Busboys and Poets

$$ • American, New American, Vegan

Hours:
2004 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington
(202) 889-1374

About Busboys and Poets

Busboys and Poets in the Historic Anacostia District offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with an artsy and intellectual vibe that many find stimulating. The menu features classic dishes like catfish, collard greens, and grits, along with a variety of options for guests with dietary restrictions. The restaurant is known for its delicious food and attentive staff, who often check if guests need anything. Visitors can enjoy drinks such as Long Island iced tea and experience a lively, passionate environment. The decor showcases African American artists, artwork, and authors, creating a beautifully decorated space that celebrates culture and creativity. Guests have praised the atmosphere as fun and friendly, with great music adding to the cozy ambiance. The food receives high marks, with favorites like catfish fingers, lamb meatballs, spicy chicken chorizo pasta, wings, Brussels sprouts, vegan nachos, and the Busboy burger, which is cooked nicely but could use a bit more seasoning. The happy hour menu offers tastefully portioned dishes that are great for sharing. The staff, including knowledgeable servers like Devin, provide excellent service and make the experience even more enjoyable. Parking is primarily street parking, and wheelchair accessibility is not available. Overall, Busboys and Poets is a lively place to gather, especially after church or during special events like Friendsgiving, where the food, art, and atmosphere create memorable moments.

Customers' Favorites

Busboys and Poets Reviews

3.8
274 ratings
Restaurantji Rating
5
55%
4
13%
3
6%
2
7%
1
19%
Food
4.0
Atmosphere
4.1
Service
3.7

Share your opinion about Busboys and Poets

Restaurantji Rating

My husband and I went at about 1pm. Most of the dining room looked empty, and we were seated right away. We placed our orders, which included an order of chili and mashed potatoes for me.

Service was slow. My husband's order came, my mashed potatoes came... but there was no order of chili. Our server was nowhere to be seen. After about 25 minutes, a food runner came with the chili, and ssid it had been sitting "back there" for a while. I tested it - it was barely lukewarm....read full review

I went there yesterday Sunday 8/6 to have a bite to eat and support the business

After the hostess from the front seated me at one of the booths I sat there for 20 minutes and not one server, manager, or anyone else person came to my table to say or ask me anything or take a order

A group of people came after me and a man took they’re drink order but again no one looked in my direction or came to my table

After not being served (and feeling like a...read full review

Food was excellent and the customer service was great. If you’re doing a celebration just let them know ahead and Busboys and Poets will make your experience right! We celebrated Education Today!!

#YouAreAppreciated

Read All Reviews(274)

Menu

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Busboys and Poets Menu
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Hours

Monday 9AM - 9PM
Tuesday 9AM - 9PM
Wednesday 9AM - 9PM
Thursday 9AM - 9PM
Friday 9AM - 10PM
Saturday 9AM - 10PM
Sunday 9AM - 9PM
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