Loved the aesthetic of the place! The owner was very friendly and nice. We got one of each Pizza, the Persian Pizza was my favorite! I also really liked the pomegranate slushie! Their service was great and food even better. I definitely recommend checking them out!
Overview
If you're in the mood for a cozy, inviting spot where you can sip on expertly crafted coffee or enjoy a nightcap after a long day, Empress Coffee & Cocktails at 325 Main St, Gaithersburg, MD, is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of Gaithersburg, this charming café and bar serves as the perfect blend of daytime relaxation and nighttime energy, offering a diverse range of drinks that suit every taste.
The atmosphere inside Empress is warm and welcoming. The décor has a modern yet comfortable feel, with soft lighting and plenty of seating, making it an ideal place to catch up with friends or work on a laptop. The vibe shifts as evening falls, with more people stopping by for drinks and a lively social atmosphere. Whether you're just popping in for a morning coffee or planning a laid-back evening with cocktails, Empress has something for everyone.
The coffee at Empress Coffee & Cocktails is nothing short of impressive. From classic brews to more specialized drinks, each cup is made with care. The café uses high-quality beans, ensuring that each sip delivers rich, aromatic flavors. For those who love the classics, their espresso and lattes are perfect, and the baristas are always ready to craft a drink just the way you like it. If you're looking for something a little more unique, the specialty coffees are an absolute must-try. You can also pair your drink with a delicious pastry, made fresh daily, which adds to the overall experience of the café.
But the fun doesn’t stop at coffee. As the day transitions into evening, Empress turns into a sophisticated cocktail bar with an expertly curated cocktail menu. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet and fruity or a more robust, spirit-forward drink, the bartenders here know their craft. From signature cocktails like their Empress Martini to classic drinks with a twist, each one is carefully prepared with top-shelf ingredients. The team behind the bar is not only skilled but passionate about creating unique, memorable drinks that keep guests coming back for more.
For those who like a little bit of variety, Empress also offers a selection of wines and beers, so whether you're meeting up with friends or enjoying a casual solo evening, you'll find something that suits your mood. And if you're feeling hungry, the menu offers a variety of small bites, including sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and light salads, which pair perfectly with their drink offerings.
What truly sets Empress Coffee & Cocktails apart is the community vibe they’ve fostered. Regulars are greeted by name, and the staff is always happy to recommend a new drink or tell you about the latest coffee blend. It's this personal touch that makes Empress a go-to spot in Gaithersburg. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the welcoming environment, and many have commented on the excellent service that always accompanies their visit. Whether it’s the barista remembering your coffee order or the bartender chatting with you about the latest seasonal drink, it’s clear that Empress takes pride in making every visit a special one.
The location of Empress Coffee & Cocktails is another highlight. Situated at 325 Main St, Gaithersburg, MD, it’s easily accessible, with plenty of parking nearby, which makes it convenient whether you’re stopping by for a quick pick-me-up or settling in for a longer stay. The café is also situated within walking distance of several shops and attractions, making it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring the area.
As for reviews, the consensus is clear: Empress Coffee & Cocktails is a local favorite, with rave reviews for its delicious drinks, friendly service, and overall atmosphere. Many guests have highlighted how the café seamlessly transitions from a morning coffee spot to a lively evening bar, offering something for every occasion. It’s easy to see why people keep coming back for more.
For those who value a great coffee experience by day and fantastic cocktails by night, Empress Coffee & Cocktails truly stands out. Whether you're visiting for the first time or you've already become a regular, the quality of drinks, the warm ambiance, and the exceptional service ensure that it’s a place worth returning to time and time again.
Good to know
From the business
âś“ Identifies as women-owned âś“ Small BusinessService options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great tea selection âś“ Live musicPopular for
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Solo dining âś“ Good for working on laptopAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entranceOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Quick bite âś“ Spirits âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ SeatingAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Gender-neutral toilets âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Quiet âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile paymentsChildren
âś“ Good for kidsParking
âś“ Free multi-storey car park âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPets
âś“ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 293 reviews
Great spot for good, really fun seasonal lattes, and absolutely excellent cocktails. Also can’t go wrong with any of the food. Croissant sandwiches are great and don’t sleep on the coffee cakes and desserts either!
Empress Coffee and Cocktails is the whimsical little hub this neighborhood needed. As a huge fan of Mackenzie-Childs, I am obsessed with the playful, elegant decor — it’s cozy, charming, and totally suits the Kentlands. The coffee is delicious and the atmosphere is perfect for slow mornings or catching up with friends. The service could be better ( warmth, attentiveness and speed) - it’s just okay now — but the vibe more than makes up for it. Overall, it’s an adorable cozy spot in our neighborhood! It would feel like a home for anyone who appreciates design, comfort, and a little bit of magic.
This is a beautiful little shop, filled with color and warmth, serving excellent coffee and accented with friendly service. While I didn't sample any food or cocktails, I trust they are made with the same quality and care as the delicious coffee I have sampled.
recently visited this little cozy coffee shop was Pleasantly surprise! Atmosphere is warm and welcoming, I passionate about their craft. They have really good drinks my best was lavashk .. definitely, I’ll come back
100% recommend this wonderful place!! Great customer service. Pizza was the best you can get in DMV. Also Lavashak martini is the best martini you can get. All the cocktail and drinks are unique. Won’t really find them anywhere else! Trust me and just try for a once, you won’t regret it! Will definitely be back Mr. Sam
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 do the same.
A cozy spot with both indoor and outdoor seating. Outside, the breeze is gentle and refreshing, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax. With delicious coffee in hand, it’s an ideal place to let your thoughts flow.