Vespr Craft Coffee & Allures

The coffee here is strong and delicious but it’s very expensive and there’s never enough seating.

Almost a year later after «discovering» this gem, I’m now a «regular» at this coffee shop. You have to understand… Being from Puerto Rico, where you rarely run into a place where they don’t serve espresso coffee, you get demanding when it comes to it. Now, even though I have a 15 bar espresso machine, stove-​top espresso, a french press, a Keurig machine (rarely use that one though), and I prepare cold-​brewed coffee at home, I find myself visiting this coffee shop on a daily basis. Let me start by mentioning the things that keep me coming back, besides the great tasting coffee.
First off: Great quality coffee
Vespr supports locally sourced, organic and fairly traded products, including their coffee. So when you buy from Vespr, you are not only about to enjoy great quality coffee, but your are contributing to local and independent vendors.
Second: Friendly and epic baristas
I really believe the owner carefully chooses who he is hiring. Most of the times, I am served by Ana, Laura, Isacc, Amy and Edd. I’m pretty sure they recently hired more baristas, but I’m yet to get to know them. You might ask yourself, why does it matter who serves your coffee, as long as they prepare it right? Sure… I’ll give you that, but let me just say that, in my experience, they all have unique personality traits that are welcoming and make you feel like you are a friend. This is specially important because for us coffee connoisseurs, who look for a «special coffee shop» that meets our needs and feels like a «second home», Vespr is a place where you feel comfortable enough to work, have a decent conversation over coffee, study or just chill.
Third: Creativity
Although I have to admit that my «First World Problems» list grows whenever they stop selling or preparing a specific drink that they included in their menu as a «seasonal or special edition drink», the fact of the matter is that they never seize to amaze me with their creative and savory drinks and/​or concoctions. They do have «regular items» that are there to stay, however, their menu is often changing and incorporating new drinks that are bold and imaginative. Favorite creations: Affotago Atunno (Smoked vanilla bean ice cream with hints of wood and an espresso shot), Cold Brew Nitro, Lavender Latte (not on the menu), Café Negroni (coffee-​based cocktail) and any of their current coffee beans brewed with a syphon. Favorite traditional creations: Cortado, Cappuccino, Latte with an extra shot and your traditional «Red-​eye».
Fourth: Ambiance
Vespr has a very «chill» and positive vibe. It doesn’t matter from which community or subculture you identify with, Vespr is welcoming to all. Decoration is simplistic and vintage. Has a «cabin feel to it.» Music varies from blues, jazz, old-​school rock & roll, independent artists and alternative. Also, most of the «regulars» I’ve met or exchanged hellos with, are friendly and considerate. Bonus: Fee Wifi and drinking water.
Lastly: Location, location, location!
Vespr is in the heart of Waterford Lakes, in Waterford Towers Shopping Plaza, East Orlando, about 10 – 15 minutes away from UCF. With plenty of restaurants and stores around. Finally, it’s about 30 seconds from the 408 East-​West Expressway.
Summarizing: If you were able to read the whole review, you are probably asking if I was paid or asked to update my review… or if I have a life. LOL! To that, I respond… No, not paid or asked and yes, I have a life… Part of my life is spending my work/​study time in this gem of a coffee bar which means a lot to me since it has become a second home with great tasting coffee, awesome people, and a chill environment. Definitely a place to visit if your are in the area.

This place is always great. This is the first time I have been in there when it was not packed. They have a nice selection of cold press coffee. You can get your iced as a cold press or a latte. When you add the sugars, they have a nice selection, agave, simple syrup, brown raw sugar and all the standards.
The décor is very cute and crafty. They have a nice display of sweets very simply stacked. Cute little stacks of book and lots of long communal wood tables.
The staff is what makes this place a success. They are super friendly and very outgoing. On a slow Saturday morning, they were the best part of the day.

I find early mornings the best time to grab a cup, read or work. Whenever I work from home I com here and it’s a great experience every time.

My favorite coffee shop in all of Orlando. In the waterford lakes area, which means that this place is constantly packed. Between UCF, Strayer University and Florida Tech, the environment here is always young and full of interesting conversations. My wife and I come here almost on a daily basis (my wife, probably daily) and I want to say that we have tried almost every drink and concoction they come up with, which never disappoints. From a traditional double espresso, a pour over coffee to a café negroni cocktail, or a Iced Lavender Latte (not on menu), Vespr has won my heart. Baristas are friendly, always have a welcoming personality and create cups of joy!

