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Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar

This Georgetown classic captures the mood of a tucked-away Parisian bistro. The dim lighting and intimate dining room create an effortlessly romantic setting, while the menu highlights French staples such as steak au poivre, mussels, and ossobuco. The wine list is thoughtful and well-curated, with servers who excel at suggesting the perfect glass to match the meal. Weekly jazz nights add a lively spark that makes it ideal for dates that mix romance with a little culture.

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600 T

600 T offers cocktails with character in a setting that feels private yet playful. The bar is known for its smooth drinks, like the vanilla old-fashioned, and for hosting comedy nights that break the ice in a fun way. Low lighting and intimate seating keep the energy relaxed, while the curated music brings just the right amount of atmosphere. It is an excellent option for couples who want something a little different than the typical first date spot.

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Binge Bar

Binge Bar proves that a first date can shine without alcohol. The menu is entirely non-alcoholic, featuring inventive mocktails and CBD wines that feel just as crafted as any cocktail. The atmosphere is stylish and welcoming, designed to make guests feel at ease while exploring something unique. The space attracts a thoughtful crowd, making it a refreshing alternative for couples who want to focus on connection without the typical buzz.

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Andy I

Floriana

Floriana is a Dupont Circle favorite that mixes classic Italian cooking with an intimate, candlelit setting. The menu features standouts like lasagna, risotto, and gnocchi, paired with a strong cocktail and wine program. Thoughtful service ensures the evening feels personal, while the atmosphere strikes a balance between cozy and celebratory. It’s a spot that makes a date feel special without being over the top.

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Aviano Coffee

Aviano is where espresso purists and fashion people collide. It’s stylish, a little serious about its coffee, and always buzzing with laptop openers and quiet conversations. Expect perfect cortados, precision-drip brews, and baristas who care deeply about extraction times. If your idea of relaxing includes Scandinavian furniture and strong coffee, this is your spot.

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Creative Grounds DC

Creative Grounds blends coffee, community, and creativity in a way that feels really personal. Their shaded sidewalk seating makes it a great summer stop, and there’s always a quiet, laid-back vibe. The coffee is strong, the empanadas are underrated, and there's even a small bookstore inside if you feel like browsing after your drink.

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Hugo A.

Open City at the National Cathedral

This is one of the more peaceful places in D.C. to grab a coffee outside. Sitting just next to Bishop’s Garden at the Cathedral, the patio here has a view you won’t find at any other café in the city. It’s casual but thoughtfully done, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your drink in the shade.

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La Coop Coffee

La Coop has quickly become a favorite for anyone looking for good vibes and good iced coffee in Petworth. The pistachio biscotti latte is a standout, and the patio is roomy enough to bring a friend — or even a few. They’ve got kid-friendly touches, like a little window market for browsing, and plenty of space to settle in with a book or snack.

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Dolphin Cafe

Dolphin Cafe is your go-to for more than just a caffeine kick. Tucked along the parade route, this cozy spot blends European charm with warm, welcoming vibes. Their drinks are delicious, whether you’re trying their standout strawberry matcha latte or a rich espresso. Their pastries are made fresh daily, offering a delightful pairing to any drink.

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Youebe Cafe

Youebe Cafe is a charming, cozy spot that’s perfect for grabbing a smoothie or a coffee between parade stops. This spot is known for its freshly made dishes and drinks, from crispy chicken shawarma to zesty lemonades. The café has plenty of seating and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to kick back and take a break from the excitement.

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Amen Cafe

Amen Cafe feels like getting a hug from your aunt who always insists you need to eat more. It’s part café, part Ethiopian bistro, and entirely wonderful. The injera platters are a full-on event, and their coffee is exactly what you need to push through an afternoon slump.

Baker's Daughter

Situated just a short walk from the Studio Theatre, Baker's Daughter is a cozy establishment adorned with plants along the walls. Offering a selection of refrigerated premade salads and beverages, including coffee and baked goods, it's a great place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely coffee.

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Joshua Routt

Compass Coffee - Navy Yard

Compass Coffee stands out for its commitment to quality and community. The manager, Mehdi, is super friendly and always takes time to greet customers and ensure orders are right. A recommended choice is the maple latte, which can be made half-sweet for those who prefer a less sugary drink. Their croissants also come highly recommended.

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Bluestone Lane Spring Valley Café

The space is spacious, airy, and designed with a modern aesthetic, making it a great spot for a leisurely coffee break or brunch. The service is known for being warm and attentive, adding to the overall delightful experience. If you’re looking for a refined coffee experience with a focus on quality and fresh ingredients, this is a great spot to start.

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Kate Jackson

Coffee Nature - Spring Valley

Coffee Nature serves high-quality coffee alongside a surprising twist—Korean-inspired bites like bulgogi sandwiches. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in with a cappuccino and pastry and forget about time. With its peaceful vibe, friendly service, and solid coffee selection, it’s a go-to spot for those seeking a quiet and cozy coffee break.

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Olivia S.O

Solid State Books

What’s better than a good book and a great coffee? At Solid State Books, you can enjoy both. This independent bookstore has a small café inside, offering coffee, tea, beer, and even donuts. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to read or a casual meeting spot, this bookstore café is a hidden gem in the Atlas District.

