Spot Coffee is rapidly becoming the Starbucks of Buffalo. The staff is friendly, the food good, and the coffee far better than most places. Spot coffee has a nice blend of people, and an atmosphere that's nice to sit and work at, or to bring friends to before the bars. The people on Elmwood are diverse and interesting, and it makes for good people watching. Having Spot Coffee in the neighborhood is one of the perks of living in this area of the city. read more

My review will be short...I don't drink coffee so I rarely visit Spot. Their snacks are great and from what I'm told so is their coffee. Lots of space to sit and I believe free Wifi. But I'm giving 5 stars simply because the other night I had their pizza. Yes...Spot Coffee makes pizza and its pricey, but wow was it good! I was shocked, but I will definitely make a repeat visit to get this pizza, it's lights thin, and medium size but very good nonetheless. read more

They always take too long. Coffee always seems burnt, rude staff... over rated. Ill take tims anyday.

I used to love this location. The food's great and the employees were friendly; however, the last few times I went, I placed my order with an employee named Chris (spiky faux-hawk hair, tattoos), and I've never had somebody be so rude to me in my entire life FOR NO REASON-- I literally simply ordered my food, didn't ask annoying questions or say anything rude myself (I never would, I consider myself to be a nice, polite person). However, he rolled his eyes at me the entire time, wouldn't make eye contact, acted angry that I didn't tip him (why in the world would I tip somebody with no manners whatsoever?). Nothing too bad but certainly not the most pleasant, comfortable experience. But the last time I went in with a couple friends, I had an unbelievably terrible experience. My friend ordered first and as she walked away, she told him to "have a nice day", which he responded by death glaring her the entire time she walked away, then rolled his eyes, said "whatever" in a nasty tone, then proceeded to glare at me, hostile and angry. In disbelief, I asked, "What did you say?" and he then told ME that I needed to "calm down" (I was definitely the calmer of the us by this point) and that he will say whatever he wants. Shocked, I went straight to the counter and asked to speak to the manager. The shift manager asked me what was wrong and I explained to her that the cashier had been so incredibly rude to me and my friends. She apologized and tried to tell me that he was having a "bad day", which I told her I understood but unfortunately it was not the first time he's been rude to me. She told me to come back in the morning to speak to the manager. I really do understand if somebody is having a bad day; however, that is no excuse whatsoever to speak to a customer the way he did. I work in customer service and if I EVER spoke to somebody the way he did, I would be fired. ATROCIOUS! read more

This is a go-to spot for meeting and hanging out in this neighborhood. The food is okay and the staff is nice. I think it is overpriced though and the coffee is not always good. I guess it may be because I order decaf. I appreciate the free wifi. I wish they wouldn't burn the bagels. read more

I was told Spot was a Buffalo staple that I had to try so I went with a friend for lunch. I ordered the grilled cheese on focaccia and a chai latte. The chai was pretty good and the grilled cheese wasn't. It wasn't anything special and by the time I got around to eating it, the bread was already cold and there was A LOT of it. WAY too much bread for my liking and I had to peel some of it off. It was served with a simple green salad which was OK. The service was only so-so. Not overly impressed at all. read more

Outstanding coffee and one of the best things going about being in Buffalo. I wish they had them in Miami.

I used to study here daily when I was in school. The food is great, my favorites are: the grilled cheese, the hummus wrap, the pizzas and I always get my sandwiches with the side of greens because the dressing is delicious. The veggie burgers are pretty good too. It can get a little loud - I come prepared with ear plugs and headphones. It is also a great place to meet up with people and chat. The baristas get to know you if you are here often enough. A very relaxed feel. read more

Wrote a good chunk of my Masters thesis here, and now that I'm back in town its as awesome as ever. The baristas are really personable and even remembered me after three years away. read more

Not bad...not great. Unique space but the coffee falls short. I wanted it to be great but the lukewarm standard latte was a little ho hum. I would try it again while passing by but I'm not rushing back for my morning fix anytime soon. read more

I never have any complaints walking out of Spot. It's an standard to city living and the generally deliver to expectations.

Came back to Buffalo for a visit. Liked it 2 years ago and wondering what happened? Harsh coffee and omelette dry as a bone. Croissant was about the only thing they got right. read more

When I was studying at UB and didn't have a car, it took a great effort to get to the Elmwood branch of Spot Coffee. But everytime I got there, it was well worth the trip. Spot, particularly on Elmwood, has to be the best mix of cozy atmosphere, hip and chill crowd, as well as great coffee I've experienced in my short life in the United States. After being to New York, DC, Philly, and several other cities, nothing quite compares. I could spend the entire day just sitting around here without becoming bored. The barristas are quirky and make the entire experience alll the more enjoyable. Friday afternoons can be quite a hassle though as this is the coffee shop of choice for high school kids getting off for the weekend. I also love the outdoor patio! People watching on a Buffalo winter day, sipping on your hot Mocha? No problem! read more

