We got the pumpkin appetizer, the chef's Kabul Special Dou Piaza, and the chef's Chaynaki (soup), with the Saffron Cardamom Green Tea. The food was gass. The owner and chef told us he steams everything because frying is not natural. The meat was super soft as a result. 9/10 would come again read more

Spring Cafe - We got the pumpkin appetizer, the chef's Kabul Special Dou Piaza, and the chef's Chaynaki (soup) - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Stopped in on a whim for lunch. It's a cute little cozy spot with plants everywhere (my jam) and afghan rugs. They have a little menu with teas and afghani food. The server recommended peach tea and I was obsessed with the sugared almonds that came with ! Def must try. I had a rice dish which was tasty after I added some salt as some of the other reviews say. I would come back and try something else to eat and more of the yummy tea and almonds! read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Cozy restaurant with very friendly service! The owner accommodated our large group of 10 people without a reservation which was extremely appreciated. The mantoos (Afghan dumplings) were extremely delicious and flavorful, a highlight of the meal. We also had the eggplant, pumpkin, lamb shank platter, and dou piaza. Can't go wrong with anything on the menu, everything was so good. read more

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Amazing Afghan food! Walked in with a big group of friends and literally took over the whole place. Owner was super friendly and it felt like a little cozy hole in the wall. We tried the mantoo, hot plates, qabuli pulao, lamb shank platter, meat special platter, pumpkin, and eggplant. Delicious food and good sharing portions. At the end the owner gave us some delicious cardamom sweets that made our day. The only thing I'd say is I wish we had small plates to easily share food. And wish there was water service instead of having to buy plastic water bottles. read more

Spring Cafe - Meat special and lamb shank - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Wow, I'm so glad I discovered this place and finally gave it a try! My husband and I have pretty adventurous tastes, but we'd never had Afghan food before, so I was a bit nervous. This is a cozy little cafe with limited seating, and I think the owner runs it solo. When you walk in, you can seat yourself, and he'll bring over menus. They also offer takeout. We visited on a Thursday afternoon, and it wasn't very busy--just one other table--so we were lucky to grab a spot. The food took a little while to arrive, but it wasn't an issue since the owner seemed to be handling everything himself. He was so kind and welcoming that the wait didn't bother me at all. We ordered the Kabuli Gosht Palau with beef, and it was incredible! The dish was packed with flavor, and the beef was unbelievably tender. My husband had one of the egg dishes (I can't recall the name), and it was equally delicious--I honestly couldn't pick a favorite. The homemade dumplings were also a highlight; the delicate outer skin was perfectly steamed. The portions and prices were just right. I can't wait to return and try more items from the menu. If you're considering visiting, don't hesitate--you won't regret it! read more

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Cozy place that was open on "ghost-town Mondays." Food was delicious- we had the cauliflower and the pumpkin. The servings were rather small as we shared both along with a salad. By the time we got home we were hungry again. The flatbread was nothing to write home about but necessary to soak up the delicious soupy sauces. The saffron tea was yummy. The service was no-nonsense and for the most part we were left to our conversation. read more

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I've passed by Spring Cafe in Hamden several times but this was my first visit. When I tell you that each bite left me wanting more, I mean it. I've had the pleasure to be able to experience traditional Afghan food several times, but this was by far the best that I've had. The restaurant itself is very intimate, with less then 20 covers worth of room. But that isnt a bad thing in my book. It gives the owner a much easier time when it comes to being attentive to the guests. He checked on me several times during my stay, always asking if everything was good. Honestly when I shared my thoughts on his phenomenal food, he seemed genuinely happy from the feedback. I completely recommend this place to anyone thay wants some amazing food for a fair price, while keeping a much more laid back feeling to there dinning experience. read more

