11 Best Coffee Shops (in 11 Different Neighborhoods) to Telework in D.C.

1

When I returned to work this year after a 5 year SAHM hiatus, I found myself in a new position: working remotely with a flexible schedule. What a dream! I immediately began plotting where I would spend my hours each day plugging away on my laptop. One great thing about D.C. is the wealth of cafes and restaurants that are friendly to the many of us who telework. Here’s my updated list of the top eleven local, non-chain coffee shops and cafes to go to get work done in 10 different neighborhoods around D.C.

My Criteria for Coffee Shops:

  1. There must be free Wi-Fi.
  2. They must have good drinks.
  3. They must serve delicious food.

Buna Coffeehouse, Petworth, D.C.

Buna is a newly opened Ethiopian coffeehouse in Petworth and one of my absolute favorite places to go. It’s popular in the neighborhood yet never super crowded. The WiFi is strong, and there are lots of great drink options. Food options range from breakfast sandwiches to tempting pastries to classic Ethiopian dishes. My recommendation: go for the Habesha eggs with injera. You’ll be full all day long. And check out Yelp reviews here.

Habesha Eggs at Buna Coffeehouse

Bluestone Lane, Foggy Bottom, D.C.

Prices at Bluestone Lane aren’t bargains, but the experience of teleworking in this airy and modern space makes up for the coin you’ll drop on food and drink. If you’re feeling decadent, get an Aussie iced latte (it has ice cream in it, you’re welcome). For a healthier option, try the Wellness flight of lattes (beet, golden milk, and matcha). I personally don’t like avocado toast, but that is a very popular option here with lots of reviews, so embrace your inner millennial and order it. Bonus: it’s attached to the newly restored West End Library!

Kogod Courtyard, Chinatown, D.C.

If you need to feel truly zen while you telework, check out the Kogod Courtyard at the Smithsonian American Art Gallery and National Portrait Gallery; it is popular for a reason. Complimentary WiFi, lots of delicious seasonal foods made from local sources, and strong coffee are available courtesy of the Courtyard Cafe. You’ll feel like you’re on a vacation in between answering emails. Beware: The cafe does not open until 11:30 am.

The LINE DC, Adams Morgan, D.C.

The LINE DC Hotel opened last year to a lot of (well-deserved) buzz and reviews. Inside this gorgeously renovated space, you’ll find several restaurants, a cafe, lots of Insta-worthy details, and of course, an actual hotel. Free Wi-Fi abounds, and you can sit for hours with just a cup of joe or a full meal at one of the many seating areas in the lobby. It’s also a pet-friendly space if you need somewhere to bring Fido while you telework.

Ebenezer’s Coffeehouse, Capitol Hill, D.C.

Ebenezer’s was one of the first coffee shops I fell in love with when I moved to D.C. a decade ago. It is close to Union Station and ties in the history of the area with its modern decor. The interior has a cozy, neighborhood-y vibe to it. In the warmer months, you can grab a seat on the large outside patio. The lavender honey latte here is a must! If you’re looking for a caloric splurge, try a fancy drink like the birthday cake latte. Looking to be a little more health conscious? On the menu are very popular (and very Instagramable) wellness lattes, including turmeric (my favorite), beet, and super greens options. They also carry oat milk—my new favorite! They have lots of other reviews too on favorite drinks too!

Grab a birthday cake latte and an almond croissant for a truly special treat

Calabash Tea and Tonic, Brookland and Shaw, D.C.

Ok, not a strict coffee shop, but the solid 5-star rating on Yelp doesn’t lie: Calabash Tea and Tonic is a total winner of a spot. Woman-owned Calabash now boasts two locations: the original in Shaw and a newer outpost in Brookland. When you walk in, you are asked, “How can we heal you today?” There are teas and tonics to help ease any number of ailments, and each cup is made with love. Fair trade coffee and kombucha are also available. Sink yourself into a cozy armchair or sofa with your drink and a vegan treat (try the apple cake or veggie patties) while you telework, and you’ll only half feel like you’re working. Tip: the Brookland location isn’t as busy and has more free street parking available.

Lot 38 Espresso Bar, Navy Yard, D.C.

I’ve only come here a few times when meeting friends, but Lot 38 does not disappoint. Seating is ample—it’s a great place to meet fellow teleworkers and grab a large communal table. And if you need a strong buzz to get through the workday, rejoice! They serve Illy coffee, amongst other well-reviewed items.

Zeke’s Coffee, Woodridge, D.C.

I’m not exaggerating when I say I dream about Zeke’s iced mochas. I don’t know what it is that they do, but it is pure magic. Pair their awesome coffee with a baked treat (breakfast sandwiches FTW), and you’ll be fueled for a few hours of work. There is WiFi but not a ton of seating so keep that in mind. It’s a good place to work solo, not with friends. Support a great, local business and try Zeke’s! Grab a bag of their organic, fair-trade, sustainably grown coffee while you’re there, too.

Make sure you stock up on coffee beans at Zeke’s!

The Wydown Coffee Bar, U Street, D.C.

Have you had the Wydown’s quiche? If not, get here immediately and order it. The Wydown is one of the best local coffee shops in D.C. (the second location is on H Street NE). If you’re lucky enough to grab a seat, you’ll want to stay and work here all day. It’s particularly nice with the warm weather and the shop front completely open, letting in the sunshine and fresh air. Be warned: the delicious breakfast goodies tend to sell out, and for good reason, so get here early.

Chai at The Wydown

Dog Tag Bakery, Georgetown, D.C.

Supporting local veterans while enjoying top-notch coffee and food? Dog Tag Bakery is an obvious win-win. You can feel extra good spending money here knowing that a percentage goes to empowering veterans. Don’t let the “bakery” moniker fool you—they also serve popular, delicious sandwiches in addition to their decadent brownies and cakes. Bonus: you can feel presidential as you work on your spreadsheets or sort your work calendar in the Obama-Biden booth.

Peregrine Espresso (Eastern Market, MidCity, and Union Market in NoMa)

Peregrine Espresso, started by D.C. parents on the Hill, has expanded to 3 awesome locations. I love the original outpost at Eastern Market. It’s super busy on the weekends, but on a weekday, it’s a nice place to crash for a few hours and telework compliments of their WiFi and ridiculously great coffee. They also source food items from local bakeries and chefs (like Bluebird and Republic Kolache), so you are supporting more than one local business by stopping in here!

What are some of your favorite places to telework in D.C.? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!

1 COMMENT

Comments are closed.