Osakana Tengoku
8253-18 Isohamacho, Oarai, Higashiibaraki District, Ibaraki 311-1301, JapanSeafood restaurant $1 to $10
717 Broadway Ball Square, Somerville, MA 02144, United States
Menu and hours last checked
Let me introduce you to True Grounds, a cozy cafe tucked into the rhythm of Ball Square at 717 Broadway in Somerville, Massachusetts, where locals drift in for caffeine, conversation, and a little comfort between errands or meetings. The first thing that stands out about True Grounds is the relaxed, welcoming vibe, because it feels like the kind of place where time slows just enough to let you enjoy your cup. It’s casual without being careless, warm without trying too hard, and that balance makes it easy to settle in whether you’re stopping by alone or meeting a friend. Coffee is clearly the heartbeat here, yet it shares the spotlight with comforting bites and lighter, healthier options that don’t feel like an afterthought. You can swing by for a quick bite on a busy morning, linger over vegetarian-friendly choices in the afternoon, or grab something to go when life pulls you back outside. The menu feels thoughtfully put together, which means you’re not overwhelmed, but you still have plenty to choose from depending on your mood. Service options are flexible too, since you can enjoy outdoor seating when the weather cooperates, dine in and soak up the cafe atmosphere, or opt for takeaway when convenience matters most. What I appreciate about introducing people to True Grounds is how easy it is to recommend, because it fits into so many routines without demanding a special occasion. It works as a neighborhood coffee stop, a casual comfort food fix, or a reliable spot for healthier choices that still taste satisfying. Everything about the experience feels approachable and familiar, which is often exactly what people are looking for in a local cafe they can return to again and again. It’s the kind of place I point out when someone asks for a dependable cafe near Ball Square, since the atmosphere, menu, and location all work together in a way that feels natural rather than forced.
Prices and dish names are transcribed from the restaurant's printed menu, photographed in August 2026 and reproduced on the menu page. Hours, address and service options come from the restaurant's public business profile. An editor confirmed the restaurant was trading on 4 September 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.
717 Broadway Ball Square, Somerville, MA 02144, United States
very pleasant staff. great coffee with lots of creative in-house made flavors, syrups, and reductions available. the sandwiches are tasty and made with very fresh ingredients. the baked goods are delicious without relying on too much sweet and sugary… like, actually good.
Super super busy. I set my stuff down and then got up to get my matcha with almond milk and someone took my seat. Too crowded for me to normally come, but I tried their matcha, pumpkin cream cheese bread, and sea salt dark chocolate chip cookies, and everything was phenomenal. It’s a lot less busy than Sound Bites or the other sit down places (probably because you can take it to go), and the food was worth it. The chocolate chip cookies were a little darker than I normally like (and I like dark chocolate). The matcha was the best I’ve had. Phenomenal!
Great scones! They always have unique flavors and I love popping in any time I want a little treat and seeing what flavors they have. Today I had a ginger cardamom scone with butterscotch frosting and it was awesome
Tell us what you ordered and what it cost. Two or three sentences about one dish is more useful to the next person than a star rating.
Nearest first, then across the Rio Grande Valley.