50 Best Coffee Shops in Washington

“The food is wonderful. We always eat here when we come up from Richmond, VA. The staff is great as well.“

“We had a great lunch! Highly recommended! 😋😋😋“

“Great waiter- delicious food, unique and cooked perfect! Music and vibes were very very fun!!!“

“Stopped by after seeing high reviews. The atmosphere of the place is really nice. There’s quiet spaces to study. There’s cute little gifts you can purchase. However, the pistachio chocolate croissant I tried wasn’t good. I don’t like the taste of pistachio paste. Also it wasn’t fresh.“

“Great place. Wish they would open a 2nd place at Liberty Exchange in Sykesville - 2 units still open for a nice coffee place (that isn’t Starbucks!) one is right next to Basta Pasta!!“

“Cute place right in the heart of DC! Tried the cheese and onion empanadas and they were so delicious. Pastries looked yummy, and my oat milk cappuccino was really good. Highly recommend for a quick coffee to-go or snack if you're in the area!“

“I love this place! It’s always very clean and the owners are so nice! I go on such a regular basis that they already know my drink and greet me daily with a smile. The food is also good. Now THAT’S really what makes this place better than Gregory’s or Compass…their customer service.“

“Did the cocktail mixing class. Great food and awesome experience!“

“Had a fantastic experience at Maman in DC. Dakota, Paul, and Kevin provided exceptional service from start to finish, they took the time to walk me through the menu, offered thoughtful recommendations, and even crafted a special drink just for me that was outstanding. The baked goods were absolutely delicious as well. Truly great hospitality all around, and I really appreciated the extra care they put into making the experience memorable. Highly recommend!“

“We had the best time at KooKoo DC last night. They accommodated a table of 14 for my spouse's birthday and never let us feel like an imposition. The food was so fresh, authentic, and reasonably priced - I did a double take when we got the bill. I even felt like we went all-out with apps, drinks, and desserts! The owner was also so kind - we just felt so cared for the whole time and can't wait to visit again.“

“Spark Social House DC is the hottest new hangout spot in DC! Thank you for providing a safe environment for everyone! 🫶🏻“

“food was made fresh and delicious and very filling. Staff is very friendly. Outside tables and shade. It was right next to our hotel, which was a zoo for breakfast became here as it last resort. All three of my kids loved the breakfast sandwich and the yogurt. I got an iced coffee with cardamom. very good. my only complaint is that it took a little while for the sandwich to be made, but it was made fresh.“

“Go. Now. If it’s closed, just wait outside til it opens and thank me later. I CANNOT recommend them higher. The food was absolutely phenomenal. Portion sizes that can feed 2-3 people. Ridiculously delicious food. Great prices… and most outstanding THE SERVICE! The lady running the place was quite simply one of the kindest sweetest souls you’ll ever meet, took care of us like we were part of the family and honestly was just incredible.“

“I'm from Texas and have been dying to find a breakfast taco spot. I might as well have been in my mom's kitchen, eating tacos on a Sunday morning. that's how amazing La Tejana tacos are!“

“I enjoyed the most decorative meals full of nutrients and I would love to visit them ones again when I get less busy one day😊💕“

“Fresh delicious and healthy! Friendly staff clean and welcoming atmosphere.“

“Had a delightful lunch today at the 41st St location. Everything was delicious and beautifully presented. The dressing on the greens that comes with the sandwiches was to die for! Atmosphere was quaint and inviting. Staff was exceptionally attentive and polite even though it was busy! We can’t wait to go back!“

“great food and service nice spot“

“Great food! The only complaint I have is the laptop policy which prevents this from being a place to get work done especially over the weekend. However that’s subjective and I can understand some of the reasoning. The food is outstanding“

“I went during the late afternoon. Parking was ok. I was able to find street parking. I walked in as a first time customer and was greeting with a warm welcome. The staff talked to me about the different areas of the restaurant and upcoming events. I was waited on almost immediately. My drink came first; which was really good and priced well. I ordered wings and salad. Everything came out hot and tasted really good. The vibes during this time I day was chill with good music. I was told they have DJs later on in the evening. Overall I had a great experience. I would definitely go again.“

“The staff are super friendly and they serve food right on time. Food is fresh and sumptuous. Price is reasonable and place has a great simple and clean ambience. Definitely a must go. 💯💯💯“

“Rarely opens on time at 7:30 . Try stop on way work. Still waiting. After ordering they had no bills and gave me 7.90 in change! The cashier had attitude because I made her give me my change and then she had the nerve to give me a Canadian quarter which I gave her right back. Unacceptable.“

“Today I had the best fried chicken sandwich since Kevin Tien’s Perfect seasoning—a little heat but not too much, smashed avocado, coleslaw, and chicken that had just the right amount of crispy covering that kept the chicken moist. I can’t wait to return for another.“

“Favorite local coffee spot. Great staff! Great coffee!“

“Delicious and super staff!“

“One of the best coffee shops in DC and definitely a favorite of mine. I find myself coming back all the time. The orange raspadura latte is a must, and they have the best carajillos in the Union Market area. The customer service is always great, too.

