“No-frills, Cafe V is run by kind people who efficiently make you your coffee. Enjoying more sweet drinks, I enjoyed the large honey cinnamon latte. Within minutes, it was ready at the bar on a Sunday morning. The space is very practical with plenty of tables. My latte was over $7, which seemed a little expensive, but everything is these days.“
“Moved to area a few months ago the coffee in has the best coffee I've tried within about a 30 minute radius and during my travels past few years. The service is also wonderful, as well as the food. Delicious pastries and tasty sandwiches. Love the variety of options from drinks to food.If you're looking for high quality coffee that offers much more with a great atmosphere for sit in, then this is the place. A wonderful local place ran by some wonderful owners.“
“This is absolutely the best coffee I've ever tasted! I had the Mardin blend and it was silky smooth and bursting with flavor! Turkish Coffee Lady was truly the highlight of my first visit to Old Town Alexandria and it will not be my last.“
“What an awesome, cozy spot, especially if you want to be away from a big crowd but still enjoy good food and drinks. We had a great conversation with the owner and workers. Everyone was friendly and had great customer service skills. Oh, the bourbon selection is awesome!“
“The ambiance of this cafe first drew me in, it's clean, modern, and relaxing. The food and service keep me coming back. The blueberry pancakes are incredible! FULL of blueberries. The avocado toast is the perfect portion size, I feel full and satisfied without being stuffed. The baked goods are delicious, and always fresh. The coffee drinks are exceptional, as well.The service is polite and quick. It's so awesome to see an interesting mix of customers enjoying an elevated, quick breakfast, and the incredible amount of take out orders this business handles.I love taking people from out of town here - everyone raves about how cute the cafe is, and how good everything was.“
“Old Town Alexandria can be a tourist trap if you don't know where to go or access to the local-"in crowd" on where to go. I myself would confess to being a zombie tourist if it were not for all the crowd-sourced reviews and convenient map search features. This long-winded review intro is meant to steer you off-the-beaten-path, away from touristy stuff, and see what little shops lurk in the edges off *streets of royalty* ( ahem, I meant look at what's out there beyond King Street, Prince Street, or Duke Street ).And in the case of Casa Rosada Gelato, you would literally walk pass it given recent construction that forces the relocated front entrance to be hidden deep off some loading bay alley (the pictures says it all). The alleyway is almost 25 paces off the main street and there are no signs except for some Casa Rosada icon on paper taped to a plywood board where the front entrance would be. Had to band up with a visiting family of 5 to go gelato hunting for the front entrance. It's especially scary at night and yet so fun too given how dark the entire surrounding intersection block is with no cars or people in sight. But the gelato is good - way better than the throw-back-themed ice cream chain shops that promise to top sweetened air-filled cream (ie. normal ice cream) with rainbow covered sugar that's meant to distract you from all the air you are buying in your ice cream. With most gelato classic flavors available, we opted to go 'off-the-beaten-path' theme and go for walnut and madeira wine gelato. Tasting both flavors mixed was a symphony of flavors I doubt you can find anywhere else in this Old Town.“
Coffee Shops • $$
“I am always on the lookout for local coffee shops. And this one didn't disappoint. Great coffee, and people were also too nice. cafe was nicely decorated and has good seating space. I was in Arlington for 3 days and came here to get coffee every single day.“
“A very comfortable and well maintained spot to sit and chat or hang out with a bunch of kitties! The wine bar area downstairs is quaint and comfortable, without the staleness of corporate chains many coffee shops have. And their food and drink variety is wide and varied for a place of their small size, and fairly priced.I was only able to hang out downstairs this time because I didn’t have an appointment (make one online!) but I’d be happy to come back for either the kitties or the wine bar atmosphere.“
“The strawberry lemonade was very good. I liked that they served two sauces, cucumber and peanut, for the chicken Satay. The Mango parfait was decent but the sticky rice was a but tough and like a paste. It was served with Mango ice cream which is not common. The decor was nice and the service was OK. The place was a little bit bigger than I expected and was crowded.“
“The ambiance of this coffee shop is soooo stellar and cute!! Service was great and fast, even with a line. I tried the horchata coffee which I wasn't the biggest fan of - I'm not exactly sure why to be honest. I will definitely return to try something else! Another wish I had - it is not great for a gluten free person - I would suggest that La Coop consider gluten free bread and/or pastry options!“
“I am visiting NOVA to house-sit for a friend while she’s on vacation, and needed a coffee ship while I’m here. I wanted to avoid the chains and go local. So I tried this one from a google search. INCREDIBLE. It’s so good and the bankers items are delicious. I have gone everyday since being here. They are very friendly and the line is long but moves very quickly. It’s just one of those fun little local things you have to try. I am hoping to move to DC in the next several months, and have this on my list of places to keep in my phone. 10/10!“
