Came here again after a couple years with the family, and I wanted to update my review from before. I had given them a 2-star review before for their service, but we didn't run into any problems with service today (could be a change with the workers here after the years we haven't come). The baristas and staff today were actually quite pleasant, and we were very happy about the coffee and food we got here. The pastries and breakfast bagel sandwich were very delicious. Glad we came back - I think we'll be coming back again. :) read more

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The PERFECT Coffee shop located in downtown Buffalo. Came here for coffee and conversation with a group of friends. We arrived around noon on a Friday, almost every table was taken, but by the time we got our coffees one had opened up, which we were able to snag. Good place to get work done, enjoy a cup of coffee, read a book, play games or just hang out. Definitely recommend checking this place out. The only con was they did close at 3 PM - just something to keep in mind! read more

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My favorite coffee shop downtown! The iced moka's are my go-to, and all of their baked goods are amazing! A perfect place with fast, free WiFi so I will often bring my laptop and work for a few hours. They have plenty of seating, including big comfy booths. Friendly workers too! read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Salted Carmel crueler and large iced MOKA - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

I am constantly on the hunt for coffee shops and Public Espresso + Coffee really hit the spot. I'd been to this place for a photography pop-up and was excited to come back for the food and coffee of course. This cafe is located in the Hotel Lafayette. The inside space is just so hip and trendy. The menu offers cafe drinks, food items including breakfast, sandwiches, salads and a pastry case. This time I got a soy latte and the breakfast plate. The breakfast plate was fantastic and came with 2 eggs, toast, a salad and pork belly/bacon. Everything on the plate tasted fresh and well seasoned. The latte was nice but the latte art could've used a bit of work hehe. My boyfriend wanted the bagel and lox but they were out of lox which was disappointing. He ended up with the turkey sandwich and an iced mocha which I had a delicious taste of. I want to go back to try the pastries and donuts. Overall this is a trendy coffee shop with crafted drinks, and a variety of tasty foods. Areas of improvement would be not running out of food or better latte art. read more

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Oh wow!!! Now that I have finally made my way downtown to Public espresso I have to say Buffalo coffee scene is definitely on a whole new level! With the hipster environment, big bright windows, and awesome friendly service, just walking in gives you a good vibe! Now if you are anywhere near here YOU HAVE TO TRY THEIR DONUTS!!! I would hands down put them up against every other donut place in Buffalo, even the local fav of Paula's. Yes, they are that good. Period. The flavours are unique, delicately crafted, and the best ring of perfection you will ever try. The raised cinnamon sugar was fantastic, so light and fluffy, while the crueller is exactly how it should be with crispy outside, gooey middle, and just the right amount of icing. Coffee amazing, food healthy and delicious, all quality and made with integrity and brilliance the way it should be. Atmosphere has nice large tables good to hang out and or study, and just a wonderful place to visit if downtown! Public's is my new number one coffee spot in Buffalo and recommend to all foodies and caffeine addicts alik read more

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I was so excited to try the vegan doughnuts but they were disappointing. They lacked something important, like salt or some other fundamental flavor ingredient. As a result, they kind of tasted like nothing despite having passionfruit glaze on them. The coffee is great and the vegan scones are good. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Passion fruit lemon vegan donuts. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

This is a favorite spot for a snack and a coffee. The staff are very hard-working and friendly. They serve breadhive sourdough which is my favorite bread! Just remember to allow for some inconsistencies and tip well. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Pillar art - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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This is definitely a place to check out they have gourmet donuts, & the coffee is the best! Super FRESH! They also serve food! I definitely want to try everything on the menu, the place is so comforting and you can chit chat with a friend over coffee and enjoy! The Staff is wonderful! read more

