Support a small business and local coffee shop.
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in America. We know how important it is to get that fresh tasty cup every morning, and we know how much students love their coffee! So, taking that into account, we have gathered some of the most creative coffee shops in the city that make an excellent spot to stop next time you need a caffeine pick-me-up. Enjoy!
1. La Colombe
Through many honorable campaigns to better the community, this coffee shop has a bigger goal than just serving coffee and creating community. The two founders of La Colombe endeavor to “influence meaningful change around the world.” As a result, they strive to be environmentally friendly by using sustainable packaging, they responsibly source their coffee, and create donation campaigns to support community actions. What a wholesome coffee shop that pursues wholesome goals!
Where: 1710 I Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20006; 201 M Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002; 1346 Florida Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20009; 900 6th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20001; 924 Rear N St. NW (Blagden Alley), Washington, D.C., 20001
2. The Potter’s House
The Potter’s House is one of D.C.’s only nonprofit cafes. “We constantly strive to uphold our values of solidarity, justice, spirituality, and care for the earth” as they say on their website. They aim to provide a comforting space of hospitality for the community and raise funds for just causes like advocating for racial justice, reading programs for children, and efforts to encourage people to vote. Additionally, they own a bookstore that specializes in social movement books to educate the community. Located in Adams Morgan, this is the place to go to support righteous causes while sipping on coffee.
Where: 1658 Columbia Road NW Washington D.C., 20009
3. Sankofa
Established by filmmakers, this Black-owned business named their menu items after influential film directors from African Diasporas and Third World Cinema to bring awareness to Pan-African culture. They serve breakfast meals, lunches, smoothies, and coffees, with vegan options available. Next door, they own a books store where they host many educational events. Stop by, purchase a coffee, and learn about Africa cinema!
Where: 2714 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
4. Sweet Science Coffee
Sweet Science Coffee has a charming ambiance in the NoMa neighborhood. This is a brand-new small business that opened up in 2020 that uses science to make the perfect cup of coffee. Serving a creative menu of drinks, breakfast food, and pastries, this is the place to go if you are feeling like something a little different and unique.
Where: 35 N Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
5. Bourbon Coffee
Bourbon Coffee is an internationally recognized coffee brand and the first to sell coffee from Rwanda. This brand practices Direct Trade which ethically values the coffee farmers, benefitting the Rwandan community who produce them. Their many D.C. and Virginia coffee shops thus sell authentic, rich coffee that support a responsible international business. Drink their coffee and support the Rwandan spirit!
Where: 2101 L St NW, Washington, D.C., 20037
6. Slipstream
Described as a “bright cafe with a walnut bar serving pour-over coffee by day and cocktails by night, with light fare,” this is the place to be for a day-to-night hangout or date. They serve coffee drinks and lunch food from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then in the evening, the modern coffee shop trades its coffee mugs for cocktail and wine glasses for a romantic happy hour setting.
Where: 82 I St SE, Washington, D.C., 20003; 1333 14th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
7. Tryst
In the heart of Adams Morgan, this local coffee shop has a homey, rustic vibe, providing you with the perfect ambiance to lounge on their sofas, study or work on their outdoor patio. Serving everything from coffee, teas, and frappes, they also serve brunch and lunch all day and alcoholic beverages in the evening.
Where: 2459 18th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20009
8. Grace Street Coffee
This cafe has two locations in D.C., one at their original location in Georgetown near the waterfront, on Grace Street that has a characteristic vibe, and their second location on P Street which is a speakeasy-style cafe and event space. Both these locations have a modern aesthetic providing a sophisticated ambiance as you drink their delicious coffee. Indeed, their coffee is ethically sourced and handcrafted to serve you a unique rich cup that you can’t find anywhere else.
Where: 3210 Grace St NW, Washington, D.C., 20007; 2622 P St NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
9. Sidamo Coffee and Tea
We love organic, high-quality coffee! If you do too, you will fall in love with Sidamo’s characteristic coffee and tea shop. They roast their coffee daily on sight and their tea is fresh and natural. Indeed, serving you one of the most flavorful coffees you’ll find in the NoMa neighborhood.
Where: 417 H Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
10. Le Bon Cafe
Inspired by Parisian cafes, owner Sandra McCluskey replicated her cafe to feel like a French terrace. She wanted to create a fun space for the community to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in an enjoyable ambiance. Serving French-style meals and fresh pastries, you will feel like you’re at a boulangerie under the Eiffel Tower!
Where: 210 2nd St SE, Washington, D.C., 20003