“The atmosphere is fantastic, the staff is super nice and knowledgeable, and the drinks and food are fun.I got a Thai Tea Latte with coconut jelly. You're able to pick the sweetness level so I did 50% since Thai Ice teas are usually pretty sweet. The drink was phenomenal!! The Staff guided me to an incredible choice.Food wise, I also got an egg waffle. It was an original with auger sprinkled on top. It was warm and delicious. It made a great pairing with the Thai Tea Latte.Overall a great place to hang out, drink tea, and just vibe.“
“Been seeing the "coming soon" signs at this place all last year and had a chance to try last night, as me and my wife didn't feel like cooking and it was a Friday night! The Three empanadas, drink and a 1 sauce is decently priced at $16 for a filling meal. Parking is limited and there are no tables for groups. You're better off ordering for pickup. My favorite is the Spicy Pork empanada filled with pork, black beans and corn. For reference, the spice level of the Spicy Pork and their "Mild" sauce is about that of Taco Bell "Fire" sauce. At 6PM, a lot of their menu items were sold out or otherwise not available. Looks like this place is better at lunchtime. Since it's hard to get parking, I would either park at the garage across the street and walk 4 minutes, or order for pickup or to delivery. Unfortunately, there would not be enough seating to bring work colleagues here. Better to organize an empanada party at the office. VIDEO“
“I just love this spot for a quiet place to work or read, or a nice spot to meet a friend for coffee or a casual lunch.Last week I had the Chicken Tortilla Soup twice and it is delicious. I even brought a quart home! I also had the prosciutto, goat cheese and apple sandwich on a baguette which was perfect.I have had lattes there often and always delicious.This week I brought home the chicken enchiladas from the market and the beef bolgogi - each meal generously fed two of us and was so delicious.The staff is always helpful, kind and attentive.Dietary restrictions: Lots of vegetarian salads, fruit and more for breakfast options.Parking: If there in the morning, always easy to find parking in front on South WashingtonStreet (going against traffic). Parking requires using the Park Mobile App.Kid-friendliness: Always a slew of strollers at Mae's!“
“Pleasant experience! A little cafe tucked in a corner of a shopping plaza. The employee greeted us with a smile as soon as we entered the cafe and answered questions we had about their special desserts...one of them was a delicious and crispy baklava. I tried the cardamom coffee, loved the spiced flavors combined with my baklava. Nice, quiet spot to have a relaxing morning with a smile on your face.“
“If you’re in Old Town then you should definitely make your way here! Had the drip coffee which was delish but I shouldn’t have tried the boyfriend’s Nutella latte because it was HEAVENLY! Have to go back soon for that and another croffle! But that’s not all! This space is so well designed with a comfortable flow of energy, and great eclectic art or decoration everywhere you look! To top it off the staff is wonderful and helpful. So in house or to go is great because you can pop down a smidge on King to their art gallery Galactic Panther. ESP has a killer open mic night there which is what brought me out from the District initially but after coming out to see @mobofonemusic this past Saturday, I know it will become a place I visit regularly for lots of occasions!“
“One of the best (and most unique) desserts I've had in the D.C. area is in Annandale, Virginia. After Korean BBQ at nearby Kogiya, my friends were craving bingsu (shaved ice dessert), bringing us to this Korean tea house. On a Saturday evening around 9 p.m., it was packed, but we somehow managed to snag a small table for the four of us. Ordering via QR code on the table, a giant bowl of bingsu came to our table.Splitting it between three, we devoured the black sesame bingsu. It was more than enough for four of us and came with sliced almonds, black sesame, vanilla powder, and corn flakes on top of shaved ice. Frozen cream is in the middle and you pour a small jug of milk over the top before digging in.Our fourth friend ordered one of the waffles with ice cream and absolutely loved it. Highly recommend this spot!They also have a large tea menu and a few coffee products like lattes.“
“Real Hawaiian coffee (you can ask for 100% Kona for a slight upcharge - otherwise it's Hawaiian blend) served up in a cool laid-back spot with all the good Hawaiian aloha! Had the Kreme de Kona iced and the Caramel Wave hot. All the usual alternative milks are offered. Guys - this is legit da kine ono coffee! Yes, the coffee is that good! They even offer real coffee ice cubes with their iced drinks so it doesn't get all nasty and watered down at the bottom.We also had the malasadas and a blueberry lemon cream cheese muffin - super tasty! Malasadas were especially delicious- soft and warm and covered in cinnamon sugar (this is what churros can only dream of being)!Servers are friendly and helpful. Service was fast even with a line. They offer an app for order ahead and to get points for future purchases.Parking is on street or in the city center garage. They're right next to the back of the AMC theaters.Wish they were closer but maybe a good thing they aren't because I'd be here every day!“
