Kefa Cafe
963 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, MD, 20910
Kefa Cafe Menu
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Address :
963 Bonifant St
Silver Spring, MD, 20910 - Phone (301) 589-9337
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 5:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
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Farah K.
this place is closed
(1)Rachel S.
Charming little cafe on the corner of Bonifant and Wayne, Kefa offers a nice variety of coffee drinks and teas, as well as danishes and other baked goods. Nice, cozy environment, with puzzles and books available to customers who wish to relax a bit over their drinks and snacks. Great place to stop for a quick pick-me-up or cool-me-down.
(4)Kristin C.
This is an artsy intimate coffee shop with a loving owner. You can tell she has put all of her magnanimous heart into this place. I'm glad I stopped by while I was in town.
(4)Sean O.
Wow I've lived in DC for 5 years, and Silver Spring for almost 2 and I had never set foot in this cafe, or even the surrounding block. I have had this mentality of 'SS sucks, everything I want is in DC'. Well I was wrong. This part of town is actually pretty interesting. This is the 'real' Silver Spring, not that plastic-y chain driven 'downtown' everyone hangs out in. After being convinced that Starbucks was about as local as a DC area coffee shop got, I was pleased to stumble across this place. The cafe is a bit of a mishmash with floral print chairs, local photography on the walls, and a cooler full of pastries. Those are the kinds of things that make local coffee shops fun, right? The cappuccino I got was really tasty (but a little too hot!) and the little Napoleon I had was really good, too! As mentioned in other reviews, the lady behind the register was very friendly and made the experience that much better. I'm glad to have finally found my local coffee shop (NOT Starbucks by the metro). I guess you have to explore your local neighborhood to find the worthwhile places.
(4)Justin F.
I love this place. Its cozy, they have their own art gallery, and as soon as you enter, it's inviting with tchotchkies and decorations galore. Mark their hours, it sucks to forget em and find they're closed!
(5)Lauren M.
Kefa Cafe is a really great neighborhood coffee shop. I usually swing by once or twice a week before work on weekday mornings. It's always comfy and there's usually somewhere to sit. The coffee that they serve is local - from Maryland! I think that's great. I don't actually love it, but I think it might be the way that they brew it. (Too weak maybe?) But they started doing hand-pours, which I bet are fantastic. I've never had their lattes or specialty drinks, either. Either way, their coffee is WAY better than the coffee you're going to pick up from Starbucks or the Folgers that is brewed in your office. I had my first affogato there (gelato with a shot of hot espresso), and it was faaaaaaaaantastic! They love to support local art and businesses! They have a little pamphlet on the other independent businesses in Silver Spring you can pick up. The owners (sisters, maybe?) are SO unbelievably friendly and adorable. They will probably ask you a thing or two about yourself and will likely remember you next time. Honestly, their great service and warm welcome is what keeps me coming back.
(3)Jo Jo W.
The coffee is strong and delicious, and it feels really good to patronize a locally owned cafe. Next time you want a latte or a capuccino or just a cuppa joe or tea, resist the urge to go to Starbucks and head to Kefa. It will make you smile. They've also got some good lookin food. And they care about their customers and neighbors - there are always groups of people meeting there, and they've got a fun wall of photos! :)
(4)Alexander D.
I stopped going to Starbucks and started coming here. You know why? Because the coffee is better! Not only that, the owners are very friendly, and give off a great atmosphere. I will be drinking their iced latte all throughout the winter because it is just so darn good. Love this place.
(5)Barbara F.
Just got back from Kefa Cafe where I met for almost 2 hrs. w/a friend. I was a little early, so ordered my cappuccino, a little wet (I'm a coffe snob!), & a biscotti--made locally. Both cappuccino & biscotti were delicious. The 2 ow ers--sisters-- we're warm in their welcome greeting, helpful & overall as pleasant & lovely as anyone could hope for. My friend, who'd never been, was also pleased by the service, his bagel & muffin, calling the cafe a great find. Adorable, local, friendly, reasonable--even worth the schlep from Bethesda, where there's nothing but chain coffee places that I dislike mucho. Cafe Kefa is wonderful--give it a try, for sure!
(5)Dan F.
A hidden jewel in Silver Spring. Kefa is owned by two warm and inviting sisters who bring a smile to my face every time I make it there. They have a nice tea selection and baked goods, so it's a great place for me to meet friends or have meetings during the work day. I don't drink coffee or eat gelato, but I hear both are great. It's a bright, sunny space, and there is always ample street parking. Check it out!
(5)Jeffry W.
Your local coffee shop in Silver Spring! +Comfy setting! +Caring Staff! +Good Products - love that specialty soda brand that they carry
(5)Alex A.
Ah Kefa. You don't really need my review, you've already got 4 and a half stars. But you're great, and I think you deserve 5. I'm not much of a coffee drinker, so I'm not basing this review on my opinion of their brew. I'm basing it on my wife. You see, she loves coffee. Loooooves it. But since we had a baby, she only allows herself one or two cups a week. And where does she get that precious mug? Kefa. On the weekends, I have only but to suggest that I go get her some coffee at Kefa and I am instantly the best husband in the world. So, gentlemen, take note: an easy win for those of you with similarly addicted lovers. For me, a non-coffee fiend, Kefa is still pleasant because the two women (sisters?) are always so sweet. In fact, they are so sweet that it must rub off on their customers, because here, unlike those innumerable green tinged chains with which we are all so familiar, the customers are actually friendly, and polite, and considerate. It's bizarre, but the only explanation I can come up with is that they've been affected by the charming atmosphere at Kefa Coffee Cafe.
(5)Ever D.
Kefa Cafe...wow! What else can I say that has probably not been said already. I am going to keep it short and sweet...I love Kefa Cafe, they stand for organic and great coffee, something rare to find these days (Staaaarbucks). The food is great and the service makes this whole coffee experience as good as it can get in the Silver Spring area. Love the place and I wish them the best success. Oh, the library section, is a brilliant idea!
(5)Yomphana A.
You gotta support local businesses! Kefa Cafe is a gem. I've been coming here for years and the sisters are sooo wonderful. They truely epitomize good customer service. The coffee is great, the gelato (I think it's seasonal) is divine... but they might not have it anymore. The sweets are good. The space and location are great. I can't say enough, the owners are really nice, you just want to support them.
(4)Jesus J.
Great, little coffee shop in downtown Silver Spring. It's away from the hustle and bustle and is located on a quiet street. The coffee is good, the pastries are tasty (a bit pricey), and there's usually plenty of parking on the street. The owners and staff are very welcoming and appreciate the business. If you need a break from your typical Starbucks, I'd say give Kefa a try.
(4)Debbie C.
I used to love my Starbucks routine until I found this place. Step out of downtown Silver Spring and head one block south on Georgia Avenue for this little gem. Kefa Cafe was so great, I have never looked back. 1) It's never crowded or noisy--you can actually have an intimate conversation, read a book or browse the web without distraction of swarms of people. also, no lines! Sometimes I have to wait 20 minutes for my starbucks drink. 2) Delicious coffee. Isn't that why you go to a cafe? 3) Locally owned and operated. For bleeding heart, anti-establishment people (and you know who you are) this place is a big fuck u to the Starbucks chain. 4) Friendly service. Starbucks has charming baristas, but they're paid to smile. The two ladies who operate this place actually talk to you if you strike up a conversation. Okay, enough yammering. Gotta grab a cuppa.
(5)Libby F.
This is still a favorite place of mine. I came in last week to pick up a scone to go, but when I saw the bread pudding on display I quickly changed my mind. As always, the sisters that own this place are just as lovely as can be! They informed me that they will be closing for a month starting next week, July 3rd thru August 2nd. One of them will be going to visit family in Ethiopia. So today I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast with my friend before heading over to the craft fair nearby. I plan to have more lazy days of summer here when they return.
(5)Shanna D.
This is my favorite cafe in Silver Spring, and not only for their fair trade coffee and local organic pastries! Their cozy back dining room is available to rent in the evenings for private parties. We just threw a one year wedding anniversary for dear friends, and it was the perfect venue. They even provided a coffee and tea service, and we were able to bring the champagne and cake. The sisters that run the cafe are so hospitable that you feel like you're in someone's home! I just learned that they are going to have live music/open-mic night this Friday Nov 8th from 7pm to 9pm, and King of the Vagabonds is playing!!
(5)Jane Y.
I REALLY hope the urbanization of Silver Spring doesn't force this place to close down. This is an awesome mum and pop coffee shop with delicious fresh lunch items, home-made gelato and desserts. I've been here a couple of times. The service have always been superb. Their gelato is pretty much what you NEED TO GET. They have this veggie sandwich, that's delicious. Fresh, crisp veggies for a healthy lunch. It's great. It is also a great place to sit down and meet with friends. They have enough sitting for accommodate everyone most of the time.
(4)Allan R.
Kefa is as excellent a coffee shop as I have found in the Silver Spring area. The reason to go here, by far, is the ambiance and friendly staff. The staff always seem happy to see you, and will bend over backwards to make sure you have an excellent experience. When I say "bend over backward" I don't mean in the starbucks sense, like if you complain they'll remake your drink and give you a certificate. Although that's nice, that's not what I mean. I mean that, not once but TWICE I have arrived after Kefa has closed. Both of these times I turned to despondently walk away, only to have the door open behind me and the owner there with a warm smile, beckoning me inside. That's right, they have reopened not once, but TWICE to make sure that I do not go without coffee. That is what I call customer service. And I am not a regular by any standard, I've only been a handful of times. All the same, excellent treatment and a relaxed, warm environment. I'll admit, I've had better coffee. But cute, local owned coffee shops are getting harder and harder to find, and amongst the rows of food chains in downtown silver spring, Kefa is a gem. I highly recommend you check it out.
(4)Shaggy L.
After having heavy lunch at nandos peri peri, my friend wanted to have some hot drink. I decided this place after reading yelp reviews. Owner is super cool, she welcomed us as if we are regulars, she asked about our tastes and suggested some choices. We had almond macchiato and latte. My macchiato was awesome and my friend loved his latte. Bottom line: I will make it a point to try it out again if I'm in the area.
(5)Diana C.
Cheap, local, not-Starbucks coffee? Yes please. I only wish I could get it in 2-liter to-go cups because I am a caffeine addict. :) I surprisingly don't go here more often, though I pass it pretty much daily. However! When I have been able to frequent this place, I have loved it. The coffee is GOOOOOOD. The pastries are yummy. The gelato is fairly decent (but I'm comparing it to gelato in Italy, so I may have a bit of a bias). The prices are great. The owners are super nice. The atmosphere is awesome & laid back. The decor is cute and cozy. What's not to love?
(5)P K.
I'm happy to find a local spot when possible, and this place is a treat. i had a decaf americano, which was rich and delicious, not overly roasted nor thinly acidic. really well done. ordered 2 hot chocolates and a pastry for my boys. i got one tiny sip of the hot chocolate, made with steamed milk and it was rich, not quite as chocolatey as I like (i'm an 85% cocoa kind of guy) but my boys loved it. we brought in our own cups, which the proprietor offered to wash for us :) awesome! Very kid friendly place, she absolutely charmed my two boys. Support local business, and get great service and great coffee. yelp rocks in helping me find spots like this when i'm on the road, thanks guys/gals :D
(4)Rebecca L.
Loved the Avagado (i might have spelled that wrong) but it is Gelato with and Espresso shot! Fair warning, don't walk in to Kefa Cafe expecting to do any work on your computer like I did. It is an "Internet Free" zone so that people actually interact which I fully support, but felt a little silly with my laptop.