Spring Cafe - From right to left, I have the Kabul Lamb Duapiaza, Manto (5 count) with rice & some amazing Green Tea. - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This was my first time trying Afghan food, and Spring Cafe made it a memorable experience. The setup is warm and personal; you really feel like you're dining in someone's home. The owner runs the entire show, from cashier to cook to server, and that passion and hustle really shine through. The food had a comforting, spiced flavor that reminded me somewhat of Indian cuisine. While I enjoyed it, I'd say the culinary uniqueness of Afghan cuisine wasn't as distinct or bold as I had hoped. It leaned more toward familiar South Asian flavors. In that sense, I think some of the taste credibility might be a bit overhyped if you're coming in expecting something entirely new or adventurous. That said, it's still a lovely spot, especially for a casual, heartfelt meal made by someone who clearly cares. I'd recommend it if you want to explore Afghan food in a cozy, welcoming setting. read more

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First time trying this cuisine, and the owner was very gracious and answered our questions and helped us in ordering. I felt very welcomed and at home, like I came over to my uncles home for a meal. The slightly low ceiling and the plants that helped the place have a certain glow in lighting, made for a very intimate environment. Very warm and cozy all around. We had the Kabul Tohkum Karaai, Kabul Special Dou Piaza, Mantoo, kabul eggplant, and Kabul cream roll for dessert. The Kabul Special dou piaza was the meat dish, along with warm vegetables that brought some acidity and also a slight sourness at the end. It really makes for an addicting flavor that synergises well with bread or rice for it to soak up its juices. What caught me off guard was the eggplant. I had a totally different image of eggplant flavor and was unaware that it could be cooked to taste so savory and creamy. I highly recommend this spot. These are the types of restaurants that foster a warm sense of belonging. And I think that's equally as important for a restaurant, not just its taste. read more

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I stopped here passing through Baltimore and looking for some comfort food but also for something unique. I've never tried Afghan food before, but was happy to try something new! The interior of this café is very cozy and reminds me of the cafés and casual food shops I frequented all the time in college with their wall of sticky notes with messages from customers and the many different colors inside. I got the tokhum kachalo, bolani, and the saffron cardamom green tea (particularly bc I've been feeling lowkey sick and these all felt hearty but healthy)! My meal came quickly and with a free "dessert" in the form of two sweet almonds! I'm happy with my meal including the sharp taste of the green dipping sauce to go with the bolani, which I ate with pretty much everything. If i came back, I'd definitely recommend the bolani and probably try out another tea and hot plate. read more

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This is a really nice Afghan foods. It was my first time having Afghan foods so I can't judge if it's authentic. However, the foods tasted really good. I was luck to have lamp shank. The meat, rice, and side dishes (I loved the pickles) were delicious. My partner ordered a beef soup in tea pot with bread and it was good too. The balance of taste of the beef soup was great, full of flavor of beef, veg and spices. The environment was cosy too. The space was not large however the dinning places were decorated with adorable plants and memo from the customers. Overall, it was a nice restaurant if you want to try tastes of Afghan. read more

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Had a wonderful dinner expierence here this evening. We are visiting from NC & thought we would try our first authentic Afghan cuisine. It is a small space with lots of green growing plants. We did have to wait about 15 minutes before someone came out, but the food was worth the wait. Everything was delicious & the tea was soothing & calming . It seemed to be a one man operation, so be aware there may be a wait. You can leave art & notes on the wall with post it stickers. Thanks & Blessings, Pastor Michelle 866-987-7729 free 24/7 prayer line read more

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First time here and it's super cozy. Beautiful ambiance and great food Kabul Special Tokhum - egg dish that's very herby and loaded with veggies Saffron Cardamom tea was loose and pure Bolani - stuffed flatbread was great addition to my eggs and the green chutney was delicious ! The table next to me got some rice and meat dishes that looked incredible ! Definitely my next pick The owner was very kind and attentive as well. Have me details and explained what I was getting read more

Spring Cafe - Kabul Special Tokhum, bread - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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The owner helped me pick from the menu and was so kind and thoughtful throughout my time there. If that weren't enough for 5 stars, every bite and sip I had may be in my top 10 favorites I've ever had. c: read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I can't believe I've passed Spring Cafe hundreds of times but never thought to pop in. I'm glad I finally did. The cafe is lovely and vibrant inside and out.l and the owner was quiet but friendly. I ordered a little bit of everything--lamb stew, beef stuffed dumplings, air fried fries, apple/mango juice and milk, and veggie stuffed bread. It was quite tasty especially after you add salt and pepper. (I suspect that things are deliberately made mild to avoid scaring people away but that's just a hunch. ) I definitely recommend making a stop for the ambiance and people watching alone--the food is the cherry on top. Be mindful that the air fried fries take about 15 minutes. That just gives you more time to chat. read more

