Connecting communities? Start with a cup of coffee.

Storefront rendering of Southern Grounds Avondale

Have you noticed something missing at the Shoppes at Avondale – say, a building or two? 

Realco Recycling Co., Inc. began demolition Jan. 3. on the space, located at 3562 St. Johns Ave.  Once demolition is complete, Angelo Group, the project contractor, will hit the ground running to complete the newest coffee shop location. 

After exploring options to renovate the space, Southern Grounds & Co. worked with Riverside Avondale Preservation to determine the building was a noncontributing structure – it didn’t meet the criteria for historical preservation. Group 4 developed a façade in keeping with the historic character of the neighborhood and a plan that would benefit the neighborhood by incorporating retail, event space and restaurant efficiently.

Avondale is a vibrant, historic community known for its walkability and connectedness – Southern Grounds creates spaces where communities can “Gather Together.”

Space plan for Southern Grounds Avondale

Southern Grounds Avondale will seat around 163 people, including a private room that can be reserved for special events. The chef-driven coffee shop serves a full menu of breakfast and brunch items, beer, wine and an assortment of dessert items.   

Like their other locations, they aim to provide a cozy place for friends and neighbors to gather while enjoying fresh roasted coffee and locally sourced, sustainably grown food. And, did we mention it’s delicious? It is.

Southern Grounds is affectionately known as SoGro to locals in Neptune Beach and San Marco, where their first two shops are located. The chef-inspired coffee house started in Neptune Beach in 2016, and followed with a second location in San Marco in 2018. The local company was just selected to open a location at Jacksonville International Airport – coffee fans can shop local  the second they touch ground. 

We are so excited for our friends at Southern Grounds and for the Avondale community to gain such an awesome neighbor. Hopefully we’ll be able to gather together with some of you soon over an oat milk latte and an heirloom tomato tartine!