ESP Tea & Coffee
Coffee shop · Old Town ·

ESP Tea & Coffee

Coffee shop · Old Town ·

Eclectic decor, loose-leaf tea, coffee, pies, and Jamaican patties

art
coffee
tea
matcha latte
quiche
friendly staff
latte
pie
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null
ESP Tea & Coffee by null

Information

1012 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314 Get directions

$1–10

Order delivery
See Menu
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Cozy
Trendy

Information

Static Map

1012 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314 Get directions

+1 571 970 1674
espteaandcoffee.com
@espteaandcoffee

$1–10 · Menu

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Family friendly
•Good for solo dining
•Touristy

Last updated

Jan 13, 2026

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Mr. Yogato’s Owner Wants to Sell His Frozen Yogurt Shop for $1 | Eater DC

"A second downtown D.C. location of Alexandria coffee shop Killer E.S.P. opened at 675 I St.; it’s a grab-and-go affair with no stools and offers treats from Julia’s Empanadas and Dangerously Delicious Pies." - Adele Chapin

https://dc.eater.com/2018/8/22/17764428/mr-yogato-closing
ESP Tea & Coffee

Mimi F.

Google
The vibe of this cafe is fantastic, with all the funky and eclectic decor and delicious offerings. I enjoyed their drinks so much that I ended up visiting them all three days of my trip! I tried their spiced apple cider, hi res chai, and caramel apple chai which were all perfect for the crisp fall weather 🍁 Definitely stop by for a cup of tea or coffee if you’re in the area :)

Shauné H.

Google
I stopped by ESP Tea & Coffee after a nearby massage and was glad I did. It’s a cute café with a cool, artsy vibe and kind staff. They took the time to answer my questions and help me decide what to order. I tried one of their specials—the waffle cone latte with vanilla and white chocolate (requested less sweet)—and a vegetable patty to go. The latte was mistakenly made iced, but they quickly remade it hot and even let me keep the iced one for my daughter, which I appreciated. The drink was flavorful and nicely balanced with the reduced syrup. Unfortunately, the veggie patty was a letdown—overcooked, dry, and light on filling, with hard edges. I hope that’s something they improve, because otherwise, it was a good visit. I definitely would go back and try more of what they offer.

Ngn R.

Google
food was okay, matcha felt authentic cause it’s unsweetened. the decor was impressive and there were local artists prints there. so cool, i bought one small print. a good place to have some coffee, and local stuffs

Oenihss D.

Google
The coffee is good, I ordered the flat white. I know they get their coffee beans from Dream chaser and been curious to try both the place and their coffee out. It satisfied my caffeine need to wake up. The service was excellent. Ambiance, the decor is eclectic and bold with some cozy vibes. There is limited coffee seating due to the design of the building itself. I know people that have come here to work remotely and have not heard them complain about it. If I am in the area again and need caffeine I'll definitely will come back and stop. Also, they self Art prints so if you decor for your place you can get some.

Eden D.

Google
ESP is my favorite coffee shop in Old Town, and I’m going to miss it so much when I move! The atmosphere is so cozy and unique. As you walk through the door you’re greeted by a variety of prints, stickers, and handmade items from local artists available to browse as you wait and the customer service is fantastic. Even when this place is packed the staff are always welcoming and kind and the quality is consistent. Everything on the menu is delicious. The brown sugar shaken espresso is addictive, my partner loves the cappuccino, the spinach quiche and chicken patties are my go-tos, and the baklava is a must try. As for seating, there’s usually plenty of space on weekdays. Weekends can get packed, but that’s true for any shop on King Street. My favorite spot is the little hidden nook through the back door. It’s a lovely spot to meet friends and chat. We’ve tried every spot around here, and ESP is the best coffee shop in Alexandria, hands down! 💗

faith E.

