7 Best Cafes near Laurel

“Omg this is my second time getting the Mediterranean Market Salad and it is sooo good and 100% vegan! The only downside is that it is so small and I feel that for the price (around $17.00) it should be a little bigger. Otherwise, very delicious. Customer service was great too.“

“My wife and I visit regularly. We've never had a bad Café Miel. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere has been home to many wonderful conversations. We enjoy the food as well. Highly recommend!“

“The Qabuli Rice was gently seasoned, without being overwhelming, and studded with moist tender lamb. Equally impressive were the spinach and okra dishes that were fresh, tasty, and well cooked. Along with the side salad [lemony and slightly spicy], these side dishes were competing for my attention for the above reasons and being less greasy than most places. I suggested to the owner that the side vegetables should be made into a combo dish, to which they accommodated my request. Smart decor and amiable service. Their house-made saffron ice-cream is on my next visit list.“

“A Bright, Breakfast-Forward Favorite — First Watch in Laurel, MD Delivers Every Time

As a frequent guest, I’m consistently impressed by what First Watch in Laurel, Maryland brings to the table. It’s more than a restaurant—it’s a sunlit, welcoming spot that kickstarts mornings (or any craving) with fresh, crave-worthy dishes and standout hospitality.

What makes it special
Fresh, vibrant menu: The seasonal, breakfast-centric menu is bright and creative. FromHasta-lit avocado toast to fluffy omelets and power bowls, every dish tastes fresh and well-balanced. The daily specials keep things exciting, so there’s always something new to try.
Quality ingredients: You can taste the quality in every bite—real fruit in smoothies, crisp veggies, and thoughtfully sourced proteins. It feels like a healthy indulgence rather than a compromise.
Outstanding service: The staff are friendly, attentive, and genuinely eager to ensure you have a great experience. They remember regulars, offer thoughtful recommendations, and check in just enough to feel cared for without rushing you.
Welcoming atmosphere: The vibe is light, airy, and family-friendly, yet polished enough for a casual business brunch. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a coffee, catch up with friends, or fuel a long day ahead.
Quick, reliable timing: Even on busy weekend mornings, the pace stays steady—short wait times, accurate orders, and efficient kitchen service that respects your time.

Signature favorites I keep coming back for
Freshly squeezed juices and coffee drinks that kickstart the day.
Avocado toast beauties and veggie-forward dishes that feel healthy yet satisfying.
Breakfast bowls and omelets loaded with color, texture, and bold flavors.

Ambience and experience
Bright, modern design: Large windows, clean lines, and a cheerful color palette make the space feel uplifting and comfortable.
Perfect for any occasion: A family breakfast, a casual date, or a productive brunch with friends—First Watch consistently fits the moment.

Practical tips
Arrive early or be prepared for a short wait during peak weekend hours; the line moves quickly, and the staff keep things upbeat.
Try the “build your own” style plates if you want customizable freshness and flavor balance.
Hydrate with a flavorful juice or coffee before you dive into your meal; the beverages pair nicely with many menu choices.
Check the daily specials board for limited-time items worth sampling.

Bottom line
First Watch in Laurel, Maryland is a reliable, uplifting choice for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch with a healthy twist. The combination of fresh ingredients, thoughtful menu options, and friendly service makes it a standout in the area. Highly recommended for quick mornings, weekend hangs, or any time you crave bright, flavorful, and feel-good meals.“

“Love the Mediterranean Veggie sandwich!😋“

“Feedback for management supervising the flow line: Every single time I order a simple coffee via the app (for rapid pick-up), I end up still having to ask the staff to fetch a cup. This, despite other Panera locations where their staff always put out an empty cup waiting for me to grab and go.

Every single time I come here (50+ times in the past two years), the staff ignores my online order presumably because it’s a simple coffee order.

The app says to just grab a cup, but this location does not offer that. I don’t want to have to stand and wait in line before it’s my turn to ask the staff, I just want to grab my cup and go. As in rapid pick-up. :)

edit: Since leaving the above review, I’m pleased to report they have greatly improved with leaving out a cup everytime I order through rapid pick-up! I’ve tested this five or six times now. Review updated to five stars. Thanks management for noticing and remedying.“