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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.

Swing’s Coffee Roasters - Eastern Market

With a retro-inspired aesthetic and a reputation for bold, well-roasted coffee, Swing’s Coffee Roasters is one of the best spots for a quick, high-quality espresso. Their Italian Roast is a standout, and the friendly staff and efficient service make it a go-to for locals in need of a caffeine fix.

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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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Compass Coffee - Shaw

A local favorite, Compass Coffee is a perfect spot for a pre-show caffeine boost. The airy, industrial-style space is ideal for grabbing a quick coffee or relaxing before a night at The Howard Theatre. Their nitro cold brew is smooth and strong, and their mocha and maple lattes are crowd-pleasers.

Seylou Bakery - Shaw

If you’re looking for artisanal pastries and serious coffee, Seylou Bakery is the place. Everything here is made from freshly milled whole grains, and their goat cheese and pepper pastry is a standout. The minimalist space is calm and inviting, making it an excellent place for a quiet coffee break before heading into the bustling Shaw nightlife.

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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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It's Roy (Frankiz)

Potter’s House Café & Bookstore

If you’re looking for a quiet place to recover, Potter’s House Café & Bookstore is where caffeine meets community. This nonprofit café has been a local favorite since 1960, serving up strong espresso, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and a welcoming atmosphere. The social justice focus and cozy bookstore vibe make it an ideal spot to sip a coffee.

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Rachel Karitis

Soleluna

A hidden gem in Adams Morgan, Soleluna is the perfect mix of charming café vibes and high-quality coffee. The pistachio croissant is a standout, and the outdoor seating is ideal for a relaxed morning. Whether you’re people-watching with a cold brew or grabbing a quick cappuccino to go, this café offers a peaceful escape from the late-night chaos of 18th Street.

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ThreeFifty Bakery and Coffee Bar

For a no-frills, cozy neighborhood spot, ThreeFifty Bakery and Coffee Bar delivers great coffee, friendly service, and an impressive selection of baked goods. Their Bacon, Cheddar & Onion Scone is a savory delight, and the spinach feta quiche is a great light option for those who need something comforting after a long night out.

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Ben Blue

The Coffee Bar

For those who want a chill vibe with good coffee and a solid pastry selection, The Coffee Bar is a great place to recharge. Whether you’re grabbing a cardamom latte and a Danish or just enjoying the outdoor patio with an espresso, this spot is perfect for easing into the day after a late night.

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Zachary Hubbell

Tatte Bakery & Café

Tatte Bakery & Café is a must-visit for anyone who loves European-inspired coffee culture. From their decadent pastries to their beautifully crafted lattes, everything here feels indulgent. The airy interior, complete with chic decor and plenty of seating, makes it a great spot for relaxing before or after a long train ride.

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Marshall Daly

Big Bear Café

Located a little further from Union Station, Big Bear Café is worth the detour for its cozy atmosphere and beautiful outdoor patio. Known for its community-oriented vibe, this café serves high-quality coffee and hearty breakfast options. It’s a great spot to relax or even join one of their trivia nights.

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Ythalo Saldanha

The Coffee Bar - Dupont Circle

The Coffee Bar (TCB) offers a rustic-chic vibe and an inviting patio that’s perfect for a quiet coffee date or a quick study session. Known for its artisan coffee and freshly baked goods, TCB is a favorite among locals and embassy staff looking for a caffeine fix.

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Elizabeth Eubanks

Ebenezers Coffeehouse

Ebenezers Coffeehouse is more than a coffee shop—it’s a community cornerstone. With profits going toward humanitarian efforts, this coffeehouse combines ethical sourcing with top-notch brewing. Their honey lavender latte has a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with their fresh pastries.

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The Den Coffeehouse

Located beneath a cozy bookstore, The Den Coffeehouse is perfect for book lovers who enjoy sipping coffee surrounded by literature. Their dairy-free options and gluten-free pastries cater to all dietary needs, and the inviting atmosphere makes it a great stop before or after a cultural outing.

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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.

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Carissa Liu

Zeke's Coffee of DC

Zeke's Coffee is a local roastery that takes pride in serving organic, fair-trade beans. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with friendly staff and delicious drinks. Their flat white is a must-try, especially when paired with one of their famous cookies.