Spro Coffee
851 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD, 21211
Spro Coffee Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Baltimore for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
851 W 36th St
Baltimore, MD, 21211 - Phone (410) 243-1262
- Website https://www.sprocoffee.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 6:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Hipster
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Good for Working : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Yasmin M.
Perhaps ordering a Vietnamese coffee in a coffee shop labeled progressive American is my own lapse in judgement and I have no one to blame but myself. But given the prices and the specialty slant, I thought they could deliver on a decent Vietnamese coffee. I inquired if their Vietnamese coffee was really Vietnamese and the guy said,"Yes, we use a ton of sweetened condensed milk and brew it in a little filter." So I proceeded and requested less condensed milk because I prefer a less sweet coffee. What I got was a 12 oz (maybe 16?) glass of lightly coffee flavored dish water. It reminded me of drinking a Dunkin Donuts iced coffee made with skim milk that has been in the car all day. Not only does this not approximate any coffee that I had in Vietnam, it doesn't even approximate a Vietnamese coffee in a US Vietnamese restaurant.. How do you get a full glass from 3-4 oz of brewed coffee with a half ounce of condensed milk? Either water was added or the ice was so melted before the coffee was added that it yielded a full glass. A good Vietnamese coffee (even when iced and with sweetened condensed milk) has a an intense but well rounded rich coffee flavor and lots of body (mouth feel is one of the reasons that I love it). It also maintains a rich color because there should be nothing watered down about it. My drink looked like water with some milk. I ended up leaving it on the table because one, it was that bad (I'm still wondering if the guy brewed it too fast so the coffee was mostly water or if he just filled the glass with water after the coffee was added ) and two, it was that bad, I am willing to pay $4 for a coffee so I don't have a Dunkin Donuts Iced Skinny coffee forced upon me. A huge waste of $4. There was a line of people so I didn't even bother to exchange or refund. This is what Vietnamese iced coffee should look like and how it should be served.http://www.trung-nguyen-online.com/Âvietnamese-iced-coffee.html
(1)Jo B.
Good, solid craft coffee done the right way. The only one I have found so far in Baltimore.
(5)Jon M.
Best brewed coffee in Baltimore for me. They brew and serve in a way I have rarely seen on the east coast. There is no batch brewing done here. They make each cup as an artisan making a work of art. I wished I lived in the neighborhood because I would drink there everyday. Usually, they have a lot of exotic blends, make sure you ask before ordering so that they have what you want. The staff is laid back and they really have a west coast attitude to customer service, meaning they are friendly and knowledgable.
(5)taryn w.
This place is trying to be really upper crust, with all their gadgetry and supposed craftsmanship. We are making coffee here people, so the snobby refusals to allow customers to measure their own milk and sugar are not ridiculous but the first thing people mention when admitting their disappointment with this could-have-should-have-been-a-fave cafe. Spro has gone downhill fast, too bad as we all love a local coffee spot and I especially seek out a good cold brew. Theirs isn't bad, but I want it the way I like it and every time I leave I am annoyed and find myself thinking that they should forget trying to be the Intelligentsia/ Stumptown/ Blue Bottle of Baltimore and focus on keeping the line moving, the flies out of the pastry displays and training their staff to be nicer and more accommodating to customers. Sorry Srpo!
(1)Samantha D.
love. love. love. this place. i went here on a saturday afternoon on my way home to philly. later that evening, i was having dinner with a friend who talked about kids in her class asking her why white people like coffee shops so much? and she explained that while the phenomenon is unclear, their assessment is definitely true - white people do love coffee and its shops. i have to say this place could have its own page in the book, cause its the epitome of a great coffee shop. small, friendly, high-quality beans, and great simple decor. their americano was really top ten i've had (and i have about 1-2/day, so i think that comes with some credibility). my friend got their honey macchiato. amazing. totally amazing. loved spro.
(5)Brian S.
If you like coffee.. scratch that... If you sometimes like to take your coffee very seriously, this is the place for you. Great selection of delicious coffees and a variety of brewing methods. Though I've become a fan of a few of the offerings I always like to ask the barista to pick their favorite and to brew it using their favorite method. I've yet to be disappointed. They also pull the best espresso shots in Baltimore.
(4)Sam B.
That this place hasn't gotten more attention is impressive. It is small, and they don't have a roaster, but their quality and selection is on par with Intelligentsia, Blue Bottle or Gimme; in short, some of the best espresso for sale anywhere.
(5)Iris G.
There isn't much to say about this place except it is amazing. The best cup of coffee I have ever had. Love it!
(5)jack m.
I first had the good fortune to stumble upon the 'Spro outpost at the Towson public library in 2005 or so and was completely wowed - returning time and again for Jay's perfectly prepared coffee, honey macchiatos, etc. The Hampden location is fantastic - we have since left Baltimore but have returned from DC and Annapolis to visit. Spro is more than worth the drive. Jay is a wonderful guy, incredibly knowledgeable about his craft. I can't wait to return soon - wish I lived closer.
(5)don q.
I've been a fan of Jay's since visiting his Towson library outpost 5 years ago. Simply the best barrista in the region. Also - he's a really nice and interesting guy. 'Spro is gem. Do not miss this place if you are a coffee lover.
(5)jon B.
A small cafe that takes pride in their work. The "best" machhiato I have had in Baltimore so far!
(5)Chris T.
The list of places in baltimore with half-decent coffee is very short; the list of places with really kick-ass coffee is practically non-existant. So it was a very pleasant surprise to find spro. The coffee was outstanding! My latte was delicious, and clearly made by someone who understands not only espresso, but also how to deal with milk correctly. It was good enough that next time I'll try the espresso, which has less room for error. I agree with another review; the quality is on a level with intelligentsia in chicago, or blue bottle and verve in the san francisco/santa cruz areas. They have a little ways to go in terms of presentation, but taste is great. Be warned, the place is *tiny*. There is only room for 4 2-person tables, so when they gain some notoriety, it'll be hard to find a place to sit. The barrista I spoke to said they've only been open in hampden about 4 months. They have pretty limited food options; a couple of croissants and that about it, but on the avenue there is plenty of choice, and I'm pleased they've chosen to focus on the espresso. I'll certainly be returning regularly!
(5)Annie P.
Delicious coffee and great place to relax with a book. A little spendy, but worth the money. Best coffee in Baltimore
(4)Kevin B.
Quality progressive coffee. Knowledgable staff. I stop in every time I make it to Hampden.
(4)Tina G.
This morning I had a nail appointment and wanted to grab a non-chain cup of coffee prior to my appointment so I stopped at Spro. I was a little overwhelmed by the very detailed menu, but was able to simply ask for a cup of coffee after glancing over it. The coffee was fresh and not acidic, very good. I also appreciated that it was brewed to order. It wasn't sitting in a carafe or anything waiting to be poured, I got a fresh cup of coffee. You cannot beat such service. There was a small amount of baked goods for sale but I had used all my cash on the coffee and was trying to keep within the money I had on hand. They do take care however and I do want to stop by another day to try an item on the menu.
(4)Danielle S.
Spro has been consistently one of my go-to coffee shops in the area. I am a big latte fan, and theirs are one of the best I've had. I don't really get the pastries much (if you do, definitely ask to get it warmed up) but the coffee is completely worth a trip. On the weekends it can get pretty busy so I'd suggest getting to go, but during the weekday I've usually been able to sit and get some work done. There's no wifi (if you have xfinity it is available here though!). Theres tons of free parking if you're willing to walk a bit (down the side streets).
(5)Ann K.
Spro is a cute and small coffee joint located in the heart of Hampden and I love coming here to catch up with a few friends or to just sit and do some reading/work. They have lots of good drink choices, although I can never remember what I had the last time I was there. The pastries I've tried are also delish (can't remember which one it was either). I think they change seasonally or every few days. The girl who usually works the register is really nice and never makes you feel bad about asking how the coffee is prepared, etc. but I wish they had more than one place to order since the line can get long and you feel self conscious ordering when there are a ton of people waiting behind you. The whole process is a little inefficient with one person usually taking all the orders and then turning around to make your coffee, but if you're not in a hurry don't fret! It's nothing fancy, but I like the minimalistic designs and cozy areas. Don't forget to feed the meter on time though, because I ended up getting a $22 ticket even though I was sitting right by the window and ran out like a mad man haha. The officer apparently had already started writing the ticket bleh. There are a lot of places to eat/munch/snack nearby also if your tummy start a rumblin' and also cute little shops and antique joints!