Always my favorite place for crullers. The lavender London fog is so good too. I love it here! read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Pride crullers - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Had to go back to try something from their breakfast/brunch menu. I went for the hash bowl with sweet potatoes and smashed avocado. I ordered my eggs scrambled since I knew my toddler would be eating them. They were light and fluffy. The sweet potatoes had a great spice flavor to them; not burn-your-mouth-off spice, but more of a freshly ground pepper kick. And the toast was delightful too; just disappointed that my daughter ate most of it on me. We topped our breakfast off with a doughnut. Went for the grapefruit doughnut ring. The icing was light, but brought such nice citrus flavor. (The grapefruits used to make the doughnuts came from a local organic farm). This doughnut was the BEST ever! Soft and didn't leave me feeling weighed down. Only problem is I could have ate another 2. My friend had the sausage egg biscuit, which she enjoyed. This sandwich looked like a delightful option as well. I'm pretty sure they make their biscuits in-house. This place is a legit breakfast spot with outrageously delicious baked goods. read more

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Donuts and coffee were awesome! All the donuts looked great. Friendly service. Highly Recommend. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Vanilla Birthday Cake Donut Samoa Donut - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Came here for brunch at 1:30 (they close at 2pm). The staff here are awesome. The person taking our order was very patient, as it was our first time here. He explained the menu options very well and made sure to double check if the selections we were making had any pork products since we can't eat pork. Above and beyond in customer service. The person behind us made a smart comment towards us for taking a while to order but I ignored it because I was not about to have something come in between me and the Avocado toast. IT'S THE BOMB (pun). And I'm not saying that because I'm Muslim lol. Honestly one of, if not, the best Avocado Toast I've had. Very filling. All the food was really good but that toast will make me come back. I promise. It was 2:00 and the staff never made us feel like we had to leave. They never told us "hey we're closing soon" or anything of that sort. Awesome place. Awesome staff. Awesome food. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Breakfast Plate Hash Bowl Avocado Toast - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Another Yelp pleaser! Our donuts had a nice crunch on the outside and were moist inside, not dense. Rich in flavor!!! So good. We had the Sausage Breakfast Sandwich, the sausage patty was hearty and we loved the maple mustard. Also, the Breakfast Burrito, I enjoyed that the chorizo wasn't too salty, but the spinach was a tad undercooked for my liking. My husband wasn't a fan of his house blend coffee, I on the other hand thoroughly enjoyed my almond Chai latte. Would definitely return, if for nothing else but the DONUTS, should we visit Buffalo again in the future. read more

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Good coffee for downtown area, again, not the best i've had but very very decent. Sweets (bought a cookie) are on a sweeter side, so probably wouldn't buy again. Cozy and airy place, great to enjoy a conversation or just work. read more

I have been going to Public Espresso for over 2 years on a regular basis. I typically get the sweet potato hash bowl, which used to be absolutely fantastic. It has changed for the worse over the last 6+ months. I keep reordering it with high hopes and am usually left disappointed. The sweet potatoes as of lately are over peppered, usually tough, and have little flavor. It's supposed to come with sautéed onions, and half the time it does not. It used to be fresh avocado and now it's some bagged guacamole or "avocado mash". The bread has also changed for the worse. I'm so sad because this was my favorite go to on Sunday mornings, but sadly I think today will be my last time. :( coffee is always solid and I know they have good pasties as well. Hard to write my disappointed review because for the longest time I ordered this every single week. read more

Delicious lattes and cool vibe! They also have different variations of bowls, and the sweet potato hash was amazing! read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Chai Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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how and why would you charge $10 for avocado toast just for it to be majorly a slice of bread with slabs of unmelted butter read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - AVOCADO TOAST - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Nice food and great coffee. Better than any other coffee I've had in Buffalo. Hope they open another one closer to Allentown.

In the heart of downtown Buffalo inside the Hotel Lafayette you'll find a Buffalo staple - Public Espresso. Known for their silky smooth coffee and bright red logo, this is a must-visit stop in Buffalo. Parking is metered street parking, $2/hr. As of fall 2020, there is a decent amount of construction happening around the building just to be aware of. Their famous donuts are a rotating selection, I was lucky to stop by on a cinnamon sugar cruller day. I could easily eat a dozen of these with no qualms; they are so light and airy with a little crunch of the sugar. My go-to coffee order is the Nola Cold Brew - a mix of cold brew and chocolate milk. As someone who always gets cream and sugar in their coffee, this drink is the perfect bittersweet combo. Whether you're dropping by for quick coffee or a sit-down brunch with friends, this is the place to be. read more