“Stellar Bakery, probably my favorite in the area, which is a lot to say in a crowded market of Korean bakeries. Excellent number of options. Each bread I got was perfectly soft and fillings for all that had them had the appropriate ratio and texture. Ordered the red bean and cream buns (latter being a standout). Re-ordered more for a work event, which were a hit!“
“This is our second time here and we love the food here, this time we tried new dishes and it fair to say they were tasty. The Roti& green curry is our all time favorite. Must try. We also had the chicken wontons, they were very crispy and nice. Try it if you like crispy food. For main course we ordered the Kao prik chicken and Khao Soi. Both were good. The Khao Zoi had 4 chicken thighs, which I felt is but too much meat. Maybe 2 chicken thighs and more soup would also improve the flavor. Overall must try. Also a very nicely decorated place.“
“We stumbled across this place for breakfast and were blown away. For a busy Saturday, the staff was so friendly. The coffee was delicious and the crepes were delectable. It’s a delightful cozy atmosphere even when you end up at the bar!“
“I love everything about this place... The atmosphere is bright and airy, the staff very friendly, the Nutella cookie to die for, AND the commitment to US veterans is simply beautiful. I will definitely be back, and am telling my friends and family members about it.“
“Absolutely amazing customer service and quality of food. They are accommodating for dietary restrictions and were very helpful talking to me about gluten free options. They offer GF toast and are accommodating to warm it up separately from other bread and wearing gloves to avoid cross contamination. 10/10 experience hereDietary restrictions: Gluten free bread available“
“Tiny coffee shop in the lobby of an office building. Full-service shop that also has some meals & snacks! There are tables in the streetside entrance which seems unheated in winter The lady running the shop is very lovely.Parking: Covered parking for the building.“
“I’ve been checking out local coffee shops because I just wanted something besides my local Starbucks. Heard about this place from a friend. It’s like a hidden gem. I’ve come to this shopping center so many times and never knew it was here. Great, modern and clean space with lots of tables to work. And a delicious latte! New favorite spot.“
“was so impressed by the quality of the coffee and the service here! I’m a real beanhead, if you will, so I am by no means easy to please, but Brian bowled me over with his expertise as he patiently explained the menu to my less-cultured brother, who is not as much of a connoisseur as myself. Brian recommended the cortado and the cappuccino to us, and we were both wowed—I even learned something myself! would highly recommend to other coffee sophisticates and anyone looking to have a hot drink served with a warm smile.“
“The most enjoyable experience. Beautiful friendly people. Mark thank you for making us feel at home. Cody you are so funny. The food, the drinks dessert all topand resealable prices. Can't wait to come back and also spread the word.Thank you.Atenaf, Johnny and Claire“
“Absolutely perfect. So glad we found this place. The coffee is excellent, and the food totally slaps. I had the shakshuka. It had the perfect serving size, perfect temperature, and perfect flavor. Little bit of spice, lots of savory, eggs cooked just right. Bread was well toasted and the perfect accompaniment. My cold brew was very good as well. I liked the ordering system too. It was easy and efficient. 10/10 will eat again“
“I shared a lunch with 2 other colleagues. My first time dining there. The food and service was amazing. I will definitely return.Vegetarian options: Plenty to choose fromParking: We all found parking right in front of the location. Great place“
“A must stop on Kings street, great coffee, solid baked goods, and fantastic service. Be prepared to stand in line as this place is popular, but with their quick service you'll only be in line long enough to decide what you'd like to drink. (Would recommend the coffee cake or croissant)“
“A great, casual, local cafe and bakery with amazing pastries. We keep trying new things on the menu every time we go and everything so far has been delicious. There are good savoury and sweet options such as the smoked salmon croissant and the brioche donut. You can also grab whole cakes and small gifts if you’re entertaining at home.The staff have always been friendly and helpful whenever we have been there. The cafe has a laidback atmosphere - I often see people working or catching up in there.“
“Good coffee drinks, nice selection of treats (Korean bakery goods like cake, cookies, cream rolls, filled breads). Quiet when mostly full seats. Clean. Feels like a cozy neighborhood hangout. A little dark at the far end, the seats by the side door are better lit. The green tea roll cake is rich and creamy.Parking: Free but limited parking in Annandale Plaza shopping center“
“Excellent. The empanadas are very delicious and the Milanese sandwich too. The bills are very fresh, and even the coffee is very good. Also, very friendly and fast service. Araceli cooks very well and is also super friendly. Highly, highly recommended.“
“It's a bubble tea place, not much else to say. Practically speaking I believe it to be the best in the area, and also one of the better deals too. They have some food options too but I haven't sampled any of them. They are open late which is nice for a late night treat / hangout. The shopping center it's in gets busy at all hours so sometimes parking can be annoying, but I've never not found a spot.“