(4)MG N.
When i go to hampden i always visit this coffee shop. I love this place! It's clean and the people are nice! Love their pastries too!
(5)Bernie C.
I love spro! It's my go-to stop in hampden for a drink and a snack. They have adorable little pastries and macarons as well as savory bread pudding and quiches. You can see their iced coffee being made in this giant glass sculpture and that's a neat addition. Everything I have had so far is absolutely delicious and the giant window store front makes spro a great place to just sit and waste some time. FYI: They will heat up anything you want from the food section!
(4)Barathi S.
Grabbed an iced coffee to go from this cute coffee shop located on the avenue. The man working was extremely friendly and greeted us with a smile. The coffee itself was smooth and they had soy milk which I appreciated. A bit expensive at 3.50 but I would return! Not a huge selection of food btw, but they do have pastries and sweets on display!
(4)Moni L.
Walking around Hampden and found this place. It's a cute location, really clean with a nice terrace and backyard. The barista was fine but took a while to get herself together because of the amount of talking she was doing with the customer before me. I can't speak for the others who work there but she was incredibly slow. I ordered the Vietnamese iced coffee and I have to say it was awful. There were so many bits of ground coffee in the bottom that kept winding up in my straw. Wouldn't recommend until there are more reliable staff members.
(2)Emiri M.
A cute, cozy place that is perfect for doing some reading, studying, or catching up on work. For those easily distracted like myself, the lack of Wi-Fi might actually be a perk. I really enjoyed their cappuccino, peach white tea, and honey macchiato. I highly recommend that if you get a honey macchiato, to stir vigorously. The barista will probably recommend you do so, but stir extra! The honey is settled on the bottom, and is delicious--my only regret was not stirring enough. The owner, Jay, was in when I went. He is really nice and makes sure you have the best experience possible. In addition to their drinks, I also had a banana bread and a honey ginger sesame green tea cookie. I loved the idea of the green tea cookie, but both of the baked goods I tried tasted a bit past their prime. Overall great, but the service could have been a bit faster. I ordered a drink and I think my order was forgotten. When I went up to the cashier, he came off a bit defensive, so one star off for that. I saw a few people order Thai Tea, which I really want to try next time!
(4)Margaret N.
Small coffee shop with a wide selection of drinks and pastries. Tons of meter parking too!
(4)Tiffany T.
Delicious, very caffeinated iced coffee. $3 pour overs for the house blend, great customer service, nice selection of coffee-related products, and a very cute courtyard in a classic Baltimore row house. Not much in the way of food and limited, if any, wifi. Better for socializing and not for work.
(5)Alma C.
I'll make this short and semi-sweet: Spro is one of those coffee shops that people that get boners (or think they get boners) over coffee geek culture need to go to. I happen to make my non-boner friends come w/ me whenever I'm in the area and while they may question my reasonableness based on price, as someone that probably needs to wear a chastity belt when I get near properly prepared pour over or espresso, I say you gotta pay to play. Anyhoo, I don't know or care if any of this makes sense but I'll keep coming back here anyway.
(4)Nessa K.
Never so busy I haven't been able to sit down and they always have gluten free desserts! Granola, banana nut bread, and macaroons. :)
(5)Kat R.
Awesome place! I stopped by after reading there was no wifi here -- yes, I know it sounds a bit crazy considering I myself have gone through great lengths to find coffee shops with stable wifi connections to get studying done but it always turns into YouTube marathons. I came by with my readings and laptop to get some writing done and was more productive here than I have been anywhere else. Who knew what a couple hours without wifi could do :) I ordered a honey macchiato after hearing good things about it and did not know it came in a small, single cup. It was good but I think the honey overpowers with such a small serving and I think it would be better suited served as a double. The desserts at the counter all looked good but there aren't any labels and I didn't feel comfortable asking about what each one was when there were people behind me. This was a bit of a bummer since I would have totally grabbed a dessert to fuel the study sesh. Overall the atmosphere is really great and the decor is adorable - will definitely be back to try more things and get some more reading done.
(4)Sarah G.
That Honey Macchiato... honey and coffee, two things I love, why is it so hard to believe they'd be amazing??? I don't know. But it was fantastic. And it came with a punch of caffeine! The day I stopped by here, I was walking around Hampden and realized I needed to send an email so as I stopped in here for coffee, I knew it wasn't a place to camp out and work- there's no room for that- but I thought maybe they had Wi-Fi and I could send the email and be on my way. But when I asked the barrista, it was like I offended her. She was not friendly. And when I ordered the macchiato, she checked to make sure I knew it was a single- in the tiny cup- but she asked in a way that made me feel I would be stupid not to know that. So, Spro, I very much like your coffee, but your staff could use some tips on how to treat customers respectfully.
(3)Abigail R.
I have a hard time with Hampden sometimes - their shops flip flop between trendy and exclusive vs homey and welcoming. This coffee shop has gotten so many great reviews, that I had to stop in while I was running some errands. It is a classy, sort of upscale coffee shop. It was super warm in there, although it was int the high 80s outside, so that might have had something to do with. Still, super warm, that I couldn't even wait for my coffee inside. To be fair, I was doing a little recovering from some friday night fun - so, I might have been a little extra salty. I ordered an iced coffee and the only food they had that wasn't super sweet was a savory bread pudding. It took a few minutes to get my coffee and even longer (although, they warned me) for them to warm up my bread pudding. The iced coffee didn't really lend itself to me seeing any of the barista's excellent skills making all the pretty drinks I have heard about, but it was delicious nonetheless. This was a round, medium bodied coffee. Still, not as good as Tribeca, but smooth without the bitter after taste that often happens with iced coffee. The savory bread pudding was well worth the wait - chicken sausage, sharp cheddar cheese combined great with the crusty, yet custardy bread, creating a perfect spongy texture. It was good. It took so long, I had to take it to go, which made the last few bits and little cool and dry - but I would definitely order again. I will be back in there for coffee, but only when I have a few extra moments. The Common Ground is a lot faster and has a few more lunch choices. Plus, they feel a little more like Hampden to me. In fact, I might just head to any of these mentioned here...
(3)Lillian C.
Get the honey macchiato, you will not regret it. Stumptown reigns supreme on my list of "best coffee house", but this would be a close second if not dead even. I needed a coffee fix before my drive home to Silver Spring so I just stopped at the closest coffee shop not expecting much. My SO thought the honey macchiato sounded good so he got that for himself and me a "plain old" iced latte because I just wanted a cold caffeinated beverage. (very good btw, and yes, I am the type of person to drink iced coffee drinks). After his first sip he told me to "try this" and I was absolutely blown away with it. The flavor of their espresso is rich and complex and comes out well in the tiny little macchiato. The acidity of their beans matched well with the honey it was like it was always meant to be. It was like that episode of Spongebob where Neptune eats Spongebob's Krabby Patty and it was so good he regurgitated it and ate it again. I will definitely hit this place up the next time I'm in Hampden.
(5)Michael S.
I have the same experience as others: a lovely and pastoral setting, with salty, almost broth-like espresso. There are regulars here that seem to enjoy chatting one another up, which gives it a homey feel, but until the beans are improved, I'll probably go elsewhere. The flavor is strong enough to be a distraction.
(3)Diana K.
This place is perfect. Really amazing coffee , great atmosphere. Also perfect for when your studying. I highly recommend it. They also have amazing vegan dessert choices
(5)Chandler M.
