Public Espresso

448 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, United States
+1 716-235-8202
$$$ Cafe
(62 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Step into Public Espresso, a charming cafe nestled at 448 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY, where the aroma of expertly brewed coffee dances in the air and invites you to experience your favorite daily ritual. This community gem is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a haven where locals and visitors alike come to savor each moment, whether it’s a peaceful morning or a lively afternoon.

Upon entering, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, decorated with a modern yet cozy aesthetic featuring earthy tones and ample natural light. The friendly and efficient staff go above and beyond to ensure that every visit is a memorable one, adding to the charm that Public Espresso has quickly become known for.

The menu is a delightful blend of breakfast and lunch offerings that cater to both the traditionalist and the adventurous eater. Start your day with their Red Eye Breakfast Sandwich, featuring espresso-glazed ham and a touch of sweet and spicy horseradish mustard, a favorite among patrons like Stephen Goralski. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Loaded Avocado Toast is worth every bite, providing a burst of creamy goodness that elevates your coffee pairing.

Breakfast doesn’t get more authentic than their Bagel & Lox or the heartier Breakfast Burrito, both crafted to perfection. Customers rave about the Sausage, Egg & Cheese on a toasted sesame bagel—a match made in heaven for any morning—or midday snack. For lunch, treat yourself to the standout Cuban sandwich or the nutritious Sweet Potato Hash Bowl, designed to satisfy your appetite while delighting your taste buds.

No visit is complete without indulging in their heavenly selection of donuts, described by Amanda B as “worth every penny.” Whether you opt for a classic or something more adventurous, you'll find yourself coming back time and time again for these sweet creations.

Customer enthusiasm is palpable, with Bernadette Dupre expressing that it has become her neighborhood coffee shop, a peaceful retreat with excellent coffee. It’s clear that Public Espresso has carved out a special place in the hearts of Buffalo residents, serving as a gathering spot for college students, professionals, and families alike.

Though the cafe may have its quirks, such as the occasional lack of ventilation, as mentioned by Mackenzie Shuman, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience. The quality of the coffee—which many claim is some of the best in Buffalo—paired with the café’s inviting ambiance, truly makes Public Espresso a must-visit for anyone in the area.

So whether you’re looking to fuel up for the day, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a cup of rich coffee in a comfortable setting, look no further than Public Espresso. With its superb menu and vibrant atmosphere, it promises not just great food and drinks but a sense of community that keeps you coming back for more.

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Payments
Credit cards
Parking
Parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

62 Reviews
Bernadette Dupre

24 Aug 2025

This is our neighborhood coffee shop. We go there about three times a week. It is a peaceful break with excellent coffee. My favorite food there is a toasted sesame bagel with veggie cream cheese although many people come just for the donuts.

Mackenzie Shuman

16 Aug 2025

Definitely a great addition to Elmwood! I personally always order their honey iced coffee (never bad, always perfectly sweet) but their lattes are also wonderful! Food is stellar, a staple is the red eye breakfast sandwich. The loaded avocado toast is super yummy too! Only problem with this location is the lack of ventilation. If they burn something in the kitchen, the whole place gets smokey. On hot days, it’s hot in there!

Stephen Goralski

04 Jul 2025

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 every time I go.

Liz DeWaters

02 Jul 2025

Best americano I’ve had in buffalo. The doughnut and breakfast sandwich paired perfectly with it, that sausage is real good. Bought some revolution beans for pour over, equally as delicious and roasted perfectly. The cafe was warm and cozy, AM sunshine coming through the windows is what everyone needs. Thank you also for the very friendly and efficient service. I’ll be back.

Amanda B

30 Jun 2025

I went for a cup of coffee this morning, but decided to get a cappuccino with a shot of vanilla. It was delicious, the atmosphere was a vibe and the music a good too. The doughnuts are amazing, we got a 1/2 dozen and it was $19.58. I must say they are worth every penny.

Fern Lovebond

13 Jun 2025

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 take a friend.

Heather Marx

08 Jun 2025

We had the Sausage egg and cheese on a sesame bagel and coffee, both were fantastic will def go again

Audrey Benz

06 Jun 2025

Everything is always delicious and the staff are friendly. A good place to bring a client for coffee, work on your laptop, or grab lunch with your friends. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of ingredients certainly makes up for it. I buy my coffee beans from here as well and the result is delicious.

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