(4)Ashley A.
Not like this place needs anymore positive reviews, but I thought I'd contribute to all of the positive statements about this place and go ahead and sing its praises. It is very cozy as mentioned by other Yelp users. The owners are always really warm and friendly whenever I come in. I always get the Cafe Mocha whenever I come in and it always hits the spot. It's not too sweet and always steaming hot, which is great! The lunches are a little pricey, being that they're usually just regular sandwiches and if you want to get a tad fancy you can order a quiche. I don't think I'll buy sandwiches here again, simply because I feel like I can make those type of sandwiches on my own for a fraction of the price, but the coffee drinks are totally worth it! They have a frequent buyer punch card, so don't forget to ask for yours.
(4)Jerry M.
It seems like only yesterday that Kefa Cafe opened in downtown Silver Spring but it has actually been FIFTEEN YEARS! You KNOW that for a small independent business to survive that long the owners HAVE to be doing something right. In Kefa's case it is the always warm and inviting sisters Lene and Abeba Tsegaye who will greet you upon entering. Their coffee and pastries are great and their side Space 7:10 gallery always has a changing display of art. Kefa has become such a beloved business that I proudly included them in my book "Downtown Silver Spring" (Arcadia Publishing, 2010). Skip the chains and visit an authentic piece of Silver Spring!
(4)Jess Y.
You can definitely taste the QUALITY in the coffee at Kefa Cafe. My usual drink is an Americano, regardless of where I go. At Kefa, I didn't add a single drop of sweetener or cream and it was delicious! Definitely stop by for some yummy coffee, and great service.
(5)Joe D.
I can only concur with everything that has been posted here about the wonderful sister-owners Lene and Abeba Tsegaye, their great service, great ambiance, and great coffee. I give them 5 stars. If there was a 6th star, I would give that to them too because they have no wi-fi. Some disagree with me. Bruce J. states "Also, the last time I checked there was still no wi-fi, a drawback for those of us who use coffeehouses as alternative work spaces. " and Marc M. writes "My only issue with the place is that there isn't wifi." Once I went into Mayorga Coffee in Silver Spring ( now closed ), I counted 18 people, seventeen of them on laptops. This was not a coffee shop, it was an office without cubicles. No one was talking or reading, just surfing the net or working. One guy was editing a magazine. I have talked with Lene and Abeba about wi-fi . they don't want it -- they want to run a coffee shop, not an office. It works: check out these comments: Amy V. "because everyone here seems to be regulars enjoying their Saturday breakfast and WaPo" Ji. L "But locals don't just come for coffee - it's a place hang out with friends" I leave my laptop at home and go to Kefe to read or talk with friends. I wish there were more coffee shops like it.
(5)Debbie P.
Homey, cheerful and great coffee, chai, biscotti, muffins, and salads. I meet my friends for lunch or for coffee.
(5)Gloria A.
My first visit to Kefa Cafe, and I was not disappointed. I ordered the Café au lait with their dark french roast. It was just what the doctor ordered on a gray, rainy day. So rich and creamy, not weak and watered down like many places. It even helped clear my stuffy nose, at least temporarily. My husband got the Americano and enjoyed it. Maybe I'll try that next time. Thank you Yelp reviewers!
(5)Nathan B.
Great local spot with outstanding coffee.
(5)Sarah S.
Aw, this place is adorable. Coffee's great, service is AMAZING - the two Ethiopian ladies who run the place are almost always there and so so nice, and they provide space for local artists to display their work - it's really a community-centric place. Food is fine, nothing fancy, but I have to give this place a good review just for EXISTING in an environment like Silver Spring, replete with starbucks, chipotle, baja fresh and other chains. I really hope it survives - we could all use more sunny cafes with friendly owners and mismatched chairs and fewer corporate coffee shops with dreary mass produced art and music.
(4)Keyon V.
Two warm and kind women run this excellent café. The conversation was delightful. I only had a black iced coffee, but I was delighted to find that the ice cubes were made out of frozen coffee. No more being gipped by watery coffee! I was also able to find that they are now strictly serving local milk from a specific farm of which I forget the name. Why suddenly change to a pricier option? Because these women care about good service and good product. Definitely worth a visit.
(5)Hoot's K.
My favorite new coffee shop because: 1. The coffee and tea are outstanding! 2. It's family owned and run. 3. It's a hidden jewel that is never overly crowded. 4. The adornments are modest but bright. 5. The two sisters who own the place are absolute kittens and are genuinely very sweet and may want to know more about you if you're new but they do a good job of not being pushy. There are a few snacks and gelato, too, but this is not the place for a hearty meal. Eat down the block and come to Kefa to drink coffee and digest. There are lots of tables that are comfy enough (no plush chairs though) and they also rotate local artists' work on the walls. There is also an amazing community mural on the side of the building that is worth checking out. It really is an independent gem.
(5)Richard H.
The best espresso in Silver Spring. Without a doubt.
(5)Debbie S.
Yum yum yum. My oh my, a chai tea at Kefa Cafe on a windy cold day today was just what the doctor ordered. I met an old friend for drinks and pleasant conversation, and Kefa was a great location for that. I love the small town feel of this coffee shop right in Silver Spring. It's a very welcome change of pace from the chain coffee places that are so prevalent in the area. My only complaint is that my tea wasn't as hot as I generally like it. But, I guess that's better than too hot! I hate burning my tongue on too-hot coffees and teas. I won't downgrade my rating though; Kefa Cafe is definitely still worth 5 stars!
(5)Nicole F.
This place is perfect: cute, homey atmosphere; attentive and caring owners, and beautiful espresso at a good price. I ordered an espresso, and one of the ladies pulled a double for me. I hadn't asked for it, but once I finally tasted it, I was glad I had a double shot. It was perfect: thick crema, and a great balance of earthy, nutty tastes and that slightly bitter, tannic jolt you want in an espresso. What puts this place over the top for me is how great the owners are. I was having a clumsy moment, and spilled my espresso before I could even take a sip of it. The owner came over, asked if I was ok, and then very quickly offered to make me a new espresso. She didn't charge me, and was just so nice about the whole thing. I will definitely be back when I'm in the neighborhood. Extra double bonus: they run on green energy. Good times.
(5)Yuri R.
Ah Kefa, what would I do without ya? But lyrical praise aside, really, how would I have survived 10 hour shifts day after day without your proprietors' glowing smiles? Your varied and complex pastry offerings? And your piping hot coffee infusions? Answer: it would have been all but impossible.
(4)Bruce J.
As far as warm, friendly, welcoming coffeehouses go, Kefa Cafe is the one place in the DC metro area that rivals my favorite Minneapolis neighborhood stop, the 2nd Moon. Owners Lene and Abeba Tsegaye are as nice and hospitable as can be. They know their customers and put a premium on relationships. Come to think of it, they care about the quality of everything!! The coffee at Kefa is first rate, and the two sisters have done a splendid job of turning Kefa into a true community gathering place, a setting where groups come to meet about projects, display art, and discuss civic matters. Sometimes the owners even stay open past closing to accommodate residents' needs. Kefa is truly an intimate space, which is often a plus and sometimes a minus. It can be hard at times to block out others' conversations. Also, the last time I checked there was still no wi-fi, a drawback for those of us who use coffeehouses as alternative workspaces. Overall, though, I agree with those who describe Kefa Cafe as a "gem." It's a gem that hopefully will survive and thrive in redeveloped downtown Silver Spring. These are the kinds of places that keep the "cool" in Silver Spring.
(4)Michelle V.
What a cozy spot: you wont be bored perusing through the books. The owners are sweet. The service is excellent. The coffee is yum. Local spots like this are a million to one preference over coffee chains. Parking is not too terrible.
(4)Mark O.
I can only repeat the praises others have heaped upon this gem. Outstanding coffee, served by two sweet Ethiopian sisters, in a warm and friendly shop. Starbucks can go screw themselves, and use a crappucino as lube.
(5)seth n.
I have to add to the chorus here. This place is a true gem. Coming off and on to Silver Spring over the past 7 years or so I can't believe I just recently discovered it. There is a genuine warmth to the owners (who are always there:) that makes you feel you've stepped back to a time before everything was packaged corporate effects. They care to smile and greet their customers. There is ample seating room, so you won't feel rushed if you would like to just relax and drink a coffee in peace. The coffee is great, I am a big fan of espresso/machiatto's and Kefa does not disappoint. The gelato is up to the challenge as well. Next time you are in the downtown Silver Spring area try it out, I think you have a much more memorable experience than Seattle's best chains in the mall around the corner.
(5)Vince V.
Kefa serves the best coffee and pastries, and provides the most attentive service in the Silver Spring area. It is locally owned and committed for 15 years to serving its customers in an intimate, personal environment. Easy parking and accessible to downtown Silver Spring makes it the perfect place for an important business meeting, a casual visit with friends, or a quick pickup to go. I've also found they prepare great take-out breakfasts for business meetings that you might hold nearby ... delicious and just-like-home fruit trays, pastry trays, and of course that coffee!
(5)Kathy T.
I really like this place! The service is some of the best that I have EVER experienced. The two sisters running the place are as sweet as can be, and while I sat there sipping my coffee, I heard them greeting the other guests with warm salutations and conversation. My dad has been going there for years (it's been there for over 12 years) and I finally checked it out for the first time this past weekend. The coffee is SPOT ON! I went out of my way to go 2x while I was in town for their delicious macchiatto. That plus the amazing service in a quiet, laid back atmosphere can't be beat. Oh, and the gelato is really tasty. Will be back the next time I'm in Silver Spring.
(5)Anya B.
This is the perfect neighborhood cafe. The people are nice, the coffee good, it feels like an extention of your living room. Great place to meet someone.
(5)Daphne Y.
Kefa Cafe is my new sweetheart! My friends introduced me to it. And I am very amazed at their coffee! It taste just like starbucks. But I will not barely compare them. Kefa Cafe tickled my taste buds! It's the very perfect place to hangout! And you know what? I already decided to go back here regularly. This cafe rules!
(5)Niket R.
This an awesome local establishment in Silver Spring, within walking distance from the metro station. The owners are beyond pleasant, and the blends of coffee that they have are each delightful. I particularly enjoyed their house blend, a blend of Sumatran, Arabic, and Ethiopian beans. I haven't tried anything else but the coffee at this place; I've, however, read that the gelato kicks ass. Next time you're in Silver Spring and looking for a cup of Java in an intimate atmosphere, skip over Starbucks (or even Mayoga's Coffee Factory) and head over to Kefa Kafe!
(5)Alex L.
Great coffee, extremely friendly owners, and great prices! The lack of wi-fi turned out to be a boon for I got a lot of reading done without the distraction of a computer.
(5)Nan W.
Missing Mayorga? Try Kefa Cafe. Great coffee married to ideal ambiance for connecting... NO, not your laptop -- connecting to actual live humans! Holding (ahem) conversation! There's a lovely sort of "feng shui" here. The little rooms are cozy, sunny, and pleasant, beckoning you to take your seat and stay a bit. The decoration is understated and just right. This is by far the best place to go with a friend for excellent coffee, a pleasant if limited lunchtime selection of sandwiches and quiche, and a pastry or house-made gelato if you are inclined to indulge. The owners are the best - friendly, helpful, the kind of people you want to see stay in business. No impersonal indifferent service. Have your next heart-to-heart over a mocha here. Only complaint is the pound of coffee beans I purchased was rather stale.