Google
The vibes here r amazing and I love the music and have loved the drinks for many times in the past. This has been a favorite cafe since 2023 and I have been getting the iced ceremonial matcha with lavender syrup & either oat or almond milk. This next part will only be important if you have a stick up ur butt when it comes to making drinks. Today I came in after a few months away and ordered the same thing, but it honestly just tasted like milk. I try to ask for extra ice so that’s on me but regardless, I usually taste the matcha or sweetener and neither were present. I felt bad but asked for a new one, requesting for a new matcha shot. The barista poured the shot right on top of the drink, melting the ice. The drink then just tasted less sweet and watery but a bit more earthy. What I would have done is; put a bit of the current drink into a separate cup; add the boiling hot matcha shot to the separate cup; add more ice into the og cup; strain out a little bit of the current drink to account for the added substance; then add the separate cup mixture. That way it holds the most amount of flavor and if it were espresso, it would not become shocked and bitter from being poured directly over ice. Additionally; there is a slight grainy texture to the matcha that should be looked into when whisking. Likely using less water & more rigorous whisking with a fine bristle whisk would do the job well. Using more ice would also make the drink taste stronger (building a better rep) and save $ by using less milk. I love love love the vibes here and the menu is awesome but I must be honest as a cafe manager myself, this drink was not up to the usual standard they’ve provided me. Their matcha, teas, and coffee are genuinely quality & the philosophies of this cafe are worth the visit regardless of my nit-picky perspective. Staff was also amazing btw!!

Raquel L.

Google
If you're looking for a funky, relaxing coffeeshop to work, meet up, or unwind - this is the place to be. Also super dog friendly, they're allowed indoors and on the patio and there are doggie water bowls too. Laid-back environment and friendly staff.

Vicky A.

Google
Super nice and cozy place. Matcha is super good and staff is adorable
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Kristine P.

Yelp
their matcha lattes are phenomenal especially with lavender syrup. their house made chai tea (lattes) are also sooo good! the vibe is super chill here and the baristas are very nice. the meat pies are also crazy good
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Jessica A.

Yelp
This cafe had cool vibes to it. Very different and a bit hippy. They also had unique drinks for their August specials. I decided to try the mango matcha, and that was a good choice. Matcha is not usually my go to, but the mango was a great addition.
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Frankie L.

Yelp
One Mango Matcha coming up! This drink was a little experience in itself. I love that the matcha was slightly sweet and I want depending on the mango to sweeten it up. The mango flavor has a nice balance. I will say this took a while for them to make. Not sure if this is normal for an artisan drink. I've had drinks more intricately crafted that were whipped up quicker. The cafe was quiet. I enjoyed the vibe of the decor. The staff were friendly and conversational. She spoke to my sister about where her dress was from.
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Oenihss D.

Yelp
The coffee is good, I order the flat white. I know they get their coffee beans from Dream chaser and been curious to try both the place and their coffee out. It satisfied my caffeine need to wake up. The service was excellent. Ambiance, the decor is eclectic and bold with some cozy vibes. There is limited coffee seating due to the design of the building itself. I know people that have come here to work remotely and have not heard them complain about it. If I am in the area again and need caffeine I'll definitely will come back and stop. Also, they self Art prints so if you decor for your place you can get some.
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Becky S.

Yelp
I was visiting my sister on a rainy Monday and wanted to find a nice coffee shop with gluten free options. I decided to try this place. The service is great and everyone who worked there was super warm and friendly. They recommended the gluten free Apple streusel, especially for a rainy day. I also ordered a Nutella latte with 2% milk. The decor is colorful and unique, and every mug is different. There's no pressure to leave and I stayed a read a book for about an hour, as did a few people who arrived at the same time as me. The coffee is good and the pastry was warm and buttery, and it was so nice to have the option to enjoy a pastry with my drink. Overall, this establishment was a great addition to my trip.
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Katie H.

Yelp
Loved this place! Service was great, coffee was good, and the atmosphere and wall decor was fun. We really liked it. Only thing to be aware of is that they don't offer any sugar free flavors. Otherwise, they have what you need to start your morning right!
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Becca S.

Yelp
This place was fun. Cool hipster vibes inside. We sat outside and we called the furniture tetanus chairs. There were rusty nails sticking out and wobbly. As for the food and drink, I have very high coffee standards. The coffee was in my opinion, borderline terrible. I didn't finish my drink. I would end up giving this place a lower rating, but I tried the food and that was incredible. The Saltana, I almost ordered 3 more. Even the cookie didn't look like much, but was one of the best chewy cookies I've ever had. I would go back, but only for the unbelievable hand pies.

