Boston Runs on Pavement: How Larry Margulies Built a Coffeehouse People Love

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TLDR

Pavement Coffeehouse began in 2009 with a simple idea from founder Larry Margulies: to create places in Boston where great coffee and community go hand in hand. Larry wanted to build spaces that felt personal, creative, and welcoming. Drawing from his own experience as a Boston University graduate and a young entrepreneur managing a bagel shop in Allston, Larry knew what it meant to start from the ground up. Over the years, that original shop evolved into Pavement Coffeehouse, a chain now known across the city for thoughtful hospitality, in-house roasted coffee, and fresh handmade bagels.

Today, Pavement operates eight locations throughout Massachusetts, each one serving as a neighborhood hub inspired by the city's diversity and energy. From college students to commuters and families, Pavement welcomes everyone who walks through its doors. The pavement of Boston quite literally connects these communities, and that’s exactly what the name celebrates.

A Balance of Craft and Care

Pavement stands out in Boston’s busy café landscape by sticking to a hands-on, quality-first approach. Their coffee is roasted on-site using beans sourced from family farms and co-ops around the world. The goal is simple: roast with care and let the natural flavors of each origin shine. Baristas receive detailed training to ensure every drink is served with speed, attention, and skill.

Then there are the bagels. Made in-house from scratch and kettle-boiled each morning, they’re a cornerstone of the Pavement experience. The menu strikes a thoughtful balance between great coffee and comforting food, offering more than the average grab-and-go spot.

Larry’s presence is felt across every location. He often works with his team and played an active role in supporting their move to unionize, even as the business was recovering from pandemic challenges. Having started behind the counter himself, he brings a grounded and people-focused approach that keeps the culture strong and the service genuine.