«Artful and Masterful»
Earlier this year, I took my daughter and her two friends to Vespr, on the first day of spring break, with lattes and mochas all around. The barista made an extra-​effort with the foam designs and the cashier and barista were extraordinarily friendly.
The place was packed, as it was almost noon; but, free Wi-​Fi and an outdoor table ameliorated the situation. The day was cool and sunny; and, being outside in the fresh air was very pleasant.

Thee best coffee/​Tea place in the UCF area! The place can seat almost 50 people and is the perfect place to get wired on good coffee and study, write, or create.. Vespr can give you anything you want. From the sweet tooth vanilla bean sweet lattes to the cold nitro brew (my fav)
The cold brew cola is very tasty, but the cola taste overpowers and you can hardly taste the cold brew. The mocha is made with dark chocolate so it’s not too sweet and it’s very good cold.

Hipster-​like contemporary coffeehouse located in Waterford Towers Plaza, playing at the intersection of specialty coffee and creativity, serving single-​origin coffees and organic, fair-​trade teas.
After glancing at the menu multiple times and finally making a decision, cold and sweet vintage honey malt only felt right in ending a long week. Malted coffee drink sweetened with honey pretty much sums that up.
Coffee beans are sourced from a local roaster for maximum freshness.
Positive ambiance for studying and getting work done, or even an intimate chat, let alone enjoying a cup of coffee. With free-​spirited vibes, this popular spacious café is often crowded as seating is limited.
Comparable prices to Starbucks, but service is ten times better, making it worth the experience. With great local snacks and interesting coffee choices, on top of well-​trained baristas, this one of a kind spontaneous adventure is one to remember.

In my final two years of college, I have really found a home, a haven at Vespr. I am there far too often (is there really such a thing) but it really has a fantastic environment for some good studying, meeting up with new and old friends, and even having business-​related gatherings. The shop is not meant to be a silent, study oasis… that is saved for a library. Conversation is actually encouraged when you come into Vespr. The versatile atmosphere makes it a great spot for lots of occasions!
As for their offerings, I am not the biggest coffee fan (as I like to tarnish it by adding lots of milk and sugar so it’s more dessert-​like) but even the espresso-​based drinks are winners in my eyes my go-​to is always a chai latte, hot or cold, it’s always a great choice and the best I’ve had of many coffee shops of Orlando. If I feel the need to treat myself, I go for the affogato: vanilla gelato, cheery wood smoke infused into the glass, and a lovely shot of espresso to pour over the gelato. The flavored make it taste just like all the best parts of Fall, it’s amazing! Those are just some of my favorites, but I urge you to go and try it for yourself. If you need help deciding, the baristas are always happy to offer suggestions based on your taste at the moment. Next you’re looking for a study place, try out Vespr and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

I can’t believe I have never left a review before as I have been here about 100 times. Needless to say, this is my favorite go to coffee shop. I basically live here during the semester. It is very clean with a dark modern look. Definitely a cozy and inviting space to get some studying done for the day. All of the employees here are great! Super friendly and down to earth and they all make a mean cup of coffee! My go to is the iced mint honey latte. The flavors are perfect and the honey is local and delicious! I also love the matcha latte when I’m splurging! If you’re in the mood for a baked good, definitely get a Nutella bomb cookie! Most of the baked goods are vegan, bonus! Vespr also has an assortment of teas and specialty drinks as well as a beer selection. Best coffee shop in Orlando, hands down.

Decent coffee shop. VERY hipster. I was one of the few not wearing Toms. I thought the prices were reasonable.
I felt the environment was a little too sterile. Everything was grey, black, and white with little décor, and for a creative I felt stifled. With that said, it’s probably a great place to work on papers, lessons, and assignments… pretty much anything that you need silence for. It was quiet.
I had a cappuccino, and it was pretty average. The foam art was well done however.
My buddy had a specialty coconut latte which was recommended by the barista. He was not impressed, he said that he could not taste the coconut at all.
I’m sure some people really dig this place, but it wasn’t really for me. I recommend giving it a try for yourself.

