50 Best Cafes near Kensington

“Good customer service, clean and very delicious food.. Highly recommend and I give 5 ⭐️“

“I love this place! The food is phenomenal! I can’t get over the tempeh burger!!!“

“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.“

“great food and service nice spot“

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

“Washington rang me up and was so kind and you can tell he loves taking care of guests at Maman. The vanilla cloud cookie was so yummy along with Oprah’s fave - kitchen sink cookie. Such a treat if you’re looking for a mid-day lunch, coffee or a snack. They also have craft cocktails and a happy hour. Definitely check them out!“

“first time here, the staff was very welcoming. food was fresh and delicious. Can't wait to come back and try more items“

“Chocolate pudding 🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤“

“Must have the Mochi fantastic“

“Delicious and super staff!“

“I just had an amazing breakfast here! The menu has a great selection of vegetarian options, healthy and so delicious.“

“Amazing place, all four visits have been delicious, and incredible. The dishes are so beautiful they could be in magazines…. But they’re far better in my belly! I absolutely love this place, heading there for the fifth time later today 😊“

“Super adorable family-owned bakery -- they also have a great drink menu and sell some packaged Asian snacks and ice cream too. Everything I've ever ordered here has been delicious but some favorites include: their cream bun (which they fill with cream right when you order it so that it's as fresh as possible and doesn't make the bread soggy), their black sesame mochi bread, and red bean and mochi bread.“

“Excellence everything a great environment, very friendly,“

“I love the atmosphere of this place. When you enter La Cosecha, you’re welcomed by a variety of restaurants and small local businesses — it feels vibrant and creative.
But I’m focusing on Café Unido, because this coffee comes from my home country, Panama. So every time I’m in Washington, I have to stop by.

The space is filled with beautiful natural light coming through the large windows facing the street — perfect for enjoying a slow moment with a cup of coffee. The aroma and flavor are exactly what I expect from good Panamanian coffee: rich, smooth, and full of character.

I believe they could take even more advantage of how special it is to have a Panamanian coffee franchise in Washington — it deserves to be highlighted and promoted more. I truly hope they open more locations around the city so more people can experience it.

I tried the Caramel Latte, and it was delicious. If you like my pictures, give a follow on IG: @framinizingdiary“

“The best service, sandwiches, pastries and coffee in the area! Homemade focaccia, creative coffee drinks, good wine menu and even homemade granola for the pups. We’re regular customers and make sure to bring any visitors here. Martin is always so helpful and friendly, and the entire team and owner Jad’s welcoming atmosphere just keeps us coming back. Great outdoor seating, with covered and warm space for cooler days. Very community focused with book clubs and pop ups that always make me feel welcomed. Fancy grilled cheese and baklava latte are personal favorites, but even a simple cold brew is the best in the neighborhood.“

“My experience at maman’s was very amazing. I had the papas breakfast bowl after getting some recommendations from the worker Kevin. He was very respectful and Helpful and made my experience memorable. I’ll definitely be coming back — and hoping Kevin’s there next time.“

“Excellent food and the best chai!“

“I wish this was my neighborhood coffee. The staff are so lovely. One refilled my personal water bottle for me.

Also the food is delicious, there’s good variety and the seating is comfy. My only complaint is the water faucets were really hot last time I visited but maybe that was a fluke.

Ugh, I may need to move to Columbia Heights so I can visit more often.“

“It is a cool and nice lounge!“

“Everything about this place feels magical and beautiful. The staff are kind, welcoming, and create such a positive atmosphere. The drinks are absolutely delicious, making the whole experience a joy from start to finish. It’s also deeply encouraging to see a business that openly stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and against genocide. Places like this give so much hope. 🇵🇸🫶🏻“

“Best cappuccino I’ve had since Italy! Great service and cozy atmosphere! I’ll be back!“

“spacious inside. some seating outside as well.. good place to eat, drink, and view art.“

“very nice 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 🥐🍇🍕🧁🍫“

“Great experience wonderful staff the kitties were a lot of fun!!“

“Our group was visiting from out of town and wanted to find a coffee shop within walking distance from our airbnb.
We saw the great reviews for Sylvan cafe and decided to stop in.
I got a Chai latte and veggie omelet which were affordable and very tasty! I’d highly recommend stopping in if you’re in the area“

“good food nice associates“

“Everything is delicious! My personal favorite is their chicken on a pita bread, all mezeh (salads) are very yummy! Labneh and pita chips sooo addicting! Their tots omg is a must have every time I go there. Coffeeeeee yesss don’t forget to order it too! Try everything and you won’t be disappointed. Ooohh!! Pastriesssss! Yesss!!!“

“I stopped into this pie shop and walked out with an armful of treats, absolutely no regrets.

I tried the chocolate pecan pie first, and honestly, it should come with a warning label. Rich, gooey, perfectly nutty, and just dangerous enough to make you consider rearranging your entire diet around it.

The steak, mushroom, and cheese pie was pure comfort food magic. Flaky crust, savory filling, and that melty cheese situation? Trust me, it’s the kind of pie that makes you close your eyes for a second just to process the happiness.

And yes, I also grabbed some Berger cookies, because self-control is overrated. Thick icing, soft cookie, somehow both nostalgic and decadent at the same time.