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Xs and Os, Ying and Yang, Trials and Tribulations... Through it all, there is only one constant. Trendy, hipster-style restaurants sell high expectations through their aesthetic and atmosphere, and for the most part... it works. Enter Eminem, Kendrick, and Drake - Kings of Rap and Hip Hop - searching for a place 'chill enough' to sneak through and Kumbaya. They're entertained by the down-to-earth staff who greet each celebrity with a genuine smile. Their orders come in: sausage, egg, and cheese. 3 eggs, 3 sausages, 3 healthy servings of honey mustard strong enough to kill an elephant. They dig in ... They dig out The experience was warming, but not inspiring or profound enough to spawn an epoch of lyrical genius. Some would say, it's simply the "same old, same old, posing as a new generation of food culture and taste. read more

Been coming here since they opened and always loved it but I'm back after a year and just spent 20 bucks on an avocado toast on grocery store sandwich bread with brown old avocado that has obviously been mashed for hours and sitting there. Also ordered and paid for a medium drink and was given a small. Most disappointing experience ever and this is coming from a long time fan read more

Delicious, many choices, and relatively quick service. When we're in Buffalo we'll head over for a good cup and a bagel read more

What a nice place for a morning coffee and pastry. Located in the Lafayette Hotel Building is this charming little cafe that has plenty of seating for anyone looking to enjoy their morning coffee or to catch up with friends. While waiting in line to order and watching the staff crank out delicious looking coffees and lattes, I noticed the latte art that was so fun to watch them make the different designs. The Nola Cold Brew was so creamy and delicious, made with a mix of coffee and chocolate milk. They also have multiple syrups you can add to your coffee, and the vanilla was perfect to an iced coffee we ordered. The pastries were a perfect start to my morning. Something light and ready to be on the go. They also have Bagels and various sandwiches if you are on the go. But if you want to stay a little while, they have plates you can have to sit down. The parking is street parking or in a few parking lots around the building. It is a nice walk downtown if you are staying nearby. I will definitely be back whenever I'm close! read more

I get takeout every day pretty much and have for years, and this is the first time I was irritated enough to leave a review (dominos got glass in my pizza one time and I still didn't leave a bad review). I try to avoid complaining because I generally don't think most quality issues are noteworthy, but I literally rolled my eyes when I unwrapped this. I paid extra to add American too which wasn't even on there & the cheddar is like a half slice at best + only on one side. This was a $7.50 bagel. I do want to support local businesses, but c'mon now. Genuinely, how hard is it to put bacon and cheese on a bagel? The only reason it's 2 stars instead of one is because the cider is excellent. I've been happy with drinks I've gotten there overall and do recommend those. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - It was intended to be a build your own sandwich with bacon, yellow cheddar, and American cheese. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Good croissant but only one person serves for coffee and bakeries. Very long line! It takes forever: more people behind but only 1 person serving everything. Ridiculous!! Over one croissant waited almost 20 minutes !! read more

I've been a huge fan of Public Espresso since they opened up and most recently, they have taken over a beautiful space in the Hotel Lafayette. The coffee shop is beautiful and designed in minimalistic fashion. My only real gripe with the coffeeshop is the lack of charger accessibility; it would be so sweet if they could put some more powerstrips around for charging accessibility. Otherwise, the space is big and open, the coffee and food is delicious. Foodwise, I had their breakfast hash with two eggs served over some sweet potatoes and man -- it was delightfully sweet and with a tasty runny fried egg yoke. I had to ask for some hot sauce on the side and got Frank's to mix in. Win! They also serve sandwiches, avocado toasts and a wide variety of pour over coffee flavors and of course your espresso drinks. I also love their coffee flights if you truly want to get amped up. The new space is great to work out of and had fairly strong wifi -- nice space for a meeting too. read more

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Cafe Americano was awesome . Loved the cooked to order breakfast foods. Staff extremely friendly