Not too long ago I would have given this place five stars, and I'm tempted to still, but it's just not perfect for me any more. In Baltimore, though, this must be as good as it gets. There's a good selection of coffee. It's priced to match the quality of the beans and roasts, and the service. (I haven't had the allegedly mind-blowing $15 cup, maybe some day.) The espresso is good. The macchiatos are *delicious*. I often hear baristas telling customers that the macchiatos are not the Starbucks monstrosity (my words, not theirs). While this may come off condescending to some, I think it's laudable: many people obviously (betrayed by their jargon) come in looking for Starbucks-culture coffee, and without some warning they'd be in for an unpleasant surprise. (Baristas at some other shops will knowingly serve people something they didn't actually ask for.) The food is delicious. The green tea ginger cookies are especially good, and the baker seems to be constantly experimenting. There was an *awesome* hibiscus shortbread cookie for a while. The ambience is nice. It's often quiet, and homey, and the lack of wi-fi means there aren't many business meetings in here---thank goodness. Why only four stars? The Yirg-Z is gone. The Yirg was the baseline coffee, the least expensive---making it suitable for a regular order---and it was *perfect*. It was a very light roast, and very bright, moreso than I've found almost anywhere else, and moreso than I've been able to reproduce on my own. It was a great mood-lifter. It was unique. The other coffees on the menu are largely (forgive me) too balanced. They might be more attractive to the masses---just a speculation---but to me they seem more common, and less valuable. I've also heard that the management (not ownership) is changing, and this makes me sad, as the current/previous manager seemed to be perfect for Spro. I hope the replacement is a good approximation.
(4)Amanda D.
Knowledgeable staff and delicious coffee. Quaint, small shop. It's probably going to be crowded on the weekend, so just grab your drink to go and stroll along the avenue. This place is a much more low key alternative to the other area coffee shop and gives you that "Mom and Pop" feel.
(5)Sabrina W.
We went here on a snowy day and had their mexican hot chocolate paired with a hibiscus and red velvet cookie. Pretty good! The hot chocolate was better than the cookies and warmed our frozen face and hands. Seating was very limited (around four small tables), but we managed to snag the table next to the window. It was very quiet - no music was playing in the background. The barista was very friendly and seemed to know the regulars. She also brings your drink to you, which was refreshingly nice. We'll most likely drop by the next time we come to Hampden!
(4)Nicholas R.
Coffee (iced americano) and pastry (peanut butter pillow) were great. Guy wearing glasses working behind the counter- not so great. My friends and I walked in and the girl working the counter said "we'll be with you in just a sec." No problem. Small coffee shop, lots of people ordering etc. I'm totally fine with waiting. Eventually guy with glasses says, in a semi-annoyed tone, "so... do you guys know what you want?..." And I politely say, "yea, are you ready for us?" To which he responds in a now smarmy tone, "uh yea... are you ready??..." I made a yelp account specifically to bring awareness to the owner of spro, who seems to be pretty good about responding to less-than-positive reviews. Was browsing their past reviews and saw a couple referencing the "guy with glasses." Sorry dude, but you should be a little nicer to your patrons!
(3)Grace B.
A super cute cafe with a nice selection of sweets and drinks! I got the Americano au lait and my friend got the house chai. You can feel the care the baristas put into your order and help you pick out drinks if you need it. They're very nice and the cafe is small, local, and very very cozy. Highly recommended!
(5)Nicole W.
Overview: This place is fantastic for coffee lovers. It's at tiny little coffee shop tucked away on W 36th on Hampden makes every cup of coffee individually, with a nice variety of price ranges and tastes. ($3-10...hey it's quality stuff!) Service: As soon as I walked in I was immediately greeted with great service by Jay, the head barista. He gave me a helpful run through of the menu and he was just plain great to chat with! Coffee: I got the Ethiopian, which was just as jay described: smooth, sweet, with just a bit of acidity. Truly unique! Food: I got a chocolate cookie filled with peanut butter. Needless to say it was delicious. Disclaimer: This place is small and it seems like it can get busy on the weekends so it might not be the ideal "sprawl and study all day" spot. It's also not for someone who is just looking for a quick and cheap Starbucks- type coffee. It also doesn't have a lunch menu, but rather features a couple of homemade sweets. However if you're looking for a great cup of coffee and a spot to sip and savor it, this is absolutely your place!
(5)Samantha G.
I had a *terrible* experience at Spro. I ordered a dairy-free latte. This is my low maintenance way of saying "I don't care if it's soy, almond, coconut, or whatever, but no milk!" When the guy handed me the latte, I said "Is this soy?" just wondering what they ended up using. He said "No, it's whole milk." I said, "I asked for dairy free." My friend confirmed that's what we asked for. He, and the girl working the register, did not care that they made the drink wrong and did not apologize or offer to replace the drink. Now, in most situations, I'd just take what I was given, but being that I literally cannot digest dairy milk, I needed a new latte. Here's the kicker: I had to BUY another latte if I wanted it. I had to pay for both lattes, even though the first one was no good to me. It was kind of an outrage. On top of that, the girl at the register moved on to the next couple behind me before giving me the croissants out of the bakery case that I had paid for.
(1)Alexandre Youngki K.
Spro Coffee is located in an adorable neighbourhood, filled with cute antique stores, boutique salons, and hip places to eat. The storefront and its interior is charmingly low-key: had it not said "Progressive American Coffee" on the window, I might have just walked by it. I appreciated the calm, simple atmosphere inside. There was ample seating, no music playing, and the staff was calm and professional. It felt welcoming without being excessively homely. I bet that it's great to read there, with tons of natural light streaming through that huge front window on sunny days. I thought the espresso was decent, but not great. The shot I was served was salty, with a flavour and body that was strongly reminiscent of beef broth. So I'm not a big fan of the espresso I was served, but I really liked the atmosphere. If I lived in the area, I'd probably come here on sunny days to sit by that big window.
(2)Patty G.
If you're into fru-fru coffee, this is the place for you. The shop is tiny, but the staff is friendly.
(3)Annie S.
I've only been here once so this review is based on one drink -- the watered-down Americano. It's watered down because they only put 2 shots in a 16 oz cup. Maybe I'll give it another try, but with their higher than average price for coffee and my first experience, I can't give this place more than 2 stars.
(2)Ben M.
For the coffee geek, I'm born and raised in Portland OR, this is one of Baltimore's attempts at a barista style coffee shop. My many experiences there have been wildly inconsistent. When I have coffee snob friends in from the NW, I do take them here because it's 50 yards from my house. However, there are other options in the city that provide a much better value and reliability for a barista experience.
(2)Morgan S.
Great coffee! I usually get iced coffee since I'm a fan of simple coffee drinks, but I'm told the americanos and lattes they serve here are excellent as well. I really like the baristas here-- they definitely know what they are doing and are usually very friendly. They have a limited selection of breakfast foods, some desserts, and quiches. I'm always happy when they have blueberry coffee cake-- it's delicious! I enjoy coming here on off hours, like 11 am on weekdays, since seating is limited.
(4)Brenda L.
I don't normally drink coffee. I never liked Te bitter taste, every time I drink coffee, I always add a lot of sugar into my drink which is pretty bad. But when I came here and ordered the honey macchiato with coconut milk, I fell in love with coffee. Well I only like the coffee made here. I didn't need to add sugar into my drink, it was just right. I had to order two cups because I wasn't satisfied with one. If you ever do come to Baltimore, this place is a must! The owner is also friendly we talked for a couple of hours. But yes this place is highly recommended. It is my all time favorite coffee shop.
(5)Jim D.
This little gem is hidden. However, if you're near JHU this is the best tasting coffee for miles. They have the right gear, the fresh beans, and the skill to pull excellent shots. This snooty Seattleite gives it two thumbs up
(4)Tunaidi A.
I don't get the hype. This is overrated and overpriced coffee. Minimal seating and not too friendly staff...
(2)Eric A.
This place may not be open at 7am I think the correct time is 730. BTW Great espresso! Last time I was there there was no wifi, though.
(4)Devashis R.
I dunno, maybe this place is overrated or maybe I got a crap cup of coffee. Americano is my benchmark and I found mine to be burnt and bitter. Not sure what happened there. I ordered to go, so didn't really notice till it cooled a bit and I was in the car driving away. I was told to try the coffee that was made by all their contraptions, so that's what I'll do next time when I give them another shot. Also, there was a big dog in here when I ordered. I like animals, but the place is already tiny. Keep your furry friends outside, sorry!
(3)Deanna-Marie N.