I leave nearby and I will orders a few pies for the holiday ❤️😋😋“

“Very good coffee drinks! Nice atmosphere too.“

“Our first time here! We didn’t realize they closed at 7 and showed up right at closing time, but the staff were so kind and still let us in to get some desserts. Everything looked amazing, and we ended up getting four. The kids were so happy, and everyone was super friendly!“

“The service here was EXCELLENT!! Me and my boyfriend’s order was taken by Thomas I believe and he took FANTASTIC care of us! I have traveled up from Georgia and he was very considerate and asking about us and making us feel so welcome! I would honestly return just to see him BUT their food and drink was also exquisite and so beautiful to look at (and eat hehe). I highly recommend stopping by and if so give Thomas a hello!“

“Heidy was amazing!! She was really patient, we had a party of 7 and unfortunately we didn’t all get there at the same time. She gave us recommendations and didn’t rush us at all. She was very funny and nice. The food was fresh and good. This was the elisa's mediterranean harvest bowl. Would recommend!“

“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.“

“My caramel macchiato was delicious 😋“

“I was heading to an appointment but I could smell the spices in the air. This was a major surprise. Quick service and flavorful food, with a fusion of Habesha and American cuisine. Truly a hidden gem in Silver Spring!!“

“Yerevan Café is one of those rare places that feels both home-cooked and special at the same time. Everything we tried was beautifully prepared and genuinely delicious.
The food was outstanding.
The stuffed flatbread was warm, soft, and perfectly charred, served with creamy yogurt and tender grape leaves that tasted incredibly fresh. The lahmajun was flavorful and comforting — exactly what you want from Armenian-style flatbread. We also loved the red pepper spread they serve on the side, which added the perfect brightness and spice.
The desserts are a must.
The honey cake was the star — light, tender layers with just the right amount of sweetness. Their dessert case is full of classics (baklava, gatta, Napoleon, and more), and everything looked handmade and generous.
Great wine and even better atmosphere.
The glass of red wine paired perfectly with the dishes. The café itself has a warm, authentic vibe, and you can see the care they put into everything, even from the kitchen area and pastry counter.
If you’re looking for a cozy spot with truly delicious Armenian food and amazing desserts, Yerevan Café is absolutely worth it. I’d come back just for the honey cake.“

“Thank you,Great food with very nice and friendly staff. Love this Lilit cafe“

“My family and I ordered couple of bagels, and breakfast plates. I personally ordered the western omelet, my older son got the breakfast plate, and my wife and other son got 2 bagels with cream cheese. Taste wise, everything is good, we enjoyed our meal, what really stood out was the price. The previous day, we had Star Bucks, 4 drinks and 2 croissant which came out to around $60. Here, we had breakfast for around $30 and 2 of the plates are fresh cooked meals and tasted great. The food tasted so good, I only remember to take a picture of it 1/2 way done.

While the place was small, there were at least 3 tables to sit larger family of 4 to 6.“

“Great food and drinks! Lovely atmosphere! My favorite are the Belarusian and Ukrainian dishes like borscht and bliny. Also, love the light desserts.“

“We absolutely loved the food and the kind attention and service . The crepes were divine to the minutest detail with strawberry hot syrup and whipped crème, oh my! The crepe with eggs and hash brown were delicious and very satisfying. I’ll certainly be back and some and look forward to eating at their 2nd Tasty Nook in Shady Grove.“

“Absolutely love this place. Neighborhood institution. No one else in the area does breakfast diner food in the area, and they do it perfectly. Pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, everything. And then its great Caribbean cuisine all day long. Can't recommend it enough.“

“Takoma Bev Co is the neighborhood gem where great coffee meets greater people. Davis serves up precision with a smile, Artur brings chill mastery to every pour, and Eli? Pure charisma, while James brings welcoming energy.The staff is jovial, the vibe is unmatched, and the drinks hit every time. Let’s not forget about those killer gluten free options. A big shout out to the back of the house for consistent great sandwiches #italiancoldcut (if you know,you know) and of course the paprika aioli-big dippers only!“

“Amazing food, always made fresh to order at a family owned and family ran eatery. Home style cooking, great for picking up a quick lunch. Love the quality of the beef and chicken. I order the beef bibimbap rice bowl and the chicken curry with rice dish. Both excellent! Highly recommend!!!“

“Just went here for the first time after F45. Service was fantastic and the man who helped us was kind enough to split our bagel without asking.

Small gestures go a long way and will definitely be going back. On top of that , great coffee and a great lox bagel.“

“I stopped in with friends before a event Sunday evening. The staff was warm and welcoming. I had the lentil sambusas and a peanut-infused coffee at the staff’s recommendation. The food was fast and delicious- the sambusas were warm and spicy, and the peanut coffee was delicious! In a kind gesture, the chef sent over a sampling of sushi to our table. Fresh and refreshing, the sushi was a nice complement to my sambusas and hot beverage. I’m not on this side of town often, but now I have a reason to come back.“

“Simona Cafe in NoMa is a gem. Keith and Corey delivered standout hospitality, welcoming, attentive, and genuinely personable from the moment I walked in. The coffee is high quality and tastes as good as it smells because I’m picky like every other human with opinions lol

I ordered the Nova and it was the perfect breakfast bite: fresh, flavorful, satisfying, and exactly what I wanted without feeling heavy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the kind of place you actually want to sit for a bit instead of sprinting out with your cup.

Highly recommend Simona Cafe. I’ll be back, and I’d absolutely point friends to this spot!“

“Amazing cafe reccomend to all people Spanish, American , Black , dont matter anyone here is welcome love the food love the smoothies are amazing just wish the place had a better schedule and was open everyday possibly? and close at 8PM or something or maybe close at 6pm i am a teenager and i give this a perfect review!“

“This place was an absolute gem during our week-long stay in DC. We visited it a whopping five times! We had such a great time, especially when we made a funny joke about breakfast for the next morning. 😂 Because we had already eaten it .“

“I ordered a bulgogi sub. It was so good. So good that I immediately advised my coworkers to order from here for lunch, TODAY. I requested some add ons which they added. It was very flavorful. I also ordered French fries which were also delicious. They included what I think was mumbo sauce. A little sweet and spicy. Overall delicious.“