Washington DC: Best Cafés + Eateries
Whenever we travel, we love to try as many cafés and restaurants as we can. We also love to pretend we are locals, but doing some of the touristy things are sometimes unavoidable, especially on a first visit. And this trip to DC will be my first. To put this guide together {mostly for me to refer to while in DC} I turned to Instagram along with my Guided by Cereal City Guide. My selection criteria: delicious coffees and food, and aesthetically pleasing decor. Two musts. I'm a very visual person so when a place offers those two things and great service, I'm in love. We are foodies at heart and here are some of the places I have my heart set on for our DC trip in just a few weeks.
Jrink {@jrinkjuicery}, 1323 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 280-0302I found this place with the help of Sylvia who just visited the area from London. Jrink was founded by two overworked Wall Streeters who believed that busy people shouldn't have to compromise their well-being for productivity. They serve a variety of cold-pressed juices. I can't wait to try!
Dolcezza {@dolcezzagelato}, several locationsServing in seven locations, Dolcezza seems like a beautiful place to hang out, grab a coffee and gelato. Their Fairfax location won me with those purple gelato/sorbetto cups. Just beautiful. I'm sure the kids {as I} will have so much fun picking up some gelato.
La Colombe {photo credit: @reema_desai}, 924 Rear N St. NW (Blagden Alley), Washington, DC 20001 (202) 289-4850This place looks like it would be my daily go-to place for pastries and coffee.
Paul {photo credit: @reema_desai}, Georgetown Park, 1078 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007 (202) 524-4630The famous French cafe and bakery is now in Georgetown and it's the place to grab a coffee and pastries, or lunch.
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken {photo credit: @reema_desai}, 1308 G St NW, Washington, DC 20004 (202) 809-5565This place looks both delicious and kid-friendly. Try it for breakfast or lunch. It's a Guided-recommended place.
Batter Bowl Bakery {photo credit: @oliviaindc}, 403 H St NE 202-675-2011, Washington DC 20002 (202) 675-2011If you are in DC for only 24 hours this is a must according to Guided. Sitting by the window with a coffee and a paper should set your day on its proper course. The café is open daily. Try it for breakfast or lunch.
Georgetown Cupcake {@georgetowncupcake} 3301 M Street NW (corner of 33rd & M) Washington, DC 20007 (202)333-8448These cupcakes have been on my must-try list for quite some time. I know the kids will love them.
Olivia Macaron {photo credit: photosbysarahbeth} 3222 M Street NW Washington DC, 20007 (202) 965-1000Recommended by my friend Ashlyn, these are the best macarons in the city. I can't wait to grab a box of these.
Founding Farmers {@foundingfarmers}, 1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20006 (202) 822-8783My friend Natalie recommended this place so I know it's good. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You must try their homemade beignets.
Shake Shack DC {@shakeshack}, four locations in DC: Dupont Circle, F Street, Union Station, and Nationals ParkBeing a west coast girl I miss my In N' Out Burger. I'm dying to try the east coast version.
Takorean {@takorean}, three locations: Food Truck, Union Market, and Navy YardThis place comes highly recommended by Carla of the blog The President Wears Prada.
Hank's Oyster Bar {photo credit: @reema_desai}, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Alexandria Pearl Dive Oyster Palace, 1612 14th Street NW Washington DC 20009 (202) 319-1612If you love oysters, two must-visit eateries for dinner and drinks.
Le Diplomate {photo credit: @kimchee__}, 1601 14th St. NW Washington DC 20009 (202) 332-3333Recommended by Guided, this place offers many French classics. They offer brunch during the weekends and dinner on weekdays. Reserve well in advance.
Graffiato {photo credit: @reema_desai}, 707 6th St NW Washington DC 20001 (202) 289-3600I spotted this place in Reema's instagram and this Italian place looks like the perfect place for dinner and drinks. You'll find great drinks, artisanal pizzas and small plates.
Rose's Luxury {photo credit: mgandco} 717 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003 (202) 580-8889Voted no. 1 of the 2014 best new restaurants, Rose's Luxury is an absolute must. I recently read that the food is so delicious it makes you want to cry. They don't take reservations, so here's advice from the owner: "Come before 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and you're pretty much guaranteed a seat." Weekends are crazy. Or, do like 20 to 50 people do every night: Show up at 5 p.m. (30 minutes before opening) and join the line.If you have other recommendations, please share with me and I'll update this post.