9 Best Coffee Shops in Washington, D.C.

Imagine walking into a place where the wonderful smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. You hear people chatting happily, and you spot a cozy corner calling you to take a break from your busy day. That’s what it’s like when you step into a great coffee shop in Washington, a state known for its love of coffee. 

There are plenty of these wonderful spots to discover. Whether you’re someone who really knows their coffee or you’re just looking for a friendly place to enjoy a warm cup of coffee, you’re in for a real treat. Come with us as we explore the best coffee shops in Washington. Each sip of coffee here is a unique experience, and every visit feels like a slice of coffee heaven. 

The Wydown 

The Wydown is a trendy coffee shop located in Washington, D.C. They’re known for their top-notch coffee made with Counter Culture beans, offering a range of coffee drinks like espresso, lattes, and cold brew. But it’s not just coffee, they also have a full bar with creative cocktails, beer, and wine for those looking for something stronger. Fresh pastries are available daily, and they prioritize using local ingredients. With two cozy locations on H Street and 14th Street, it’s a great spot to relax or work. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy to find your perfect drink or pastry. Whether you crave a mocha or a cocktail, The Wydown has something special for everyone in Washington, D.C.

Slipstream

Slipstream offers a one-of-a-kind coffee experience. Their signature drink, the Slipstream Latte, is a favorite among customers, blending espresso, milk, and a touch of honey for a subtly sweet taste. 

But that’s not all – they have a range of coffee options, from espresso to cold brew, and a delightful selection of pastries like croissants and muffins. What sets Slipstream apart is that it’s not just a coffee spot, it’s also a fully stocked bar with fantastic wine choices and unique cocktails. The cozy atmosphere with various seating options makes it perfect for relaxation or work. With three locations, including one in Ballston, Virginia, Slipstream is open every day, making it a convenient go-to spot for coffee or drinks. Whether you crave a latte or a special cocktail, Slipstream has something special for everyone in Washington.

Colada Shop

Colada Shop, a lively Cuban cafe and bar offers a taste of Cuba right in the heart of the city. Their signature drink, the Colada Cubana, is a sweet and strong Cuban coffee made with espresso and condensed milk. 

But there’s more to explore, from traditional espresso to cafe con leche and empanadas, sandwiches, and pastries. What makes Colada Shop stand out is its bar, serving up Cuban cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris, perfect for happy hour or a night out. With two cozy locations on Pearl Street and 14th Street, it’s a great spot to relax or work. They’re open every day, making it easy to grab a coffee or cocktail whenever you like. Plus, they offer catering services for events and parties.

The Coffee Bar

The Coffee Bar, a beloved coffee shop offers a delightful range of coffee drinks and more. Their signature drink, the Cortado, is a hit with its blend of espresso and steamed milk, delivering a strong yet smooth coffee experience. 

Beyond that, they serve up classics like espresso, cappuccino, latte, and cold brew, and they even have a selection of loose-leaf teas for tea lovers. The cozy ambiance provides a perfect setting for relaxation or work, with various seating options to choose from. With two convenient locations on S Street and M Street, The Coffee Bar welcomes visitors all day, every day, ensuring you can grab your favorite coffee or beverage whenever you want. Whether you crave a Cortado or a latte, The Coffee Bar promises a delicious and unique coffee adventure in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Peregrine Espresso 

Peregrine Espresso coffee shop established in 2008 by Ryan and Jill Jensen, is a coffee haven in Washington, D.C. They take pride in serving top-notch coffee made with counterculture beans. From espresso to pour-over and French press, they offer a diverse selection of coffee drinks to satisfy your caffeine cravings. Besides coffee, Peregrine Espresso provides an array of teas and fresh, daily-baked pastries. 

With three convenient locations in D.C. – 14th Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, and Union Market – they create a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding or working. Their commitment to quality has earned them accolades, including being named the best coffee shop in the eastern U.S. by Food & Wine magazine in 2013. With friendly and knowledgeable staff, Peregrine Espresso is a must-visit for anyone seeking a high-quality coffee experience in the nation’s capital, whether you’re a fan of espresso or a pour-over enthusiast.