Cheryl P.

Yelp
My tea and coconut milk was excellent. I will be making this a regular stop when I am in town.
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Sierra J.

Yelp
Was in the mood for a matcha and this was the closest within me walking around king st. Upon arrival, it was a cute, hipster vibe. It is a bit small but the menu was clearly displayed and the barista answered all my matcha questions between the ceremonial and pre sweetened. I got my matcha with almond milk and I have no complaints. Wasn't too sweet which is my preference for matchas. I would definitely go back to try their coffee.

William M.

Yelp
Extremely cool cafe with an incredible selection of quality loose leaf teas. Strongly recommend to any tea lovers. Staff is also very friendly and willing to let you smell the various teas before choosing. They were very patient with my indecision, but I was very pleased with the teas after ordering. Really good.
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Olivia S.

Yelp
Service was rushed and mediocre friendliness. "Intimate" or claustrophobic atmosphere depending on the amount of people. Rock music was playing in the morning. Prices for coffee were standard ($5 lattes). Iced latte was a little watery. Croffle prices were absurd. Plain croffle was $2.75 and the sour cream chive was $7.25, which was absurd considering it's just a croissant cooked like a waffle with a ranch-esque dressing. Considering the amount of coffee shops in a 3 block vicinity I would pick elsewhere.

Michelle D.

Yelp
The beef saltena and jamaican patties were good, however, i ordered an ube latte and it did not look or taste like ube at all. Although the barista insisted it was. Will be back for the saltena's but not for coffee.
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Marivic L.

Yelp
I've been here too many times to count at this point. TBH it's for the iced Salted Caramel Latte with almond milk. I drink my coffee black but this is the exception. The drawback about this place are the items that aren't coffee. I've tried several cookies and whoopie pies and have been disappointed. Does that mean I won't try the pies, Jamaican beef patties, salteñas, etc.? No. I will try those and report back. Hopefully, those are better. The staff is so helpful and lovely and the quirky atmosphere alone is worth a stop.
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Allison N.

Yelp
Very cool coffee shop! It is definitely one of my favorites in the area and has a completely different ambiance than really any other coffee shop I've been to. There is lots of art on the walls, cool seating areas and the coffee is great too! We really like their lattes and sitting towards the back of the shop. There are usually a lot of people working there so it must be pretty popular for teleworking.
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Noelle N.

Yelp
I loved this place last summer, I went quite often with my friends. The last 2 times I've been i'm not sure whats been going on....but both times we got hot drinks that weren't hot. I have always found the employees to be super pleasant and kind and quick for service, the first time I visited last summer I got an amazing Cortado I was extremely pleased with! I've never been upset with the coffees tasting notes or flavors here, I think everything is really good! the pie shop pie is not to be missed, along with their other array of sweet & savory treats! Unfortunately most recently I've had a few experiences where I was super pleased with my service, but the drinks I got just weren't up to par unfortunately..... The matcha I got one time was semi-unpleasant due to the chunky and un-incorporated texture and it was maybe sitting around 100 degrees upon starting it....(fairly cold for a hot drink) and then once again, another latte I ordered on a separate occasion, also nowhere near "hot" aka 140-160 degrees "the standard drinkable temp" on our most recent visit the cups we got didn't fit the top, and we were soon wearing our americano on our shirts...but it was hot! and pretty tasty! I am a seasoned & working barista of 6 years myself and when I find a place I like I typically stick with it! (this would be considered one of them) so I will be giving this place another chance in the near future, I think they have a lovely ambiance, lovely community/employees, and previously really great drinks!

Banana A.

Yelp
Overall vibe of the place was really cool. I might have just caught the barista's on a bad day but they were pretty dismissive of me. The biggest red flag was the use of AI for their fall flavors promotion, which included a very purple Loaded Ube Latte. When the drink came out I didn't even realize it was mine because it looked like there was absolutely no ube in there, but when I asked if the drink was mine the barista said it was. It might have had some ube syrup but I felt very misled!
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Roxanne H.

