Lot 38 espresso bar

Coffee shop · Near Southeast

Lot 38 espresso bar

Coffee shop · Near Southeast

1

1001 2nd St SE, Washington, DC 20003

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Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null
Lot 38 espresso bar by null

Highlights

Italian coffee drinks, pastries, bagels & sandwiches.  

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1001 2nd St SE, Washington, DC 20003 Get directions

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$1–10

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1001 2nd St SE, Washington, DC 20003 Get directions

+1 202 758 0677
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@Lot38Espresso

$1–10

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Last updated

Aug 8, 2025

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@eater

The 12 Best Places to Eat in DC | Eater

"“Nestled behind a condo building and a Courtyard Marriott, my wife and I have been supporting Lot 38 for over 10 years now. A family-owned neighborhood gem, this coffee shop has espresso drinks and breakfast sandwiches nailed down. Order a latte and a sausage, egg, and cheese croissant before your 15-minute stroll to the Capitol.”" - Vox Creative

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View Postcard for Lot 38 espresso bar

K

Google
Ham & cheese croissant was flavorful and balanced. Chai Latte was a touch too sweet, I would recommend half sweetness for most folks. The coffee was great overall, no complaints other than being a little too sweet for me. The staff were friendly and very quick to get my order out. Upstairs is a nice seating area with plenty of seating and a relaxing place for working, studying, reading, or a conversation! Pricing is reasonable for DC.

Annie S

Google
I could smell their coffee on the corner of the block. Staffs were friendly. The espresso was well brewed and made latte so smooth velvety. I liked the strong roasting flavor. I will go back to try other drinks.

Adriel Pupo

Google
This cafe is exactly what I’ve been looking for—friendly, quick service with affordable coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. The coffee was a step above your average diner brew, and the lattes were clearly made with care and tasted fantastic. There’s an upstairs seating area with a nice view of the park, making it a great spot to study or have a coffee date. I’d 100% recommend this place!

William Hurd

Google
Lot 38 Expresso Bar is a hidden gem in DC and my absolute favorite breakfast spot. I ate here almost daily for 3 years when I lived nearby, and now I make it a point to stop in whenever I'm in town. Their vanilla latte is perfection - smooth and completely free of bitterness. The sausage, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich on a soft, perfectly toasted bagel hits the spot every time with its ideal balance of ingredients. What truly sets Lot 38 apart is the ownership. The proprietor is incredibly kind and welcoming, always ready with a friendly smile and witty conversation that can turn any bad day around. Whether you need a quick breakfast on your way to work or a cozy spot for a meeting with friends or colleagues, Lot 38 delivers. It's versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to become your new favorite breakfast spot in DC.

Kelly M.

Google
My husband and I love this place! We go every weekend for an Americano and croissant or sometimes a smoked salmon bagel. The prices are MUCH better than most (all?) places in DC and specifically the Navy Yard, and yet the quality is outstanding. The ambiance is unpretentious and the staff are so incredibly nice. I get the vibe that it’s family-owned and run which I really appreciate. The upstairs has a surprisingly large seating area and there’s also a very nice little park right across the street where you can sit and enjoy your coffee. Updated to add that this morning, for the first time, I got a slice of their cinnamon coffee cake which was only $2.99 for a very thick (and delicious!) slice. This would’ve cost me $5+ at any other DC coffee shop and would’ve been a thinner slice.

Lilli

Google
I really love this place. Service is always great, coffee is *always* consistently delicious and I have never had my oatmilk latte messed up (but if there was a mixup, I’m sure they would be happy to fix it). The breakfast bagels are very good if you need breakfast as well! I absolutely love supporting this local business!!! Favorite place in Navy Yard— a hidden gem :)

Mariam Asal

Google
Visited this cafe today after reading good reviews, and it was indeed worth the visit. Loved the well-made cappuccino and the fresh blueberry muffin. The seating area is perfect for working on a laptop, reading a booking, and casual meatings. Staff were friendly and professional. Another good experience and I’d love to come back!

Rida Khan

Google
This coffee shop is in a super cute area with a very photogenic park right across the street! I got a dirty chai latte, and really liked it. I also feel like it’s a good price for the size. I didn’t try any of the food, but the menu looks pretty good. There’s also an area upstairs with tables to work and hangout. Service is friendly, too!
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Ijeoma O.

