Essential Coffee Shops in Washington, DC
Over the last decade, the coffee scene of our nation’s capital has slowly been growing into one of the better ones around despite not a preeminent coffee town reputation like Seattle. That being said, there are plenty of options around this vibrant city where you can grab a cup of coffee and recharge your caffeinated batteries. Most of the places on this list have opened in the last ten years, and each has had their own unique impact on the community through their love and dedication to crafting the perfect cup of joe. So if you’re craving your daily dose of caffeine, get ready as we run through some of the top Coffee Shops in Washington, DC.
Bourbon Coffee
2101 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 525-1886
If you’re looking for a coffee shop to work or study in, Bourbon Coffee is the place for you. With plenty of comfortable seating options and unlimited internet access, it’s the perfect option for collaborating with friends or having some time to yourself. The coffee here is exclusively sourced from Rwanda, and that sees the price tends to be a bit higher than in other places. However, we think it’s more than worth it as the coffee is incredibly flavorful, and the profits go right back to the farmers. Bourbon Coffee also offers some sweet treats and smoothies as well if you have a sweet tooth.
The Coffee Bar
1201 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 733-1049
The Coffee Bar has been “Caffeinating the Captial since 2012.” In the 11 years since it opened its doors, TCB has become known as the “Cheers” of coffee shops. TCB is the type of place where everyone is made to feel like a regular. Introduce yourself to the baristas and let them know your name. Soon enough, they’ll know your order as soon as you walk in the door. The coffee is sourced from all over the country, which creates a diverse lineup of options. There’s comfy seating inside and out, and the vibes of this place are just perfect.
The Potter’s House
1658 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 232-5483
Originally opened in 1960, The Potter’s House is unique in that it is a non-profit cafe. They stand by their values which are proudly listed on their website: “We constantly strive to uphold our values of solidarity, justice, spirituality, and care of the earth.” At the Potter’s House, you can buy coffee & tea, baked items, regular food items, and books as well. The Potter’s House Breakfast Sandwich is a great food option with scrambled egg and cheddar on a delicious homemade biscuit. That being said, everything at The Potter’s House is so good that it’s worth making repeat trips here to discover all of the wonderful flavors they have to offer.
Sidamo Coffee & Tea
417 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
(202) 548-0081
Sidamo Coffee & Tea specializes in espresso and tea, so if you’re looking for one of those two things, this place is definitely worth checking out. That being said, their coffee is delicious as well. Made from 100% Ethiopian-sourced beans, the drinks are all quality, but the latte stands out from the rest of the bunch. Sidamo also offers a wide selection of food items that range from bagels to paninis and even roast beef sandwiches. When the weather is nice, the outdoor garden seating behind the shop is lovely and is the perfect place to relax and sip on something refreshing.
Slipstream
1333 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
(202) 450-2216
Slipstream really brings it when it comes to coffee shops and breakfast options. The breakfast menu here is vast and really has something for everyone. The Shakshuka Poached Egg Sandwich is absolutely delicious and is a must-try. The Smoked Salmon Toast is a great pick, too, if you want to feel a bit more bougie. The best part? These items are available all day. The coffee drinks are delightful as well, with unique options sourced from all over the world. Slipstream includes the flavor profile next to the specialty drinks so you know what you’re ordering. You can have fruity, floral, bright, and classic comfort flavors depending on what you order. Seating can be a bit cramped at peak hours, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
Sweet Science Coffee
35 N Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
(202) 817-3969
This NoMa neighborhood craft coffee shop has put in countless hours perfecting and refining the brewing process down to each and every drop. All jokes aside, Sweet Science Coffee has turned the process of brewing coffee into, well…a sweet science. Their dedication to perfection has seen them win multiple awards for the best coffee in DC and is thought of by many as the purest expression of the coffee-drinking experience in town. There are no artificial flavors or additives here. The aim is to highlight each coffee’s unique flavors and characteristics. You can also find unique seasonal drinks and delicious made-from-scratch pastries and baked goods.
Swing’s Coffee
640 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
(202) 652-0188
Located just a few steps from the White House, Swing’s Coffee has been a part of DC’s coffee culture for over 100 years. Locally owned and operated, they ethically source their beans before roasting them themselves. By doing that, they have control over the flavors that come through in their brews, and they do not disappoint. The coffee and espresso at this place are both downright incredible. What makes it even better is that despite being some of the best coffee in the city, it’s not overly priced, considering the quality you get. There are also food items on offer here, and they’re not bad at all, but in reality, the draw of this place is its coffee. With multiple locations around the city and their roasting facility across the river in Alexandria, there’s more than one place where you can find one of the best cups of coffee in town.
The Wydown Coffee Bar
1924 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 507-8411
The Wydown Coffee Bar is another spot that serves up excellent coffee, specialty drinks, and treats. The food menu isn’t the longest, but everything is packed with flavor. The breakfast tostada is especially good, as is the breakfast burrito. However, The Wydown does have quite a few baked sweets available, too, to complement whatever else you order. Inside you’ll find a modern space with plenty of seating, although it can still get packed during peak hours. The coffee itself is wonderful with your standard options on offer, like lattes, cortados, and more, while also having seasonal options like the Lavender Latte in the spring. It all adds up to make The Wydown Coffee Bar an excellent place to catch up with friends, get work done, or just relax and enjoy top-notch coffee.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Washington, DC city page!
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