Order: Cappuccino, Nitro brew, Vanilla Late
Price: $ 3-​$ 5 per drink
Pros: Their espresso is absolutely amazing, their syrups are creative and delicious, they have several unique drinks that were awesome, their baristas are super friendly and very knowledgeable, and I loved the artistic atmosphere
Cons: Um… no outside seating?
Thoughts: This was definitely the winner amongst coffee shops on our trip to Orlando. It had to be one of my favorite coffee shops I’ve ever been to. As soon as you walked in it «felt» like a coffee shop should; the aroma of freshly ground coffee in the air, plenty of seats (including a couch and some more comfortable chairs), art on the walls, and the general sense that all things would be right in the world now that you have found coffee (ok, so maybe thats just me). Every coffee shop has something unique, and Vespr was no different, inside they have this huge chalkboard on the wall that anyone can just sketch on. It created a really cool atmosphere.
Now while all of that is fine on its own, the true test of a coffee shop is (surprise) their coffee… and holy shit was this coffee on point. I am blessed to live incredibly close to some of the best coffee on this planet and I was still highly impressed. Their espresso was strong without being bitter and the cappuccino (my go-​to drink) was one of the best I have ever had the delight of drinking. They also had a drink they called a nitro and holy crap was it awesome. They pulled their coffee through a nitro tap to give it a smooth almost silky consistency. I’ve never heard of anything like this but dear lord was it awesome.
To top all of this off, the staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgable, I spent a good 10 minutes just talking to the barista on duty about their coffee beans, how they pull their espresso, what drinks were best and other coffee shops in town.
Sometimes you go to a coffee shop to get coffee, at Vespr you go to find your third place; that familiar place that isn’t home or work, but feels warm, happy, and makes you want to stay and hang out with friends and family. Unfortunately I live a long way from Vespr but I can guarantee I’ll be back is it is easily one of my favorite coffee shops I’ve ever been to.

Recently the Orlando Weekly posted the 25 best coffee shops other than Starbucks and I have been making my way around to them one at a time. Vespr is the best of the ones I have been to if I am looking for an overall coffee lovers experience. Some of the other places offer a wider variety of food but when it comes to quality of coffee and tea offerings… I always end up back at Vespr.
Today I finally tried the Chai and this is by far one of the best cups of Chai I have ever had. I am not sure why I waited so long to give it a try but at this point, there are not many items left on the menu I have not tried.
If you are looking for a place with great coffee and tea, fast internet access, plenty of tables, great music, something to nibble on and a crowd of people that are very laid back and friendly… Look no further.
A Florida Foodie

A very great coffee shop with a great vibe and atmosphere. Most the crowd that comes are generally college students from UCF and Valencia looking for a great place to study, really gets you in the working mood.
The coffee itself is great that you’ll find mostly at any other gourmet coffee shop. However, their cold brew soda is something very unique that I’ve never tried before and they’ll even let you try to make it yourself (with assistance of course).
Overall great vibe and a wonderful crowd as well make this one of my go to Coffee Spots. As a plus they have a rewards program for your phone unlike many other places. So more reason to go if you are a local.

Calling all coffee snobs! Leave your Starbucks behind and make your way over to Vespr!
Seriously amazing coffee. Every time. Without fail. They have some really unique beverages. And the staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Last time I was there I couldn’t decide what I wanted. The barista asked me what types of flavors I was in the mood for. I told her and she just whipped me up something. And it was amazing.
Vespr has an assortment of coffees and teas for your sipping pleasure. You really can’t go wrong with any of their coffee drinks, though the Rose Lavender Latte is a personal favorite of mine. The coffee is very high-​quality. I’ve never tried their teas (thought I’m sure they’re amazing as well).
The shop is located across the street from the Waterford Lakes Town Center. As such, it’s my favorite place to stop in before or after a movie at the Waterford Regal. The atmosphere has a hipster coffeehouse vibe. It’s very calming. A great place to bring your laptop and get some work done while you sip on a cappuccino.

Who doesn’t like a good study spot and some good coffee? The first time I came here when it first opened I was a bit surprised by the dark interior and the VERY unique coffee menu that they offer, but overtime this place has become a staple to me whenever I am home in Orlando. Not only is it perfect for studying, but it’s perfect for grabbing a coffee, meeting up with friends, or getting your needed hipster fix amongst the consumerism that is Waterford Lakes.
Their coffee menu is unique to say the least. They offer coffees, teas, and small pastries. I’ve recently fallen in love with their Ghirardelli Mocha Latte. I find their teas to be a hit or miss for me, but I’ve always preferred coffee over tea. They have a wide range to choose from, from your typical iced coffee and cappuccinos, to drinks containing lavender and rose. Their menu changes seasonally so there is something always new to try. They always have wonderful presentation with their beverages which really showcases their effort for their drinks to be presentable.
The baristas are always knowledgeable and helpful whenever I have questions about the menu. They really do seem to know what they’re talking about. They are also always super friendly and welcoming whenever I walk in and don’t mind if I’m sitting there for hours studying. I actually like to sit right on the counter when I study there because I am next to an outlet and they’re right there to serve me drinks. In terms of seating they have some tables and couches throughout. It is an interesting set-​up for a coffee shop but they work with what they got and I usually find seating when I go there.
The ambiance of the coffee shop is very sophisticated and hip. It is relaxing and helps me stay focused when studying because there is not a lot of distractions or stimulations. I really like the décor of the place and consider it to be very minimal and modern. They have some cute chalkboards in the back that you can write on and doodle on while you are there. They also have some interesting reads available if you feel like skimming through their books.
All in all, this is one of my favorite coffee shops and this place is as unique as it gets. Great coffee, great service, and great vibes. Can’t wait for my next visit!