Yelp
With all the coffee establishments in the area this is an IYKYK coffee shop. Very unassuming, no frills. Simple coffee shop, with pastries and sandwiches. Very friendly owners who make great tasting coffee. The regulars are regulars for a reason. No complaints, you will leave here satisfied and happy with whatever you order. I ordered the macchiato carmello. Perfection.

C L.

Yelp
Best coffee in the neighborhood. Friendly owners and reasonable prices. Highly recommend

Pierre S.

Yelp
We ride in from Laurel, Md to D.C., and Expresso, Ice Coffee and s few breakfast sandwiches. We asked the owner could bring bikes inside and he said absolutely! The Food , Service and the atmosphere will elevtrucifing!! Aeesome Place.
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Alicia E.

Yelp
We stayed right next door to this great little coffee shop for a week. We loved it so much, we went almost every morning. The lattes and bagels were fantastic, and the service was also great! You could tell that there were many regulars in the place, and I could see why!
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JL S.

Yelp
Great coffee conveniently located in navy yard, about 3 DC blocks from metro. They don't have flavors or seasonal. Tried macchiato caramello as recommended by others and it's yummy! I'm not usually a fan of caramel or super sweet and this one is spot on! Will return.
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Melissa V.

Yelp
I love this coffee/breakfast and lunch spot. Their coffee is ALWAYS delicious and I really enjoy their breakfast and pastries. Nothing crazy fancy, but good and consistent options. I think it's owned by a family and they are always so welcoming and sweet. The barista/dad is extra attentive and seems to remember everything and everyone. I just feel good leaving this spot, helps me have a good day.

McKenzie B.

Yelp
A must if you are in Navy Yard! Locally owned BEST coffee and wonderful service by the Lot 38 crew! Breakfast and lunch sandwiches, croissants/bagels that sort of thing too. Everyone coming and going is always so friendly! There's a nice upstairs sitting area with WiFi. Skip the burnt roast down farther down the street and go get a real cup of Joe :)
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Anna M.

Yelp
Came in here at 8am on a Sunday. Few customers in there but my order was taken right away & I got my food/drink a few minutes later. All I can say is: Best dirty chai latte I've ever had. Super good and very reasonably priced- most places charge you a LOT more!! Pretty good bagel, nothing too special but solid and satisfied my craving. I wish I knew there were other types of bagels bc I definitely would've gotten something other than a plain bagel. As far as the inside- pretty small first floor but I think they have tables and a larger space upstairs. I saw signs that they offer free WiFi so could be a good study/work space. Also, there is park across the street that is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee! Overall- super good cafe and can't beat the prices for what you get (seems like I found the neighborhood coffee spot)!!
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Vanessa J.

Yelp
The service was quick and friendly. The coffee was hot and the bagel was delicious. I had the smoked salmon bagel. The flavor was great! And you cannot go wrong with Illy's coffee.
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Meredith H.

Yelp
I'm not even a real coffee drinker and I love this place. My favorite food item is the chicken pesto panini - one of the few takeout sandwiches that is just as good reheated as it is the first time! If more places had cappuccinos as good as this one, then maybe I'd have to consider becoming a coffee drinker. :) the people who work here are SO kind!!
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Marsha T.

Yelp
Managed to stop by before 2pm. I really should get out of my apartment more. But wow, this place has the best dirty chai I've had in the DMV area! I've read wonderful things about their sandwiches too so I will definitely be back. Service was quick and friendly.

Oma C.

Yelp
Great service and great coffee. Instead of spending a million dollars at Starbucks try this place.
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Tanya G.

Yelp
We were so happy they were open on Memorial Day! Their service is great and their prices are reasonable. A bagel and cream cheese is less than half of what my hotel was charging, so definitely worth a little walk. The breakfast sandwich is yummy, I love Illy coffee so that was a bonus.
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Nick D.

Yelp
Best coffee shop in DC and possibly anywhere! Have been coming here since they first opened.

Ramandeep C.

Yelp
Great coffee and I could tell that the owners knew every single regular that walked through the door. I was visiting from out of state so although I was coming here for the first time, that was a great characteristic to see! Although it was a tad crowded downstairs, they had an upstairs area to sit in
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Daniel L.

