Beans in the Belfry is a independent coffee shop and cafe located in a former church in the city center of Brunswick, MD, a few blocks from a train station and the Chesapeake & Ohio Tow Path.  Baked good are almost all made in-house.  There are tables and chairs outside and lots of places to sip, chat, and rest inside.  There is also a small play area for the kids. 

Being a former church with high ceilings, the light streaming in through the colored glass was wonderful and the mixed country decor made for a very casual and comfortable space – even in full leathers with assorted gear to unload.

On my first visit, I had a hot mocha and a cream cheese chocolate brownie.  As I decided to enjoy both there, my brownie came garnished with fresh whipped cream, a strawberry and some powdered sugar.  The mocha was very good, with a satisfying combination of chocolate rounded out with balanced coffee flavors.  There was not a hint of bitterness to be found anywhere in the mug.  The brownie and accompaniments were also satisfying.  I enjoy my brownies slightly soft and a bit airy, with deep flavors.  This one was soft and moist, with good chocolate and cream cheese flavors.  The cream was very light and the strawberry was fresh and bright.

On my second visit, I had another hot mocha and it was made to the same standard as on my first visit.  I also ordered a croissant which they served warm, with a small roll of butter, and a sprinkle of basil.  The extra presentation effort was a nice touch.  The croissant was very good – buttery texture, nice crumb, and a gentle exterior crust.  Staff members were very courteous and some local patrons made a recommendation for an alternative route than I had originally planned.  Welcome advice.

Criticisms – only one really.  I do enjoy artwork on my mocha and this would be a welcome addition.

Beans in the Belfry is a nice stop in Maryland just west of Point-of-Rocks and across the Potomac River from Lovettesville, VA before heading up into the Catoctin Mountains, north towards Frederick, MD or if you are biking along the C&O Tow Path.

Beans in the Belfry
122 W. Potomac Street
Brunswick, MD  21716
(301) 834-7178
www.beansinthebelfry.com
https://goo.gl/maps/J4A72BaZ8UeG5T9F9

Notes:
-On street parking does require paying a meter.  .25 cents gives you 1 hour of parking. Bring quarters.