Whether you like your coffee decaf, mixed with fresh creamer, or completely black, these DC coffee shops are here to make sure you get your daily fix.
Café Unido
Situated within the Latin market La Cosecha, Café Unido marks the inaugural U.S. presence of a Panamanian coffee chain. Founded by Benito Bermudez and Mario Castrellon, a chef recognized on San Pellegrino’s list of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, the establishment directly sources beans from growers in Panama. In a commitment to social and environmental initiatives, a percentage of their sales is donated. Furthermore, a new outpost has recently emerged in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood. Multiple locations, cafeunido.com
Lost Sock Coffee Shop
Environmental sustainability is at the core of this small batch specialty coffee roaster located in Takoma Park. Although they have been vending coffee through other shops for years, Lost Coffee Roasters opened their first retail shop earlier this year where they became known for their pour-overs showcasing beans from South America, delectable toasts, cheesy pan de yuca and Argentine-style empanadas. Looking for a suggestion? Pair their Chai latte with the brioche toast and expect an explosion of sweet confection. 6833 4th St. NW, lostsockroasters.com
La Coop Coffee
Founder Juan Luis Salazar Cano’s quaint shop is operated in a picturesque Manor Park house bordered by a white picket fence and spacious yard. The family-owned business sources its coffee beans from a collective Cano established in his home country of Guatemala where he was raised by his father who was a coffee farmer. Outside of their famous chai lattes and herbal teas, the coffee shop is also distinguished by its selection of Colombian-style empanadas, burritos, quiche, and New York-style pizza. 5505 1st St. NW, lacoopcoffee.com
Qualia
Renowned as one of DC’s highly esteemed small-batch roasters, Qualia sources its beans from diverse regions, including Ethiopia, various Latin American countries, and the Indonesian island of Flores. Beyond its Eckington storefront, Qualia appears at different farmer’s markets throughout the week. Take advantage of local delivery options for the freshest retail beans, ensuring delivery within three days of the roasting process. 10 Harry Thomas Way NE, qualiacoffeeroasters.com
The Roasted Boon
Unveiled in the summer of 2020, The Roasted Boon, owned by Eritrean entrepreneurs, established itself at the bustling Shaw intersection of Rhode Island Avenue and 11th Street NW. Operating daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., the centerpiece of this inviting space is a touch screen-enabled roaster that skillfully extracts flavors from coffee beans sourced from Guatemala, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Brazil. Daily provisions, courtesy of the local bakery Fresh Baguette, further enhance the experience. 1018 Rhode Island Ave. NW, roastedboon.com
Royal
Royal stands out as one of the pioneering establishments in the DC java scene, catering to the all-day cafe niche. Start your day with Counter Culture Coffee or matcha lattes, accompanied by a delectable breakfast sandwich or arepa. Whether you prefer to linger in the stylish corner cafe or opt for the convenience of takeout or delivery, this Florida Avenue spot offers a versatile and satisfying experience. 501 Florida Ave. NW, theroyaldc.com
Takoma Beverage Company
Cousins Seth Cook and Chris Brown’s all-day coffee shop and bar had been a dream of theirs for many years. What started off as a quaint shop in 2017 has doubled its space and now includes pour-overs, rotating art exhibits and mixed drinks. Start off your day with one of their classic espresso drinks and tasty pastries displayed on the white quartz top at the front counter for a delightful sugar rush. 6917 Laurel Ave., takomabevco.com
Vigilante Coffee
Vigilante Coffee was founded in 2012 by Christopher Vigilante who wanted to bring his specialty coffee training from Hawaii back to the East Coast. Now with multiple locations in Prince George’s County, Vigilante Coffee sells some of the best quality coffee beans from Latin America, Indonesia, and Ethiopia throughout the city. Whether picking up one of their fresh-served espressos or taking home one of their specialty beans to make your own home brew, patrons are sure to be satisfied with the global tasting experience. Multiple locations, vigilantecoffee.com
Photography by: JOHN SHEPHERD/GETTY IMAGES