Yelp
The coffee and food are consistent and exactly what I need to start my day right. Great breakfast sandwiches like your classic bacon egg and cheese. Service is warm and welcoming and it makes you want to return if you're a local. Kuddos to Young, Ginnie, and Sara for running a great coffee shop!
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Eugene K.

Yelp
Very convenient to the courtyard next door. The Sausage, Egg and cheese on a ciabatta is extremely delicious! coffee is delicious cause they use illy beans! Food comes out very quick. Definitely recommend if you're in the area and looking to pay reasonable prices ...
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Sonya L.

Yelp
We like the coffee, especially the mocha and dulce de leche, because we can taste the coffee AND the mocha without one overpowering the other. We love that they have food! Tried several of their lunch sandwiches, all have been tasty. Have started to try their breakfast sandwiches, which you can get as a lunch, so that's a score! Price is reasonable and actually a good value for the location. We also enjoy the location, it's within walking distance to a lot of other residences and even to the ballpark, but it's not super crazy. Only thing is, they close earlier in the day, so you'll need to get your coffee before 2/3pm
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Tarsha S.

Yelp
My first time here during the breakfast / coffee rush . The line was a little long but they did a great job moving efficiently. So many ppl kept coming thru the door so I figured the food and beverages had to be good. My egg and cheese bagel was reasonable priced. It tasted pretty good. Next time I'll try the beverages. Oh and I think it's only open thru lunch time.
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Shaila A.

Yelp
Great coffee, I haven't tried the food. A pretty nice spot to do work at, but otherwise I'd probably just take a coffee to go. It's not much of a place to hang out. The first door is where you place your order and pick up and the full upstairs is seating!
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Sam S.

Yelp
This is my favorite local coffee shop!! Family-owned. Great service. And lovely seating area on the second floor. Tasty coffee, breakfast, and lunch fare.
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Carla B.

Yelp
The way I found Lot 38 was completely unexpected. I was looking for another place but couldn't find a parking spot so I pulled onto another street. I found a parking spot immediately and looked to my left and there it was. The inside is small but it smelled great. I decided to get the Dulce de Leche which was so good. It wasn't too sweet and the perfect amount of espresso for me. I did expect a hot drink but it comes iced. I didn't mind. I also ordered the Chicken Pesto Panini (it comes with chips). Have you ever bitten into something and you had to do a double-take to make sure it's real? That was my experience with the panini. It was delicious - soft, flavorful, and cheesy. I also grabbed Coffee Bread to go. It was really tasty. It was also topped with pecan, which was a nice surprise addition. The service was great. The gentleman behind the counter greeted me immediately upon arrival and was helpful while ordering. As I was leaving, I noticed there was an upstairs area. I'll make sure to check it out on my next visit. The price point was great. I spent about $21 for my complete order.
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Carin Y.

Yelp
One of the best coffee shops in the Navy Yard area! They have some great sandwich selections as well. If you're visiting during the morning rush, be prepared to see a line, but service is very efficient and wait times are not too bad. I ordered 2 coffees and a sandwich during the 8am rush and only had to wait for 5 minutes. FOOD: - Bahn Mi Chicken: 5/5 - Definitely the most unique item on their sandwich menu (everything else is more italian/breakfast sandwiches)! Everything about this sandwich was perfect. The pickled vegetables were the perfect balance of sweet, and slightly tangy. Not sour at all! - Duche de Leche Latte: 5/5 - Can be a little sweet; ask for less caramel if you prefer! They've mastered this coffee. You can taste both the coffee and caramel. - Regular Hot Latte: 4/5 - Good latte, but nothing really wow-ed me with this one. Could be just my preference, but I like a slightly stronger coffee taste rather than milk taste with my lattes. If you're in the area and tired of going to chain stores for coffee, definitely check out Lot 38!!

Joanne N.

Yelp
Top notch coffee and excellent choices. Spacious area for seating upstairs . Friendly staff.
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Emma Z.