I got the cappuccino made with coconut milk and my boyfriend got an Americano. I loved my drink and my boyfriend swears that it's the best cup of no fuss coffee he's had. Great spot, wish I lived in the area- Id be here all the time.
(5)Laura G.
They wouldn't serve me a cappuccino in a 12-oz cup because that wasn't an authentic cappuccino size. Very condescending. They served me a 12-oz latte instead with a single shot even though I asked for a double. Don't expect them to serve you what you order. The coffee roast they use for their espresso shots is lightly roasted (similar to every independent coffee shop right now, trying to be anti-Starbucks), which if not blended with high quality speciality beans makes the shot taste acidic, metallic, and very bitter. Don't know if there is an option of a different roast in their espresso drinks...not that they would serve it to you if you ordered it anyway.
(2)Lulu J.
I've been to this place a couple times and both I have had great coffee and pretty good food. The atmosphere is okay however it's been unusually warm every time I've been so I like to enjoy my coffee on the porch in back or sit outside in the front. The worst part about this place ? The employees who lack any sort of personality and just don't give a crap about human interaction. Jesus Christ. It's enough to put you in a mood and wonder why they even work there. The woman today had the most monotone robotic voice and wouldn't crack a smile if her life depended on it. It definitely didn't leave me wanting to come back....maybe I'll just head over to common ground :)
(3)Michael C.
Coffee isn't bad. People are very nice but Internet sucks - so hard to go here to work.
(4)Cherpumple F.
Great coffee. Like, really REALLY good quality coffee. A lovely place to study, chat, or read a book. They have a super cute garden area outside in the back (or maybe more tumbleweed-pretty-flowers than a garden), where on a nice day you can sit outside, enjoy your beverage and relax.
(4)J D.
I'm sorry, I wasn't aware that I was required to give a specific time and date along with my review. I can't give you an exact date, but I was in for a small black coffee about two weeks ago. It was midday. Normally, I prefer an Americano (yes, I am aware that it is diluted, but I love the taste of a strong espresso). My comment on having changed your coffee, is in reference to when you carried Counter Culture... Since then, every time I have been in, whether it's an Americano, or simply a black coffee, it has been sour. I didn't bring it to anyone's attention because it was so consistent, that I figured it must just be the coffee. Your staff is wonderful. It's not a mark on them, at all. They are always pleasant, attentive, and sweet. I'll try again. It's not a rant based on one experience, its just what I've noticed over the course of the last year or so.
(2)Amanda E.
Update is mostly in response to the owner calling me a "boldfaced liar". I was late in writing the review - the date of my visit was November 20, 2013 so maybe that will help jog some memories. The person doing the yelling had just returned from being out of town and they were ticked that the employee in question hadn't kept the store as clean as they would have liked especially in regards to stuff higher off the ground (the manager was pointing to something on the wall but can't remember if it was a vent or a shelf or artwork). There was no line at the time as it was an off time, I was killing time before class (which is why I know the exact date) so probably around 1030am on a Wednesday. When I walked in both employees were to the side of the counter, and it wasn't until after the person being yelled at left that I actually walked up the counter to order my drink. Again, I should have turned right back around but I didn't - that was my mistake. As for the price - I'm sorry but $5.00 for a skim iced latte with two shots IS in my opinion overpriced. Which is the entire point of yelp, to share opinions. I can tell from reading other reviews that I'm not alone in feeling the price is high, and can tell from your equally candid responses on those reviews that you don't care. If anything your response(s) only proves my point and strengthens my resolve to speak with my wallet and walk to one of the other coffee shops in the area - and to encourage my friends to do the same.
(1)Jen K.
I don't know why everyone loves Spro. Maybe it's because of the coffee -- I can't speak to that; I'm just as content with some instant decaf as I am with hand-picked guru-blessed beans from the jungles of fair trade land. What I can tell you is this place is small and cramped. And I'm not a fan of their chai...way too bitter for my liking. I'd recommend this place for someone who's hanging out in the area and wants a coffee to go.
(3)Steph W.
I go here every weekend. It has really gret quality coffee. Everything is made to order. And the employees are actual barista....not what Starbucks claims I be. They bake everything themselves (highly recommend the scones) and the owner is extremely nice. They roast their beans and depending on the taste of the roast, they brew the coffee differently to accent the roast (French press, pour over, Chemex, aero press, etc). Great quality and taste! I recommend the Vietnamese iced coffee if you have a sweet tooth. And if you don't like coffee I recommend the Thai tea. It's delicious!
(5)Robby B.
Finally came by Spro on a lazy Saturday afternoon. The decor was really nice and not quite what I was expecting. Very white, but not in a stark or stifling way. The outside area in the back seemed great, but was full. It was a great place to chill for an hour or so while sipping coffee and shooting the breeze. There was a fairly long line, but it moved quickly. I ordered a haupio macchiato for $4 (coconut milk macchiato). Unfortunately, I was served a regular macchiato instead. It was still good, but not quite what I wanted. My friend got a Vietnamese iced coffee ($4). It was super smooth with plenty of condensed milk, but wasn't as sweet as most Vietnamese iced coffee, which I personally liked. I got a bacon maple scone. It was tasty and super crumbly and soft. Chunks of bacon should have been larger, but maybe I'm getting greedy. My buddy got a "tartito" pastry. This particular one had feta and nectarines over grainy and dense biscuit thingy. I really liked it. My friend who used to work at Spro mentioned that they don't make their own pastries, unless things have changed since he worked there. I couldn't care less though because both were tasty. Pastries were $3 each. Just a note: our coffee took a long time to be prepared, especially the Vietnamese iced coffee. No biggie, because the quality was high and we wanted to hang out. But if you're in a hurry, don't order anything too fancy. This place is a solid 3.5 but I need to bump down to 3 because of my messed up order. I'll be back to try more though.
(3)Erin S.
Good coffee and baked goods. Parking is a little challenging in the neighborhood and seating is quite limited but they do serve quality beverages and snacks. Great customer service from folks that care about a good cup of coffee which I appreciate.
(4)Eric H.
Best $8 cup of coffee in Hampden. Worth it. Wish they had better food offerings, but man the coffee is amazing.
(5)Ben G.
The coffee is excellent, and though the baristas tend to be on the aloof side, they're easily engaged and very eager to share their passion for the brew. The variety is astounding and the preparation is immaculate--they will remake any drinks that don't measure up to their exacting standards. Don't miss out on the cookies prepared in house or by the owner's mother (if memory serves), and the croissants and other specialties come from the incomparable Patisserie Poupon. Spro is the perfect place to hunker down and tap out or flip through several scores of pages. Without wifi, you can focus on your coffee and the task in front of you.
(5)Sarah C.
Long wait. Annoying baristas. Inaccurately identified a cookie- which had nuts, thankfully I'm not allergic. Won't be back.
(1)Scott K.
I feel guilty going so long and not reviewing this place. It's my go-to when returning from long trips and recovering from jet-lag. I've traveled all of the country and visited probably 100 different coffee shops. A major issue plaguing the specialty coffee world are baristas who are stuck on themselves. You won't find that here. In fact, you'll find some of the friendliest baristas I've ever come across. I have similar equipment found here such as an assortment of pour-overs, Chemex, Clever Dripper, Siphon Pot, French Press, and more. I'm always looking to improve my technique at home and pick these guys/girls brains all the time. They've always been helpful and make some great coffee too! There are also some some creative food options too. Portions are small, but they are yummy. If you're like me and on a quest for the perfect cup of coffee, you'll find it here if not come pretty darn close. They offer an assortment of different coffee roasters and you can order the coffee with whatever method you want. A must-visit when in Baltimore. The only downside of this place is seating. During busy times, you're elbow to elbow with the table next to you. Too all of the people griping about the price, sure it's a little pricey. But you're also getting a handcrafted cup of coffee too. Besides, most people have no problem forking out $5 to Starbucks for a faux frozen coffee drink and espresso that you just press a button and brown liquid comes out. Bleh! The website briefly says that cuppings, trainings, and other events are forthcoming. I haven't seen much of these yet, but would completely welcome them.
(5)Alysia A.
