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Where to find the best coffee in D.C.

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Need a cup of coffee to be a fully functional human being? Keep reading for the 5 best coffee shops in Washington, D.C.

Dolcezza Gelato Dupont

Affogato devotees, Dolcezza is the place for you. This DC-based gelato cafe in Dupont Circle, Chinatown, and Logan Circle has the perfect aesthetic — marble counters, beautiful tiled floors, and wooden accents — to complement its frozen treats (made with farm-fresh ingredients), pour-over coffees, breakfast bowls, sandwiches, and sundaes.

Chinatown Coffee Company

From seasonal drips and French press to single-origin beans, Chinatown Coffee Co. brews classic roasters such as Chicago’s Intelligentsia Coffee, Portland’s Heart Roasters, and San Francisco’s Ritual. The veteran baristas, including Ian Thompson, guarantee no watery or burnt brews are served there. With exposed brick walls and an industrial minimalist vibe, the cafe stands out among other Chinatown restaurants and stores, especially by providing free Wi-Fi, a selection of baked goods, and absinthe happy hour in the evenings.

Yes, lattes do taste better when consumed near exposed brick.

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Tryst

If you’re looking for an ideal coffee shop (open windows, comfy couches, and free Wi-Fi), then definitely check out Tryst in Adams Morgan. Known for brewing Counter Culture Coffee, Irish coffees, and seasonal drinks such as the salted caramel affogato and lavender hot chocolate — not to mention, their full menu of baked treats — this cafe is a “neighborhood institution.” Stick around long enough to catch live music and a cocktail.

Breakfast of champions ???? #chachachachia ????: @thefirstbite #trystdc #dcbrunch

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Filter Coffee

Located in Dupont Circle and Foggy Bottom, Filter Coffee only uses the best beans from Annapolis’ Ceremony Coffee Roasters. They’ve got a pour-over bar, traditional espressos, French press, flat whites, and sometimes, the exclusive Finca Nueva Linda from Mexico. This single-origin specialty shop provides quality service and quality coffee, but note that its Foggy Bottom location banned laptops.

Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe

As Washington’s first and only bookstore-cafe offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, late supper, and full bar service, Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe has been a local and tourist favorite since 1976. Visit this cozy cafe and outdoor bistro at Dupont Circle whenever you’d like; it stays open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, rain or shine, year ‘round. Sit down with your favorite book and get eating.


Amongst the hustle and bustle of our nation’s capital, you’re going to need good coffee and a comfortable, convenient place to call home. Learn more about Common coliving homes in the heart of D.C. and these coffee shops.

You can even sign up for a free tour.

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