Capisce Coffee & Espresso Bar — Restaurant in Town of North Elba

Tucked away in the heart of the Adirondacks is the hidden gem, Capisce Coffee & Espresso Bar. When you step inside, time immediately slows down, I’d even go as far as to say —time stands still— and the simple pleasures of life take center stage. Upon entering Capisce, you’ll first notice the aroma of fresh roasted, fresh ground, and fresh brewed coffee (that is, if one of the Baristas or the owner, Maria, doesn’t immediately greet you with a friendly welcome as you enter their space!). Capisce offers a unique and vibrant personality by blending the best aspects of rustic charm and modern comfort. The warm lighting, the tasteful decor that showcases local artists and artisans, and the soft jazz music that fills the air create the perfect soothing backdrop for conversation and/or contemplation, and absolutely beg you to get comfortable and stay a little longer. When we arrived, the café was hustling through what I can only imagine was one of their morning rushes. A full parking lot and a line to order, but it was not a bother as we were in no hurry and we knew we were walking into more than “just a coffee shop visit” this was our destination while en route to meet up with our son’s 3rd grade class touring the Olympic Ski Jump Complex just down the road. We were sent on a mission to collect hot bevies for our teacher friends who were nearing the end of a long, winding bus ride from Potsdam, NY. My husband and I were both blown away by what we walked into: Neighbors catching up, tourists warming up, and in the corner— an artist, quietly finding inspiration while doodling in her sketchbook. This place immediately stood out and I mentally tagged it with a heart to note how special it was and to remind myself to save it in my “favorites”— and this was before I even tried their coffee! By the time we were next up for ordering, my husband still hadn’t decided what he wanted. He doesn’t drink coffee, so he was intrigued and challenged. When it was our turn to order, the owner Maria, who is so knowledgable, passionate, dedicated, and a walking role model of craftsmanship and expertise for her staff and customers, suggested a Vanilla Chai— and he absolutely loved it! I wanted a classic Drip Coffee made with their Dark Roast House Blend which is meticulously crafted using a unique blend of beans by La Colombe. This was the star of the show! I am convinced that every cup is a masterpiece while simultaneously boasting their signature hand-stamped “Capisce” logo in dark black ink. The coffee was so smooth and delicious and full bodied and uggghhhhh! I crave it. Every. Single. Day. The beverages we ordered for the teachers were also well received. When Maria put these beverages in a drink carrier for us, she was meticulous about making sure the drink hole on the lids were each facing inward so the liquid didn’t burn my legs driving the .3 miles to the Ski Jump Complex. Thanks, Maria! I’ll forever save that hack as a favorite, too! I mention this because the little things are what make this place so magical. It’s the Fettuccini Pasta stir stick paying homage to Maria’s Italian roots. It’s her commitment to community that stands out. The seasonal offerings like Maple Cold Foam and homemade Sicilian Sodas adorned with fresh fruit and herbs that make every visit an adventure. To sum this review up— whether you’re a regular/local, a coffee enthusiast/connoisseur, or first-time visitors like us who are casual drinkers but truly appreciate being well-taken care of, Capisce Coffee and Espresso Bar left us charmed by our memorable coffee shop experience. We can’t wait to visit again. We are so incredibly proud of Maria for creating a shining example of what a coffee shop can be— one sip at a time. Ever...

A Serene Coffee Haven in the Heart of Lake Placid

Nestled amidst the picturesque charm of Lake Placid, Capisce Coffee & Espresso Bar offers a tranquil escape for caffeine aficionados and wanderers alike. With its comforting ambiance and delightful brews, this quaint coffee haven captures the essence of relaxation and indulgence.

Upon stepping into the cozy interior of Capisce, patrons are greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans. The warm, earthy tones of wooden furnishings and soft lighting create an atmosphere that is both comforting and rejuvenating. Whether you seek a quiet spot for contemplation or lively conversation with friends, the café's welcoming vibe caters to all.

The menu at Capisce Coffee & Espresso Bar boasts a delightful array of coffee creations crafted with precision and care. From velvety lattes to bold espressos, each sip embodies the rich flavors and distinct character of premium beans sourced from around the globe. For those with a penchant for adventure, the seasonal specials offer exciting twists on classic favorites, showcasing the creativity and expertise of the baristas.

Beyond its stellar coffee selection, Capisce also impresses with its delectable assortment of pastries and light bites. Whether you crave a buttery croissant to accompany your morning brew or a decadent dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, the café's offerings are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

What truly sets Capisce apart, however, is its commitment to fostering a sense of community. With its friendly staff and relaxed ambiance, the café serves as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and moments are savored.

In summation, Capisce Coffee & Espresso Bar stands as a beacon of charm and hospitality in the heart of Lake Placid. Whether you're seeking a quick caffeine fix or a leisurely escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for...

I’ve never written a google review before, but I felt compelled to after this. Beautiful place, nice decor, great potential—all marred by bad staff vibes. It wasn’t crowded, so this can’t be blamed on rush hour.

A girl, clearly new or still learning the job, was on the receiving end of some unnecessarily harsh comments from a staff member. Despite that, she was still kind when I ordered. But it was hard to watch. The vibe was off, and I won’t be returning.

Some memorable quotes from my experience (read them with a harsh tone in your mind): “Are these pastries just going to sit here all day?” “If you want to work here, you need to try harder.” When the girl asked a question about how to do something, the rude staff member replied, “I don’t know,” with a sharp, mocking intonation, indicating that she clearly knew.

All I leave you with, Capisce Coffee, is a morsel of wisdom from Maximus Decimus Meridius in the film Gladiator: “What we do in life echoes in eternity.” Talking to someone like that, especially when they are clearly trying or just need help, will echo in eternity. I certainly will never forget those harsh words and they weren't even spoken to me.

Alas, my branching out failed, and I will gladly remain loyal to your local competition, Origin Coffee. Perhaps you could learn something from them, particularly in the realm of kindness.

There are no excuses that can cover up or detract from this matter of human indecency. Not “learning differences,” not “ESL,” not rush hour as I noticed you rebutted with in responses to other bad reviews. No response is required from your end regarding this matter—only...