Spro coffee is everything I do not like about specialty coffee. First of all, I paid $5 for a pour over that was too much water and not enough coffee. I politely asked the very rude and annoyed dude with glasses who was doing my pour over what the weight of the grounds were. I am pretty sure he said in the lower 20's for grams but who can say when I was so put off with his sneer. In my group of 4 people, we spent about 25 bones plus tip on our various beverages. 2 of us are professional baristas for over a decade each. None of us were impressed. Spro, you ain't that really as cute as you think you are. So whatevs. Etc.
(2)Suzanne J.
What were the odds that an amazing coffee purveyor would open in Hampden one block away from my home...? Yet, it happened. I was so excited when Spro opened it's doors on The Avenue and it fits in perfectly, let me tell you. Not since visiting Ritual Coffee in San Francisco did I taste such finely crafted coffee, their whole bean offerings are the best in Baltimore and they will brew you up a cup to order and offer spot on recommendations if you describe what you prefer. The honey macchiato...lovely and always recommended. Don't be offended that it's just so tiny, it packs a huge punch and you should always spoon the remaining honey-tinged crema from the bottom of the cup with the tiny spoon. The small pastry selection is yummy and mostly homemade (?) or sourced locally. I always go for a chocolate chip and walnut cookie, it's a perfect compliment for any beverage I choose. Don't be intimidated by the many selections and brewing techniques used at Spro, the friendly, black-clothed baristas will break it down for you and give you recommendations for using any brewing equipment you have at home as well! I trust them thoroughly to fulfill my coffee needs!
(5)Elsa M.
More crack in one cup than 30-minutes of New Jack City, I tell ya that! And I'm not even talking about the coffee this time: I'm talkin' about the tea! Went back to Spro last week and finally opted for something different. Correction: I got the macchiato everyone raved about, didn't like it (too strong for me, but that's my fault) and then decided to get the Black Oolong Tea. The leaves were calling me in that jar, I think, and I am happy they did. The tea was steeped perfectly and tasted like heaven. I am a huge tea drinker, so I should have just gotten that to begin with, but now that I know, I think that tea might be the only thing I get at Spro. I'm hooked.
(5)Cristina L.
Although I like the atmosphere and location, I was not crazy about the coffee at all! I ordered a latte for a nice pick me up, and had to bite my tongue when I saw the price. I figured that the coffee must be really fantastic in order to warrant $4.25 for some steamed milk and a shot of espresso! Unfortunately, the drink left a strange, burnt aftertaste. I've certainly had better coffee, and at much better prices. I think I'll try elsewhere next time I'm in the area!
(2)Jem D.
Best cup of coffee I've had in many (4) years. I went here on a coffee date, and I'm sure most of my enthusiasm was caused by the good company...but that was one good cup of coffee. I will very likely be back, and I will bring a friend. It's so cute that they allow dogs.
(5)Ashish K.
Got a coffee in house, a baked good (chocolate/peanut butter pillow), and a bag of whole beans to use at home. The beans were a bit pricey (though not unreasonably so, given the sourcing), but completely worth it. Complex flavors, great aroma, and overall pleasurable taste. Will definitely be back once I run out. Also, the staff is super nice. Just look at how active they are here. I'm sold.
(5)Michelle B.
I didn't think Baltimore had good coffee. Zeke's always leaves me underwhelmed; the blends I've tried have lacked richness and body. I'd just about given up on the idea of finding a good cup of coffee until I heard about Spro. This is not the place to go if you want to grab a quick caffeine fix on your way to work. They are meticulous in their brewing methods and that takes time. But if you're looking for a complex, nuanced, perfectly prepared cup of coffee to savor slowly then this is the place to go. Yes it is pricey but you can truly taste the difference and it's easy to tell that you're paying for quality. I think it's worth the few extra dollars.
(5)Nelvin J.
Only con is that the place needs wifi and a bit of a friendlier staff, but the coffee.. Mmmm. Tried the hauvio macchiato and the house coffee. Great place to study or to meet a friend. Staff knows their coffee and that's a HUGE plus! Slow pour all the way! 4 stars not 5 because it is extremely pricey. about $4-6 for a regular cup of coffee. Only addicts like me would spend that money! =)
(4)Shawn H.
I think I'd spend way too much time here if I lived nearby. I stopped in one day when I was working very close by. I went early on purpose just to try Spro Coffee on the advice (via Facebook) of an old friend. I got a Nutella scone and some wonderful hand pour coffee. The place has a nice feeling and the coffee is fantastic (so was that scone). Don't miss out.
(4)Michael B.
Great coffee and friendly service. But NO WIFI. A coffee place in the second decade of the 21st century without wifi. Ponder that.
(3)Laura W.
I recently starting working in Hampden and wanted to find a nice, good coffee shop within walking distance....this is it! The baristas know their art and I always come away with a perfectly crafted latte. Not always easy to find! Not the cheapest, but since it's the best in the area I'm willing to pay the extra when I go every other week or so to treat myself :)
(4)Eric N.
Definitely the best cappuccino I've had in Balto. May be the best ever. Cute, small Shop with pastries and scones. Three tables tops.
(5)Dana D.
Beautiful space with really great coffee. Know that they don't have WIFI!!
(4)Lyall N.
The coffee is very good, properly prepared. Service, however, is lackadaisical. Every time I go in the server is sitting at the customer table, chatting with friends. She always appears put out when she has to get up and prepare your coffee. Again, superb coffee, but they need sort out their staffing issues.
(2)Adina K.
The best, most carefully constructed coffee in Baltimore. The lattes are a revelation. They carry yummy pastries from Patisserie Poupon. The quality of the beans they use is amazing. It's fun to watch them brew the coffee with their strange spaceship-like coffee aeropress. The cold brewed iced coffee is killer. The space is intimate, clean, modern, and inviting. So why four stars, you ask? The employees are SNOBS. Yes, I know this is good coffee. Yes, I understand that you are a coffee artist and not some schmuck haphazardly throwing some 4-hour old coffee into a mug for me. But c'mon, seriously, lighten up. Once, while waiting for my latte to be brewed, I listened to two employees groan and whine about how people don't tip them enough. They are artists! They should be tipped at least $2 for each drink! Oh, life is so unfair for them. And look, maybe that is the case, but you don't complain about your job in front of customers. It's just poor form. You walk in the door and you can practically hear them sigh because they need to stop talking and start working. It makes the vibe in there uncomfortable. But wow, it's some good coffee.
(4)Tracy S.
Hipster vibe so high, Espresso took forever! Good, but not all that. --- Responding to Jay's note, Some people like a hipster vibe, some don't. I don't mind it, but it was almost like the dudes behind the counter were taking their time to take time and look cool, not because each coffee is made to order. It's not the sort of vibe I like, but maybe others do/don't care. It may be a cliche, but I'm from Seattle and we have loads of fancy espresso places that aren't chains, where the staff engages with customers while prepping beverages. None of the 3 guys working the day I was there said much of anything to any customer, other than to ask for their order, and thank them for paying. I felt a little awkward as the line got longer and longer behind me, as though I'd ordered the most complicated drink ever, but it turns out they were making drinks for people who'd been seated before I even arrived. No matter how hand-crafted a beverage is, it really shouldn't take 20 minutes to get a macchiato.
(3)Brian L.
Had Philippines coffee hand poured. Little pricey, but worth it. Knowledgable staff and well prepared drink.
(4)Mike M.
Best cappuccino in Baltimore! Worth it.
(5)Semra E.
I came in here to grab a quick caffeine fix that I needed at 5:30 p.m. for what was going to be the longest night of my life that Saturday afternoon. I walked inside and although the space is long and narrow, it's just the right size spot to grab a quick eat or drink and catch up with someone. They even have an outdoor patio with a long colorful table downstairs out back, which was perfect on this sunny afternoon. I had a cappuccino and it was juuuuust right (Goldie Lock style). I'll absolutely come back here for a grab and go, or grab and sit down for all the vintage shopping in that area.
(4)Caitlin C.