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My cousin and I came on Good Friday after visiting Sherwood Gardens in Guilford and we were not disappointed. She had the Kabuli Palau which consisted of basmati rice with raisins and almonds with a side of seasoned pumpkin and a small salad. I had the Kabul Tokhum Karaai which consisted of three eggs, tomatoes, ground beef, onions, peppers, and seasoning. Both dishes were accompanied by Afghan bread. The meal was delicious as well as filling. Since it was such a nice day, we sat outside. There was a small indoor dining room as well. The gentleman serving was very pleasant. read more

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Stopped in during the Christmas parade. They were very kind and had very quick service. Grabbed a hot tea to stay warm, definitely recommend this winter. They have a lot of vegetarian friendly options, looking forward to coming again. read more

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The food was delicious and the service was great we will return for another delicious meal in this quaint restauran. read more

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This is a small cafe, and a modest family operation it seems. But what they're offering is better than most restaurants, which includes a vegetarian-friendly menu that purports to put health first not through wellness fads but through traditional recipes and real food. The chickpea-based dish I ordered comes in a teapot for some reason, which is memorable but odd. A couple of slices of bread to mop up the broth appeared. My vanilla cinnamon tea delivered an appealing aroma. Their salads and baked goods looked intriguing as well. I'm not docking them for the insufferable Hopkins undergrads that frequent the place, but instead hoping that other types of people will come on over. read more

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HAMPDEN, BALTIMORE, Md. - A charming little Afghan cafe, worth a visit. Small interior of four or five tables max - while there Saturday for lunch, one customer opted to eat outside (weather wasn't bad). The three in our party ordered an array of items - a couple big chicken samosas (each softball sized, $6.50 each, packed with meat), a small order of mantoo ($8.50), side dish of seasoned stewed eggplant ($8.50) and of seasoned cooked pumpkin ($8), and an order of gosht Palau ($12.50, tasty though maybe could've stood just a bit more meat). Everything was flavorful and quick and we'd definitely return. Very much a 4.5 star experience. One beef - they give you disposable plastic cutlery, which does work well with, like, the samosas. read more

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Soooo.. I have mixed feelings. I wanna support a mom and pop store for sure and was happy to get lunch here. I got the Kabul Chaynaki which while it said it was a stew.. to me it felt more like a curry? I wish it came with rice instead of bread to sop up all that liquid. I also got the meat option but there was like 2 pieces of meat at best. I would not get this dish again personally speaking. My boyfriend really enjoyed his pulao which came with the pumpkin. The tea was nice as were the cream rolls. read more

Spring Cafe - Kabuli Pulao (vegetarian) - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Spring cafe is this unassuming restaurant that I honestly wouldn't have thought to go to if someone else hadn't suggested it, but I'm really glad I did. It has a lot of plants inside and some lights and looks really cute. The only person there (that we could see) was a somewhat older man who took our order and brought our food out. He was really kind and patient, and apparently is one half of an old retired couple that owns the restaurant - which is so cute! I think this couple deserves all the customers! The food came out relatively quickly and had simple flavors but still tasted fresh and was cooked perfectly in my opinion. I love that the restaurant is "health forward" so to speak. Also, the prices were really reasonable! I would definitely come back to Spring cafe (I still have to try their tea)! I will note that the ambiance was quiet and there's some serene-ish music playing in the background, so if you're in the mood to rage this isn't the place for that. But if you're looking for a nice calm place to eat some nice food (maybe after a yoga class or facial or something lol) then definitely check this place out! read more

