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Is it slightly hilarious and ironic that I’m writing a post about coffee shops and I don’t even like it!? Ian’s the coffee drinker, whereas I’ll take a cup of tea over those blehhh tasting brewed beans any day (alright, alright that’s a little harsh and very much a personal opinion but ya get it!). So yeah, probably a little hilarious. BUT even though I don’t drink coffee I’m still a sucker for visiting “coffee” shops, ordering my tea (or hot chocolate if I’m feeling particularly indulgent!), and enjoying the space.
And now enter DC, one of our favorite cities that we get to visit several times a year on work trips. On those trips, Ian’s spending his days in the office, and I am usually spending my days hopping around the city finding a place to call my own little office for a couple hours – which usually ends up being coffee shops. I can’t offer a take on the coffee itself, but from reviews and the number of people at all these places, I can tell you they are all doing something right! So here it is – a list of my favorites coffee shops in Washington, DC (in no particular order):
Slipstream
Plenty of table space, clean, bright, and modern atmosphere, and it’s not just for your coffee needs – this place also has cocktails, and provisions on their menu. Plus, there are two locations: one on 14th Street NW, and one in Navy Yard.
Grace Street Coffee Roasters
Located in historic Georgetown (my favourite neighborhood in DC!), this modern coffee shop has lots of seating and is also in the same space as a few other eateries (like a super-mini food hall) – so if you’re feeling an acai bowl or a gourmet sandwich with your coffee then this is the place! Also, your place, if you’re feeling like a little stroll through the alleyways of Georgetown, is a must (which it is if you’re wondering).
Swing’s Coffee
Cozy and casual all wrapped together. There are several locations throughout DC but the one I frequented was in the heart of downtown DC on 14th and G street. It didn’t have a ton of seating but most of the folks coming in were usually on their way to and from work grabbing their drinks to go so I never had a problem grabbing one of the three tables (there’s also several bar seats).
The Wydown Coffee Bar
A small, cozy, and modern spot to stop for coffee and pastries! Only thing I wasn’t prepared for when I headed here was the fact they didn’t have internet (or at least they didn’t when I was there), but luckily I had some work that I could do that didn’t require internet access so the experience was still a great one.
Bourbon Coffee
Originally started in Rwanda, Bourbon Coffee now has several locations in the U.S. including 5 in the DC area. It has a friendly atmosphere with lots of different seating options (including comfy chairs and couches!).
Philz
This California based coffee shop has two locations in DC and is known for brewing EVERY SINGLE cup of coffee they make one at a time to every individual customer’s taste. Aside from getting a great beverage, the space is also large with lots of seating and a great atmosphere!
Blue Bottle Coffee
Simple and sleek with a modern design and atmosphere, Blue Bottle has several locations throughout DC (and the US). We love the location down at the Wharf – coffee (and tea ;)) plus water views all wrapped in one!
The Simple Summary
Check out where all these places are on the map below:
Have you ever tried any of these places? Or do you have a fav coffee shop in DC we haven’t been to yet? Let us know!
How is one to pick one. Guess have to go to them all.
Next time you surprise Sarah!