Yelp
Fast and friendly service! Lot 38 is tucked into the side of a hotel, around the block from the entrance. It's a short walk from the Navy Yard metro. I recently ordered some bagels to-go. They were on the smaller side but stuffed with lots of filling--which is way better than a big, soggy bagel with a single sad piece of salmon inside. My salmon bagel had onions and capers and was quite good. Next time I'll definitely order coffee and probably a panini or a banh mi sandwich. While I was waiting, another patron came in to order his regular coffee. He chatted with the staff about his vacation and said it was good to be back. Seeing his enthusiasm made me feel like this spot is a little gem I'll have to revisit soon.
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Cale M.

Yelp
The staff is amazing and attentive. I've been there a couple of times and haven't had any issues. The food is also fresh and good quality.

Nicholas J.

Yelp
Lovely locally owned shop. Well priced Illy espresso drinks and an amazing selection of baked goods and sandwiches. 10/10 vibes with upstairs seating and quiet jazz. Go here, you won't regret it
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Quenton B.

Yelp
I never thought I'd be one of those people who walk up to the counter and the lady behind the register says "the usual"... It's the Macchiato for me! LOL #FRESH THE STAFF IS SUPER COOL TOO!
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Kathryn M.

Yelp
This is suchhh a cute coffee shop! They have a decent amount of seating upstairs and free wifi. Their coffee is delicioussss! I've tried the caramel macchiato and the chai latte. Both soo good. I've had a sausage, egg & cheese breakfast sandwich from them that was the BEST breakfast sandwich that I've had out of all the coffee shops in this area. I also tried a tuna melt and honestly wasn't that big of a fan, but their bread is soo good. Definitely worth checking out!
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Kat W.

Yelp
It's my favorite coffee shop in DC. Always come when I'm in town and have yet to find a shop that makes a macchiato like Lot 38. Love Young and his staff.

Thessa K.

Yelp
Best coffee bar in the neighborhood ! Extremely friendly... very high quality, tastefully coffee and Chai Latte is top too !
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Edwin M.

Yelp
I was here three days ago, I ordered an egg sandwich and a medium coffee, and wow let me tell you, it was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had, everything feel very fresh , and also the customer services is out of this world , I definitely will recommend it to my friends and family.. I am coming back soon , thank you and keep up the great effort to maintain the quality of service, and I forgot something they also have upstairs seating and the ambiance it's amazing..
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Latoya E.

Yelp
Smell, check! Taste, double check! Speed and wait time, check! Customer Service, well ..... it was service. So this is my second week at the new job. My Boss's boss frequents this establishment for his morning brew. So, obviously I had to check it out. The line was out of the door!!! You could smell the quality cut of bacon from a block away. The pastry case was even empty. These are all positive indicators that the establishment is booming with business. The volume and speed of this establishment reminds me of one that I might find in New York City. Unfortunately the customer service matched. This particular visit, the lady that was assisting me was not personable at all. I ordered two pastries, as well as the caramel latte drink. I had to end up, asking the barista for a paper bag just to carry my items out in hand, while I struggled to pick them all up. No thank you, just order and go. Because the quality of both the pastries and the delicious international coffee, I am still going to give this particular visit 4 stars. I know quality when I taste as well as see it. Hopefully the staff can live up to their product.

Ali M.

Yelp
The upstairs seating options are great and the illy coffee is so good. The WiFi connection was akin to being home. I would go back if I found myself in SE washington
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Rachel L.

Yelp
I absolutely love this place. The staff is so helpful, friendly and kind. The coffee is seriously so delicious and the food is great too. I try to come here over all the other coffee spots around Navy Yard. I pretty much always get the caramel macchiato and it's AMAZING! Every time I get it from other places it never compares. Highly recommend :)
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Marissa G.

Yelp
Since moving to Navy Yard, I have visited just about every coffee shop in search for my perfect coffee spot. There are some really great spots for in the area, but in my opinion, Lot 38 is the best. Here's why: 1. The coffee tastes great and there is a ton of variety. I especially like the ice dulce de leche and the hazelnut iced coffee. 2. Very affordable! Lot 38 is not as pricey as many of its competitors in the area. This applies to both coffee and food at Lot 38. 3. Friendly staff and quick service. Even when there's a line at Lot 38, the staff is always so friendly. The quick service is a huge plus too! 4. plenty of seating and wifi! There is a good amount of seating upstairs (with wifi)! And though they don't have outdoor seating, Lot 38 is situated right across the street from a pretty large park with plenty of public seating. I've never not been able to find seating. 5. I also love Lot 38 because it's a little quieter (usually) than most other places in Navy Yard. It's not right on any of the main streets, which means less noise from traffic and tourists. I love Lot 38! It's the spot I've been searching for since moving to DC. :)

Lai L.

