Public Coffee Roasters — Restaurant in Hamburg

I visited Public Roaster Coffee around 2 PM on the 21st of March (Easter Monday) and, unfortunately, had a disappointing experience. When I arrived, there were only about five customers in a space that seats around fifteen. Not long after, most had left - leaving just one other person aside from me and my friend.

Despite the café being nearly empty, I was politely asked to put away my laptop because it was Easter Monday, which they treat as a “weekend,” and they wanted to preserve the so-called weekend atmosphere. I was even told that using my laptop outside wasn’t allowed despite that area also being completely empty.

I understand having rules to maintain a certain vibe during peak hours, but applying them so rigidly in a nearly empty café felt unnecessary and, honestly, illogical. It came across more like a strict policy than a genuine effort to create a cozy atmosphere.

We ended up going to Feels Like Coffee and Art, which is just around the corner. There, we were warmly welcomed, continued our conversation, opened our laptops, and enjoyed a beautifully presented and delicious berry tartare. That café manages to keep a relaxed and respectful vibe without enforcing unnecessary rules. People naturally understand the balance - use the space, enjoy the atmosphere, and move on.

Sadly, this experience at Public Roaster made me feel unwelcome, and I won’t be returning. The staff were polite, but the policy just didn’t make sense and took away from what could have been an...

This coffee shop is located on a side street in one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Hamburg. I was surprised by their rich offerings since its space gives more a for-take-away feeling.

Apart from including many modern coffee options such as flat white or cold brew, there are plenty of own-brand beans as well as brewing kits in stock, even coffee magazines around the world. I was very surprised.

I ordered a cup of cold brew, which was pretty tasteful and refreshing for a late June heatwave day. The staff was very knowledgable and generous to share how to make a good cold brew at home with me.

This is definitely a spot I would like to come back to when I...

Public has a lot of potential to become an amazing 3rd wave spot but isn't quite there yet. I would have liked a wider selection of coffees for the V60 - especially in terms of processes. An aeropress option would have been nice as well. More attention to detail would be in order: my coffee came in a Weck-glass, which is messy to pour from - id sugesst getting some proper carafes from ikea. Similarily, the pastry selection was slim and a bit too expensive. The Ambiente was fine but the place feels cold and impersonal - maybe because of the black plywood walls and lack comfy seating - i'd suggest a small couch corner and some...