Yelp
First time visiting this cafe and I was not disappointed! Latte with oat milk was yummy, with GF apple turnover that was delicious. The staff were friendly and helpful. Ample seating, I was able to get some work done while I enjoyed my latte and pastry. I would definitely return.
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Shanesta H.

Yelp
The food...delicious! Love the vibe inside the establishment, too! They have so many items from local artists to buy, and it's location is perfect on king street. The service is awesome and I have no complaints! You will see a furry friend pop in every once in a while too!
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Car S.

Yelp
Best 5 stars matcha latte with lavender in town. Large is $8.44 with alternate milk and syrup. They have the ceremonial matcha so the sweetness is controlled. Coffee is very very good too.
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Lili C.

Yelp
It was pretty windy and a bit chilly when I arrived. So, it was the perfect spot for a matcha latte while I waited for my appt next door. This place gives mountain vibes and reminds me of ski towns and the Rocky Mountains! The music is chill and takes you back to a different era, and the stickers on the door and the money wall get extra points. The artwork, old albums, and decor all fit in their perfect spot. They make me miss Colorado, the mountains, and sitting by the fire in a cabin. It's relaxing, and if their goal was to transport you to a spot where you can enjoy tea and not be interrupted by the city hustle and bustle, then this is your spot. It's close to many other shops in old Alexandria, and traffic is right outside, but you don't hear the street traffic when sitting by the window sipping your favorite hot or cold drink. At least, that's how it was for me. The service was good, and the matcha latte had just the right amount of sweetness. There was no crowd, but again, it was a Monday afternoon. Go check them out! They have specials, and the ladies there have good vibes, which will excite you about trying the specials on the menu!
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Anthony F.

Yelp
I don't see the hype about this place. It's cool and funky and visually everything you'd expect from a cafe in old town, however, that's it. Very limited seating inside with small uncomfortable chairs/tables. $18+ for a coffee and small slice of quiche. $10 for the slice and it was terrible. Microwaved with soggy crust, not even a thick slice, no meat. I make better coffee at home. I don't like giving pour reviews for small businesses but this place earns it. Sorry. Not sorry.
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Tracy M.

Yelp
I love this place so much I got married here! Believe it or not, this place held so many memories for my now husband and I, having our first chats over chai in handmade mugs, that they let us take our vows next to the psychedelic artwork back in September 2023. The atmosphere is like no other, full of eclectic art and music scenery. And the food and drinks never fail. I regularly work from ESP because many of the tables and chairs have a plug which makes it great for working for hours at a time. This is and has always been such a gem on King street and I'm glad we have it!

Michael S.

Yelp
I liked the coffee very much and the place had a nice vibe but I was surprised that they charged me 50 cents for a bit of cream for my coffee.
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Austin G.

Yelp
My Alexandria friends always recommend ESP Tea & Coffee as a go-to coffee shop in Old Town. Walking in, you'll notice quirky art on the walls from colorful murals to money from around the world. It's a fun spot that makes you feel at home. Wifi, food, and a full coffee and tea menu, it's a place to meet a friend or work from. My latte was strong and nice.

U N.

Yelp
I just KNEW this place would be good. I enjoyed the black coffee - that's beewed/filtered, not Americano, as my mentor Alfred Peet would have stressed. Baked goods. Great service and atmosphere.
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Daniel P.

Yelp
Cozy atmosphere in an eclectic shop with an impressive array and depth of teas. Service was friendly and transparent on their opinion of different teas.
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Jennie A.

Yelp
I was "influenced" to come here by a DMV foodie that I follow. The TLDR version: nothing special, slow service. The OK: Latte wasn't too sweet Croissant waffle was surprisingly crispy Cute unusual 70s basement interior Popular spot; lots of patrons Unusual latte flavors The meh: Service was incredibly slow, the staff (which appeared to be 3 teenagers) ask for your name only to never use it to call out your order. None of the orders are marked with labels so you're not sure which items are yours or not Zesty maple Croissant waffle was basic and had no zest! Was hoping for lemon or lime to brighten the snack
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Ana B.

