Must-Visit Independent Coffee Shops and Cafes in Washington, DC

Great Java Joints in the Nation's Capital with Flavor and Attitude

M.G. Hardiman
There's nothing like a great cup of coffee, especially in Washington, DC where folks are always on the go-go-go. Coffee. Java. Espresso. Latte. Cappuccino. Joe. Whatever you choose to call it. America's drink of choice. Perfect fuel for a busy day in the Nation's Capital.

Of course, not all coffee's alike and each coffee shop has its charms and drawbacks. I like Starbucks just like the next person. Its coffees and coffee selection are legendary. But, too often, I find myself in one of those "faux" Starbucks which rarely measure up to the real thing. Or, in a second rate coffee shop chain. Often, I long for something different, like an independent coffee shop that's brimming with great coffee and local flavor.

Tired of coffee shop chains or java huts that don't measure up? Looking to find a great independent coffee shop in the Nation's Capital? Check out these Must-Visit Independent Coffee Shops and Cafes in Washington, DC. No beans about it. These shops rock with coffee aficionados looking for great coffee, local atmosphere and light fare.

Chinatown Coffee Company
475 H Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001
Hours: Weekdays 7am - 8pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am - 7 pm
Telephone (202) 559-7656
Website: www.chinatowncoffee.com

Don't the let the name fool you. Chinatown Coffee Company is one of Washington DC's newest coffee houses, offering quality coffee and a nice variety of pastries. The company also hosts tastings and discussions with coffee experts. Sign up for Chinatown's e-list. A great java addition to Chinatown.

Ebenezers Coffeehouse
201 F St. NE Washington, DC
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7am-9pm, Friday 7am-10pm, Saturday 8am-9pm, Sunday 8am-8pm
Telephone (202) 558-6900
Website: www.ebenezerscoffeehouse.com

This church owned and operated coffee shop donates its proceeds to support community causes. Ebenezers also features live music, dance lessons and poetry nights, in addition to great coffee and light fare. Check out Ebenezers for "coffee with a cause." Great meeting space, too.

Java Green Eco Café
1020 19th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036
Hours: Weekdays 8am-8pm, closed weekends
Telephone (202) 775-8899
Website: www.javagreencafe.com

Check out Java Green Café's coffee and espresso selection, along with its wide variety of salads, panini, rice bowls and noodle dishes. Go green and check out Java Green Eco Café. Sure to please.

ME Swing Coffee House
1702 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am - 6pm
Telephone: (202) 628-7601
Website: http://www.swingscoffee.com

Located in downtown Washington, DC, this local coffee shop traces its history to 1916. M.E. Swing prides itself on producing great coffee where the beans are hand-craft roasted in small batches. Check out ME Swing's cool vintage fixtures and coffee ware. A real Washington, DC institution.

Tryst Coffeehouse
2459 18th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009
Hours: Monday- Wed. 6:30am-12am, Thursday 6:30am-2am, Friday - Sat 6:30am-3am, Sunday 7am-12am
Telephone: (202) 232-5500
Website: www.trystdc.com

This Adams Morgan coffee shop is a favorite with the locals for its casual ambiance and late hours on weekends. Tryst sells espresso drinks, French pastries, artisan breads, and gourmet sandwiches, along with a nice selection of beer and wine. Check out Tryst for an Adams Morgan treat.

RESOURCES

The Coffee Review
www.coffeereview.com

History of Coffee in National Geographic
www.nationalgeographic.com/coffee

International Coffee Organization
www.ico.org/coffee_story.asp

Top Five Coffee Houses and European Cafes in Washington, D.C.
By M.G. Hardiman for Associated Content

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION:
The Contributor has no connection to nor was paid by the brand or product described in this content.

Published by M.G. Hardiman - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Career professional in non-profit sector, one of AC s Rising Stars (2009) and Featured Contributor in Home Improvement, Health and Wellness, Local, and Arts and Entertainment categories. Washington, DC metr...  View profile

  • Tryst Coffeehouse is an Adams Morgan institution.
  • Ebenezers Coffeehouse donates its proceeds to local causes.
  • ME Swing pours its coffee on site and ships its coffee around the world.
ME Swing's at G Street is filled with the original mahogany and mirrored fixtures, vintage burr grinders, wooden coffee bins, and counter-weight scales that graced the coffeehouse's old location on E Street.

2 Comments

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  • M.G. Hardiman9/15/2010

    Great! Nothing like a good cup of coffee wherever you are! :)

  • Mike Powers9/14/2010

    Places I will definitely check out next time I am in DC. Thanks!

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