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As much as I frequent the Hampden Avenue, I somehow overlooked this gem. Spring Cafe is located in a charming stand alone house with lots of beautiful wind chimes and lights hanging outside. The inside is adorable with lots of plants and beautiful decor. I placed an order online with Yelp for pickup. I ordered the cauliflower and the Bolani plus the Kabul cream roll. I went inside, rang the little bell, and a nice man came out from the back to hand me my order. This place definitely gives you that family-owned and operated vibe. The Bolani was not something I had ever had before. It was like a crepe-like pastry filled with potatoes spices, and other veggies. I felt like it could've been more generously filled but it was delicious nonetheless and came with a spicy dipping sauce. The cauliflower was pretty good as well but needed a bit of salt in my opinion. It came with a little slice of bread which was yummy! The star of the show had to be the Kabul cream roll. Crunchy, light, creamy, sugary goodness. I would come back to Spring Cafe solely for the desserts alone. The order came out to about $20. Not bad considering the amount of food - I definitely had leftovers. This might be my new fav spot to take my vegan (and non-vegan) friends to! read more

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It was my first visit and I was excited because of the good reviews! I walked in, asked to order coffee, was looked at like I was a scumbag by the guy at the counter. He straight up told me to leave because I just wanted to order a coffee... during open hours (2:30 PM)... when there was only a single other customer in the cafe...? Won't be coming back, lol read more

Spring Cafe was a pleasant surprise. They have delicious homemade Afghan food including a homemade vegetarian stew with chickpeas called Chaynaki. I also enjoyed a non-meat dish called Kabul eggplant. The owner uses recipes which are different from most Afghan places and makes everything fresh by hand. It therefore takes a few more minutes to prepare but it is worth the wait. The smoothies are better than their usual American counterparts, and I really liked a frothy yogurt drink called dogh. For dessert I had a special kind of baklava. I went back the next day with a friend and the food was just as impressive. read more

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Last night we were exploring the avenue and needed a warm cozy meal and Spring Cafe did not disappoint at all. We were only slightly hungry but the menu has so much variety that we ended up getting the Kabul Special Dou Piaza (chunks of slow cooked beef with onions, peppers, etc), Kabul Kadoo (stewed pumpkin), Kabul Tokhum Karaai (eggs, tomato, onion, peppers) and we could not finish everything because we were munching on everything in rapid alternation because it was so delicious! I remarked that if I lived nearby, I could easily see myself regularly getting lunch/dinner here. I also got a black tea and was surprised to find it comes in its own little pot, with two candied almonds. A wonderful addition to our meal, and the portion may be intimidating but exactly what I'd hope for, being an avid tea drinker. If you and your companion have different tea tastes, the personal pot is especially appreciated! The service was friendly and the food was hearty but did not make me feel lethargic or bloated, even though we were both VERY satisfied by the end. read more

Awesomely delicious food! Spices of food are the original and tastes real food. Service was great and the owner was extremely friendly and humble. read more

My boyfriend and I stopped by for a little coffee pick me up, and this place was great. Growing up in a Persian household, walking in here the smell reminded me of many afghan parties I had gone to. I got the peach tea and my boyfriend got the cinnamon coffee and they were both very yummy. I also enjoyed the rout (but I am a harsh critic because I believe my mother's homemade rout to be the best haha). The owner is very sweet and I got to talk to him in Farsi which is always pleasant. Overall great place and I look forward to coming back! read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

The food was great! The owner explained how he brought food recipes from Afghanistan. Two of us shared the Kabuli Gosht Palau with Kabul eggplant. We also had the pumpkin called Kabul Kaddo that comes with bread. The flavors and freshness of the food are what stand out to me. We also enjoyed the Shugufa (means flower bud in Arabic) tea. It's a whole pot of tea with a flower in it. It had a subtle flavor and aromatic smell. We ended with an order of Baklava. Everything tastes like it's from someone's home and unlike anything I've had in a restaurant. The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. The restaurant, though, is small. Make a reservation so you are sure to be seated. The restaurant seems to do a lot of takeout. The business also displays beautiful rugs for sale that adds to the feel of Afghanistan. For me, the experience of eating the food and drinking the tea in this sweet place was calm and comforting. read more

