Here’s a follow-up on a story we brought you on Monday — the closure of Grand Street cafe Roots & Vines. Yesterday, an auction was held inside the coffee shop and restaurant. Everything from ovens to espresso machines to bar stools was for sale. This morning, we spoke with Natalie Krodel, who opened the business with Nguyen Huynh, almost nine years ago.
Why did Roots & Vines close? The simply answer seems to be the cafe wasn’t making it. The ongoing recession might have been part of the problem. But Krodel said it’s been especially tough in the last year or two as competitors have opened up in the immediate vicinity. She mentioned Pushcart Coffee on East Broadway and Cafe Grumpy on Essex Street. There are, of course, many other “artisanal” coffee newcomers within a short walking distance.
Krodel said she’s sad about closing the cafe. She loves Grand Street and will miss her customers, many of whom treated Roots & Vines a bit like a community living room. Krodel said a passion for specialty coffee led her to open the restaurant. Back then, she was a pioneer below Delancey Street. Now there seems to be gourmet coffee on nearly every block. Krodel said the new places are worthy replacements.
Last year, she tried to sell the business but there was little interest. Krodel added that she’s heard some interesting ideas from people who might want to take the space, but nothing is firm. As for her own future, Krodel has returned to practicing law, a career she suspended after opening the coffee shop.
The space, at 409 Grand Street, is owned by the Seward Park Cooperative. We’ve inquired with co-op management about the fate of the storefront but have not heard back yet. Roots & Vines had a beer and wine license but it lapsed in February, according to state records.
