Finding D.C.’s best coffee roasters
I’m calling it. It’s officially iced coffee season. As a self-proclaimed bougie coffee snob (if you use milk or sugar, get out. Kidding 👀), I’ve spent an embarrassing amount of time trying local roasts over the years. Here is what I’ve learned.
- Lost Sock Coffee Roasters – This is the best of the best. Based in Brightwood Park, this roaster has stepped it up lately, offering light blends and single origins. Try: Laboyano (washed, Colombia, notes of hibiscus).
- Small Planes – Their beans are used in many local coffee shops, and they have a wide variety of roasts. Great for espresso and filter alike. Try: Las Cabañas (washed, Honduras, notes of cocoa and molasses).
- Qualia Coffee – Sadly, their brick-and-mortar closed down, but you can still order their beans online. Honestly, I did not like their coffee (too dark for me) until I found this roast. Try: Ethiopia Qabballe (natural, Ethiopia, notes of orange and berry)
- RAKO – Women-owned and environmentally friendly, this NoVa roaster is relatively new to the scene but still delivers a solid variety or medium roasts. You can pick up a bag at their shop in Arlington. Try: Sidamo Kercha (washed, Ethiopia, notes of hazelnut and cocoa).
- Ceremony – Technically from Baltimore, but its consistency and large variety of made-to-order roasts can’t be beat. It’s also widely available at most grocery stores. Try: Destroyer (washed, Guatemala, notes of creamsicle and peach).
I’m obsessed with this iced filter coffee method right now, which is better than most of the cafes in D.C. (I know, but just tryyy it). Now, grab your coffee, lay back and get crackin’ on that summer reading. *Chef’s kiss*
Do you have any favorites that I am missing out on? I want to try!