M.E. Swing Co. 

M.E. Swing Co., a coffee roaster with roots dating back to 1916 in Washington, D.C., is a coffee lover’s dream. They’re known for their top-notch coffee, roasted in nearby Alexandria, VA. Their coffee bean selection includes varieties like Colombia Four Brothers, Diplomat Blend, and Kenya Nguvu AA, offering something for every palate. 

Plus, they serve up sandwiches, pastries, and salads to complement your coffee fix. With a rich history, M.E. Swing Co. has weathered many challenges, making them a true D.C. coffee pioneer. They have two inviting locations on G Street and 14th Street, making it easy to relax or work while enjoying their quality coffee and food. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple cup of coffee or a hearty sandwich, M.E. Swing Co. has something special for everyone in Washington, D.C.

Qualia Coffee 

Qualia Coffee, a cherished independent coffee house in Petworth, Washington, D.C., has been delighting coffee enthusiasts since 2009, thanks to founder Joel Finkelstein. What sets them apart is their commitment to quality. 

They roast their coffee beans on-site, offering a diverse selection of single-origin and blended beans, all roasted in small batches. Beyond beans, their coffee shop serves up a variety of coffee delights, from espresso to cappuccinos, lattes, and cold brew. To complement your coffee, they have a menu featuring sandwiches, pastries, and salads. Qualia Coffee takes freshness seriously, ensuring you get the freshest coffee possible by selling beans within three days of roasting. Their cozy and inviting atmosphere, with various seating options, makes it an ideal spot to relax or work. 

Lost Sock Roasters 

Lost Sock Roasters, a small-batch specialty coffee roaster is all about great coffee and sustainability. They roast their beans right in Brightwood Park, D.C., focusing on sourcing top-notch, sweet, and bright coffee beans. 

Lost Sock Roasters is dedicated to ethical sourcing and sustainability, working directly with farmers to ensure fair pay and environmentally friendly practices. Their cozy atmosphere in both Takoma and Brightwood Park locations offers a perfect space for relaxing or working. Plus, they’re open all day, every day, making it super convenient to grab a coffee or snack whenever you like.

The Roasted Boon 

The Roasted Boon has been serving up top-notch coffee since its opening in July 2020. They take pride in their high-quality coffee made from freshly roasted beans, offering a range of choices like espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and cold brew. 

Beyond coffee, they have a menu featuring sandwiches, pastries, and salads, prioritizing fresh and locally sourced ingredients. This cozy spot, complete with various seating options, including tables and booths, is perfect for relaxation or work. The Roasted Boon is owned by Eritrean-American brothers who focus on creating a friendly and comfortable environment that fosters community in Shaw. 

FAQs – Coffee Shops in Washington

Q1. What makes D.C. coffee unique?

Washington, D.C. boasts a vibrant coffee scene known for its dedication to quality and diversity. Local coffee shops source high-quality beans, offer unique signature drinks, and often prioritize sustainability.

Q2. Where can I find the best coffee in Washington.?

Washington has numerous fantastic coffee shops. Some popular choices include The Wydown, Slipstream, Colada Shop, Peregrine Espresso, The Coffee Bar, and more. It’s all about your preferences!

Q3. What is a must-try coffee drink in D.C.?

You can’t go wrong with trying the signature drinks each coffee shop offers. Don’t miss out on classics like lattes, espressos, or unique creations like Colada Cubana, Cortado, or the Medici.

Q4. Which coffee shops in D.C. focus on sustainability?

Several coffee shops in D.C., such as Lost Sock Roasters and Qualia Coffee, prioritize sustainability by sourcing ethically and supporting local farmers.

Q5. Are there D.C. coffee shops with international flavors?

Absolutely! Some coffee shops in D.C., like Colada Shop, offer international coffee flavors, such as Cuban-style coffee, adding a unique twist to your coffee experience.