(4)Rachel H.
Kefa is a great neighborhood spot. The coffee is good and the owners make you feel at home.
(4)JP M.
Cute little coffee shop. A great place to hide from all the chain resturants in the area.
(3)Amanda D.
A coffee shop with character only a few steps from the sterile "new downtown" of Silver Spring. Based on the positive Yelp reviews, I took a chance and ordered a macchiato, which can be a terrible choice in a mediocre coffee shop. But this one was excellent, exceeded my expectations. The staff were extremely friendly and it's a bright and cheerful place.
(4)Lauren H.
Yes, Kefa Cafe is cute, and the owners are ridiculously friendly, and the coffee is superior. However, I recently ordered the Spring Street, a vegetarian sandwich, and was disappointed. Kudos to Kefa for offering a veggie (even a vegan!) sandwich, and kudos to them for inserting fun, non-standard veggies like sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts. However, the sandwich just did not have any flavor. It didn't come with any spread, any garnish, any side item, no pickle slice, no hummous, no mustard, no nothing. It was slightly soggy from sprouts, which did not add to its appeal. I asked for a slice of cheese, and they charged me 90 cents extra--putting my sandwich at nearly $7, above yummy choices like chicken tarragon and roast beef and cheese. Really, Kefa Cafe? I love you, but I won't be back for a veggie sandwich, and that's too bad. I want to support local business, and I like your style.
(3)Ji L.
I stopped by here during a brief stay in Silver Spring. Following others' recommendation on Yelp, I walked pass the Panera up the road to check out Kefa Cafe. It's a cozy, down to earth, locally owned neighborhood cafe that serves pastry, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. The owner is friendly, but the food was neither particularly cheap nor fantastic - I paid $8.50 for a coffee, a biscotti and an egg and cheese sandwich, all very average. But locals don't just come for coffee - it's a place hang out with friends. Kefa Cafe is a warm and welcome place for locals and wary travelers alike amidst the barren wasteland of the Silver Spring business district.
(3)Steve Y.
For a long time I have noticed that Kefa Cafe is consistantly ranked as one the top eating establishments in Silver Spring on Yelp; however, it wasn't until today that I found out why it gets such good press. A snowy day and a desire for lunch with a hot beverage resulted in my wife and I finally stopping by Kefa Cafe. The cafe is fairly small, comprised of 2 rooms each with about 3 or 4 tables. Although not extensively decorated there is a warmth to the place that is complemented by the warm greeting from the owners. Today there happened to be a local jazz musician there playing and selling his quartet's CDs which further enhanced the atmosphere. The menu focuses on hot drinks and sandwiches - nothing fancy, just the essentials. I ordered a Bonifant Street Sandwich (essentially a ham and cheese) while my wife ordered a roast beef sandwich. We also ordered a mocha cafe and a hot chocolate to warm us up (total cost = $17). Although there was an initial mistake with my wife's order, this was quickly and apologetically corrected. Both sandwiches were simply constructed on tasty wheat bread and were seasoned with the right amount of mayo etc.. Although they did not come with chips, pickles or anything, they were perfectly fine on their own. The drinks were also very good - I enjoyed my mocha, and my wife declared that the hot chocolate was one of the best she has tasted. She noted that the hot chocolate was also fairly simple and was not adorned with the usual mountain of whipped cream and other toppings - just hot chocolate, plain and simple... and good. Kefa Cafe certainly deserves its high ranking on Yelp. Although modest in many ways, the warmth of the owners and the focus on delivering a simple yet satisfying meal makes it a star in the Silver Spring dining scene. The only reason for not giving the full 5 stars is I thought the prices were just a little on the high side for something so simple.
(4)Cliff E.
Good coffee- fair price. Definite plus- not Starbucks. Yeah I know Starbucks is good to it's employees, etc- but really I like the owners and the friendly atmosphere- AND they were in Silver Spring before Silver Spring was 'cool' and had all these trendy little 'chain' restaurants- that are driving the smaller shops out of biz.
(4)Robin T.
What a gem! This cozy little restaurant not on a main street is easy to pass by. Fortunately, a "Buy With Me" coupon brought two co-workers and I there today. The food is delicious, served quickly, well-priced, and the woman there (seemed to be the owner) was extremely kind and sweet. It's a very homey place. I got the quiche. It and the bread it came with were delicious as was my friend's muffin. He also said his chicken salad sandwich was excellent. We'll definitely be back.
(5)Kate M.
Awesome coffee, friendly service, unpretentious atmosphere. This is a perfect neighborhood coffee joint and I appreciated the lack of Starbucks-ness. Don't know about the food or the gelato (yet!), but I will definitely make this a regular stop.
(5)David F.
Kefa Cafe is great coffee! I work one block away and am hooked -- I can't go more than a couple of days without stopping in to see the lovely owners!
(5)April F.
I go here at least 4 days a week.... The women who own it are amazing, the coffee is fabulous, and the decor is very cozy. As a fellow SS small business worker, I'm constantly thanking my lucky stars Kefa exists in my life!
(5)Farah K.
this place is closed
(1)Nikkia G.
Totally in love with this place and their owners. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. When you walk into this place you feel like you are home, whether you go their all the time or just once. This indeed is the best neighborhood coffee shop. The coffee is really good- which can be hard to find in drip coffees sometimes. The pastries and sandwiches are always fresh and delicious. What sells it though is the sweet sisters, Lene and Abeba. Even when my mom comes to the area, she insists we stop here to say hello to the sisters because they are just that nice.
(5)Shenita W.
Gem of the neighborhood! My husband and I have been Kefa Cafe fans since 2002. It's our place to stop after church. The coffee is wonderful, the desserts delectable, and the service absolutely awesome. Definitely recommend!
(4)Kassity L.
This review is a little overdue. Love their coffee and the owners. We're constant regulars here (though we've noticed that they were closed a couple of weeks ago due to the fire at Quarry House). We really like the macchiatos. Coffee has nice fruity notes and pairs really well with milk or cream. During the summer they also have gelato and you can get affogatos with your choice of gelato flavor. Really sweet staff and always any interesting array of art scattered about the place. Definitely one of the best coffee places in the DC area.
(5)Cherelle H.
Me and my mom were in Silver Spring for a morning parade and I decided to look on Yelp to see what cafes or coffee shops came up in the area. Kefa Cafe had the best reviews and it was open at 8:00 in the morning so we decided to go. The shop is adorable, the atmosphere was good, and the space is very small but we were able to find a seat. We ordered a chocolate muffin and a plain bagel with butter and cream cheese and a mocha with soy (Vegan/Vegetarian friendly). It was pretty crowded for it to be that early on a Saturday but the service was quick. The two owners/sisters were very friendly and welcoming. They have a wide variety of coffee so for all of you coffee lovers this is a good place to try.
(5)Hannah H.
This is such a cute and cozy-looking cafe in Silver Spring (right around the corner from Pete's New Haven Pizza) - I had a cup of their Cafe Mocha, which was their famous espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup. Yum yum yum! It was hot, full of flavor, and I can taste the great quality coffee beans - the steamed milk and the drop of chocolate syrup also made this a nice delicious beverage, but not too sweet - it was a great balance between the two. I liked the coffee burlap bag decorating the tables throughout the place, and it seems like a great spot to get some work or studying done. Metered parking can be found along Bonifant St. I'm all about in supporting local and independently-owned stores/cafes! :D +Cafe Mocha +metered-parking along Bonifant
(4)Brenton W.
The best banana nut muffin I ever had. Was recommended to try the chai latte (and I'm not a latte drinker. Coffee, black, is how I like it) and it was delicious. They were open with 10 inches of snow falling too. Lovely and friendly staff. Will definitely be returning often to try other food and read.
(5)Ethan L.
This is a fantastic little coffee cafe that is run by an Ethiopian family who are some of the nicest people I've ever met. They know how to brew coffee here. The espressos here are so incredibly fruity tasting, and the little puff pastries that are for sale are also quite delectable as well. Good brewed and prepared coffee, real nice simple comfortable setting where many locals sit and chat, nice ambiance, what more can you ask for. A perfect place to kill some time, or just grab a quick brew and forget going to the Starbucks instead. Worth a stop if you are in the neighborhood.
(4)Diana J.
The ladies that own this place are the sweetest and appreciate each and every person that walls through the door. This is not a laptop kinda coffee shop even though space is plentiful and wifi is available. The cookies at the front of the register are AMAZING!! And BIG!! Coffee is roasted perfectly milk is always nicely steamed. Croissant sandwiches are a bit greasy for my liking.
(5)Deb G.
Yummy soy cappuccino and delicious quiche. I enjoyed the arty atmosphere, and the woman behind the counter was super nice. They lose a star because the food was kind of expensive for what you got, but I'm willing to pay a little more for a local joint. It's worth looking beyond the Starbucks in DTSS for a walk to Kefa Cafe.
(4)Brian F.
Stopped in for a the first time. This was a great experience. The owner was so friendly and the coffee was excellent. They seem very community centered. I was super impressed. It felt like a home away from home. Charming, clean, joyous. Nice way to spend 30 minutes.
(5)Imran Q.
Not sure why this place won Best of Fenton with other great places in the neighborhood. The owners are very nice and make the place feel homey but besides that there isn't much going for this place. The serving sizes are small, the prices are high, and the seating is cramped. Further, and probably most annoying is the lack of WiFi. What cafe doesn't have WiFi!
(2)Dee B.
The macchiato I enjoyed here was perfect, and I was thrilled to see Goldilocks Goodies gluten-free cookies at the register (they are not inexpensive, but they are delicious). I do wish the tables were a tad cleaner.
(4)Amy B.
Great customer service. Really nice coffee. Simple menu of sandwiches, bagels and croissants but really delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)Alex D.
Very neat nice friendly place to chill out. We had roasted beef and spring classic sandwich. Very good refreshing.ice cream here is very good...even they don't make it here but they taste just like homemade...awesome place...
(5)William R.
I just stopped in for a morning tea. They had Harney and Sons, real cups, and excellent service!
(4)Lu L.
Awesome friendly service and very cute store decorations. It is my first time here but I already like it.
(4)Yaseen A.
Before really acknowledging my five stars, please read the review first!!!! In a nutshell, I was looking for a cozy cafe to call home when I moved to Maryland a few months back. Upon walking into kefa, you'll notice the very cozy decor. I won't go into detail, but it feels very personal. The seating is amazing for a small place. I was very impressed with that. The girls working the shop are absolutely phenomenal and I truly believe they are the epitome of perfect customer service. I honestly can't say enough about them. I even wen home and raved about them to my wife. The product - this is the real test... The coffee. The first time I went in, I ordered a black coffee (add cream and sugar off to the side). I was impressed. Their regular coffee doesn't feel weak like a lot of mom and pop places who are trying to save a buck in these tough times. They really know what they're doing. The second cup I ordered was a latte. Again, I was impressed by the espresso shot. These girls aren't using an automatic machine which had me worried, they're grinding, tamping and pulling the shots on their own. They have their shots perfected. My third order was a soy latte (I'm trying to cut dairy out - allergies - and I'm not a big fan of soy) so I let the girl behind the counter know this and she asked an interesting question. Are you allergic to almonds? "No" I answered. She then poured two short lattes and asked me to try them. I did and I told which one I liked best. She said "that was the soy milk. The other was almond milk." I was incredibly happy she did that because I was able to feel better with my soy decision. I didn't feel so much like a sissy - or like I was gonna regret getting soy over regular milk. All-in-all, I can't recommend this place enough. You will absolutely fall in love with it. I promise. Don't let my review decide for you. Decide for yourself, I promise you'll thank me for it. This place is officially my new home :)
(5)Larissa J.
