Empress Coffee & Cocktails — Restaurant in Gaithersburg

If you’re looking for a spot that delivers unforgettable flavors, warm hospitality, and a true taste of Persian culture, look no further than Persian Pizza & Lavashak Marino at Empress Coffee. This place is more than just a café — it’s a whole experience. And it’s all thanks to Sam, the heart and soul behind it all. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine kindness, incredible service, and the type of care that makes you feel like family.

Let’s talk about the food — absolutely out of this world. The Persian pizza is a total game-changer. It’s comforting, rich, and loaded with flavor — the perfect blend of traditional Persian spices, quality ingredients, and that soft, golden crust. Every bite is satisfying and unique. It’s the kind of pizza that leaves you thinking about it long after the last slice.

And then there’s the lavashak — the ultimate nostalgic treat. Tangy, chewy, and made with real fruit, it’s everything lavashak should be. Sam has perfected it. Whether you like it extra sour or more balanced, there’s something for every palate, and it’s almost impossible to leave without a stash of it in your bag.

As if that wasn’t enough, Sam surprised us with samples of the Talebi smoothie (cantaloupe) and sour cherry smoothie — both were absolutely refreshing and packed with flavor. The talebi was sweet, smooth, and perfect for summer, and the sour cherry hit that perfect tart note that wakes up your taste buds in the best way. It’s the little gestures like this — offering samples, sharing stories, and making you feel welcome — that set this place apart.

Of course, we can’t forget the espresso — hands down, one of the best we’ve ever had. Rich, bold, smooth, and clearly made with quality beans and skill. Whether you’re a coffee purist or into specialty drinks, Empress Coffee does it right. It’s the kind of coffee that makes you slow down and truly enjoy the moment.

But what truly makes this place special is Sam. His passion, kindness, and genuine love for what he does is felt in every part of the experience. He treats every guest like they matter, always takes time to connect, and goes above and beyond to make sure you’re enjoying yourself. The atmosphere here is warm, welcoming, and full of soul — you don’t just get amazing food and drinks, you leave with a smile and a memory.

Persian Pizza & Lavashak Marino at Empress Coffee is more than a business — it’s a hidden gem built with heart, culture, and community. Sam, thank you for creating a place that feels like home. Five stars isn’t enough — this is a place I’ll keep coming back to, and I’ll be telling everyone I know to...

A few weeks ago, I found myself in a new area and decided to search for coffee. I prefer supporting small businesses, and that’s how I discovered Empress Caffe. The glowing reviews convinced me to stop by—and I’m so glad I did!

From the moment I walked in, I was warmly welcomed by the owners, Tara and Sam. Their genuine kindness set the tone for what became one of the best coffee experiences I’ve ever had. The coffee itself was exceptional—rich, smooth, and perfectly crafted.

But what truly sets Empress Caffe apart for me is their Persian pizza, a delightful surprise I wasn’t expecting. They typically serve it only on weekends, but when I mentioned how much I loved Persian pizza, Sam—despite it being a busy morning—offered to make one just for me. His kindness and hospitality left a lasting impression. The Persian pizza was simply incredible—flavorful, unique, and made with care. If you’ve never had one before, I can’t recommend it enough. Run, don’t walk, to Empress Caffe to try it!

They also offer freshly baked sweet and savory pastries, most of which are lovingly baked by Tara herself. I tried a Danish, and it was absolutely incredible—flaky, buttery, and just the right amount of sweetness. You can taste the care and skill in every bite.

In addition to all this, they serve delicious slushies in several flavors, one of which is passion fruit—my personal favorite. Sam even let me sample it before I ordered, which was such a thoughtful gesture. The slushie was refreshing, bursting with flavor, and perfect alongside my meal.

I don’t usually write reviews, but this experience was truly special. Tara and Sam’s warmth and generosity made me feel like part of the family. I only wish I lived closer, because I’d be there every day!

Empress Caffe is a hidden gem, and Tara and Sam are the heart and soul of it. If you’re in the area, do yourself a favor and visit—you won’t be...

Ambiance and Atmosphere: The interior of Empress Coffee & Cocktails is both inviting and stylish, with a mix of modern and quirky decor that creates a warm and welcoming environment. It’s the perfect place to relax, work, or catch up with friends. Food and Drinks: Empress Coffee & Cocktails serves a variety of delicious options throughout the day. In the morning, you can enjoy freshly baked pastries, such as the highly recommended mango coconut scone and lavender lemon loaf1. Their breakfast sandwiches, made with freshly sliced deli meats, are a must-try. For coffee lovers, Empress offers a range of expertly crafted beverages, from classic cappuccinos to unique creations like the lavender latte1. As the day progresses, the shop transitions into a cocktail bar, offering a selection of beers, wines, and soon-to-come cocktails1. Special Features: One of the standout features of Empress Coffee & Cocktails is their commitment to live music. They regularly host local musicians, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit1. Keep an eye on their Instagram account, @empresscoffeecocktails, for updates on upcoming performances and events. Conclusion: Empress Coffee & Cocktails is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub where you can enjoy great food, drinks, and live music in a delightful setting. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee or an evening cocktail, Empress is sure to leave a lasting impression. I hope this review provides a comprehensive overview of what Empress Coffee & Cocktails has...