The Best Coffee Shops in Washington, D.C.
After almost a year of living in the DMV and many a trip to overpriced coffee shops with friends, I would consider myself pretty experienced in the DC coffee scene. I will preface this by saying that I judge coffee not only based on the taste, but also the vibe of the shop, the cost + the overall experience. To be honest, when the cost of coffee in the city is roughly $6 for 12 oz I am very picky with where I spend my money.
So, if you ever find yourself in the DC area, here are some of my favorite places that are definitely worth a visit + your hard earned cash.
Blue Bottle Coffee
I know this is a chain, but the coffee at Blue Bottle is some of the best in the city, especially if you are anything like me and can drink iced coffee any time of year. If I had to choose only one spot to go, it would probably be here. Although it is pricey, this is one of the few places in the city that doesn’t charge extra for oat milk, which is major for a lactose intolerant gal like myself. They also serve their iced drinks in a paper cup which is oddly satisfying to drink from + great when it’s chilly outside and an iced drink is too much for your fingers.
What to get: New Orleans Iced w/oat milk!!!! Do it now!!
Georgetown Cafe
If you find yourself in the city streets of Georgetown, this cafe is a classic. I will say, I don’t find their coffee to be earth-shattering, but the atmosphere of this little shop sandwiched between brownstone homes is a local fav.
What to get: If you are down to pay $7-$8 for custom latte art, go for it. I will say it’s great for a pic. Is it the greatest latte ever? Nah, but it’s cute.
La Colombe
This chain can be found throughout the city, with my personal favorite location being in Blagden Alley. These coffee shops are full of hipster character + tasty bevs. Their bartistas are very friendly, always offering to help me create the perfect drink. If you are a fan of nitro cold brew, this is the shop for you. It’s creamy, it’s flavorful, it’s awesome.
What to get: Nitro Cold Brew with oat milk
Commonwealth Joes
If you find yourself in the Arlington side of things, I would recommend checking out Commonwealth Joes in Pentagon City. The high ceilings and adequate spacing makes this a great spot to work remotely. They offer some unique drinks with their homemade syrups, including a lavender flavor that is subtle yet super yummy.
What to get: Oat milk latte with lavender syrup
Tatte Bakery
This new scene in town is the perfect spot for a coffee date. Tatte has tons of seating, an insanely yummy aesthetic & great coffee to boot! Their outdoor patio is perfect for getting some fresh air, while their indoor seating is plentiful for remote working. I would say that if you are looking for a great hangout spot + some yummy pastries, this is the way to go.
What to get: The house latte is AWESOME! It has a hint cardamom that you never knew you needed in your life.
Colada Shop at the Wharf
You wanna talk good vibes? This is it. The Colada Shop, at the Wharf specifically, is everything you need for a tropical getaway. While their piña coladas are obviously delish, their coffee and breakfast sandwiches are some of the best weekend treats. They have plenty of seating inside the shop, along with a great outdoor patio, but if for some reason that’s packed, you should take your food to-go and head down to the water to chill out there.
What to get: The breakfast sandwich is gas. For real SO good. As for coffee, their lattes are fab!
Mercy Me
This is the ideal work from home haven in the DC area! Although the outside is very unassuming, the inside of Mercy Me is adorable and spacious. There is no shortage of couches or tables to post up at for the afternoon. It’s also not that awkward vibe of feeling like you are overstaying your welcome.
What to get: If you are there for some caffeine, I would stick to a latte, but if you are looking to hit up happy hour a little early, they have a great list of drinks with ingredients I can’t pronounce. It’s definitely an artsy vibe.
East West Coffee
Another great Arlington spot is East West Coffee Shop. I had the pleasure of checking out the Clarendon location which is close to the metro + in a great location! I went to work remotely for a couple hours and found myself spending the entire morning there. There are lots of tables and great spots to work without feeling like you’re being watched, ya know what I mean?
What to get: I enjoyed my iced coffee, but I would say I want to try other options on the menu!
I know there are tons of other great spots, so if you know of some please share them below!! In the meantime, save this guide to the best coffee in the DMV for the next time you are in D.C.!