Do not get the scones, they are dry,dry, dry. The service on the other hand was superb. The location is cute but parking is not adorable. But, I like to support local so it sure beat the Bucks or DD...you know what I mean!
(2)John S.
Everyone else has described all kinds of good things about this place, so I won't try to list them all.... Why I'M giving them 5 stars is primarily for the coffee. As with anywhere, there are good days and bad days, good brews and bad. However, the ladies here are extremely good, and the espresso ranges anywhere from "quite good" to "best I've had in my life." (seriously. The very best one. I've ever had. Blew me away.) Their pourovers are absolutely fantastic. Such a beautiful aroma, full perfect balance of flavors, never weak or overextracted... it's to die for.) If you passionately care about your coffee, go to Kefa. You will not be disappointed.
(5)Kate A.
Very small, but warm, neighborhood coffee shop. The food and coffee were both good; but on a busy Saturday morning it took a few minutes to get a table. Service was friendly and welcoming.
(4)Eric G.
Excellent gelato! I'll come back for the coffee I've been hearing about, but I can say the staff is really friendly and makes you feel welcome.
(4)WonJu C.
Centerpiece to all cafes should be the coffee which this place delivers wonderfully (I ordered espresso macchiato). I don't think I would ever order their pastries again, however. The cranberry muffin was cold, and it didn't really live up to its name for it only had cranberries on top of the muffin. Ambience is excellent. The sun shone perfectly through the window seat as I browsed through my newspaper (well, on my phone but I think it sounds more romantic when you say paper..), and the place was cozy. I am definitely going back for the coffee and ambience. I might order their sandwiches to see if that's better than their pastries.
(4)Morgan C.
Great coffee and atmosphere!
(5)Siv L.
Came here with my boyfriend to get a cup of coffee. Very cute place, owned by two Ethiopian sisters. I ordered a cafe au lait (with organic coffee) -- was yummy. My boyfriend and I browsed some of the books on the window sill, and one of the sisters came to show me where their cafe was mentioned in a book written by a producer of The Wire, and in another book, a photo of them standing in front of their cafe juxtaposed to a photo of what was in its place years prior. Overall, a very cute coffee shop. Would definitely recommend.
(4)William B.
Delicious, delicious coffee, and a friendly lady behind the counter. Just stopped in for the first time this morning, as I was waiting on the body shop to open. Had a cappuccino and muffin - while the muffin was very good, the cappuccino was truly excellent.
(5)Sara O.
5 stars for the coffee beverages! - Yummy iced mochas and iced coffee. I love that this business has been around silver spring for 25 years with the same owners. The owners and workers and super lovely and always seem to have a smile on their faces when I visit for there tasty iced mochas. Plus, if you are lucky, they do that smart trick where they put ice coffee cubed in you iced coffee, which keeps if from watering down. I also loved that this place is kind of hidden off the main drag of Georgia avenue and it gives Kefa more of an intimate setting. I have never had the food or pastries, so read other reviews for that. But, to me, a coffee shop is a coffee shop not pastry shop or bakery those are just added items that I tend to shy away from because I would rather waste my calories at a place known for their desserts and sweets. Plus, I'm picky at times.
(5)Marek M.
As the sun warms this already comfortable spot, there is a feeling of "I'm home" that comes over you. The ambiance this cafe emanates gives you the ability to actually relax and think about nothing but when it is the next time you will visit. Unlike most chain coffee shops or bustling cafés, Kefa is a place that is not made famous by their mass producing of gourmet drinks filled with specialty titles , but by the locals who keep coming back time and time again. It can be seen through out this quaint little coffee shop that "Coffee should be something special" and the Kefa cafe will make that happen for you. Take the time and stop by, you won't be disappointed.
(4)Wyndi A.
Best coffee in Silver Spring and the folks who run it are wonderful!
(5)G H.
Chose Kefa just glancing at cumulative star rating and its proximity to a conference I'm attending. Ordered the quiche but was confused why it was the most expensive thing on the menu... until I tried it: Perfect custard-like filling. Finished with an espresso: a perfectly pulled shot by an obviously expert barista. Far exceeded expectations, particularly given it's modest edifice -- five stars. Will be back.
(5)Kristin M.
Kefa Cafe is a Silver Spring fixture and a cozy, pleasant little spot to pass the time with a friend or two, or by yourself! It's on an unimpressive side street, but don't write it off - it's a sanctuary worth discovering, and there's actually a couple other gems on the same block if you know what you're looking for! Be forewarned that Kefa is really small (maybe...10-12 tables total? including some two-seaters: yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ), so you may have to wait a few minutes to snag a table if there's a few of you and you're there during busy hours. This little nook definitely has a neighborhood feel, with photos and flyers on the walls and the two much-loved sisters always behind the counter. There's also a selection of games (in the desk thing by the bathroom) if you really want to unwind, including a set of Yelp playing cards, which you KNOW I love! The menu is spread over a few hanging chalkboards and is comprised of hot and iced coffees/lattes/etc and teas, breakfast sandwiches on croissant or bagel, and lunch soups & sandwiches ( yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ). There's also gelato and pastry cases to peruse. ( yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ) The lattes are delicious and you can get it in a mug, which always adds to the homeyness factor. I had a bagel sandwich today that was pretty mediocre, but realized after I'd ordered that I could have asked for it on a different bagel (I didn't specify so it just came on a plain one) and that I hadn't asked for cheese (because the "Egg Sandwiches" are described as having egg and cheese) so it apparently hadn't been included. So, next time I'll do better, and maybe the result will be better. Despite the sandwich debacle, I'm still going with four stars because, frankly, this place makes me happy, and that's definitely reason for a ratings boost!
(4)Claire B.
A silver spring institution! Very sunny and warm, (PERFECT on a dreary winter day) and the sisters who run it couldn't be nicer. No wifi, so plan for that if you want to work. The coffee is delicious.
(5)Candy A.
I love this place. I used to study here at times when I was In college. I went recently and they have almond milk!! Definitely excited about a latte with almond milk. The ladies are also very friendly. I would recommend to anyone who loves coffee and a calm environment. When I used to study there I don't remember them having wifi, which may not be plus for some, but it helped me focus instead of surfing the web. I didn't stay long enough to find out if they had wifi now, but either way this place is awesome.
(5)Monique M.
I'm in love. Sorry Starbucks. The sisters who "run" this place (they'll tell you God owns it), are genuine, warm and friendly. There are so many good things here: *Eclectic, random collection of teapots and cups. *Bookshelf with various topics - something will catch your eye. *Great espresso and serve-yourself coffee stations *Separate seating area where the local french speakers meet to practice and drink coffee every Saturday afternoon. *Local art and news clippings on the walls. *Cheery, comfortable touches everywhere. No wi-fi or couches...alas, a prerequisite to be a 5-star coffee shop. But I really, really want to give them 5.
(4)Dan F.
The owners are super nice, and the place values the community and supports it. However I have to give them only 2 stars because the food was very mediocre, and the coffee watery/weak. I had a breakfast croissant. The croissant tasted old, the egg rubbery. The one saving grace was excellent fresh orange juice. Come for the atmosphere, but don't expect much else.
(2)Yoseph A.
So for all who love their coffee, you know how it feels to find that cosy, homey neighbourhood cafe that has really good coffee and all those little perks. I love their macchiato and it is my morning fix almost everyday. Then my eyes open up. I really love the place, and the owners, Lene and Abeba, are awesome. I recommend. Very much.
(5)no n.
4.5 Stars for: Having gone only once, my experience here was great. I gave this a 5 over 4 stars because: -They use local, glass-bottle and all-natural milk products (which is another reason I avoid Starbucks). -The owner is extremeley nice and accomodating to your needs -The place has character -The coffee is decent; I got an iced-mocha and it was just right; not too sweet.
(5)Marc M.
Very cosy locally owned coffee shop. Be aware of the hours since they seem to close at 5 during the week. My only issue with the place is that there isn't wifi. Seriously...... Same side of the street is 2 hour metered parking, opposite is 1 hour metered parking.
(3)Matt C.
This is our go-to coffee shop because the coffee is delicious, the food is good, and the service is delightful.
(5)Massiel G.
This place is small but the breakfast was very good and the owner was so lovely and nice. She just had a great personality that's it made me enjoy the atmosphere even more I wish more people run there business like that. I reconvened this place very warm good coffee she even made the way I wanted and its was just a great feeling that I haven't got in a loooong time I love the service and food :-)
(4)Roberto B.
After reading all the great reviews about the Kefa Cafe I couldn't help my self to wake up in the morning and visit it, especially because I wanted to try the Crossaint and a good espresso, a combination I miss so much since I've lived my last year in Rome, Italy. Easy to find, just a side road of Georgia Avenue, I had been astonished by the glowing wall paint right after the cafe, representing an imagine of people, religion and colors all combined together in an armonious way which anticipate the inside atmosphere. Right entered the door a nice green mixture of green chairs and table, yellow walls and anscient cups on the shelves welcome me. The cafe has two rooms, really well lightned by the sun and it seems like to be frequented by interesting people, from an old couple to a middle class man on his laptop to a couple of girlfriend and a single woman. I wait slightly over what I was expecting on the line, though one of the two girl of the Kafe came to me and nicely asked what I wanted in a really kind manner, just as I was expecting from the reviews. Unfortunately crossaint were just finished, so I opted for a honey muffin with almond on top and an espresso, which I'm still drinking. The muffin is really good, with a bunch of honey on the suface, tender and sweet. The espresso, and I'll be straightforward on this, is not as it suppose to be. I am going to enlight most of you guys on this then. The real espresso, and I would say, the best you can get in the world is in Naples, Italy. It is so short and thick you can't even tell you have drank something, but the dense and unique strong persistent taste that leave in the mouth for at least 15 minutes it is simple unique and worth the money. Here in United States, from what I've noticed so far, the espresso is what in Italy we call "long coffee", it is watery, not as thick as it suppose to be and usually with a weak taste. The espresso I'm having here at the cafe is "caffe lungo", but has a nice creamy surface and a unique flavour, which I believe is due to the organic manifactory of it, which is sorprendently persistent and unique. So in the end, despite the fact it is not as the Original is suppose to be, I would give it a 4 stars on five. I am almost at the end of my breakfast and I just had the last bite of my muffin. The Kefa Cafe fullfilled my expectation. It has a really nice atmosphere, nice service and really nice products. I wouldn't give it the 5 stars people use to give because they lack of two things I really like: music and wifi, plus if it happens to you to stay in the main room, you might be aware of a boring noise coming from the refrigerator which is louder than the chatting of people and actually affect the atmosphere. So if it happens to this cafe to instal a nice music system and a wifi then it will have my 5/5 stars. For now it is a 4/5.
(4)Tony M.
Best coffee ever, if u really like and know what the real coffee test like try this place, it's the best I ve found ever. The great scent of coffee makes me feel am home. Thanks Kefa cafe.
(5)Andrew T.
This is the best coffee shop in Silver Spring & Takoma Park. Undoubtedly it has the best ambience: it is comfortable and quiet with incredibly welcoming owner/baristas and comfortably sized tables. The coffee is reliably good and they know their way around an espresso machine. Their baked goods are excellent, and while their breakfast & lunch options aren't amazing, they are consistently decent. While they aren't open late except Fridays (as of 8/2013), and don't offer wifi, this remains the best coffee shop around.