Yelp
ESP Tea & Coffee, this place is a MUST stop if you're in the area! It's colorful, filled with local artist's artwork and stickers, stickers are everywhere. It's so relaxing and calming to be here. The artwork is so unique, quirky and a bit trippy. It's like the feeling you get when you walk inside of ESP Tea & Coffee. We got their famous Nutella Latte. This was perfection, it's frothy and creamy, with a nice Nutella richness. There were some colorful benches for outdoor seating. The art is for sale! It looks small on the inside, but you'll see more seating the further you walk in, and more art and more stickers! This place has its type of vibe and it knows how to stand out of the crowd! They make deliciously tasty coffee, and so much original artwork, that will want you coming back again and again!
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Kim S.

Yelp
If you haven't been here you need to go! The atmosphere, food, and customer service were incredible. I will definitely be back!
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Karen M.

Yelp
We enjoyed excellent coffee--a cortado and a decaf latte (decaf is often disappointing, but not the shop's Quiet Storm) with a slice of bacon quiche this morning. Our coffees were excellent and the quiche was delicious. We are in town two more days and plan to return both days! The shop is eclectic, inviting and fun and the baristas are friendly, charming and beautiful. ESP coffee was a perfect start to our day!
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Paul E.

Yelp
Nice coffee shop in Old town Alexandria. Coffee was full bodied and flavorful. Nice establishment with both inside and outside seating and very friendly staff. great spot to take a break and have a cup of Joe while walking around Old Town
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Lou C.

Yelp
Prices are good, coffee drinks are delicious and service was friendly and efficient. Plenty of seating, both in the front room and the back. Looked like some outdoor seating as well. If you're a tea drinker, you'll be in tea heaven. So many options!!!
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Mia B.

Yelp
So bad I redownloaded yelp. Store is small and crowded, staff didn't tell us what I ordered was going to be awful, flavorless, and overpriced. This isn't a reflection on the staff, it's a reflection of the products they serve and their recipes!!

E P.

Yelp
Has such a good experience despite external complications- incredible, empathetic staff demonstrated such great customer service, and the coffee and pastry were both delicious. The atmosphere was so calming and had a lovely ambiance. Can't wait to come back and will absolutely recommend
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Steven T.

Yelp
Got the french toast pie, it was two bites. Now I know I need to go on a diet but I need to feel full too. It was good, the whole two bites I had of it. The coffee was left half full after I was done with it (shows how much I liked it). The ambience, (if you can call it that) had me feeling like I was in a milk carton, getting ready to be poured out into a latte.
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Zack G.

Yelp
Funky coffee shop that is adorned in an eclectic mix of art, the majority of which is for sale I came here with my GF on a Sunday morning, and there was a long wait because there was only one barista working. Luckily they have ample indoor and outdoor seating comprised of both tables, sofa chairs, and a couch. Have a solid selection of teas, coffees, and a few pastries as well I got a Nutella latte and some sort of apple pie pastry. The latte was great, but the pastry was a little stale. My GF also got a vanilla latte, which was fine
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John L.

Yelp
This update reviews 2 of their teas. They have 58 types of tea on their menu. If you're looking for something different in tea, then give this place a visit! I have upgraded my rating because the last visit showed me that the amount of tea leaves has been increased or the tea leaves are served in a press. Both methods have increased the flavor in each cup. BRAVO!! My wife and I enjoyed our teas! Here's what we tried: Nightlife white tea It had notes of smokiness and light molasses with a hint of white grape. The aroma was faint and similar to olong tea mixed with a hint of smoky hay. It was full-bodied with a mild dry mouthfeel. This is one of ESP's premium teas, so it costs more than the regular teas. The flavor was interesting, and it's worth a try. Citrus strawberry green tea It had a grassy greens flavor with notes of lemon rind and a hint of strawberry and sweetness. The aroma was a mix of green tea with a citrusy strawberry. It was medium-bodied with a slightly dry finish. This was smooth and easy to drink! The service was helpful and friendly. Tea was served in under 10 minutes. The dining areas and restrooms were clean. They sell teas (2 page list), coffees, hot chocolate, quiches, pies, croffles, and saltenas. There is an extra charge for soy milk, oat milk, and almond milk. The artwork on display is for sale. They have indoor and outdoor seating. There is a parking lot behind the building which costs money. The atmosphere has been relaxed and comfortable for us. The products have improved, so I can now recommend this shop! I'm going to give their nutella latte another try. :) Till next time!
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Tara L.