Truly deserving of a 5 star review. Every time I’ve gone here i’ve always heard the barista’s being incredibly helpful to myself and other patrons.
I’ve been coming here since the first week they opened their doors a few years ago and the quality and commitment to coffee excellence has not wavered. Either has their selection of interesting coffee choices and selections. My new favorite as of my last visit is the cold brew on nitro. I recommend that you drink it not sealed but with an open top glass and in the store. You won’t regret it.

Service was very friendly and my coffee was great! They were very willing to help me narrow down choices and explain some favorites. I ordered the Madagascar vanilla and really enjoyed the sugared rim. Presentation was beautiful, which I believe is an important aspect of a coffee shop. Also, they rotate their options/​flavors, so you can look forward to a great variety.
When I walked in it seemed very dark and somewhat empty (big space and few tables). Some friends say they enjoy studying there, but I feel it’s too dark and the single light over each table in the back seemed insufficient to me.
Overall, I would definitely want to return to try more coffee options and consider it a spot to catch up with friends!

I have been coming here for a little over a year now and have never been disappointed.
Their coffee is always amazing and the staff is super sweet. They even have a bookshelf in the back that has board games so you can play while you sip on some great coffee.
Vespr’s signature lattes are some of the tastiest lattes I’ve ever had. I would personally recommend the butterscotch, one of my favorites.
Where they really shine for me though is in the signature beverages!
You absolutely must try the Dick Tracy if you haven’t. It sounds weird but it’s amazing, trust me. Espresso, bacon infused milk, maple syrup and black truffle.
The vintage honey malt is also a very good choice, think of a malted coffee drink sweetened with honey.
If you’re looking for something tasty that’s not on the menu ask for a maple bourbon latte (I ask for it iced). This drink has an amazing flavor, the maple and the bourbon together are magical!
Overall, this place is a must if you’re nearby. Great place, great people, and most importantly great coffee! Don’t be afraid to kick back and relax for a bit while enjoying your drink.

I’ve been wanting to try Vespr for some time, but it’s a bit out of the way for downtown residents. I hopped on the 408 and made my way down to a shopping plaza on Alafaya Trail to try. It doesn’t look like anything special from the outside, but you know you’re in a great place the moment you walk in the door.
The atmosphere is casual with tables, simplistic couches, and barstools. The bar area is beautiful and the whole place is filled with natural light from the windows outside. The menu does not feature item after item, but they have quite creative and unique brews and mixes available. The counter has different baked good to choose from that looked fresh and delicious.
Our barista was lovely and immediately welcoming. I asked for her recommendation and she asked a series of questions to determine what I was in the mood for. We ordered two iced lattes, Madagascar Vanilla and Lavender, both with almond milk. YAY for a place that offers almond milk. Love it. Our drinks were served in mason jars and were absolutely perfect. The coffee was amazing and be flavor was subtle and not overly sweet.
This is my new favorite coffee and chill spot in Orlando. The only thing that would make it better is if they were closer to downtown!

I brought my wife here because she is a coffee junkie and after reading so many positive reviews, I figured it would be her kind of place. I am not a coffee drinker at all but I do indulge every once in awhile. I was looking to satisfy my sweet palate with some dessert after being Smashed across the street. As you walk in, Vespr has a welcoming and trend setting vibe to it. The menu is simple and to the point which allows you to decide quickly without too much hesitation. I ordered a Cappuccino for the wife and an Espresso and Red Velvet Brownie for myself.
I was amazed at how the young lady created the masterpiece with the milk and in the end looked like a tree/​leaf. I always thought they had some kind of stencil when creating those designs in the coffee but it’s all free hand. My espresso was a bit too sweet for me, I like my coffee with a more robust taste and this one tasted like it had a hint of fruit but it was powerful, kept me up most of the night. The Red Velvet Brownie was very subtle, perhaps a bit too subtle but it was moist and played well with the coffee.
We showed up at around 9:00pm on a Sunday and the place was packed with mostly college kids but it was still a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. This is a good place to go if you’re on a date, it has that romatic feel to it. They do offer free Wi-​Fi which works out well for everyone. Vespr is located in the Kohl’s Shopping Plaza on Alafaya across from the main Waterford Lakes Shopping Center.