(5)Morgan C.
Great coffee and atmosphere!
(5)Jo Jo W.
The coffee is strong and delicious, and it feels really good to patronize a locally owned cafe. Next time you want a latte or a capuccino or just a cuppa joe or tea, resist the urge to go to Starbucks and head to Kefa. It will make you smile. They've also got some good lookin food. And they care about their customers and neighbors - there are always groups of people meeting there, and they've got a fun wall of photos! :)
(4)Alexander D.
I stopped going to Starbucks and started coming here. You know why? Because the coffee is better! Not only that, the owners are very friendly, and give off a great atmosphere. I will be drinking their iced latte all throughout the winter because it is just so darn good. Love this place.
(5)Barbara F.
Just got back from Kefa Cafe where I met for almost 2 hrs. w/a friend. I was a little early, so ordered my cappuccino, a little wet (I'm a coffe snob!), & a biscotti--made locally. Both cappuccino & biscotti were delicious. The 2 ow ers--sisters-- we're warm in their welcome greeting, helpful & overall as pleasant & lovely as anyone could hope for. My friend, who'd never been, was also pleased by the service, his bagel & muffin, calling the cafe a great find. Adorable, local, friendly, reasonable--even worth the schlep from Bethesda, where there's nothing but chain coffee places that I dislike mucho. Cafe Kefa is wonderful--give it a try, for sure!
(5)Dan F.
A hidden jewel in Silver Spring. Kefa is owned by two warm and inviting sisters who bring a smile to my face every time I make it there. They have a nice tea selection and baked goods, so it's a great place for me to meet friends or have meetings during the work day. I don't drink coffee or eat gelato, but I hear both are great. It's a bright, sunny space, and there is always ample street parking. Check it out!
(5)Jeffry W.
Your local coffee shop in Silver Spring! +Comfy setting! +Caring Staff! +Good Products - love that specialty soda brand that they carry
(5)Alex A.
Ah Kefa. You don't really need my review, you've already got 4 and a half stars. But you're great, and I think you deserve 5. I'm not much of a coffee drinker, so I'm not basing this review on my opinion of their brew. I'm basing it on my wife. You see, she loves coffee. Loooooves it. But since we had a baby, she only allows herself one or two cups a week. And where does she get that precious mug? Kefa. On the weekends, I have only but to suggest that I go get her some coffee at Kefa and I am instantly the best husband in the world. So, gentlemen, take note: an easy win for those of you with similarly addicted lovers. For me, a non-coffee fiend, Kefa is still pleasant because the two women (sisters?) are always so sweet. In fact, they are so sweet that it must rub off on their customers, because here, unlike those innumerable green tinged chains with which we are all so familiar, the customers are actually friendly, and polite, and considerate. It's bizarre, but the only explanation I can come up with is that they've been affected by the charming atmosphere at Kefa Coffee Cafe.
(5)Ever D.
Kefa Cafe...wow! What else can I say that has probably not been said already. I am going to keep it short and sweet...I love Kefa Cafe, they stand for organic and great coffee, something rare to find these days (Staaaarbucks). The food is great and the service makes this whole coffee experience as good as it can get in the Silver Spring area. Love the place and I wish them the best success. Oh, the library section, is a brilliant idea!
(5)Yomphana A.
You gotta support local businesses! Kefa Cafe is a gem. I've been coming here for years and the sisters are sooo wonderful. They truely epitomize good customer service. The coffee is great, the gelato (I think it's seasonal) is divine... but they might not have it anymore. The sweets are good. The space and location are great. I can't say enough, the owners are really nice, you just want to support them.
(4)Debbie C.
I used to love my Starbucks routine until I found this place. Step out of downtown Silver Spring and head one block south on Georgia Avenue for this little gem. Kefa Cafe was so great, I have never looked back. 1) It's never crowded or noisy--you can actually have an intimate conversation, read a book or browse the web without distraction of swarms of people. also, no lines! Sometimes I have to wait 20 minutes for my starbucks drink. 2) Delicious coffee. Isn't that why you go to a cafe? 3) Locally owned and operated. For bleeding heart, anti-establishment people (and you know who you are) this place is a big fuck u to the Starbucks chain. 4) Friendly service. Starbucks has charming baristas, but they're paid to smile. The two ladies who operate this place actually talk to you if you strike up a conversation. Okay, enough yammering. Gotta grab a cuppa.
(5)Jesus J.
Great, little coffee shop in downtown Silver Spring. It's away from the hustle and bustle and is located on a quiet street. The coffee is good, the pastries are tasty (a bit pricey), and there's usually plenty of parking on the street. The owners and staff are very welcoming and appreciate the business. If you need a break from your typical Starbucks, I'd say give Kefa a try.
(4)Libby F.
This is still a favorite place of mine. I came in last week to pick up a scone to go, but when I saw the bread pudding on display I quickly changed my mind. As always, the sisters that own this place are just as lovely as can be! They informed me that they will be closing for a month starting next week, July 3rd thru August 2nd. One of them will be going to visit family in Ethiopia. So today I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast with my friend before heading over to the craft fair nearby. I plan to have more lazy days of summer here when they return.
(5)Allan R.
Kefa is as excellent a coffee shop as I have found in the Silver Spring area. The reason to go here, by far, is the ambiance and friendly staff. The staff always seem happy to see you, and will bend over backwards to make sure you have an excellent experience. When I say "bend over backward" I don't mean in the starbucks sense, like if you complain they'll remake your drink and give you a certificate. Although that's nice, that's not what I mean. I mean that, not once but TWICE I have arrived after Kefa has closed. Both of these times I turned to despondently walk away, only to have the door open behind me and the owner there with a warm smile, beckoning me inside. That's right, they have reopened not once, but TWICE to make sure that I do not go without coffee. That is what I call customer service. And I am not a regular by any standard, I've only been a handful of times. All the same, excellent treatment and a relaxed, warm environment. I'll admit, I've had better coffee. But cute, local owned coffee shops are getting harder and harder to find, and amongst the rows of food chains in downtown silver spring, Kefa is a gem. I highly recommend you check it out.
(4)Shanna D.
This is my favorite cafe in Silver Spring, and not only for their fair trade coffee and local organic pastries! Their cozy back dining room is available to rent in the evenings for private parties. We just threw a one year wedding anniversary for dear friends, and it was the perfect venue. They even provided a coffee and tea service, and we were able to bring the champagne and cake. The sisters that run the cafe are so hospitable that you feel like you're in someone's home! I just learned that they are going to have live music/open-mic night this Friday Nov 8th from 7pm to 9pm, and King of the Vagabonds is playing!!
(5)Shaggy L.
After having heavy lunch at nandos peri peri, my friend wanted to have some hot drink. I decided this place after reading yelp reviews. Owner is super cool, she welcomed us as if we are regulars, she asked about our tastes and suggested some choices. We had almond macchiato and latte. My macchiato was awesome and my friend loved his latte. Bottom line: I will make it a point to try it out again if I'm in the area.
(5)Diana C.
Cheap, local, not-Starbucks coffee? Yes please. I only wish I could get it in 2-liter to-go cups because I am a caffeine addict. :) I surprisingly don't go here more often, though I pass it pretty much daily. However! When I have been able to frequent this place, I have loved it. The coffee is GOOOOOOD. The pastries are yummy. The gelato is fairly decent (but I'm comparing it to gelato in Italy, so I may have a bit of a bias). The prices are great. The owners are super nice. The atmosphere is awesome & laid back. The decor is cute and cozy. What's not to love?
(5)P K.
I'm happy to find a local spot when possible, and this place is a treat. i had a decaf americano, which was rich and delicious, not overly roasted nor thinly acidic. really well done. ordered 2 hot chocolates and a pastry for my boys. i got one tiny sip of the hot chocolate, made with steamed milk and it was rich, not quite as chocolatey as I like (i'm an 85% cocoa kind of guy) but my boys loved it. we brought in our own cups, which the proprietor offered to wash for us :) awesome! Very kid friendly place, she absolutely charmed my two boys. Support local business, and get great service and great coffee. yelp rocks in helping me find spots like this when i'm on the road, thanks guys/gals :D
(4)Ashley A.
Not like this place needs anymore positive reviews, but I thought I'd contribute to all of the positive statements about this place and go ahead and sing its praises. It is very cozy as mentioned by other Yelp users. The owners are always really warm and friendly whenever I come in. I always get the Cafe Mocha whenever I come in and it always hits the spot. It's not too sweet and always steaming hot, which is great! The lunches are a little pricey, being that they're usually just regular sandwiches and if you want to get a tad fancy you can order a quiche. I don't think I'll buy sandwiches here again, simply because I feel like I can make those type of sandwiches on my own for a fraction of the price, but the coffee drinks are totally worth it! They have a frequent buyer punch card, so don't forget to ask for yours.
(4)Rebecca L.
Loved the Avagado (i might have spelled that wrong) but it is Gelato with and Espresso shot! Fair warning, don't walk in to Kefa Cafe expecting to do any work on your computer like I did. It is an "Internet Free" zone so that people actually interact which I fully support, but felt a little silly with my laptop.
(4)Jerry M.
It seems like only yesterday that Kefa Cafe opened in downtown Silver Spring but it has actually been FIFTEEN YEARS! You KNOW that for a small independent business to survive that long the owners HAVE to be doing something right. In Kefa's case it is the always warm and inviting sisters Lene and Abeba Tsegaye who will greet you upon entering. Their coffee and pastries are great and their side Space 7:10 gallery always has a changing display of art. Kefa has become such a beloved business that I proudly included them in my book "Downtown Silver Spring" (Arcadia Publishing, 2010). Skip the chains and visit an authentic piece of Silver Spring!
(4)Jess Y.
You can definitely taste the QUALITY in the coffee at Kefa Cafe. My usual drink is an Americano, regardless of where I go. At Kefa, I didn't add a single drop of sweetener or cream and it was delicious! Definitely stop by for some yummy coffee, and great service.
(5)Joe D.
I can only concur with everything that has been posted here about the wonderful sister-owners Lene and Abeba Tsegaye, their great service, great ambiance, and great coffee. I give them 5 stars. If there was a 6th star, I would give that to them too because they have no wi-fi. Some disagree with me. Bruce J. states "Also, the last time I checked there was still no wi-fi, a drawback for those of us who use coffeehouses as alternative work spaces. " and Marc M. writes "My only issue with the place is that there isn't wifi." Once I went into Mayorga Coffee in Silver Spring ( now closed ), I counted 18 people, seventeen of them on laptops. This was not a coffee shop, it was an office without cubicles. No one was talking or reading, just surfing the net or working. One guy was editing a magazine. I have talked with Lene and Abeba about wi-fi . they don't want it -- they want to run a coffee shop, not an office. It works: check out these comments: Amy V. "because everyone here seems to be regulars enjoying their Saturday breakfast and WaPo" Ji. L "But locals don't just come for coffee - it's a place hang out with friends" I leave my laptop at home and go to Kefe to read or talk with friends. I wish there were more coffee shops like it.
(5)Debbie P.
Homey, cheerful and great coffee, chai, biscotti, muffins, and salads. I meet my friends for lunch or for coffee.
(5)Jane Y.