I just went to Public Espresso + Coffee to grab a quick breakfast sandwich. It's in a very convenient spot in downtown Buffalo and close to all the hotels. It's very cute inside, and I loved the decorations/theme! Very modern and artsy. We ordered 2 maple sausage sandwiches (both without the maple syrup), and it was overall okay. The house-made pork sausage was not my cup of tea. I didn't really like the taste, and I have a hard time trying to find the words to describe it because it just tasted so different. Others seem to enjoy the food, but I just personally didn't find the sausage too appetizing which is why I took off a star. I would definitely return and try something else on the menu next time I'm in town, and would recommend others to try it as well. Especially once restrictions are lifted because it looks like a cute place to do work/study. read more

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Order tea, coffee, breakfast sandwich and a breakfast bowl to go because we were staying in the hotel above. Everything was good and no complaints. read more

Great local cafe, coming from a coffee snob. Certainly recommend for their coffee. I had an almond milk latte here and thought it was not only huge, but also delicious. It was super smooth and the right level of bitterness. It just barely tasted like it had shots of espresso in it, and definitely hit the spot. The space is huge with tons of seating and modern decoration. It's good for both groups, meetings, and solo time. The service was fast and friendly. It's also connected to a fancy hotel, so take a peek in the lobby. read more

This was my first visit to Public Espresso and Coffee. It is a nice and roomy place in the Lafayette Hotel. A modern and somewhat minimal design with lots of tables and seats. They have a nice variety of coffees, teas and chocolate. Alex, the barista, showed us how to make designs in the foam on cappuccino.They also have pastries, they looked very appealing. We did not try them though as it was close to dinner time when we visited Public. read more

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Every time I go here I am conflicted, trying to decide if I love it or tolerate it. I'm leaning towards I enjoy it but because of proximity. Here's the heart of my conflict. Their sweet potato hash bowl is amazing. I may have to write that again in all caps. AMAZING. As a not coffee person, however, that's the majority of the attraction. I can get a London Fog with alternative milk, and the hash bowl, but it runs $16 with tip. So it's a nice once-in-a-while thing, but at that price it's hard to justify. The tea is nothing special and there was a period they were out of it for over two weeks. That hash bowl, though. Two years ago they expanded to the new corner space of the Lafayette Hotel (from being a small counter bar in the lounge area). This new space definitely allows more room for seating and has brought increased cliental to the Public along with the food offerings. The space is bright with many windows and modern tables mixed with a couple couches and black and white mural art. It is a hip vibe. My experience with cost in comparison to value is just where it falls short. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Vegan fruit loop donuts. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Wow!! What an awesome find. This corner restaurant serves it up! I had the Diner Breakfast Plate and my hubs had The Vlad. The breakfast plate is an amazing value! Ended up sharing it because I couldn't eat it all. And The Vlad was good but a little small for his big appetite so it worked out perfectly. We grabbed a couple of yummy looking pastries for later. Service was quick and friendly. Restaurant is clean and had great ambiance. We will definitely visit again! read more