Yelp
This food is so freakin good yall. I get the egg and cheese for breakfast and it is fire. I believe its around 6 bucks but well worth it for the fluffy eggs. Posting a pic bc thats what i look at on yelp anyways. They seem to be locally owned as well so thats a plus.
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Mimi I.

Yelp
Best coffee place ever and the service is immaculate! Their coffee is delicious and they have a great selection of breakfast and lunch foods. Thank you for always starting my morning off right :)
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Patrick Y.

Yelp
I've been coming here for years, always got great coffee, great food and good service. It appears to be family run as the same staff is always working there. I prefer it over Starbucks or other chains. As others have noted, there can be long lines and a wait, but it's worth it. If time is a factor? Either get here earlier or go someplace else. I was amazed to see a single star review from a guy claiming that a woman was rude. I've never observed rude behavior from the staff - ever. My conjecture is that guy probably acted like a jerk and got treated accordingly.
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Alexander D.

Yelp
Awesome coffee shop in Navy yard. Great quality of coffee, and friendly staff. take a double shot espresso straight to the dome, and one of these bagels will put you in the right mindset for the upcoming filibuster on the Hill
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Ryan H.

Yelp
Good prices and solid location. Personally my favorite cafe in the area after living here over a year.
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Carlo F.

Yelp
Always consistent coffee that tastes great every time. They also have a great assortment of pastries and great sandwiches. They have one of the best bahn mi sandwiches in my opinion. Definitely a great coffee shop to visit!
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Austen B.

Yelp
Sandwiches were super bland, and coffee was basic to say the least. Might be a matter of preference, but I was not impressed by the Illy coffee they used as it reminded me of airline coffee. The service was slow, but respectful. The ambiance was a 90s/early 2000s feel which felt dated.

Lauren P.

Yelp
I've given Lot 38 many many chances, but for some reason, only my drink is placed by the trash can when it is done being made. They have a bar where finished drinks are normally placed for other customers but mine is consistently placed right infront of the trash can. I'm a Black woman and I can honestly only attribute it to this because I watch a lot of other customers have their drinks placed at the bar upon completion but mine is CONSISTENTLY placed by the trash can which is gross and unappetizing. Please do better and consider what statement you're making by continuously placing only certain customer drinks by the trash. In fact, please don't place any customer drinks by the trash as it's unsanitary.

Amanda W.

Yelp
Wow! If you're in the area, you must try. The iced Dulce de Leche was sooooo creamy and flavorful. Reminded me of Vietnamese coffee due to strong flavor. I also got a grilled chicken pesto sandwich, which I was additionally offered a free bag of chips or banana (I assume it's a combo). Worth every penny. The service was very nice and offered any assistance as this was my first time and didn't know what to order. I will be coming back!

Naya C.

Yelp
The staff is always super sweet. My go to is the macchiato Carmelo and the blueberry banana bread!

Bobby C.

Yelp
I had a coffee cake and soy iced chai latte which were both absolutely incredible. Every bite/sip was a delight and they were super fast!! 5 stars all the way

Trevor S.

Yelp
Lot 38 is an incredible neighborhood coffee shop by run by a family that cares about their customers and the products they serve! Highly recommended!!
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Erin L.

Yelp
My. Favorite. Chai. Shop!!! I used to live so close to this coffee shop and came here all the time. I mean. All. The. Time. :) Then I moved. I start coming to this place less, but it has always been in my mind. Every time we are in town, and this place is open, we stop by! It's a small local business. Sweet owners/workers. Very friendly and they care for their customers. I love their chai. One of the best. I enjoy their breakfast sandwich on occasion and their lunch sandwich. I especially like their caprese sandwich. When you order a sandwich, it comes with chips. The brand of chips varies with what they have in stock. The hubs always get their spicy smoky turkey (no olives and no spinach & substitute them with tomato and onion). These are delicious. A perfect quick lunch on the go! Support local business and this is the business to support! Happy 10th anniversary!