I REALLY hope the urbanization of Silver Spring doesn't force this place to close down. This is an awesome mum and pop coffee shop with delicious fresh lunch items, home-made gelato and desserts. I've been here a couple of times. The service have always been superb. Their gelato is pretty much what you NEED TO GET. They have this veggie sandwich, that's delicious. Fresh, crisp veggies for a healthy lunch. It's great. It is also a great place to sit down and meet with friends. They have enough sitting for accommodate everyone most of the time.
(4)Gloria A.
My first visit to Kefa Cafe, and I was not disappointed. I ordered the Café au lait with their dark french roast. It was just what the doctor ordered on a gray, rainy day. So rich and creamy, not weak and watered down like many places. It even helped clear my stuffy nose, at least temporarily. My husband got the Americano and enjoyed it. Maybe I'll try that next time. Thank you Yelp reviewers!
(5)Nathan B.
Great local spot with outstanding coffee.
(5)Sarah S.
Aw, this place is adorable. Coffee's great, service is AMAZING - the two Ethiopian ladies who run the place are almost always there and so so nice, and they provide space for local artists to display their work - it's really a community-centric place. Food is fine, nothing fancy, but I have to give this place a good review just for EXISTING in an environment like Silver Spring, replete with starbucks, chipotle, baja fresh and other chains. I really hope it survives - we could all use more sunny cafes with friendly owners and mismatched chairs and fewer corporate coffee shops with dreary mass produced art and music.
(4)Keyon V.
Two warm and kind women run this excellent café. The conversation was delightful. I only had a black iced coffee, but I was delighted to find that the ice cubes were made out of frozen coffee. No more being gipped by watery coffee! I was also able to find that they are now strictly serving local milk from a specific farm of which I forget the name. Why suddenly change to a pricier option? Because these women care about good service and good product. Definitely worth a visit.
(5)Hoot's K.
My favorite new coffee shop because: 1. The coffee and tea are outstanding! 2. It's family owned and run. 3. It's a hidden jewel that is never overly crowded. 4. The adornments are modest but bright. 5. The two sisters who own the place are absolute kittens and are genuinely very sweet and may want to know more about you if you're new but they do a good job of not being pushy. There are a few snacks and gelato, too, but this is not the place for a hearty meal. Eat down the block and come to Kefa to drink coffee and digest. There are lots of tables that are comfy enough (no plush chairs though) and they also rotate local artists' work on the walls. There is also an amazing community mural on the side of the building that is worth checking out. It really is an independent gem.
(5)Richard H.
The best espresso in Silver Spring. Without a doubt.
(5)Debbie S.
Yum yum yum. My oh my, a chai tea at Kefa Cafe on a windy cold day today was just what the doctor ordered. I met an old friend for drinks and pleasant conversation, and Kefa was a great location for that. I love the small town feel of this coffee shop right in Silver Spring. It's a very welcome change of pace from the chain coffee places that are so prevalent in the area. My only complaint is that my tea wasn't as hot as I generally like it. But, I guess that's better than too hot! I hate burning my tongue on too-hot coffees and teas. I won't downgrade my rating though; Kefa Cafe is definitely still worth 5 stars!
(5)Alex L.
Great coffee, extremely friendly owners, and great prices! The lack of wi-fi turned out to be a boon for I got a lot of reading done without the distraction of a computer.
(5)Nicole F.
This place is perfect: cute, homey atmosphere; attentive and caring owners, and beautiful espresso at a good price. I ordered an espresso, and one of the ladies pulled a double for me. I hadn't asked for it, but once I finally tasted it, I was glad I had a double shot. It was perfect: thick crema, and a great balance of earthy, nutty tastes and that slightly bitter, tannic jolt you want in an espresso. What puts this place over the top for me is how great the owners are. I was having a clumsy moment, and spilled my espresso before I could even take a sip of it. The owner came over, asked if I was ok, and then very quickly offered to make me a new espresso. She didn't charge me, and was just so nice about the whole thing. I will definitely be back when I'm in the neighborhood. Extra double bonus: they run on green energy. Good times.
(5)Yuri R.
Ah Kefa, what would I do without ya? But lyrical praise aside, really, how would I have survived 10 hour shifts day after day without your proprietors' glowing smiles? Your varied and complex pastry offerings? And your piping hot coffee infusions? Answer: it would have been all but impossible.
(4)Bruce J.
As far as warm, friendly, welcoming coffeehouses go, Kefa Cafe is the one place in the DC metro area that rivals my favorite Minneapolis neighborhood stop, the 2nd Moon. Owners Lene and Abeba Tsegaye are as nice and hospitable as can be. They know their customers and put a premium on relationships. Come to think of it, they care about the quality of everything!! The coffee at Kefa is first rate, and the two sisters have done a splendid job of turning Kefa into a true community gathering place, a setting where groups come to meet about projects, display art, and discuss civic matters. Sometimes the owners even stay open past closing to accommodate residents' needs. Kefa is truly an intimate space, which is often a plus and sometimes a minus. It can be hard at times to block out others' conversations. Also, the last time I checked there was still no wi-fi, a drawback for those of us who use coffeehouses as alternative workspaces. Overall, though, I agree with those who describe Kefa Cafe as a "gem." It's a gem that hopefully will survive and thrive in redeveloped downtown Silver Spring. These are the kinds of places that keep the "cool" in Silver Spring.
(4)Michelle V.
What a cozy spot: you wont be bored perusing through the books. The owners are sweet. The service is excellent. The coffee is yum. Local spots like this are a million to one preference over coffee chains. Parking is not too terrible.
(4)Mark O.
I can only repeat the praises others have heaped upon this gem. Outstanding coffee, served by two sweet Ethiopian sisters, in a warm and friendly shop. Starbucks can go screw themselves, and use a crappucino as lube.
(5)seth n.
I have to add to the chorus here. This place is a true gem. Coming off and on to Silver Spring over the past 7 years or so I can't believe I just recently discovered it. There is a genuine warmth to the owners (who are always there:) that makes you feel you've stepped back to a time before everything was packaged corporate effects. They care to smile and greet their customers. There is ample seating room, so you won't feel rushed if you would like to just relax and drink a coffee in peace. The coffee is great, I am a big fan of espresso/machiatto's and Kefa does not disappoint. The gelato is up to the challenge as well. Next time you are in the downtown Silver Spring area try it out, I think you have a much more memorable experience than Seattle's best chains in the mall around the corner.
(5)Vince V.
Kefa serves the best coffee and pastries, and provides the most attentive service in the Silver Spring area. It is locally owned and committed for 15 years to serving its customers in an intimate, personal environment. Easy parking and accessible to downtown Silver Spring makes it the perfect place for an important business meeting, a casual visit with friends, or a quick pickup to go. I've also found they prepare great take-out breakfasts for business meetings that you might hold nearby ... delicious and just-like-home fruit trays, pastry trays, and of course that coffee!
(5)Kathy T.
I really like this place! The service is some of the best that I have EVER experienced. The two sisters running the place are as sweet as can be, and while I sat there sipping my coffee, I heard them greeting the other guests with warm salutations and conversation. My dad has been going there for years (it's been there for over 12 years) and I finally checked it out for the first time this past weekend. The coffee is SPOT ON! I went out of my way to go 2x while I was in town for their delicious macchiatto. That plus the amazing service in a quiet, laid back atmosphere can't be beat. Oh, and the gelato is really tasty. Will be back the next time I'm in Silver Spring.
(5)Anya B.
This is the perfect neighborhood cafe. The people are nice, the coffee good, it feels like an extention of your living room. Great place to meet someone.
(5)Daphne Y.
Kefa Cafe is my new sweetheart! My friends introduced me to it. And I am very amazed at their coffee! It taste just like starbucks. But I will not barely compare them. Kefa Cafe tickled my taste buds! It's the very perfect place to hangout! And you know what? I already decided to go back here regularly. This cafe rules!
(5)Niket R.
This an awesome local establishment in Silver Spring, within walking distance from the metro station. The owners are beyond pleasant, and the blends of coffee that they have are each delightful. I particularly enjoyed their house blend, a blend of Sumatran, Arabic, and Ethiopian beans. I haven't tried anything else but the coffee at this place; I've, however, read that the gelato kicks ass. Next time you're in Silver Spring and looking for a cup of Java in an intimate atmosphere, skip over Starbucks (or even Mayoga's Coffee Factory) and head over to Kefa Kafe!
(5)Nan W.
Missing Mayorga? Try Kefa Cafe. Great coffee married to ideal ambiance for connecting... NO, not your laptop -- connecting to actual live humans! Holding (ahem) conversation! There's a lovely sort of "feng shui" here. The little rooms are cozy, sunny, and pleasant, beckoning you to take your seat and stay a bit. The decoration is understated and just right. This is by far the best place to go with a friend for excellent coffee, a pleasant if limited lunchtime selection of sandwiches and quiche, and a pastry or house-made gelato if you are inclined to indulge. The owners are the best - friendly, helpful, the kind of people you want to see stay in business. No impersonal indifferent service. Have your next heart-to-heart over a mocha here. Only complaint is the pound of coffee beans I purchased was rather stale.
(4)Rachel H.
Kefa is a great neighborhood spot. The coffee is good and the owners make you feel at home.
(4)JP M.
Cute little coffee shop. A great place to hide from all the chain resturants in the area.
(3)Amanda D.
A coffee shop with character only a few steps from the sterile "new downtown" of Silver Spring. Based on the positive Yelp reviews, I took a chance and ordered a macchiato, which can be a terrible choice in a mediocre coffee shop. But this one was excellent, exceeded my expectations. The staff were extremely friendly and it's a bright and cheerful place.
(4)Lauren H.
Yes, Kefa Cafe is cute, and the owners are ridiculously friendly, and the coffee is superior. However, I recently ordered the Spring Street, a vegetarian sandwich, and was disappointed. Kudos to Kefa for offering a veggie (even a vegan!) sandwich, and kudos to them for inserting fun, non-standard veggies like sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts. However, the sandwich just did not have any flavor. It didn't come with any spread, any garnish, any side item, no pickle slice, no hummous, no mustard, no nothing. It was slightly soggy from sprouts, which did not add to its appeal. I asked for a slice of cheese, and they charged me 90 cents extra--putting my sandwich at nearly $7, above yummy choices like chicken tarragon and roast beef and cheese. Really, Kefa Cafe? I love you, but I won't be back for a veggie sandwich, and that's too bad. I want to support local business, and I like your style.
(3)Ji L.
I stopped by here during a brief stay in Silver Spring. Following others' recommendation on Yelp, I walked pass the Panera up the road to check out Kefa Cafe. It's a cozy, down to earth, locally owned neighborhood cafe that serves pastry, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. The owner is friendly, but the food was neither particularly cheap nor fantastic - I paid $8.50 for a coffee, a biscotti and an egg and cheese sandwich, all very average. But locals don't just come for coffee - it's a place hang out with friends. Kefa Cafe is a warm and welcome place for locals and wary travelers alike amidst the barren wasteland of the Silver Spring business district.
(3)Steve Y.
