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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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Gallery Cafe - H Street

For a laid-back café experience with great food and coffee, Gallery Café is a top pick. Known for its solid breakfast menu, including bagels, sandwiches, and fresh pastries, this spot is perfect for a quick grab-and-go or a casual sit-down meal. The staff is friendly and welcoming and offers plenty of healthy options.

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Bill Montgomery

For Five Coffee - Eastern Market

A modern café with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, For Five Coffee is a great spot for professionals and coffee lovers alike. With plenty of seating, strong espresso drinks, and house-baked cookies, this café offers a comfortable place for work meetings, casual hangouts, or a quick caffeine boost.

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Jung Byun Lau

Bluestone Lane - Eastern Market

For a taste of Australian café culture, Bluestone Lane is the place to be. Known for its expertly crafted flat whites, fresh avocado toast, and bright, airy interiors, this spot is a favorite among health-conscious locals and brunch lovers. Located near the Federal Triangle Metro stop, it’s an easy stop before or after your Eastern Market visit.

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Deane Madsen

Zeke’s Coffee of DC - Shaw

Zeke’s Coffee is a small-batch roastery offering organic, fair-trade coffee. If you’re particular about your brew, this is a great place to grab a custom pour-over or a strong espresso. The friendly service and lively vibe make it a favorite among locals who love a well-balanced cup.

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Anne Guanzon

Bluestone Lane Scott Circle Coffee Shop

For those who love Aussie-style coffee, Bluestone Lane is the place to be. Their flat whites are perfection, and their gluten-free options make it a great spot for all dietary needs. The bright, airy space is ideal for a relaxing coffee break before heading into Shaw’s bustling nightlife.

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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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Zeke’s Coffee of DC - Uptown

A small-batch, locally loved roaster, Zeke’s Coffee of DC is all about organic, fair-trade beans and strong, flavorful espresso. It’s got a laid-back, no-frills vibe, perfect for grabbing a quick caffeine fix before starting your day. Regulars swear by their flat white and iced chai latte, and the green tea latte with a ham-and-cheese croissant is a winning combo.

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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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Mich Elle

RavenHook Bakehouse

For those who love a good farmer’s market find, RavenHook Bakehouse is a must-visit. Located at Unity Park, this European-style bakery is perfect for grabbing fresh pastries and artisan bread while sipping a smooth latte. Whether you’re in the mood for a flaky croissant or a perfectly baked lemon scone, this spot delivers big flavors in a charming outdoor setting.

Blue Bottle Coffee - Union Station DC

Blue Bottle Coffee is a safe place for coffee purists, offering perfectly brewed pour-overs, smooth cold brews, and flaky pastries that are hard to resist. The clean, minimalist space creates a calm atmosphere, making it a great stop for commuters and locals alike.

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Puro Gusto Café

Puro Gusto is a modern café that blends sleek design with excellent coffee and food. Their breakfast sandwiches and cappuccinos are crowd favorites, and their friendly staff make the experience even better. With ample seating and a relaxing vibe, it’s a great choice for commuters and visitors alike.

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YL Chiang

Blue Bottle Coffee - Dupont Circle

Blue Bottle Coffee combines clean, minimalist interiors with an emphasis on quality. Their oat milk latte is a crowd-pleaser, and their chocolate croissants are buttery perfection. The café’s ample seating makes it a great choice for embassy workers and tourists needing a quiet place to recharge.