This was my first time having Afghan food, and found this little gem while on a work trip. I was greeted by a very kind, elderly man and the food was brought out pretty promptly. Really enjoyed the Kabul special dou piaza and the mango, banana with milk fruit drink I ordered. Also loved all the plants surrounding the place. Would definitely return on another trip to Baltimore. read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Food was delicious, made with tender loving care. We came from DC just for a tasty meal. The restaurant is small but intimate, with greenery everywhere and hand maid Afghanistan rugs for sale inside. read more

Spring Cafe - Hamada, the owner behind the counter - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Something New: To bookend a different place's unfavorable review of mine (Something Old and Blue) and to fight against what a couple dining at yet a third established restaurant defined as seeing a place a few times, yet passing it by repeatedly before finally stopping in--I give you Spring Cafe. I passed it by on only it's second or third day open thinking I'd check it out another time. Except that on the way back from Nori (trust me, don't read my sad review of Something Old and Blue), I wanted some tea and dessert. This time I went in and found a menu of Afghan treats, including teas, coffee, desserts and food, run by a father and son. I was going to take my green tea and cream rolls (they come in two's, I ate it in one--mouth, that is) to-go, but something in the way the very young man and his father asked at the same time, made me stay. And so, sitting outside at one of several slatted tables with flowers under a by now typical sight--a swing canopy--I was treated to an actual ceramic pot and cup of green tea and cream rolls. Note:! I was so taken with the amiable owners and this new café in a quaint old spot that's housed at least two failed businesses and two successful ones still nearby (Eye Candy and Daniela's), that I went by the next day before they were closing (Hours are 10-10) for more cream rolls and some chocolate and plain baklava. Let me repeat: Don't just walk by a new or old business over and over. Stop in, look at the menu, ask questions, get acquainted! Then sit down and eat and drink. The only thing you should always do repeatedly when you've tried a place once is to go back again and again! read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

What a pleasant dining experience. I came in alone and got an order of mantoo and kadoo. Both phenomenal. Ebadi was so welcoming and the food came out hot and quick. Left here with an awesome pillowcase too - brought over by friends from Afghanistan. 10/10 read more

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delicious food and cozy ambience. Kind and Friendly staff and good prices for our meal. Love the plants all throughout the space and we enjoyed all of our dishes (cauliflower, Kabul Kaddoo, and Bolani) and the lychee tea was delicious. Will definitely be back! read more

delicious dishes. Very healthy. Homemade flavor and stylish decor. Very friendly and welcome.

Food **** Service **** Ambiance *** Amongst the various shops in an LGBTQ friendly area, this international restaurant specializes in Afghanistan cruisine. I ordered two items, tea and a desert. The vegetable dish (bottom) was nicely seasoned and came paired well with the rice. The bread came with the vegetables & the beef dumplings (top) were sooooo good. They have a nice variety of teas (hot or cold), which didn't make it in the picture. Very hospitable and attentive Nice atmosphere, though some lights were missing bulbs. Can be either quiet or with music. The music started about the end of my meal and was equally enjoyable to the quieter initial experience. Actually, dederving of a 3.5 rating (if half stars existed). read more

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This place is so amazing the plants to the service. If your ever in Hampton and you want a quick bite or a full meal I would recommend the spring café read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Amazing food and great service. Magical & tasty. A green book & oasis from the city. Old school. read more

Spring Cafe - Mai Trinh & Quest Skinner - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Fantastic food and cute little place in the heart of Hampden. Spring Cafe is run by only 3 people (an older married couple who are both retired physicians and their son or daughter - don't remember which) so it's truly a small family business. I had the savory pumpkin dish which was unlike anything I've ever had before. Not too sweet, not salty, but loads of interesting and unique flavor. My friend I was with had the Qorma and I tried a bit of it and the spices were totally different, definitely unique to each dish. The food is so healthy but still incredibly good, that's the whole premise of the owner's philosophy being retired physicians. I definitely plan to come back here and try some other dishes. Clearly their food is of the highest quality and very well-thought out and this is the type of local small business that makes this area and city thrive in such a unique way. read more

Spring Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Amazing feeling inside with so many delicious treats to try. I felt right at home and the service, divine.