For a long time I have noticed that Kefa Cafe is consistantly ranked as one the top eating establishments in Silver Spring on Yelp; however, it wasn't until today that I found out why it gets such good press. A snowy day and a desire for lunch with a hot beverage resulted in my wife and I finally stopping by Kefa Cafe. The cafe is fairly small, comprised of 2 rooms each with about 3 or 4 tables. Although not extensively decorated there is a warmth to the place that is complemented by the warm greeting from the owners. Today there happened to be a local jazz musician there playing and selling his quartet's CDs which further enhanced the atmosphere. The menu focuses on hot drinks and sandwiches - nothing fancy, just the essentials. I ordered a Bonifant Street Sandwich (essentially a ham and cheese) while my wife ordered a roast beef sandwich. We also ordered a mocha cafe and a hot chocolate to warm us up (total cost = $17). Although there was an initial mistake with my wife's order, this was quickly and apologetically corrected. Both sandwiches were simply constructed on tasty wheat bread and were seasoned with the right amount of mayo etc.. Although they did not come with chips, pickles or anything, they were perfectly fine on their own. The drinks were also very good - I enjoyed my mocha, and my wife declared that the hot chocolate was one of the best she has tasted. She noted that the hot chocolate was also fairly simple and was not adorned with the usual mountain of whipped cream and other toppings - just hot chocolate, plain and simple... and good. Kefa Cafe certainly deserves its high ranking on Yelp. Although modest in many ways, the warmth of the owners and the focus on delivering a simple yet satisfying meal makes it a star in the Silver Spring dining scene. The only reason for not giving the full 5 stars is I thought the prices were just a little on the high side for something so simple.
(4)Cliff E.
Good coffee- fair price. Definite plus- not Starbucks. Yeah I know Starbucks is good to it's employees, etc- but really I like the owners and the friendly atmosphere- AND they were in Silver Spring before Silver Spring was 'cool' and had all these trendy little 'chain' restaurants- that are driving the smaller shops out of biz.
(4)Robin T.
What a gem! This cozy little restaurant not on a main street is easy to pass by. Fortunately, a "Buy With Me" coupon brought two co-workers and I there today. The food is delicious, served quickly, well-priced, and the woman there (seemed to be the owner) was extremely kind and sweet. It's a very homey place. I got the quiche. It and the bread it came with were delicious as was my friend's muffin. He also said his chicken salad sandwich was excellent. We'll definitely be back.
(5)Kate M.
Awesome coffee, friendly service, unpretentious atmosphere. This is a perfect neighborhood coffee joint and I appreciated the lack of Starbucks-ness. Don't know about the food or the gelato (yet!), but I will definitely make this a regular stop.
(5)David F.
Kefa Cafe is great coffee! I work one block away and am hooked -- I can't go more than a couple of days without stopping in to see the lovely owners!
(5)April F.
I go here at least 4 days a week.... The women who own it are amazing, the coffee is fabulous, and the decor is very cozy. As a fellow SS small business worker, I'm constantly thanking my lucky stars Kefa exists in my life!
(5)Ethan L.
This is a fantastic little coffee cafe that is run by an Ethiopian family who are some of the nicest people I've ever met. They know how to brew coffee here. The espressos here are so incredibly fruity tasting, and the little puff pastries that are for sale are also quite delectable as well. Good brewed and prepared coffee, real nice simple comfortable setting where many locals sit and chat, nice ambiance, what more can you ask for. A perfect place to kill some time, or just grab a quick brew and forget going to the Starbucks instead. Worth a stop if you are in the neighborhood.
(4)Rachel S.
Charming little cafe on the corner of Bonifant and Wayne, Kefa offers a nice variety of coffee drinks and teas, as well as danishes and other baked goods. Nice, cozy environment, with puzzles and books available to customers who wish to relax a bit over their drinks and snacks. Great place to stop for a quick pick-me-up or cool-me-down.
(4)Kristin C.
This is an artsy intimate coffee shop with a loving owner. You can tell she has put all of her magnanimous heart into this place. I'm glad I stopped by while I was in town.
(4)Nikkia G.
Totally in love with this place and their owners. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. When you walk into this place you feel like you are home, whether you go their all the time or just once. This indeed is the best neighborhood coffee shop. The coffee is really good- which can be hard to find in drip coffees sometimes. The pastries and sandwiches are always fresh and delicious. What sells it though is the sweet sisters, Lene and Abeba. Even when my mom comes to the area, she insists we stop here to say hello to the sisters because they are just that nice.
(5)Shenita W.
Gem of the neighborhood! My husband and I have been Kefa Cafe fans since 2002. It's our place to stop after church. The coffee is wonderful, the desserts delectable, and the service absolutely awesome. Definitely recommend!
(4)Kassity L.
This review is a little overdue. Love their coffee and the owners. We're constant regulars here (though we've noticed that they were closed a couple of weeks ago due to the fire at Quarry House). We really like the macchiatos. Coffee has nice fruity notes and pairs really well with milk or cream. During the summer they also have gelato and you can get affogatos with your choice of gelato flavor. Really sweet staff and always any interesting array of art scattered about the place. Definitely one of the best coffee places in the DC area.
(5)Cherelle H.
Me and my mom were in Silver Spring for a morning parade and I decided to look on Yelp to see what cafes or coffee shops came up in the area. Kefa Cafe had the best reviews and it was open at 8:00 in the morning so we decided to go. The shop is adorable, the atmosphere was good, and the space is very small but we were able to find a seat. We ordered a chocolate muffin and a plain bagel with butter and cream cheese and a mocha with soy (Vegan/Vegetarian friendly). It was pretty crowded for it to be that early on a Saturday but the service was quick. The two owners/sisters were very friendly and welcoming. They have a wide variety of coffee so for all of you coffee lovers this is a good place to try.
(5)Hannah H.
This is such a cute and cozy-looking cafe in Silver Spring (right around the corner from Pete's New Haven Pizza) - I had a cup of their Cafe Mocha, which was their famous espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup. Yum yum yum! It was hot, full of flavor, and I can taste the great quality coffee beans - the steamed milk and the drop of chocolate syrup also made this a nice delicious beverage, but not too sweet - it was a great balance between the two. I liked the coffee burlap bag decorating the tables throughout the place, and it seems like a great spot to get some work or studying done. Metered parking can be found along Bonifant St. I'm all about in supporting local and independently-owned stores/cafes! :D +Cafe Mocha +metered-parking along Bonifant
(4)Brenton W.
The best banana nut muffin I ever had. Was recommended to try the chai latte (and I'm not a latte drinker. Coffee, black, is how I like it) and it was delicious. They were open with 10 inches of snow falling too. Lovely and friendly staff. Will definitely be returning often to try other food and read.
(5)Diana J.
The ladies that own this place are the sweetest and appreciate each and every person that walls through the door. This is not a laptop kinda coffee shop even though space is plentiful and wifi is available. The cookies at the front of the register are AMAZING!! And BIG!! Coffee is roasted perfectly milk is always nicely steamed. Croissant sandwiches are a bit greasy for my liking.
(5)Deb G.
Yummy soy cappuccino and delicious quiche. I enjoyed the arty atmosphere, and the woman behind the counter was super nice. They lose a star because the food was kind of expensive for what you got, but I'm willing to pay a little more for a local joint. It's worth looking beyond the Starbucks in DTSS for a walk to Kefa Cafe.
(4)Brian F.
Stopped in for a the first time. This was a great experience. The owner was so friendly and the coffee was excellent. They seem very community centered. I was super impressed. It felt like a home away from home. Charming, clean, joyous. Nice way to spend 30 minutes.
(5)Imran Q.
Not sure why this place won Best of Fenton with other great places in the neighborhood. The owners are very nice and make the place feel homey but besides that there isn't much going for this place. The serving sizes are small, the prices are high, and the seating is cramped. Further, and probably most annoying is the lack of WiFi. What cafe doesn't have WiFi!
(2)Dee B.
The macchiato I enjoyed here was perfect, and I was thrilled to see Goldilocks Goodies gluten-free cookies at the register (they are not inexpensive, but they are delicious). I do wish the tables were a tad cleaner.
(4)Amy B.
Great customer service. Really nice coffee. Simple menu of sandwiches, bagels and croissants but really delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)Alex D.
Very neat nice friendly place to chill out. We had roasted beef and spring classic sandwich. Very good refreshing.ice cream here is very good...even they don't make it here but they taste just like homemade...awesome place...
(5)William R.
I just stopped in for a morning tea. They had Harney and Sons, real cups, and excellent service!
(4)Lu L.
Awesome friendly service and very cute store decorations. It is my first time here but I already like it.
(4)WonJu C.
Centerpiece to all cafes should be the coffee which this place delivers wonderfully (I ordered espresso macchiato). I don't think I would ever order their pastries again, however. The cranberry muffin was cold, and it didn't really live up to its name for it only had cranberries on top of the muffin. Ambience is excellent. The sun shone perfectly through the window seat as I browsed through my newspaper (well, on my phone but I think it sounds more romantic when you say paper..), and the place was cozy. I am definitely going back for the coffee and ambience. I might order their sandwiches to see if that's better than their pastries.
(4)Yaseen A.
Before really acknowledging my five stars, please read the review first!!!! In a nutshell, I was looking for a cozy cafe to call home when I moved to Maryland a few months back. Upon walking into kefa, you'll notice the very cozy decor. I won't go into detail, but it feels very personal. The seating is amazing for a small place. I was very impressed with that. The girls working the shop are absolutely phenomenal and I truly believe they are the epitome of perfect customer service. I honestly can't say enough about them. I even wen home and raved about them to my wife. The product - this is the real test... The coffee. The first time I went in, I ordered a black coffee (add cream and sugar off to the side). I was impressed. Their regular coffee doesn't feel weak like a lot of mom and pop places who are trying to save a buck in these tough times. They really know what they're doing. The second cup I ordered was a latte. Again, I was impressed by the espresso shot. These girls aren't using an automatic machine which had me worried, they're grinding, tamping and pulling the shots on their own. They have their shots perfected. My third order was a soy latte (I'm trying to cut dairy out - allergies - and I'm not a big fan of soy) so I let the girl behind the counter know this and she asked an interesting question. Are you allergic to almonds? "No" I answered. She then poured two short lattes and asked me to try them. I did and I told which one I liked best. She said "that was the soy milk. The other was almond milk." I was incredibly happy she did that because I was able to feel better with my soy decision. I didn't feel so much like a sissy - or like I was gonna regret getting soy over regular milk. All-in-all, I can't recommend this place enough. You will absolutely fall in love with it. I promise. Don't let my review decide for you. Decide for yourself, I promise you'll thank me for it. This place is officially my new home :)
(5)Larissa J.
Do not get the scones, they are dry,dry, dry. The service on the other hand was superb. The location is cute but parking is not adorable. But, I like to support local so it sure beat the Bucks or DD...you know what I mean!
(2)John S.
Everyone else has described all kinds of good things about this place, so I won't try to list them all.... Why I'M giving them 5 stars is primarily for the coffee. As with anywhere, there are good days and bad days, good brews and bad. However, the ladies here are extremely good, and the espresso ranges anywhere from "quite good" to "best I've had in my life." (seriously. The very best one. I've ever had. Blew me away.) Their pourovers are absolutely fantastic. Such a beautiful aroma, full perfect balance of flavors, never weak or overextracted... it's to die for.) If you passionately care about your coffee, go to Kefa. You will not be disappointed.
(5)Kate A.
Very small, but warm, neighborhood coffee shop. The food and coffee were both good; but on a busy Saturday morning it took a few minutes to get a table. Service was friendly and welcoming.
(4)Eric G.
Excellent gelato! I'll come back for the coffee I've been hearing about, but I can say the staff is really friendly and makes you feel welcome.
(4)Siv L.
Came here with my boyfriend to get a cup of coffee. Very cute place, owned by two Ethiopian sisters. I ordered a cafe au lait (with organic coffee) -- was yummy. My boyfriend and I browsed some of the books on the window sill, and one of the sisters came to show me where their cafe was mentioned in a book written by a producer of The Wire, and in another book, a photo of them standing in front of their cafe juxtaposed to a photo of what was in its place years prior. Overall, a very cute coffee shop. Would definitely recommend.