Everyone else seems to love this place, but if it's that great...they should know to not serve macarons that are old or stale. Anyways,I got really excited that they had macarons, so I ordered one flavor of each and I was VERY DISAPPOINTED. The macarons were very dry and stiff/hard. The macarons must have not been fresh, and they charged me $2 each- YIKES. I wish I would have just gotten one or two to try. The flavors on the macarons were also very bland, overall, no taste and the worst macaron I have ever had (Trust me, I've had many macarons and know what a good one should taste like). 2 stars for the macarons This place is also very small- no space to enjoy coffee with good conversation without the traffic of folks walking in and out, so if you're ok with people constantly walking in and out, then you'll be ok sitting here-you could hear in on everyone's conversation around you.... If you want a more initimate coffee experience, this place may not work out. They are the only coffee place on the block, so it gets busy! 4 stars for friendly/helpful staff: Anyways, The staff was fairly friendly/helpful... I was served by a tall guy with dark hair and brown eyes. He was cute and nerdy :p- haha. Anyways, the only good thing I got out of this was a long glance at that cute guy at the cashier... I told him he was cute, and he smiled... too bad, I don't live in the area!^.^ Overall, 3 stars - the owner emailed and apologized for the macarons.
(3)Mark K.
This place is exactly what a coffee shop should be: no frills, simple menu, some pastries that complement the drinks well, and excellent coffee. The only fault I could give it is that there is no WiFi, but it isn't a big deal. I haven't had one bad drink, or bad experience here. It is just great.
(5)Ryan N.
I love Spro. There's only one thing preventing me from giving it five stars. First, the good stuff. I've enjoyed every drink I've ever gotten here. I usually stick to espresso beverages because the baristas are skilled, so taking advantage of their technique is a good idea. Other than the cappuccinos and lattes, I've also really enjoyed the iced coffees. The drip brew methods used at Spro are unique and both nice to look at and to drink. The desserts are great too. The macarons are a little expensive per unit (although they usually are at most places), but they're well made and tasty. It can be hard to find good macarons in the US. The baristas are always great. They're super knowledgeable and seem to genuinely care about you enjoying your coffee, which is rare these days. Now, my only complaints. Although I like the general look of Spro and find it to be mostly comfortable (especially the back patio), the thing I find really uncomfortable is the lack of music. I know this sounds like a strange and minuscule complaint, but whenever I've gone to Spro with someone I always feel awkward talking because there isn't any ambient noise. I've often felt like I'm disturbing others or that we're being forced to listen to each other's conversations. Other than that, definitely go to Spro. You won't regret it.
(4)Pilar W.
Wayyy overpriced. And I wish the coffee I bought from them (which they ground for me) was as good as they claimed it would be, and more to my liking. --from a lover of espresso, flat whites, strong lattes, and dark French press.
(2)Barbara D.
This is one of my favorite coffee shops in Baltimore. It's pretty large, with a front room, a back room, and a small deck (it fits one table and two chairs) that's perfect tos it on during the summer. The atmosphere is great - it's quiet, music-less, but you can talk comfortably without feeling like you're disturbing anyone. I especially like the glasses for water that you can fill up yourself, and the whiteboard in the back room always seems to be filled with interesting thoughts. There is no WiFi and I've yet to find an outlet, so it's not ideal for doing work on your computer. It's great for studying though, if you need to deprive yourself of technology in order to concentrate.
(4)Jeremy C.
This place is down-right awesome! Spro is a made to order coffee house that serves up rare and unique forms of coffee and does it in a very cool way. On a recent trip to Baltimore, my girlfriend and I looked up Spro on Yelp. It is a small shop with only two people working inside, but boy did they know what they were doing. I ordered the Giling Basah coffee. Supposedly a rare, wet-processed coffee. The coffee took about ten minutes to brew. Yes, ten minutes. But, it was one of the best brews I have had. The barista used some contraption that seemed more like a syfy science experiment than coffee maker to make one single cup. The experience was worth the $6.50 per cup charge. It was strong, yet extremely smooth and aromatic. Pros: Awesome coffee, awesome barista experience. Cons: Pricey but worth it. Overall, if you live in Baltimore or are visiting, this is the place for a cup of brew. Cheers!
(5)Aliya W.
Great coffee, lovely staff, nice cafe to meet friends or do work (as long as you don't need wifi)!
(5)Mandeep S.
I've been to Spro more than a dozen times simply because they have some of the best coffee and espresso in Baltimore. The only problem is that they seem to be suffering from their success: The baristas are easily overwhelmed with 3 or 4 customers waiting in line and don't expect to find a seat to enjoy your tasty brew. The store has begun to be invaded by students camping out with their laptops. However, kudos to the staff and owner here for fostering a place for coffee aficionados to come and enjoy a single brew coffee, latte art espresso drink or just an iced coffee.
(4)Bruce K.
Spro is where coffee happens. Like, legit coffee. The baristas are so welcoming and are also very enthusiastic about their coffee. They really know what they are doing here. Every time I've gone, I've had a different coffee and they do it all with the pouring technique and it's just awesome to watch. Their pastries are pretty satisfying and tasty too. It's pretty tiny in there but it's great to grab a cup of coffee and walk around The Avenue so it works out.
(5)Megan I.
Ducked into this tiny establishment this past weekend for a meeting over coffee. Little did I know that this would totally brighten up my dreary day. I imbibed with a caffè latte and gobbled up an almond croissant. The staff was very helpful and courteous. Decision: I need to schedule more meetings at Spro.
(4)Bonnie O.
As a former coffee shop worker and a current caffeine addict, let me just say, best coffee in Baltimore. Hands down. Best atmosphere for plonking down in a cozy chair for hours on end? No, but there are other places for that. Best. Coffee. Beans, brewed, whatever, in my opinion they're doing it the best 'round these parts.
(5)Alana R.
A perfect cup of coffee! And another.... As far as I'm concerned, the only great coffee in Baltimore. Spro boasts a few different roasters and the barista and I talked for the longest time about our recent favorites (and disappointments) in the 3rd wave movement. It's nice to find a shop that's so welcoming and so in touch. Spro also has all the paraphernalia to compliment their carefully curated coffee selection. Wow! I haven't seen an aeropress, French press, pour over, chemex and siphon all in the same place anywhere but my own house! Spro, prepare to be seeing a lot of me. And oh, they're open later than the other coffee shops around the Avenue, not like you'll ever have to go anywhere else ever again. Love.
(5)Crystal B.
Simply amazing.
(5)Peter D.
So I ended up going later that week with my girlfriend who comes from Chicago where they have both Intelligentsia and Metropolis Coffee, the latter being my favorite in the USA. We were pleasantly surprised with how great the barista was (after telling my girlfriend my not-so-great first experience). She recommended a Brazilian coffee brewed in a Chemex. Damn it was good! I was very pleased with the purchase this time around and we took our drinks (as the shop was about to close) and headed to a park in the Wyndhurst section of Baltimore City (a little north of Hampden) to drink 'em. I am definitely going to continue coming back whenever I go back to visit my parents. I wish the coffee game in Philly were better...outside of two or three shops, it ain't quite like Spro.
(5)Allan M.
Spro offers something that I have not personally experienced elsewhere in Baltimore - single cups of coffee made to order. You pick your coffee roast, and (if you are so curious) a brew method. Cream and sugar is handled for you behind the counter, just ask in case you need a little extra of either. Enjoying a particular roast black is advisable to get the best sampling of your coffees particular flavor highlights. (Not that I'm discovering them for myself, I'm just seeking out the notes of what the nice people tell me should be in my cup) Baristas here are clearly a step ahead - personable, skilled, and knowledgable about every aspect of the craft. Espresso is pulled with care, complete with latte art. Onto the food, pastries are offered fresh daily - some are from the in-house kitchen and a number from the highly regarded Patisserie Poupon, stopping in early you can grab a few of the house made bites as they come up from the kitchen. A to-go cup is certainly available and still an option, but understanding that each cup is brewed shortly after the order is placed - there is a wait for a few minutes as your coffee is taken carefully from grounds to cup. There is no WiFi offered, I have mixed opinions about this, but appreciate their decisiveness on this issue. My own long session spent over a single coffee never felt rushed either. Spro is sprinkled with regulars, casual conversation, and though a cozy space, plenty of seating for those looking to indulge in a coffee experience.
(5)J H.