Wish I could vote 5 stars, but the service disappoints me every time. Food and coffee are delish, but when it consistently takes over 15 minutes for my drink I can knock off two stars. I've been there in the early morning, the first or second customer, or in the afternoon or evening, doesn't matter, I still wait. The last time I was there I made sure to order my food ahead of time, then order my coffee when I arrived as they don't allow you to order hot drinks over the phone. So, I did as they said, and ordered my drinks. Too bad they took my food up to the cashier instead of yelling it out loud as they usually do. 3 different employees, the cashier, the barista, the person at the end who yells out your order, all knew b/c I had asked them where my food was, did not think to tell me my food was up front. I think they need some more brain cells and common sense to make Spot more efficient. So, now I go to Starbucks, the global giant, instead of my local coffee shop. They are always friendly and fast. And if they make a mistake, they are willing to admit it and will even give you a free coffee for your next visit. I mean it's not like a black coffee is any more than $1.25, but the gesture counts. read more

I have always disliked it here. My experiences here pretty much comprise all of what can be wrong with a coffee shop. If you want to have a mediocre experience and you don't want to hang out with people like me that have opinions about things, please come here. read more

Prices are a little above average, not much of a vegan selection of food. the floors are old and dirty maybe mop nightly and refinish hardwood would be nice. Great outdoors patio, staff was nice, busy place in artsy Elmwood neighborhood. read more

As a general rule, I rank one criteria far above all others when I rate a coffeeshop, and I say as much to start. The requirement, first and foremost, is the coffee. I don't care if the food is great, or the ambiance is awesome, or if this is where I went all the time as a kid, that is my sole principle qualifier is a cup of black coffee, and sometimes the espresso. So, now that I'm Yelping, I felt as if I had to reevaluate my memory and run this simple test. I, to my surprise, was impressed. Maybe because since moving out of Buffalo, the trendy thing seems to roast beans lighter, and pack as many floral notes into the brew as possible. This is something I'm not a fan of, and I've even considered Starbucks coffee to be superior. Spot's had the flavors of a rich roast, without the heavy acid/sour taste that typically follows heavy roasting. There were flavors which I didn't notice before, playing subtly on my tongue after I took my sip. And so, in that wake, I feel comfortable with bringing in past experience. I'm a fan of their hot chocolate, mochas, and memorably their Red Eye. I'm a big fan of their baked goods and their sandwiches, but if there is one thing I do feel like I have to mention, it's the outside of the plain old excellent house coffee you have to shell out decent bit for quality. If shelling out $10 for a fancy drink and a pasty isn't your cup of....whatever you had them brew, be forewarned. read more

Had the chicken pesto panini. Free wifi till 12 midnight. Both food and wifi is great.

Heard this was the place to go for good coffee. Waited a long time for a regular cup of coffee. When I finally got it, the girl behind the counter seemed very put out when plopping it down. The coffee was ok but I will never be back. read more

It's near my apartment so I frequent it. The coffee is okay. They do not do pour overs or French press, which is my go-to in coffee preferences since I prefer my coffee black. The house coffee is okay. I enjoy the staff and this is fun place. If you're a coffee connoisseur then don't expect much. I give it 3 stars just because their selection isn't that expansive on the coffee side of the business. read more

Very friendly here! Quality food , always great coffee!! & it's on Elmwood how can you go wrong.

Used to go here a few times a week when I lived a block away. My son loved the shakes they make, which are really good. The coffee was always very good. I had the pizza more than a few times and it was always excellent. I go back every so often, and it's still good. read more

The coffee and food is good, but the manager who works the counter needs to lose the attitude. I've worked in the industry for years and this guy has the conceded attitude of a barista from Portlandia. If the guys that work here hate interacting with customers then find a different job. It is seriously so unpleasant to interact with you. read more

Love this place when I'm in my old hometown I ALWAYS go to spot, drive past every Timmy's and Starbux to get there. The only place with any real " local" flavor. Only thing I would recommend, is more of a healthy selection for the lunch crowd, like a fresh juice bar/menu. Great vibe, great coffee! read more

Ryan, with the awesome bills hat and enviable beard, makes the BEST cinco shakes. Kid tested, mother approved.

Definitely the best cup of coffee in the city. The atmosphere has a cool, urban feel and it's great for people watching. If you are looking for a cheap cup of coffee this is probably not the place for you but if you like good coffee, good service, and a cool atmosphere it's just the place you are looking for! read more

Was feeling pretty crappy this morning until I stopped into spot for a latte and a breakfast sandwich. Jesse W and Sara B totally changed my morning around. These two were so sweet and friendly that I'm having a much better day! Thank you so much for the quick service and the fancy latte art! Y'all deserve a raise or promotion! read more

If you're looking for coffee while taking a stroll down Elmwood, then look no further than Spot Coffee. By far the best coffee in town and the coziest! Unlike that feel you get from a chain coffee shop, you get people that would like to get to know you as regulars. The staff treat you like they've known you for years! Cheers! read more

