If you live in Northern Virginia, then you are most likely fed up with the prolific amount of Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts within five minutes of each other. You can only take so much of the same frappuccino before you start to develop a distaste to it.
If you love coffee as much as I do, then you may or may not have decided to look elsewhere. This means finding unique and individually owned cafes and coffee shops that make their pastries with their own ingredients and have their own special take on a mocha.
These places have a special spot in your heart not just for their drinks, but for their own personal touches and ambiance as well.
This list varies, but here are some of the best coffee spots you can find in the Nova area.
1. Shoes Cup & Cork — Downtown Leesburg, Virginia
Shoes is the hipster-dreamscape for coffee anyone's always wanted. Looking at it from the outside, it could be mistaken for a bar, but once you step in you are greeted with a wooden floor, checkered tables and a chandelier made of old vintage shoes. If it's a particularly beautiful day out, then their Secret Garden area is a perfectly discreet getaway. Their food is always top notch, and one of my personal favorite drinks to have in the summer is their raspberry iced tea.
2. Bean Bar Loudoun — Leesburg, Virginia
Now this one was created for the purpose of having a "bar" that serves coffee. The atmosphere is friendly, infused with a European style and premiere exotic coffee beans. The natural lighting is welcoming, and their macaroons are hard to put down.
3. Crumbs & Whiskers — Washington, D.C.
This cafe has gained popularity for obvious reasons. If you enjoy a good cup of roast coffee while having a furry friend around, then look no more. This small D.C. shop has rescued cats around the store that customers are allowed to play with and even adopt!
4. King Street Coffee — Downtown Leesburg, Virginia
If you are a Loudoun County native, then you know or have heard of the hidden gems for coffee located in the heart of Leesburg. This old house converted into a coffee shop is no exception. With tea made individually from their own maker and art lining the walls, this offers a relaxing environment away from the business of the main street.
5. Beans In the Belfry — Brunswick, Maryland
A little bit of a distance away from Nova, I happened upon this place by chance. Little did I know that it would be the best and most unexpected chance I ever took. In the center of this old railroad town lies a converted church into a coffee shop, complete with classic rock music and old pews that make up the tables. Not to mention their blueberry pie that is simply to die for.
6. Sidamo Coffee and Tea — Washington, D.C.
A proud tradition carries the heart of this small place. Their beans are organic and fresh, made with the Ethiopian practice of roasting them over an open flame before serving the brew to guests.
7. De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches — Old Town Fairfax, Virginia
People refer to this quaint corner shop as having "chill vibes and a Pinterest aesthetic." They serve breakfast and lunch, complete with their own unique concoctions like an Eggacado or a Nutella Gelatoccino.
8. Misha's Coffeehouse — Alexandria, Virginia
It can be hard to beat the crowds here, but it's for good reason. Misha's hand-crafted coffee is some of the best in old town and has a vintage taste that decorates the shop.
9. Caffe Amouri — Vienna, Virginia
This place boasts of comfort and is prideful of their homemade hot chocolate and classic American-made coffee. A collection of old albums cover the walls, and the staff is always friendly. Many claim their holiday drinks can rival that of Starbucks.
10. Northside Social, Coffee & Wine — Arlington, Virginia
Their brunches are what keep people coming back. Despite the crowds, service is fast and food is always fresh. It's a dual restaurant and coffeehouse, with karaoke nights and other weekly events. Prices are always affordable, and their housemade granola with a caramel Llatte never fails.
Of course these are only a few small choices, but despite the stereotype, Starbucks is not the only place you can find in the D.C./Metro area for delicious coffee.
