Black Lion Cafe

I have passed through Silver Spring so much without realizing this little hidden gem is here. An Ethiopian friend introduced me to this place one Saturday afternoon. And I will be keeping it on my list to drop in every once in a while. Now, keep in mind I'm NOT a coffee drinker. So I cannot speak to the quality of their brews personally. (All I know is that there's a big map on the wall with information about the source of all the blends -- and you can choose the coffee you want based on the region it's grown in. But again, I can't tell you how any of that actually tastes.) But as far as aesthetics go, this place has a great vibe. It's spacious, clean, and comfortable -- and it feels way more upscale and upbeat than SBUX does. It seems like a place where a lot in the Ethiopian community go to socialize rather than simply sit with a laptop and headphones (though you can certainly do that here, too, if you wish).They have a tantalizing menu and a full kitchen on site. But I was unable to try any of their salads or sandwiches because the kitchen had already closed (at like 4 pm on a Saturday?!?!), even though that's not posted anywhere. So I ended up choosing a pastry (almond croissant) from their bakery case and--let me just tell you--it was DIVINE! So, so, so, so, SOOOOO good! Quite possibly the best one I've ever had in the city. I'll definitely be back to get another one and, hopefully this time, try out some of the actual food.

I finally had time and was in the area to check out Black Lion. The space itself is quite inviting and there are ample places to sit. The low music also set up a great environment that had me thinking I would like to work from here from time to time. The space smells great. At the front they have a self serve type of operation when it comes to their pastries and you tell them what you grabbed at the POS systems where you can also tell them what else you would like. The iced latte was very good and I had a cinnamon swirl pastry. I do wish they had some icing on them though, but that's merely a personal preference. I will be back.

I love their iced caramel macchiato! It does get busy in the afternoon, but it's the best place to have breakfast, enjoy coffee, and study. The morning study section is especially great. With good coffee, reliable Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for students.

Seeking an early morning bite on Thanksgiving in Silver Spring is not as easy as it once was, so I'm super grateful to this place for being open, having such pleasant staff, and yummy food! It's a cafe so you stand on line, order your stuff, they call you up to claim it. No frills, but a great bite. I'm not sure when my travels will bring me back this way, but thank you Black Lion Cafe for contributing so positively to my Thanksgiving!

Top tier coffee on the level of Dua or Vigilante! Incredible roast, work friendly seating, and meter parking outside. Service is a little off but the coffee overshadows that!

This is one of my favorite places in silver spring. If you love a great cafe!! This is the go to!! Everything tastes top tier!!

Loved the vibes and my chai latte. Great spot to come work as well. There's plenty of seating and sunshine to feel the zen while sipping on a beverage. They have breakfast and pastries as well. I'm excited to try a breakfast sandwich next time.

Many desserts options. Drinks tend to be on the sweet side. Service was fast on a Sunday afternoon though the place is full. Love the book shelf stocked with books but didn't get a chance to check them out. Most people were quietly reading so it's not too loud (except us...)

Great coffee shop for a treat and working breakfast. Be aware they don't take cash here so bring your card. The lattes are lovely and they service is great too. They have a large selection of breakfast pastries to chose from and you can serve yourself. The place is beautifully decorated with plants and wood and leather seating.

Black Lion Cafe might be one of my favorite cafes. I love the greenery that is prevalent throughout the entire cafe. It's bright and is located in the heart of Silver Spring.The iced macchiato was amazing as it was made with Ethiopian coffee beans.The service was not the best. Wasn't created and the person wasn't really warm, but I understand this doesn't happen everyday.There is a lot of space to bring your laptop and work with a great view. Parking can be a bit difficult, but if you go early, you can snag some street parking.Overall I'd give it an 8/10 and will be back again.It's also black owned