Been here twice. Spro is a tad pretentious, but it probably should be given the challenge of making a great cup of coffee/espresso in Baltimore! My rating is actually closer to 3.6 stars, but I will round it up to 4. 1st visit: I had a standard summer iced Red-Eye. The atypical cold-brew meshed quite well with the Espresso roast that was recommended to me by the knowledgeable barista. I wish I could have doctored my own sugars and creams- it took them several tries to get it right. No big deal, the drink was darned good. 2nd visit: Doppio Espresso. Ew.. it was terribly bitter. I had to add sugar!! I should have said something to the barista, but I was in a bit of a hurry. One of the better/best places for coffee in Baltimore but it does seem to take a little while and you will need a degree of patience.
(4)Matthew L.
This is absolutely the best coffee in Baltimore hands down. It is a cute little local business. I have been here many a times and I haven't had a bad drink yet. My favorite is the Honey Macchiato. They are thorough and intent on making every drink perfectly. A couple of down sides, the place is kind of small. That means the staff is small and sometimes they can get backed up. The place is frequented and filled by a ton of hipsters complaining about anything and everything. Aside from all that it's still the best coffee in Baltimore.
(5)Justin L.
Spro is, by far, the best coffeehouse in Baltimore. Every beverage i've had here has been completely excellent; i've never been disappointed. They have the standard steamed milk drinks (which are made with a high level of skill, mind you; high-quality latte art is standard on all these), and a vast selection of different coffees that you can order prepared how you like (!). Yes, that's right...you have more than the option of just drip. Being a coffee enthusiast, I make my own drinks at home and am rarely thrilled by what you can get at standard coffee places, but I was honestly impressed by these guys. Prices for the regular coffee are slightly high, but it's worth it. Prices for the steamed milk drinks are standard. Pastries are great and reasonably priced. The beverages being fantastic as they are, I have a few major complaints: The space is really small and really uncomfortable. It's mind zappingly silent, and there are only 4 small tables that have enough seating for 8 people. It's basically like a church pew with 4 chairs/tables, so it's certainly not private at all; don't bring someone here on a date or expecting a comfortable "we're going to hang out at the coffee shop" kind of vibe. I paid with a debit card for my drink, which went through as credit and wasn't charged from my checking account until -thirteen- days later. It almost overdrafted the account; would've been pissed if I paid 25 bucks for a 3 dollar latte. Went a bit later on a weeknight...my companion was hungry and wanted a pastry, but the barista said they were out. Ok, that's fine...it's later in the day, I figured they may be out. After he makes our drinks and we sit down to drink them, a girl comes in that he sits down with and...magically appears a chocolate croissant. Not cool. 5 stars for the drinks, not really thrilled with everything else.
(4)Damon L.
Reminds me of home (California) especially since Baltimore lacks REAL coffee spots... But just to make it short, sweet and simple if you are serious about your coffees taste, strength and quality, this is one of the few places in Baltimore to quench your thirst!
(5)Madeline A.
Their soy lattes are PHENOM. I moved from Portland, OR where every food business can make a damn good cup of joe. Spro is the ONLY place in Baltimore that could pass in Portland. My one complaint is the slight citrus taste of their coffee. Some people probably love that taste, but I prefer sweet or earthy. The service is always super friendly, even when they're psycho busy. No music or Wifi, which kinda blows, but the lattes make up for it. Also, it's teeny tiny -- not good at all for groups or just hanging out.
(4)Ax M.
Best I've had in Baltimore for sure! Had an Ethiopian pour over, so great! If you are looking for a quick coffee joint, this is not the place. They are serious about what they do and the time and price does reflect that. If that is what you want, go here. Enjoy the happy hipsters, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and enjoy some amazing coffee.
(5)Dan A.
Baltimore, in general, doesn't have that many good coffee places. Spro Coffee fills that need nicely. There is a good variety of high-quality coffee and the baristas are more than willing to talk to you about them and make recommendations. Yes, the coffee tends to be on the more expensive range BUT you are getting great coffee that you will never find at say, a Starbucks. The taste and aroma of the coffee here is very complex. It's worth it in my book. Spro is in a very small location however. If you like sitting down at a coffee shop and enjoying your coffee while reading or people watching, you may find Spro a little too cramped to do that for long. My biggest "complaint" would be that Spro insists on adding cream and sugar for you. I usually drink my coffee black or very slightly sweetened so it's not a big deal to me... I just kind of find that a little pretentious. It's almost as if they don't trust the customer to do it themselves. Overall though, it's a highly recommended coffee shop! Yay for good coffee! And yay for Spro! :)
(4)Ayon J. R.
Best coffee shop in Baltimore. You may argue that it may not really be a compliment since Baltimore is not known for great coffee-shops. Nonetheless, the coffee is really good. I use a highly scientific test to judge coffee : if the coffee tastes good without milk and sugar, it is good. Spro certainly passes the test. I'm deducting, rather reluctantly, one star for lack of wifi and lack of heating in the back room.
(4)Lizzie P.
Wonderful beverages and pastries, great servers who are friendly to everyone. Very clean, tidy, and a nice place to hang out for a bit if you can find a seat (seating is limited, although there is a nice area out in the back which may allow for more patrons during the warmer months). My only beef with Spro is: too. darn. expensive. Especially since those extra bucks aren't paying for any free wi-fi.
(3)Rachel F.
I like coffee. Not just like, but like like. Ya know. When I went to Spro when it opened, I was a little stunned by their prices. Pleasantly surprised to get a cup of their house coffee for two dollars this time around. Not much more than Common Ground down the street. Now I don't feel like such a coffee elitist!
(4)Dan H.
Spro is supposed to be for the real coffee connoisseur, the coffee simply superb. Well, it actually is pretty damn good, I will give them that. And their cute shop in Hampden is a nice place to spend some time reading a book while people watching on The Avenue. I have done so several times. But there are some drawbacks. Is the coffee so good as to warrant no discounted refill? No. It is good, but many other places serve coffee, if not as good, at least good enough to satisy me and give me the benefit of the discounted second cup. The cute little space is a double-edged sword. Often there is nowhere to sit. Yes, I know, I am guilty of causing this exact condition when I snag a seat. That, however, does not change the issue. Finally, the same problem plagues Spro as plagues damn near every other coffee house I have found since moving to Baltimore. What is it with the early hours? Even Macon Georgia has a place that stays open later than 9:00, as does St. Louis, Cleveland, Fort Lauderdale, and every city I think I have ever been to. Are there any late night places around? But the negatives do not undermine the coffee. Ultimately, that is what the place is about. And the coffee is really quite good.
(3)Linda L.
I wish I knew more about coffee so I could come back to Spro and actually enjoy everything they offer to the fullest. There's a sizeable list of all the different types of beans they carry on the menu in addition to some standard and not-so-standard espresso drinks. The guy at the counter (possibly the owner?) was incredibly friendly when we walked in, which was a pleasant surprise because that's pretty much the last thing I expect when I walk into a coffee shop. He's also very, VERY knowledgeable about the various brewing methods the baristas use at the shop. At one point during our visit, I overheard him help a customer pick out a system for her to make coffee at home. While the honey macchiato here is delicious, I can't really say the same for the Vietnamese iced coffee. I expect Vietnamese coffee to be equal parts sweet and intense, but the version I got here was like a watered down cup of the bottled Starbucks vanilla frappuccino. There was little discernible coffee flavor, nor was it sweet. It was just kinda bland. Regardless, I'm definitely excited to come back frequently and try more of the coffee.
(4)Andrew R.
I had put off stopping in here since the Common Ground was more of a familiar (albeit mediocre) watering hole. I decided to stop in here after hanging out at breathe books. There is a small coffee menu by the register (two sided) which describes the variety of drinks. The barrister was patient (and undoubtedly a seasoned pro) and took our orders. We sat in the back and our drinks were delivered to our table. I did peek while they were being made and you could tell it was from 'scratch' and not production line like at *cough Starbucks cough*. The coffee was supreme. Really smooth and well made. My friend had a distinct heart in the froth of her cup. Mine had an interesting, almost crop circle like pattern. Nice ambiance, we felt as if we had stayed all afternoon, that would have been fine.
