Best DC Coffee Spots For A Relaxed, and Eclectic Vibe
Washington, DC is the town for the cool cats and home to many, a hipster haven in coffee shops. There are a multitude with both quality brew and plenty of character to boot, but since I’ve been here I picked seven that I would recommend to my closest friends.
The Coffee Bar (S Street NW)
From the moment I stepped in seeking refuge from the bitter cold, surveyed the gaggle of artsies and anguished, tortured-soul hipsters around me, and marveled at the eclectic decor, I knew I’d found a dive of the best kind. Funky wallpaper; antique wall molding; a rotund, vintage mint blue coffee machine and equally vintage bar cart; and even a piece of taxidermy - a stuffed jack-o-lope - come together to create a truly novel aesthetic you won’t likely see repeated. If you’re lucky, or willing to wait, you might snag a seat on their cushy leather couch that gives you one big body hug when you sink into it. If you prefer a perch with natural light, take a seat at a spacious window bench.
Maketto (H Street NW)
via Maketto
Ever felt that hankering to shop and eat and drink coffee all at the same time? At Maketto, you can do all three: it’s a retail shop, coffee bar, and dim sum restaurant, off H Street. There’s no easily visible sign, so look for their black window panes and marble tables from the street. (During my first visit, I walked right past it!)
Elle (Mount Pleasant Street NW)
Via @eatatelle
Elle has a welcoming atmosphere with touches of feminine detail (think vased wildflowers, vibrant cakes in the display case, and floral china plates). But sink your teeth into their succulent breakfast sandwich (salty brisket, egg and cheese on a buttery brioche bun) and you’ll be ruined from all other breakfast food. Not going to lie, that’s been my order every single visit and it’s never let me down.
Wydown (14th Street NW)
via The Wydown
Found on the ever-bustling 14th Street (with a second location for cocktails and pastries on H Street), this family-run pop-up coffee bar exhibits an interesting vibe, a conglomerate of intelligent and industrial, with warm and rustic. On top of quality brews and fresh-baked goods they also host live performances.
Cafe Georgetown (N Street NW)
via Cafe Georgetown
Once you see this tiny and uber quaint little hole in the wall in Georgetown (who’d have known?), you might never leave. The vibrant checkered floors, lush mix of textures, fairy lights above the wine bar (oh yeah, there’s a back room wine bar), velvet benches, latte art and yummy pastries usher in many a patron in need of all things pleasing to the senses. I recommend their spinach and cheese pastries.
Bluestone Lane (Connecticut Avenue NW and 23rd Street NW).
via Bluestone Lane
Step into the most exquisitely calming color palette, and enjoy a sip of something hot.
Emissary (P Street NW)
via @Emissary_dc
Yours truly loves a brick wall (or four), so who’s got two thumbs and visits Emissary at least once a week? *this gal*
This Dupont shop is underground, dimly lit, and variety seating - grab a two-top in the front, or gather your friend group on couches in the back. Order the lavender latte.
Cover image via Bluestone Lane