They also have a really reasonably priced happy hour, especially for DC. Great coffee, great drinks, and consistently a good experience. I haven’t tried any food yet but can vouch for the drinks. Highly recommend!“

“🥰Great breakfast 😍🤩“

“Great place to get a coffee, great people working here and wide selection of deli/bakery items. Also right across the street from Lincoln Park, this place has been a staple for our house“

“Charming smaller restaurant with friendly service, a very good wine list and delicious food. Once you find street parking, you can choose from several small tables on the street or comfortable seating inside this very attractive restaurant. There were three of us having dinner which consisted of Gnocchi, Chicken Milanese and an outstanding pork chop with caramel sauce. This restaurant really is a neighborhood gem. The noise level is high, but that is the only negative thing that I can think of to say.“

“Such a great atmosphere, bites and drinks! 🙌🏽🙌🏽“

“The gelato I had was absolutely delicious! While it wasn't as creamy as Pitango's, I really enjoyed the variety of flavors they offered. I ordered a three-flavor cup and chose Black and White Cookie Batter, Dark Chocolate Fudge, and Dulce de Leche Chip. Each flavor was delightful! The restaurant was quite busy, which was a good sign considering its prime location near shopping stores and not far from Chinatown. There was plenty of seating available for customers to sit and savor their treats or coffee. Despite the crowd, the cashiers did an excellent job attending to everyone and even offered samples.“

“CIVIC on Eighth has such a wonderful atmosphere and charm. The space is beautifully designed with cozy seating, warm wood details, greenery, and a stylish yet relaxed vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. The ambience alone makes it a perfect spot to meet friends, get some work done, or just enjoy a quiet moment.
We loved our visit and really enjoyed the drinks and treats. The loaf cake was fresh, moist, and delicious, and everything was presented beautifully. The staff created a welcoming environment, and the whole place has a unique personality that stands out from a typical coffee shop.
Definitely a hidden gem with great energy, great design, and a place I’d happily come back to! 🌿☕“

“I love it!!! Great prices compared to similar bakeries in the area, they have a great assortment of pastries (I only tried the dulce de leche medialuna and it was really good) and they have normal priced, good coffee. The decor and ambiance is also lovely. And service is great!“

“Great coffee and staff! Highly recommended!“

“The best coffee in Washington, DC! The staff is professional, friendly, and provides excellent service. I always enjoy coming here—the atmosphere is welcoming, and the experience is consistently outstanding. I love this place and highly recommend it!“

“We enjoyed the service and location. We loved the Croque Madame as a crepe. The French toast is not toasted as it is on soft thick brioche. I prefer my French toast toasted so consider this when ordering. The coffee- straight and as latte- were good.“

“Great space with lots of seating, kind staff who are happy to explain their roasting process and recommend a good roast for whatever latte you choose, and so many inventive and delicious latte flavors! I was skeptical the pistachio rose combo would actually work/taste good (I’ve had enough bad pistachio gelato to know it’s hard to get the taste right even in ice cream), but gave it a try and oh my god it’s the best flavored latte I’ve had in years! Thanks!“

“Finally, a delicious and reasonably priced cafe has arrived in Shaw! The staff is INCREDIBLY kind (and dog friendly), the pastries and sandwiches are excellent, and if you’re in a rush but need a good coffee, you can get in and out within 5 mins. I highly recommend Cafe Joy!!!“

“Great coffee and staff! Highly recommended!“

“We had a group of 9 for brunch and it was a complete feast! The shareable plates just kept coming and everything was delicious. Such a great variety of pastries, vegetarian dishes, dips, egg dishes, and more. Would highly recommend it for a casual friendly sharable brunch with friends or family who are eaters of all kinds. The offering has something for everyone- and it is a great way to introduce those who may be unfamiliar with Turkish fare.“

“fun smaller shop off the main street. loved the quiet ambiance of it and the in and outs of the hostel guest staying in the building. The cafe has wifi with enough seats inside and out for enjoying a coffee. My flat white was well made and my family enjoying their hot chocolates. best part.... it's very very affordable, a good $1-2 cheaper than most places.“

“Absolutely love! Everyone is kind and welcoming. The drinks and pastries are amazing. The only shop I feel like a part of the community 🥹 there are many regular customers, and the employees make me feel comfortable. There are always people sitting and working and talking with baristas- but never a long wait for your order“

“Quaint little family owned coffee shop with an attentive staff. Great coffee!“

“The high quality ingredients make for the best espresso drinks I have ever had! Delicious iced tea in the summer too.“

“I had a great time here today! I fed the cats churus and they loved it! There are some cute cats and they all are for adoption. The owner is very sweet! You can get coffee or soda or snacks to the café connected to the café. The cats also love playing with toys and all are rescue cats. The owner introduced me to all the cats when I came in by telling me their names. I had so much fun can't wait to come back again!“

“The bread was divine. The manicotti was pretty good. It has cold crab on top. The server told me beforehand, which wasn't a problem, but I just don't get it. Seems like the dish would have been better and more composed with warm crab. The salad on top didn't taste like much and didn't add anything other than texture to the dish. The pasta and seafood were both cooked to perfection. Service was great.“

“Great coffee, good ambience and nice people :)“

“I had a delicious Chicken Salad Sandwich that was definitely not your bog standard, run of the mill chicken and mayonnaise salad. It was slightly spicy with small bits of fresh red onion, to name the most flavorful differences. 10/10 recommend!

The Iced Mocha Latte was wonderful.“

“I stopped by Pitango for dessert, and it definitely hit the spot! 😋 I tried two flavors: Stracciatella (vanilla with chocolate chips) and Fondente (dark chocolate). I don't usually eat gelato, so I was pleasantly surprised by the creaminess. The service was excellent; I wasn’t sure what to choose, but the cashier helped me by offering samples and sharing details about each flavor I tried. One of the chocolate flavors I sampled was incredibly rich and chocolatey—it's water-based and vegan-friendly, which was a first for me! The restaurant was nice, clean, and had indoor seating that could accommodate several people, but I decided to take my treat to go.“

“I was in a training near the 15th Street location of Zeke’s. Found it the first morning and went back every day. Shared my experience with others and we all loved it. A local was amazed at her coffee and will be a regular now. The employees were so kind and remembered my order every single day. Best dirty chai I’ve ever had! Quality coffee. Friendly employees. Great prices.“