“Stopped by here with my sister and ordered a pork and cheese popusa and the Guatemalan style steak, which came with Pico, avocado, rice, beans, 2 tortillas, and a cheese whose name eludes me but was delicious. Everything was fantastic. The portions were generous, the tortillas were made in house and delicious, and the steak was well seasoned and cooked perfectly. All together, it was about $20 which was a bargain for the quantity and quality. Our waitress was super sweet and the atmosphere is great. I will be coming back. I've been to tons of south American places and I can say this is one of my favorites. I will definitely be coming back“
“A local favorite! Spartans is one of those places that makes you feel like home when you go there. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Spartans doesn't disappoint.If you go for breakfast, I highly recommend the Stuffed Challah with Cream Cheese as you won't be hungry for the rest of the day. Enjoy!“
“Due to the rave reviews, my husband and I stopped to check out this place before getting back to our state. I'm not a coffee drinker, but am learning about coffee and most, I do not like. It is true! Our café lattes are delicious and very smooth! This is one of only two coffee shops where I would return.“
“Drove up to try their Nitro brew. Solid pour and look but the coffee lacks any real flavor. I drink my coffee black and enjoy a strong cup of coffee. I understand the nitro lessens the bitterness but if this was a blind taste test I'm not sure I'd even guess it's coffee. Let the adventure for great nitro continue.“
“Tried the New Orleans Style Coffee Milk Tea and I liked it. It was a unique combination, mixing coffee and milk tea, which offered a refreshing change from the usual boba flavors. I also appreciated their everyday promotion of Buy 4, Get 1 free. They tend to give a bit more ice than other places, so keep that in mind.“
“So happy to have a quality boba place close by and not connected to the mall! The location is super convenient and easy to get to. The staff is incredible and the drinks are delicious. The vibe of the shop is so good. I have tried a variety of drinks and have yet to have a bad one. I love how you can customize absolutely everything. 5 stars for BoBaPoP Tea Bar!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“
Dessert • $$
“I had the chocolate cupcake with vanilla frosting and sprinkles at Del Rey Festival and it was delicious!! It was very moist, not overly sweet!! At first look, it seems like a cupcake you could make at home but the taste is very unique!! I would go back to try more flavors!!“
“This was my first time visiting the store and I came in to get a bag of coffee beans for a friend. I don’t speak coffee (lol) so I asked for help on deciding which bag to get and Kajsa at the front was so helpful!! She came from behind the counter to help me and was so patient! She helped me for probably at least 5 minutes. I am so grateful for her time & was happy with her recommendations based on my friends taste. I appreciate great and friendly service so I just wanted to give her a shout out :)“
“I went to this shop for the first time to get some holiday gifts. The staff person who met us at the door couldn't have been nicer or more helpful and the gifts were a big hit. There is an excellent variety of spices and teas for any occasion; I'll be back.“
“Amazing affogato and coffee. Love all the options for affogato too. The people working argued about some bathroom situation for the entire 20 mins we were at this coffee/gelato shop though and it was not quietly. We sat in the back room and still had to listen to a full on argument the entire “
“Food is good. I called and was informed in advance about the wait time, which was really appreciated (most places don't do that). The hostess even remembered me telling her I was omw to work, and she told me to have a great day at work, this was atleast 1 hour after my call. Its the small things that people remember to make another person's day special.“
“I ordered a gluten free cake for a birthday party and it turned out perfectly! Visually, it was incredible, but the flavor - amazing! No one had a clue it was gluten free. Everyone was so welcoming and accommodating. I couldn’t recommend enough!Dietary restrictions: Gluten free“
“I came here recently to buy coffee and chocolates for my wife for Valentine's Day. They had some chocolate boxes already wrapped attractively. The quality of both items was very good. This is a great organization that helps people with disabilities an deserves out support.“
“Majdi was a great guy with amazing customer service. The owner is very friendly and helpful with recommendations. I tired the pistachios coffee and paired it with a dessert that had pistachios cream. The area is very clean and well design, great for insta pics!“
“Definitely a Hidden gem in the southern Maryland area. Since moving to the small town of Indianhead, I frequent this establishment quite often. The staff is always friendly, and I truly love trying out the "mystery lattes ". The owner is absolutely amazing, and is most helpful.“
“The lemon blueberry flap Jack's were amazing at brunch today.I'm looking forward to fish fry Monday nights.The entire staff was delightful and playing with my grandson so sweet.Parking: There is plenty of parking behind the restaurant and an entrance from that parking lot.Wheelchair accessibility: There are wheelchair spots in the back of the restaurant.“