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Jason Locke

Peregrine Espresso

Peregrine Espresso is the go-to spot for coffee purists who appreciate well-crafted drinks. Known for its smooth cappuccinos, excellent mochas, and beautifully executed latte art, this café provides high-quality coffee in a laid-back setting. With plenty of seating, fast WiFi, and a shaded patio area, it’s a great spot to relax.

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Ugly Mug Café

A neighborhood favorite with a laid-back vibe, Ugly Mug Café is an ideal stop for casual coffee lovers who appreciate a strong brew in a friendly environment. Beyond coffee, they’re known for their live music nights, great food (including pizza and wings), and rooftop bar. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso or planning to hang out for a while, this café is a hidden gem.

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Grace Street Coffee Roasters

A modern, minimalist café with an emphasis on specialty coffee, Grace Street Coffee Roasters is a great option for serious coffee lovers. Their single-origin beans and expertly crafted pour-overs make for a standout coffee experience, while the calm, quiet atmosphere makes it an excellent spot to sit and work or unwind.

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Simona Café

Simona Café is a hip, artisanal coffee shop with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot for high-quality coffee, delicious pastries, and friendly service. The cappuccino is rich and smooth, and their pastries are always fresh. The vibe is casual and inviting, making it a great alternative to busier chain cafés.

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Vamshi Krishna

Praline Bakery

For those with a sweet tooth, Praline Bakery delivers authentic European pastries, cupcakes, and macaroons. Whether you’re grabbing a hot chocolate before the concert or looking for a late-night treat, this bakery provides a cozy atmosphere to unwind. Their French and Italian-inspired desserts pair beautifully with a strong espresso.

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Sylvan Café

This Ethiopian-run coffee shop is known for its rich flavors and delicious breakfast options. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cappuccino or an Ethiopian-style macchiato, Sylvan Café delivers. The outdoor seating is a plus, and their bacon, egg, and cheese bagel is a solid pre-show meal.

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The Roasted Boon Co.

The Roasted Boon Co. offers smooth, flavorful coffee and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding. The cozy seating, big windows, and soft background music create a welcoming space whether you’re catching up with a friend or just enjoying a quiet coffee break.

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Hilda Kroll

Compass Coffee - Chinatown

Just a short walk from Capital One Arena, Compass Coffee is a solid go-to for both locals and visitors. Known for its smooth, well-balanced espresso and great seasonal drinks, this spot has a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quick coffee stop before tip-off.

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La Colombe Coffee Workshop - Chinatown

A few blocks from Capital One Arena, La Colombe is known for its smooth, nitro-infused Draft Lattes and expertly brewed cold brew. If you need a serious caffeine jolt before the game, their strong espresso-based drinks won’t disappoint. The modern, airy café has limited seating, but the efficient service makes it easy to grab a quick coffee before heading into the stadium.

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Hilda Kroll

Capital One Café - Chinatown DC

For a quiet, low-key café experience, Capital One Café is a hidden gem just a short walk from the arena. It’s far less crowded than a Starbucks, offering comfortable seating, strong Wi-Fi, and a relaxed vibe. This is a great choice whether you need to get some work done before an evening game or just want a chill place to grab a coffee and a light bite.

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Slipstream

Slipstream is a coffee shop by day and a cocktail bar by night, making it one of the coolest hybrid spots on 14th Street. They take their coffee very seriously, offering a rotating selection of high-quality beans and some of the best pour-overs in town. Their Tahitian vanilla latte is a standout, and their seasonal soups and sandwiches make it a great spot for a light lunch.

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Colin Connor

Filter Coffeehouse & Espresso Bar - Foggy Bottom

A hidden gem for coffee purists, Filter Coffeehouse is known for its meticulously brewed pour-overs and bold espresso shots. If you’re looking for a focused, no-nonsense coffee bar where the beans do the talking, this is it. Their Colombian roast pour-over is smooth and rich, and the cozy space is great for an escape from the busy city streets.

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Rue Café - Adams Morgan

For a laid-back, European-inspired café experience, Rue Café offers great food, excellent coffee, and an inviting courtyard space. Their iced dirty chai is a standout, and their pastries are consistently fresh and delicious. Whether you’re catching up on work or just trying to recover from the night before, this café makes the process feel a little more enjoyable.

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DUA DC Coffee

DUA DC Coffee brings an Indonesian twist to DC’s coffee scene. With unique drinks like the creamy avocado latte and a variety of savory empanadas, this spot offers a refreshing take on traditional coffee shop fare.

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Le Bon Café

Step into a Parisian café at Le Bon Café, where the atmosphere is as warm and inviting as the espresso. This hidden gem serves Illy coffee alongside a menu of delicious paninis and breakfast options. The cozy setting and friendly staff make it a charming stop for a quiet coffee break near Union Station.

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Rachelle Marie

Gregorys Coffee - Dupont Circle

Known for its upbeat vibe and excellent customer service, Gregorys Coffee has become a go-to spot for embassy employees and busy commuters. Whether you’re craving a perfectly brewed latte or need a quiet corner to check emails, Gregorys has got you covered.