We've all gone out for Breakfast before, usually in Crowded Booths, Stools at the Bar Areas and even in the Middle of Dining Rooms where it occasionally becomes either overcrowded and its Elbow to Elbow or Quiet and as dead as a Graveyard. But never have I ever sat in a place with such a relaxed and Casual vibe to it, where this place is Truly one of a kind. We've all eaten at all those Breakfast Chain Restaurants, IHOP, Denny's, Panera Bread, Tim Hortons, Dunkin Donuts (etc). But Public Espresso is one of a Kind, a true grandstand of Buffalo's Breakfast Scene, where you can stop in to eat, Shoot the breeze, chill, use your laptop to check on Daily Events. I've been in here a few times before like when one of the Best Restaurants in Buffalo (Bourbon & Butter) was still up and running, the other was when that overwhelmingly crowded Sweet Tooth Festival took place here a few weeks ago. I have tried there food at previous events like the Taste of Home, the Nickel City Chef Finale and A Cook's Tour that honored Anthony Bourdain. But it was about time that I paid a visit to their Base of Operations so I after I got dropped off in the Morning at around 9 AM. I walked in to a Casual interior with Shelves of Plants in the Center, Circular & Square Tabled with Black, Pink, Green & Yellow barred Chairs and a small lounge area for you to make your Acquaintance. As I walked past the Pillars with designs on them, I make my way over to the Counter where the daily offerings were Displayed. Rows of Scones, Muffins, Crullers, Donuts and Cookies. But the Crullers was the obvious reason why I came, I mean who wouldn't want a fluffy and light pastry topped with any random Glaze. This one in particular was called Golden Milk, which boasted a Golden Brown color tasted of Turmeric with Hints of Black Pepper. The Pastry was flaky, it was lightly sweet and I could taste that Heat right at the end. Next to come over was one of their most popular dishes, Avocado Toast (I know it just sounds like Guacamole for Breakfast). But it wasn't anything complicated, just Avocado Puree on Sourdough with Lemon, Paprika, Espresso & Chives. The Bread was buttery with crisp edges, the Puree was smooth and Buttery, the other 3 components added hints of Citrus along with Mild and Bitter Notes. It wasn't meant to be a Gut Filler but it was satisfying to start my Day, after then sitting there and just relaxing for the next half before making my way outside to walk around. I'm glad I finished Breakfast on a good note instead of a Bitter Note !!! read more

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Great food, great coffee, go for the chorizo breakfast burrito, another favorite are the homemade cookies, the pb one is outstanding read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Breakfast buritto photo by @phil_eatsfood - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Randomly in Buffalo to get my passport renewed and needed a spot to camp out. Awesome spot to get work done and enjoy good coffee. Vlad breakfast sandwich was great - the apple cider donut was even better. Are all my daily calories in like 20 minutes. Bringing them back to Connecticut! read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Coffee bar - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

I was a little skeptical of the glowing reviews, but now I'll add mine. This is not a cookie-cutter diner with the usual menu. There are lots of unique (or at least unusual) options. On my 2nd visit I had a delightful bowl of sweets potatoes and avocado topped with a fried egg. Healthy, delicious, and unusual enough to be memorable. The restaurant itself is in a historic hotel, and has not at all any "hotel restaurant " feeling. Only downside is that it's a little pricey, with most choices from $7 to $10. Totally worth it if you want a truly local dining experience. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Comfy seating. Tables are also available. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Old review - finally got to try out Public Espresso, I got their NOLA cold brew. Since it's their most popular cold brew, loved the this delicious brew! Been waiting so long to try their donuts and their crueller are a must try, I got their carrot cake donut and honey crueller. Can't believe it took me so long to get here! Loved both the donuts, can't wait to get back and try more of the flavours. As well as their breakfast and brunch menu, and sit there are enjoy! read more

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I was starving and needed something light to hold me over until I go stuff my face at mister sizzles later. I haven't had avocado toast since I lived in California and my roommates would make it for me. The avocados were fresh, bread perfectly toasted so that it didn't tear up my mouth when I bit into it and the staff are so nice and worth paying a visit to! My iced matcha latte was super refreshing on a sunny day like today. The cafe itself is super clean, cozy and inviting. Definitely a great place to hang out and unwind or get some work done. read more

Public Espresso + Coffee - Iced Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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What's the very 1st thing you should get right after your red-eye flight? It might not be a bad idea to grab a cup of coffee and that's precisely why I visited Public Espresso + Coffee. The coffee shop is located in the Hotel Lafayette and I found a parking meter just a block away from the hotel. I asked the cashier for latte recommendations and somehow I ended up choosing lavender latte. In addition, I still don't understand why my drink came in paper cup while my friend got his lavender latte in ceramic cup even though - oh well. *** Lavender Latte ($4.50): This was first drink listed under the "signature lattes" menu. I wouldn't call it watery, but latte tasted slightly weaker than other lavender lattes that I have tried. *** If you are feeling adventurous, there's even a red chili latte (under "tea lattes") listed on the menu. Personally I still prefer lavender lattes from Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters (Pasadena, CA) and HERO Coffee Bar (Chicago, IL) the best. read more

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