Yelp
I love this shop and have been dropping by for an iced dirty chai latte with oat milk every time I'm in the neighborhood. The cafe is an entire vibe, filled with cool and trippy art. The space is cozy while still feeling vibrant and welcoming. The staff is always so warm and friendly, in the most chill and genuine way. They also have plenty of seating, although all the little nooks are not immediately obvious. There are a few seats on the sidewalk, couch seating in the entry, a few tables lining the walk-way to the back and an entire back patio I was unaware of until my 4th or 5th visit. I hope they never change because everything here is just uniquely wonderful as is!
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Mariana C.

Yelp
Picturesque & cozy little shop in Old Town Alexandria, on King Street. A group of 5 of us met here on a Sunday afternoon around 2. It was fairly busy for the few hours we were there. There is a sofa, coffee table, and small table with 2 chairs up front, a couple more 2 person tables across from the ordering counter, and another sofa and set of tables in the back room. There are a few small tables in the back patio area outside as well. There are 2, 1-person gender neutral bathrooms in back, handicap accessible, if you can navigate your wheelchair back there successfully. There is a small paid parking lot behind the building. You can access the back patio from the lot and walk into the store that way. However, there is some gravel and a step, so while the patio may be of use, the back entrance into the shop is not handicap accessible right now. You can take a sidewalk from the parking lot around the side of the block of buildings to the front door, which we did. One of our friends is in a motorized wheelchair/scooter. The alley access would have be an alternative access point, however a pole at the entrance makes it too narrow for the chair, so we took the long way around and were able to make it over the lip of the front door with relative ease. Fate smiled upon us, as all of the indoor tables had been occupied before our friend arrived, but just as we helped her navigate to the front, the small table and sofa by the front window became available and we were able to sit together there. The store is lined with various themed merchandise and décor which is a cute aesthetic, but the path from the front of the shop to the back runs along the counter, display shelves, and small tables and is too narrow for wheel chairs without moving of furniture (which I'm sure is possible, but obviously complicated if people are sitting at those tables, etc.) The iced vanilla lattes paired perfectly with the absolutely heavenly bacon, onion, and gruyere quiche slices we ordered! Their pies/quiches appear to be homemade and full sized, so you get generous slice, but run the risk of them running out if it's busy haha The croffles were less successful according to my friends who tried them? But I can't compliment the quiche enough. I make quiches at home when I have the energy and this was top notch in my book! I was disappointed that you cannot seem to order many of the teas iced? They had a small selection that does not include any black teas. I did order a hot organic golden monkey after I finished my vanilla latte. I understand the loose leaf teas need to steep in hot water, and it occurred to me after I could have ordered a hot tea and asked for a cup of ice to pour it over. Not sure why that isn't a built-in option at a tea shop now that I think of it, but thoughts for future visits!
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Ruth D.

Yelp
This is a special place! Quirky art, funky snacks and hearty pies, and great chai plus a teeny interior courtyard. I highly recommend ESP Tea and Coffee. My friends who have a lot of food allergies also really like going here.
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Mia W.

Yelp
My husband and I first visited ESP 5 years ago on Thanksgiving and had a lovely experience. We had a slice of pie and two coffees and think back fondly on that morning. We went back this month 5 years later when visiting Old Town Alexandria and had another great experience. I loved the Sugar Daddy and my husband loved his Cinnamon Latte. The only thing that was (very) disappointing was the slice of berry pie. They didn't have many options left by the time we arrived and it just didn't do it for me. It was cold and the flavor was lacking. I ate it just to not waste food but I really did not enjoy it. My mom encouraged me to go tell the staff and I usually do speak up but I'm too pregnant tbh lol and just wasn't in the mood. We still had a great time hanging out there for a bit. It was a perfect stop before a nice cool walk down King Street.
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Glenn L.

