Alexandria has some of the best food in the D.C. area, but more importantly, they have some of the best coffee! I lived in the historic heart of Old Town for four years, and it will always hold a piece of my heart. It’s one of the most charming, most coveted places to live in the D.C. area, and one of the reasons is the ability to walk to incredible coffee shops! Nothing thrills me more than walking out my door and down the street to pick up my coffee, then continue walking in such a charming place. Here are my favorites!
Misha’s Coffee Roasters
Misha’s has been serving up coffee to Old Towners since 1991! It has definitely withstood the test of time for the area, and Alexandrians are absolutely loyal to this locally owned and operated favorite. On any given day, at any given moment, you’ll find people working on laptops, reading, chatting with friends, people watching, relaxing, and more. Their recent move from South Patrick to King Street has only raised its popularity, yet it has maintained its local charm. Come for the coffee (from all over the world) stay for the vibe!
King & Union Starbucks
What?! A Starbucks? That’s not local, it’s an international chain! That’s true, but the interesting local flair of this Starbucks is its location in the Fitzgerald Warehouse, one of the oldest buildings in Old Town! Colonel Fitzgerald was a close friend of George Washington and served as his secretary and aide-de-camp during the Revolution, and he was also Mayor of Alexandria in 1787! At his day job, he was a merchant, hence the need for a warehouse on the waterfront of the third busiest seaport in the Nation! It’s now a Starbucks, which earns it a place on this list!
Caphe Bahn Mi
It’s only open for lunch and dinner, so morning coffee drinkers are out of luck. However, if you can handle strong coffee in the middle of the day or later, you definitely need to stop by Caphe Bahn Mi for authentic Vietnamese coffee! You can get it hot or iced (I like it best iced), and it’s a mix of strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk. I think my husband said it best when he said it tastes like drinking melted coffee ice cream!
More here: What to Eat in Old Town Alexandria
Cafe du Soliel
This was a pleasant surprise! I used to come here for my ground coffee to make at home; it was called “Old Town Coffee and Tea,” and they sold loose-leaf tea and whole bean coffee of every nationality and every flavor. You could mix and match, and it was a delight! But I have to say, if they had to close their doors, I’m glad this one opened up in their place. They have huge crepes full of delightful fillings, pastries, and more. Or if you’re not looking for a breakfast option, their coffee is excellent to-go!
Read next: Your Ultimate Guide to Coffee Around the World
Old Town Farmer’s Market (Saturdays, Year Round)
I love the Old Town Farmers’ Market! It’s the oldest farmer’s market in continuous operation, and there are several coffee vendors! Be sure to try the Moo Mocha from the Amish vendor, any of the incredible coffee and cream combinations at Guata Java, and many more! While you’re at it, get a sweet or savory pastry to go along with it!
Want more? Check out the Best Coffee Shops in Nearby Del Ray, and visit my United States Page for more about Alexandria!
Love this post? Pin it for later!
I enjoyed the vicarious trip! Thanks.
Sure thing! Glad you enjoyed it, and you’re welcome back any time!
It is love to see 1 of good coffee shop is Vietnamese. Vietnamese coffee style is mixed with condensed milk and that is one part of our breakfast meal. 🥰
It is definitely one of the best in town!