imagine a 90s movie about a spacious coffeehouse worked by quirky rebellious twentysomethings that show their anti-corporate stance by doing whatever happens in those types of movies. Thats the vibe of back to the grind. Which would be adorable if waiting 10 minutes for a small drip coffee while everyone talks to each other. They do seem to put on a lot of local art and music though.

Andrew Moran

Decent place to meetup and get some coffee. I went there to meet up with a friend and got a Thai Iced Tea and she got a "Tea" sized Iced Mocha. Was cheap and tasted great. This place is great for their entertainment and poetry nights. Only complaint...it was hot as balls when I went...AC wasnt working, but I cant blame them.

B Essick

This is a really nice independent coffeeshop. It has great character and is very inviting feeling. People were all very friendly and kind. It can be pretty busy at times. They have great art and a huge book shelf and lots of space to sit. Outdoor area as well. Drawbacks are that it is CASH ONLY. They do have an ATM though.

A Private User

Ive been going to this coffee shop for years. The baristas are friendly, the coffee is oh-so-good, the atmosphere is incredible, they always have something going on whether it be live bands or art shows... its just a great place to hang out and get a whole new perspective and appreciation for Downtown Riverside.