Yelp
Great service and relaxing spot to just take a moment to yourself . Finger food is good so is the cafe latte
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Jennifer H.

Yelp
So I went to 3 other places for coffee while in Alexandria and this one had the best. I was able to get an iced coffee and didn't even have to put anything in it (I will usually do black, but if it's too bitter/strong I'll add cream or oat milk.) Also, may sound trivial, but I like that they had the sippy cup lids on their to go cups rather than the lids w/straws. I didn't find that anywhere else I went in town. Unfortunately I tried to order food - their lox croffle - and they said they weren't ready yet. I don't know what that means but it was disappointing not to be able to get a bite to eat. This the only reason for knocking off a star. Cool and eclectic inside. I'd recommend.
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Jada C.

Yelp
3.2021 Cutesy local coffee shop and bakery. Visually appealing from the street view to interior decor. I scooped a Chamomile Hot Tea. It was pretty tasty. Cute cups and all the hot beverage condiments wished. Great indoor atmosphere, outdoor seating in a cutesy small yard. Parking can be a nuisance but not impossible. There's a parking lot immediately behind establishment w a door to enter. Yup, I'd return.
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Zoya F.

Yelp
My cousins from out of town visited this place with me, and we enjoyed kava, which I was happy to try, and chocolate pecan pie, which I was happy to steal a bite of. Folks behind the bar were friendly and knowledgeable, and there's a wonderful vibe to this place. The kava itself is an experience. It numbs your lips while it relaxes you. If you try the kava, definitely opt for the one with coconut milk added. It must be super bitter without that. Also, the pineapple on the side tasted completely different before and after sipping on the kava--trippy stuff! Overall, this is an excellent place for singles and couples, but it's not laid out for strollers or toddlers. Our party's two-year-old (not pictured) amused himself with supervised play by the bar when there was no empty area that could accommodate us all. That's not a complaint for ESP, just something that potential visiting customers should keep in mind.
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Julia C.

Yelp
One of the coolest places to go and sit and try a variety of delicious latte/tea/anything coffee related. The aesthetic is super modern and artsy and cool, while the decor is very comfortable. There's a small outdoor seating area but this is definitely a spot hit up early because it gets super busy. For that reason it's not the best study spot, but definitely the best spot to get a good coffee and catch up with friends in a relaxing environment. The staff is always as sweet as the great desserts they serve.

Sherry R.

Yelp
Do not get the chicken saltena, over priced for a dry saltena. It almost tastes like cardboard with a hint of spice. It was 8.50 I could have an entire meal with that price. I'm sad, but please ESP don't over cook the saltenas
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Leslie W.

Yelp
Stopped by on a drizzly Sat morning for warm beverage to try and beat the chill. ESP is VERY cozy - if you don't like being close to those around you, this isn't your place. There's some seeing in the front as well as in the back and side patio (when it's not freezing cold). Being a Saturday morning in December, there was quite a long line. I ordered what turned out to be an amazing chai latte with oat milk. It had the perfect spice level and the foam was superb! Could've been a bit hotter for my liking, but that's a preference. Base price was on the higher end for a chai but not unexpected for Old Town. Vegans and lactose-intolerant, prepare to pay extra for your non-dairy milk. ESP has a fantastic selection of sweet and savory pies (including the saltena which looked like fat empanadas). Several vegan options were available the day I visited.
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Aaron B.

Yelp
I happened to be walking down King Streetm when I stumbled upon the coolest cafe in the DC area. When I walked in, I was immediately captured by the variety of art, comfortable tables and chairs, and the pure awesomeness of the whole cafe. J decided to get something special from here which was the Cream Brulee Frappuccino. I was told that this is something that they are offering for just for a limmited time during the summer. I also ordered a Saltinesa which a dish from El Salvadore. It's a pie that consists of chicken, egg, potatoes, and sweet peas. Natasha took my order and helped guide me to the cool patio area. There are so e cafes similar to this style in Puerto Rico, but you would be hard pressed to find a place this cool in the DC area. This is what a cafe is supposed to be!