Discovering Bakeries & Cafes in the DMV: Chapter 1
Exploring Prime Study Spots with Great Food & Wi-Fi
Introduction
As a cafe enthusiast, I'm always on the hunt for the perfect spot to get some work done, write for my blog, or simply unwind. Throughout my time living in Arlington and trying to survive as a young adult, I’ve explored various cafes to find the ideal work and study environments. In this blog, I'll be sharing my experiences on three cafes. Each spot will be rated based on the quality of their food and the overall vibe for a productive study session. This will be an ongoing series I’ll be doing every month (until I run out of places to go to haha).
Detour Coffee Company
Located across the street from George Mason University, Detour Coffee Company has been a local gem since 2017. This hip and casual spot is a favorite among students and young professionals, offering an ideal blend of productivity and relaxation.
During my visit, I indulged in their classic cold brew, a strong and flavorful coffee experience. The cold brew, rich and robust, was complemented perfectly by a splash of half-and-half and sugar. This potent brew delivered a substantial caffeine kick, fueling me through a productive work session.
Accompanying my coffee, I got the U-Street Sliders, which featured crispy fried chicken topped with sharp cheddar, tangy mumbo sauce, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, crisp onion, and pickles, all nestled in a soft brioche bun. While the sliders were good and standard, they didn’t stand out as anything extraordinary. Nevertheless, they were satisfying, and I look forward to trying other sandwiches they offer.
Detour Coffee Company boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere. They have a lot of seating - indoors and outdoors accompanied with free wifi and a large number of charging outlets to choose from.
Personally, I prefer quieter environments for focused study sessions, but the energetic ambiance here is undeniable. Its proximity to a bar can sometimes result in a bit of background noise, making it more suited for casual studying or relaxed hangouts with friends. It's perfect for working on lighter tasks or simply unwinding with a delicious drink and bite to eat.
Overall, Detour Coffee Company offers a delightful experience with its strong, flavorful coffee and tasty food options. While it may not be the quietest study environment, its inviting atmosphere and convenient location make it a good choice for a casual and enjoyable visit.
Rating: 7.5/10
Location:946 N Jackson St, Arlington, VA 22201
Site: https://www.detourcoffeeco.com/
Simona Cafe
Nestled just a few minutes from the train station in Court House, Simona Cafe has established itself as a beloved sanctuary for students, friends, and coffee aficionados alike. This charming cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating, each designed to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Simona Cafe's outdoor patio is a standout feature, adorned with numerous umbrellas to provide ample shade. This thoughtful setup ensures your laptop stays cool and your focus remains sharp, even on the sunniest of days. Stepping inside, you'll find a beautifully minimalistic interior with warm wooden floors and elegantly simple furniture. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance - not too loud, yet not eerily quiet - creating an ideal environment for productive study sessions or relaxed gatherings.
The staff at Simona Cafe are known for their friendliness and efficiency, ensuring that your orders are promptly prepared. During my visit, I opted for their cold brew, and it did not disappoint. The brew had a robust flavor with a delightful blend of sweetness and savoriness, making it one of the best cold brews I've encountered in Northern Virginia.
Whether you're gearing up for a marathon study session or planning a casual meet-up with friends, Simona Cafe fits the bill. Its welcoming atmosphere and excellent coffee make it a versatile spot for any occasion.
Rating: 8.1/10
Location: 2507 Franklin Rd, Arlington, VA 22201 & 35 N St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Site: https://simonacafe.com/
Waterhouse Coffee & Juice Bar
Located in Clarendon, the Waterhouse Coffee & Juice Bar has been serving coffee, smoothies, and superfoods since its opening in 2018. The cafe is inviting, with seating that offers a view of Wilson Blvd and plenty of natural light. There are numerous outlets available, making it an ideal spot for getting work done, thanks to its typically quiet atmosphere and easy-to-access free WiFi.
During my visit, I ordered a cold brew with half & half and an Avocado, Egg & Cheddar sandwich on a Brioche Bun. The coffee provided a decent caffeine boost, though it was nothing extraordinary. The sandwich was satisfying; the soft brioche bun, along with the egg and avocado, offered a pleasant texture and a healthy start to my day. The fruit cup on the side was a nice addition.
Overall, I would rate my experience at Waterhouse Coffee & Juice Bar a 7.0 out of 10. It’s a solid choice for a quiet place to work with decent food and coffee. Next time when I do come back - I would like to try their smoothies and acai bowls.
Rating: 7.0/10
Location: 3033 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Site: https://www.waterhousecoffee.com/
Final Thoughts
Overall, it’s been a blast to try these cafes! Detour Coffee Company stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and strong coffee, making it perfect for a casual visit. Simona Cafe, with its welcoming ambiance and excellent cold brew, is ideal for both productive study sessions and relaxed gatherings. Waterhouse Coffee & Juice Bar provides a quieter setting with decent offerings, making it a reliable spot for getting work done. In the future, I’ll be reviewing other cafes in the DMV area (possibly including Dolcezza, Commonwealth Joe’s, Seylou, and more!) so please subscribe if you’re interested on new restaurant finds & reviews every week.
I need to try some of these places myself!