Empress Coffee & Cocktails: A Charming Retreat in Gaithersburg

Super cute coffee spot that offers spiked options. Stopped in on a whim and was not disappointed. Had an espresso martini and a lemonade slushee to go. Staff was very welcoming and the ambiance was nice. Would definitely recommend if you want to get away from the more commercialized options

Great food & drinks!! The lava shak martini is very impressive! Never had anything like it. From the moment you walk in, you feel welcomed..not just by the cozy atmosphere and great vibes, but by the owner himself. He was very professional and nice. It was a great experience and totally worth the drive!! Highly recommended.

Lovely coffee and pastries for the morning, delicious fresh fare for lunch with a variety of coffee drinks as well as fruity ones. They also serve some lovely looking cocktails. Gaithersburg is fortunate to have this gem tucked away in lovely Kentlands next to the downtown Pavilion!

First time here and it was such a cute little spot. The drinks were very refreshing and tasty. There is outdoor seating and we tried that before going back inside since it was quite hot. Would definitely come back again to try their coffee and food.

This place is such a cute little coffee shop in the Kentlands of Gaithersburg, with a special offering you don’t see every day—Persian pizza (پیتزا مخلوط, meaning "mixed pizza"). I absolutely loved it and would definitely come back again! A few helpful tips: The Persian pizza is only available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It’s not vegetarian and comes in a large size—perfect for sharing between two people. It takes about 20–25 minutes to prepare, so plan for a bit of a wait (totally worth it!). The staff were super friendly and accommodating, and I genuinely felt at home there. The interior is cozy and charming, though I think they could benefit from working with a TI architect to better utilize the space. One small suggestion: it would be great if they installed a door closer hinge to keep the door shut during colder months. That said, I have to highlight their saffron honey latte—it was absolutely incredible! Overall, this is a lovely local gem with great vibes, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I can’t wait to go back!

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.

This cafe is by far one of my favorite places to go. Especially during summer, they have the most amazing slushy & specialty lattes to die for. Not to mention the space is so beautiful and perfect for content creation. Check it out.

Little gem I found in Kentland’s, Maryland. Feeling welcomed by staff, nostalgic tastes along with modern vibes. Must try their selections of cocktails, each handcrafted with amazing taste and presentation. Shiraz sunset was my favorite with its refreshing and cool taste brining back childhood scents. Persian pizza ( if you Persian you know it) but it’s another must try… it’s like no other pizza you have had. Go for their amazing coffee and fresh pastry or couple of cocktails and pizza….. this is the place to feel at home and enjoy your day