(4)William B.
Delicious, delicious coffee, and a friendly lady behind the counter. Just stopped in for the first time this morning, as I was waiting on the body shop to open. Had a cappuccino and muffin - while the muffin was very good, the cappuccino was truly excellent.
(5)Sara O.
5 stars for the coffee beverages! - Yummy iced mochas and iced coffee. I love that this business has been around silver spring for 25 years with the same owners. The owners and workers and super lovely and always seem to have a smile on their faces when I visit for there tasty iced mochas. Plus, if you are lucky, they do that smart trick where they put ice coffee cubed in you iced coffee, which keeps if from watering down. I also loved that this place is kind of hidden off the main drag of Georgia avenue and it gives Kefa more of an intimate setting. I have never had the food or pastries, so read other reviews for that. But, to me, a coffee shop is a coffee shop not pastry shop or bakery those are just added items that I tend to shy away from because I would rather waste my calories at a place known for their desserts and sweets. Plus, I'm picky at times.
(5)Marek M.
As the sun warms this already comfortable spot, there is a feeling of "I'm home" that comes over you. The ambiance this cafe emanates gives you the ability to actually relax and think about nothing but when it is the next time you will visit. Unlike most chain coffee shops or bustling cafés, Kefa is a place that is not made famous by their mass producing of gourmet drinks filled with specialty titles , but by the locals who keep coming back time and time again. It can be seen through out this quaint little coffee shop that "Coffee should be something special" and the Kefa cafe will make that happen for you. Take the time and stop by, you won't be disappointed.
(4)Wyndi A.
Best coffee in Silver Spring and the folks who run it are wonderful!
(5)G H.
Chose Kefa just glancing at cumulative star rating and its proximity to a conference I'm attending. Ordered the quiche but was confused why it was the most expensive thing on the menu... until I tried it: Perfect custard-like filling. Finished with an espresso: a perfectly pulled shot by an obviously expert barista. Far exceeded expectations, particularly given it's modest edifice -- five stars. Will be back.
(5)Kristin M.
Kefa Cafe is a Silver Spring fixture and a cozy, pleasant little spot to pass the time with a friend or two, or by yourself! It's on an unimpressive side street, but don't write it off - it's a sanctuary worth discovering, and there's actually a couple other gems on the same block if you know what you're looking for! Be forewarned that Kefa is really small (maybe...10-12 tables total? including some two-seaters: yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ), so you may have to wait a few minutes to snag a table if there's a few of you and you're there during busy hours. This little nook definitely has a neighborhood feel, with photos and flyers on the walls and the two much-loved sisters always behind the counter. There's also a selection of games (in the desk thing by the bathroom) if you really want to unwind, including a set of Yelp playing cards, which you KNOW I love! The menu is spread over a few hanging chalkboards and is comprised of hot and iced coffees/lattes/etc and teas, breakfast sandwiches on croissant or bagel, and lunch soups & sandwiches ( yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ). There's also gelato and pastry cases to peruse. ( yelp.com/biz_photos/b4Ul… ) The lattes are delicious and you can get it in a mug, which always adds to the homeyness factor. I had a bagel sandwich today that was pretty mediocre, but realized after I'd ordered that I could have asked for it on a different bagel (I didn't specify so it just came on a plain one) and that I hadn't asked for cheese (because the "Egg Sandwiches" are described as having egg and cheese) so it apparently hadn't been included. So, next time I'll do better, and maybe the result will be better. Despite the sandwich debacle, I'm still going with four stars because, frankly, this place makes me happy, and that's definitely reason for a ratings boost!
(4)Claire B.
A silver spring institution! Very sunny and warm, (PERFECT on a dreary winter day) and the sisters who run it couldn't be nicer. No wifi, so plan for that if you want to work. The coffee is delicious.
(5)Candy A.
I love this place. I used to study here at times when I was In college. I went recently and they have almond milk!! Definitely excited about a latte with almond milk. The ladies are also very friendly. I would recommend to anyone who loves coffee and a calm environment. When I used to study there I don't remember them having wifi, which may not be plus for some, but it helped me focus instead of surfing the web. I didn't stay long enough to find out if they had wifi now, but either way this place is awesome.
(5)Monique M.
I'm in love. Sorry Starbucks. The sisters who "run" this place (they'll tell you God owns it), are genuine, warm and friendly. There are so many good things here: *Eclectic, random collection of teapots and cups. *Bookshelf with various topics - something will catch your eye. *Great espresso and serve-yourself coffee stations *Separate seating area where the local french speakers meet to practice and drink coffee every Saturday afternoon. *Local art and news clippings on the walls. *Cheery, comfortable touches everywhere. No wi-fi or couches...alas, a prerequisite to be a 5-star coffee shop. But I really, really want to give them 5.
(4)Dan F.
The owners are super nice, and the place values the community and supports it. However I have to give them only 2 stars because the food was very mediocre, and the coffee watery/weak. I had a breakfast croissant. The croissant tasted old, the egg rubbery. The one saving grace was excellent fresh orange juice. Come for the atmosphere, but don't expect much else.
(2)Yoseph A.
So for all who love their coffee, you know how it feels to find that cosy, homey neighbourhood cafe that has really good coffee and all those little perks. I love their macchiato and it is my morning fix almost everyday. Then my eyes open up. I really love the place, and the owners, Lene and Abeba, are awesome. I recommend. Very much.
(5)no n.
4.5 Stars for: Having gone only once, my experience here was great. I gave this a 5 over 4 stars because: -They use local, glass-bottle and all-natural milk products (which is another reason I avoid Starbucks). -The owner is extremeley nice and accomodating to your needs -The place has character -The coffee is decent; I got an iced-mocha and it was just right; not too sweet.
(5)Marc M.
Very cosy locally owned coffee shop. Be aware of the hours since they seem to close at 5 during the week. My only issue with the place is that there isn't wifi. Seriously...... Same side of the street is 2 hour metered parking, opposite is 1 hour metered parking.
(3)Matt C.
This is our go-to coffee shop because the coffee is delicious, the food is good, and the service is delightful.
(5)Massiel G.
This place is small but the breakfast was very good and the owner was so lovely and nice. She just had a great personality that's it made me enjoy the atmosphere even more I wish more people run there business like that. I reconvened this place very warm good coffee she even made the way I wanted and its was just a great feeling that I haven't got in a loooong time I love the service and food :-)
(4)Sean O.
Wow I've lived in DC for 5 years, and Silver Spring for almost 2 and I had never set foot in this cafe, or even the surrounding block. I have had this mentality of 'SS sucks, everything I want is in DC'. Well I was wrong. This part of town is actually pretty interesting. This is the 'real' Silver Spring, not that plastic-y chain driven 'downtown' everyone hangs out in. After being convinced that Starbucks was about as local as a DC area coffee shop got, I was pleased to stumble across this place. The cafe is a bit of a mishmash with floral print chairs, local photography on the walls, and a cooler full of pastries. Those are the kinds of things that make local coffee shops fun, right? The cappuccino I got was really tasty (but a little too hot!) and the little Napoleon I had was really good, too! As mentioned in other reviews, the lady behind the register was very friendly and made the experience that much better. I'm glad to have finally found my local coffee shop (NOT Starbucks by the metro). I guess you have to explore your local neighborhood to find the worthwhile places.
(4)Roberto B.
After reading all the great reviews about the Kefa Cafe I couldn't help my self to wake up in the morning and visit it, especially because I wanted to try the Crossaint and a good espresso, a combination I miss so much since I've lived my last year in Rome, Italy. Easy to find, just a side road of Georgia Avenue, I had been astonished by the glowing wall paint right after the cafe, representing an imagine of people, religion and colors all combined together in an armonious way which anticipate the inside atmosphere. Right entered the door a nice green mixture of green chairs and table, yellow walls and anscient cups on the shelves welcome me. The cafe has two rooms, really well lightned by the sun and it seems like to be frequented by interesting people, from an old couple to a middle class man on his laptop to a couple of girlfriend and a single woman. I wait slightly over what I was expecting on the line, though one of the two girl of the Kafe came to me and nicely asked what I wanted in a really kind manner, just as I was expecting from the reviews. Unfortunately crossaint were just finished, so I opted for a honey muffin with almond on top and an espresso, which I'm still drinking. The muffin is really good, with a bunch of honey on the suface, tender and sweet. The espresso, and I'll be straightforward on this, is not as it suppose to be. I am going to enlight most of you guys on this then. The real espresso, and I would say, the best you can get in the world is in Naples, Italy. It is so short and thick you can't even tell you have drank something, but the dense and unique strong persistent taste that leave in the mouth for at least 15 minutes it is simple unique and worth the money. Here in United States, from what I've noticed so far, the espresso is what in Italy we call "long coffee", it is watery, not as thick as it suppose to be and usually with a weak taste. The espresso I'm having here at the cafe is "caffe lungo", but has a nice creamy surface and a unique flavour, which I believe is due to the organic manifactory of it, which is sorprendently persistent and unique. So in the end, despite the fact it is not as the Original is suppose to be, I would give it a 4 stars on five. I am almost at the end of my breakfast and I just had the last bite of my muffin. The Kefa Cafe fullfilled my expectation. It has a really nice atmosphere, nice service and really nice products. I wouldn't give it the 5 stars people use to give because they lack of two things I really like: music and wifi, plus if it happens to you to stay in the main room, you might be aware of a boring noise coming from the refrigerator which is louder than the chatting of people and actually affect the atmosphere. So if it happens to this cafe to instal a nice music system and a wifi then it will have my 5/5 stars. For now it is a 4/5.
(4)Andrew T.
This is the best coffee shop in Silver Spring & Takoma Park. Undoubtedly it has the best ambience: it is comfortable and quiet with incredibly welcoming owner/baristas and comfortably sized tables. The coffee is reliably good and they know their way around an espresso machine. Their baked goods are excellent, and while their breakfast & lunch options aren't amazing, they are consistently decent. While they aren't open late except Fridays (as of 8/2013), and don't offer wifi, this remains the best coffee shop around.
(5)Tony M.
Best coffee ever, if u really like and know what the real coffee test like try this place, it's the best I ve found ever. The great scent of coffee makes me feel am home. Thanks Kefa cafe.
(5)Justin F.
I love this place. Its cozy, they have their own art gallery, and as soon as you enter, it's inviting with tchotchkies and decorations galore. Mark their hours, it sucks to forget em and find they're closed!
(5)Lauren M.
Kefa Cafe is a really great neighborhood coffee shop. I usually swing by once or twice a week before work on weekday mornings. It's always comfy and there's usually somewhere to sit. The coffee that they serve is local - from Maryland! I think that's great. I don't actually love it, but I think it might be the way that they brew it. (Too weak maybe?) But they started doing hand-pours, which I bet are fantastic. I've never had their lattes or specialty drinks, either. Either way, their coffee is WAY better than the coffee you're going to pick up from Starbucks or the Folgers that is brewed in your office. I had my first affogato there (gelato with a shot of hot espresso), and it was faaaaaaaaantastic! They love to support local art and businesses! They have a little pamphlet on the other independent businesses in Silver Spring you can pick up. The owners (sisters, maybe?) are SO unbelievably friendly and adorable. They will probably ask you a thing or two about yourself and will likely remember you next time. Honestly, their great service and warm welcome is what keeps me coming back.
(3)