The most popular coffee shop in Buffalo is always bustling. Free wi-fi and plenty of tables/booths/outlet plugs makes it a nice place to study on the Elmwood strip. The baristas and workers have plenty of personality often yelling out your order in funny voices. My only complaint is that the lighting is really dim in spots so once nighttime hits, it's difficult to get much reading done. That and this place could use some AC in the summertime. read more

A great place to hang out, surf the net and people watch over a great cup of coffee! Entertaining, energetic baristas and walls of windows with some funky seating (and often dirty tables). It's loud and not for everyone but I love it and will take it over the cookie cutter Starbucks down the street any day! read more

Great coffee...love the interior design...lots of space for big groups or just by yourself

great staff and open late. Good location and lots of space. Came here at night so not sure about others experience during the day.

For an early morning cup, great place to go and easy to park. Excellent coffee options. They have fresh baked goods, including donuts from Paula's. The Mike sandwich is huge and delicious. Once the other shops on Elmwood open, parking is an issue. You can find something nearby, but that may require a walk. In the right weather that can be a plus, since one of the reasons to go here is the vibe on Elmwood, including window shopping and people watching. If you are used to the suburban sparkle of coffee shops, this is going to feel different. Definitely not as clean as a suburban location might be. In the nicer weather, the two patios are killer spots to hang. read more

Spot has some highs and some lows for me. First, the atmosphere is really neat. It's very trendy, with a ceiling that makes if feel like a small converted factory. The food and coffee we ordered was good and off-street parking on that crazy busy road was a relief too. However, not all was dandy. The chaos of the crowd there took half the fun out of it. Perhaps come on a Tuesday mid-morning? Saturday was poor timing. I had a mocha shake, which was a letdown for the price. The cinnamon bun was fine, but I would've rather just had one from a grocery store bakery honestly. The excessive flakiness didn't win it any favors. read more

Living in the Elmwood Village has its perks. Like Spot. When they expanded the Elmwood location I wasn't sure what they would do with all that space. I figured it would be an empty epic fail. I was wrong. The place is always busy. College kids, doctors on call, stay at home mom ladies, old men in cabby hats, you know the scene - an eclectic crowd of all types drinking coffee, playing on computers, reading, people watching (like me). The coffee is decent. I just wish it was roasted locally. Most barristas serve up a good cappuccino or latte as well. I will say that the deserts (suck) aren't the greatest. They always seem a day old to me. The come from various spots (no pun) in the city so I cannot lay blame on one place; that's where the day old theory comes in. But if you steer clear of the deserts you cant really go wrong - the soups are good and served hot with multigrain bread. The sandwiches are fresh and good and served with choice of chips or greens, the bagels are probably the best you will find in Buffalo, and the flatbread pizzas serve as a refreshing change from typical thick saucy "Buffalo pizza". Now for the bad news: They are saaah-llloowwwww. My old standby of a split (that's a "half caf" for you Buffalonians) skinny latte and an everything bagel with veggie cream cheese and tomato (Did I mention the cream cheeses are house made and awesome?) takes like 10 minutes to produce. If you are in a hurry - this is not the place. I do however take call ahead orders. And luckily there is lots to read and watch while you wait. read more

Delicious coffee down the street from your hotel is always a win. I went here twice during my quick stint in buffalo and had a really good iced latte and iced tea. The vibe is very Vermont coffee shop but I dig it. The staff was super friendly both times I came in. read more

I'm going to hate here for a minute - while I love the decor and locale of this location, particularly the older portion, I've never found the service or the food as good here as it is in their Delaware location. My orders frequently get screwed up or take forever to come out, many of the cashiers are indifferent or just rude (unless they know you, then they'll talk to you for 20 minutes while everyone else standsd in line waiting) and they have some serious I'm-awesome-because-I-work-at-a-hipster-establishment types (baristas, along with tattoo and comic book shop owners, often take themselves WAY too seriously simply because their jobs are related to counter-culture). read more

Pretty decent coffee. Food is solid too. I especially like the Mikes Breakfast Sandwich. I'd recommend bringing a good book, or your laptop, seeing as they have free wifi. Also bring your safari outfit, as you may need to blend in, and potentially escape from predators. One such predator went by the name Eric Starchild, and tried to sell me a necklace made from some rocks from Saturn or mars or some shit. Also, beware the boulder on the couch, as it may be Sylvester, aka Sly. Buy sly a coffee, and he'll protect you for years to come. All in all, great location, with a great staff. read more

I have to write a review for spot, but nearly everything about it that could be said has been said already. it's a staple of the Elmwood strip, a great place to hangout and do homework, or go for coffee with friends. Vast outdoor patio space, and always busy and full of life. critiques: not enough chairs/couches at the Elmwood spot. new world records was a great companion to the Elwmood spot and will be missed. It's a great place to go, and it's Buffalo's premier coffee house. read more

Great coffee and snacks... HORRIBLE WI-Fi. they shouldn't even bother, it's a frustrating pump fake.