(5)Daniel H.
I've meant to review Spro for a long time, but I haven't been sure what to say. In the end, it's best to be simple. Spro is about coffee. They don't have wi-fi, there's no music playing, and they don't have all sorts of starbucksy drinks. They do have excellent coffee, expert baristas, and a good coffee-house culture - conversation instead of music, folks reading rather than surfing, etc. The coffee is pricey. But Spro caters to people who want the real thing: single-origin, fair-trade coffee, grown, roasted, and prepared by professionals. I once heard a guy ask if they had fresh coffee. The barista said, "so fresh it hasn't been made yet." They literally brew each cup, one-at-a-time. They've recently expanded their food menu. They do a full line of sweet and savory. I especially like the egg salad sandwich and the French BLT. The little savory frittatas are delicious. The service isn't always great, and some of the staff are a bit aloof. But I've never been treated badly. If you're really into coffee, try Spro.
(5)Rachel M.
I stopped by for a quick coffee.. quick is definitely not their specialty here. But it was worth the wait. The make their coffee to order and you can taste the difference. I also really like the chai, it's not sweet though so if you are a Starbucks fan than this may not be for you. Also grabbed the peanut chocolate pillow cookie and mexican chocolate snicker doodles. Both were fantastic.
(5)J. M.
Best Coffee in Baltimore. And I don't even love coffee. Baked goods are first-rate but a bit on the pricey side for their sizes. Minor complaint: Closes early.
(5)noel c.
This is some of the best coffee I've had in Baltimore. I moved here from Chicago where I was obsessed with Intelligentsia. I can buy Intelligentsia beans by the pound at Spro and get a great coffee while I am there! One word of advice: please liven up the atmosphere with some music.
(4)Emily W.
I came here before I got my tattoo at Have Fun Be Lucky: probably a bad move, because I was a little nervous to begin with. Caffeine is supposed to make tattoos hurt more. Bad Emmy! The guy who was working here was so relaxed and lovely, that I accidentally ordered a large cold drip of whatever he said was good. And an almond pastry, which was perfectly done. You know, I'm going to write a short review on this one, because it's just like the place. Simple, a little sparse, but you get what you need, as you need it.
(5)Justin H.
Almost perfect drip coffee. Served slightly too hot, but delicious once cooled down.
(4)Juliana O.
It's like 5 dollar for a cup of coffee. Really? Every now and then I go there thinking, "ooh, I'll treat myself to a really good beverage" and I spend $5 on a lemonade or something, and I always end up slightly disappointed with myself because I can't taste any difference from the $2 version I could have gotten at Common Ground. I guess I am not a true coffee connoisseur. They did start serving food recently, and their sandwiches are really good. I like the egg salad one. I always think it's kind of awkward that they don't play any ambient music, so you end up just sitting there overhearing everyone's conversations, but if you're there with a group it's not quite so weird.
(3)Chris N.
I thought I loved coffee. I thought I knew "good" coffee. Until I came to Spro. Their drinks have spoiled me for all other coffee. While traveling, every cup of java abroad leads me to yearn for Spro's touch. The baristas are all very friendly and personable. Jay, the owner, clearly goes to lengths to hire staff that are passionate about their craft. The drinks are always wonderful. If new, know that each barista has their own personal flair, the same drink one day may be slightly different another. The staff is always more than happy to accept customization requests. Their food selection is small, but tasty. When I first came here I was confused at the wait for my beverage, having been reared on the Starbucks way of fast-food coffee. Trust me, once you taste it you'll realize that quality is forefront on the staff's mind. The space is clean, though they do NOT have free wifi, a surprising fact at a coffee shop in 2013. I recommend to lovers of coffee both new and seasoned, but don't come here of late for work. :)
(5)Debra R.
I just wanted a cup of coffee with half and half and Splenda. Coffee I got, but what I wanted to put in my coffee seemed like pulling teeth to get. I think these folks take themselves a bit too seriously because they can't even play music here. Strange.. I prefer across the street, Choux, it's a friendlier vibe has yummy treats
(1)Lena N.
Really great coffee selection. Friendly staff. No wifi but that's not terrible because it forces me to resort to pre-internet activities (like read a book or... talk to another person). The only problem it takes them forever to make a coffee here. It's good that they're so meticulous and committed to quality. But sometimes I feel like I should take a nap while they make my coffee. Definitely not a place to go if you need to grab a quick coffee.
(3)Shelley F.
I used to live in Baltimore and I am devastated that I just learned about this place. On our way to see the Christmas lights we decided to grab a cup of coffee. Seeming like an insignificant decision it turned into one of the best I think I've ever made in a long time... I really think that was the best cup of coffee I've ever had - and I drink a lot of coffee!
(5)Thea C.
They merit the five stars for the following developments: 1) The honey macchiato is a fucking revelation in a teeny tiny cup. 2) They now serve one of my all-time favorite pastries: Patisserie Poupon's almond croissant 3) They had moon cake for fuck's sake. MOON CAKE WITH OOLONG! My Asian senses are tingling. Unfortunately, I missed out on it. But just because they had it and because moon cakes in Baltimore are very few and far between (feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. And I want addresses with said corrections), totally warrants an extra star. 4) And, well, it is undoubtedly tops on my list of extremely well-executed espresso-based drinks in Baltimore.
(5)Katydid A.
I love that there is a place passionate about coffee like I am! Everyone is very friendly and if I have a question they can answer it. I enjoy the fact they have specialty blends that are fresh and sold by the cup. Why 4 stars? I wish they had a bigger pastry selection.
(4)Jamie K.
I have to admit it, I snubbed Spro for a long time. I'm such a jerk! I was originally put off by the name, thinking it pretentious. Now I am a devotee of Spro. I love the atmosphere; there is no hip music, no fancy names for drink sizes, and no gross 'barista favorite' type concoctions. Go to Spro for an honest to goodness cup of coffee brewed any way you like; I take mine black and smooth. The baristas are knowledgeable and friendly, but do their job without trying to be your best friend just to get a tip. I only wish they opened earlier on Saturdays. Keep up the excellent and elegant work, Spro. Sorry I was a douche.
(5)Will N.
Artful coffee. I had an espresso that actually tasted like roasted tomatoes and chocolate. Great afternoon treat-yo-self/pick-me-up spot.
(4)Cheri A.
I stumbled upon this great little coffee shop yesterday afternoon. I had an Americano with 3" of cold soy and I have to say, it was significantly better than what I get from Starbucks. Found out that "Spro" is west coast slang for "espresso." Cool name.
(5)Scott G.
I've been to my share of cafes, and Spro tops them all in terms of quality. Yeah, I wish there were more tables and chairs but this is a coffee purist's place, pure and simple. The baristas are friendly, Jay is the man. Spro has a long list of different single origin coffees and various ways to brew them. They use my personal favorite (the Solo). It would be nice if they got a Clover, but I'm just being nitpicky. If you like high-quality coffee, this is your place.
(5)Holly W.
Very, very nice girls working on a Saturday morning. They explained to me how the elaborate iced coffee machine works (it is quite elaborate--like something you'd see in a mad scientist's lab). It's nice and quiet, if a tad pricey. I liked it. Though, I really like sweet, sweet coffee and not being able to put lots of sugar in my coffee was a downer :(
(4)Malcolm G.
Good coffee, hot chocolate, good service (they take your order at the counter but bring you your drinks/dishes when you sit down.
(5)Becca H.
I read a lot of reviews and because I love coffee, I drove past a dozen places to get to Spro to check it out. The baristas working were both knowledgable and kind, recommending a specific drink when I gave them my requirements (a lot of caffeine, very sweet) and also helped me choose a lunch place in Hampden. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
(5)Jamila L.
Good coffee ; not too much sweet stuff thoughhh .
(3)G. S.
The hot coffee here is amazing. My wife likes the espresso, too. I also liked their iced coffee, but it was just really good and not out of this world better. I like my iced coffee with lots of ice and milk, so I think I probably killed a lot of the flavor. Again, I suggest you try the hot coffee it is great. The baked good are really good too. The staff have always been super nice to me. Great coffee shop.
(4)