Public Espresso — Restaurant in Buffalo

Freshly opened, Public Espresso is a hip little spot for college kids and scenesters, with a smattering of normal local folks. The food looks to be well prepared, and a few people o asked were pleased with it, tho I didn't grab any myself (this time). Staff are pleasant and helpful. Decor is very pleasant, modern mixed with classic, and a clean color palette with earthy tones.

Coffee is decent, cream & sugar at a station by the door. Free WiFi requires the password, on a little sign at the counter (be sure to use the correct network, PublicEspresso-Guest, as there are schemes to harvest data from undiscerning public users by making wifi signals with similar names). Restroom (unisex) does not require a key (yet?) - if it's locked, someone's in there.

Space is a little tight when crowded, but the spacing seems about optimal considering the square footage. Mid-morning on a chilly fall Friday it's quite busy, full of charter, but not obnoxious.

Will stop by again, possibly...

I wasn't planning to write anything but I received a text message, requesting for a review, so here it is.

I'll start with full disclosure. I accidentally spilled the espresso I ordered. Felt pretty bad about it and offered to provide a tip in the cost of the espresso to the barista who made it, but they declined as they said that they "couldn't accept it." Having said this, I was aiming for a good espresso and a place where I might be able to collect my thoughts and jot down some things in a notebook. The atmosphere was loud. Place was quite busy, which may explain the service. My sense is that the workers appear to be under a lot of stress, possibly because of a busy location and people.

I chose to go to another coffee shop which was more my fit. I don't think I would want to visit this location...

Everybody in Buffalo has their own favorite coffee shop, but this one is mine. The coffee is of excellent quality, the drinks are flavorful without being excessively syrupy, and the food is always excellent. I'm particularly fond of the red-eye breakfast sandwich, which has espresso-deglazed ham and this delightfully sweet and spicy horseradish mustard. Their donuts are second only to Paula's, especially the crullers.

The atmosphere inside at the Elmwood location is also incredibly cozy: lots of nice comfy armchairs and pillows along the bench seating. It's also quite bright thanks to the bay windows, which makes it a lovely place to sit a while and read.

Overall, my favorite coffee spot in Buffalo (of which there are many great options to choose from) and a great experience...