Washington, D.C.

Tucked inside the historic Eastern Market since 1978, The Market Lunch is a no-frills D.C. institution that wins over visitors with its filling, all-American comfort food. Celebrated for its legendary crab cakes—often named among the best in the city—it also serves up soft-shell crab, oysters, and regional seafood staples. Breakfast is equally famous, especially the blueberry buckwheat pancakes and the hefty “Brick” breakfast sandwich. With its long communal table and bustling counter-service vibe, it’s the kind of spot where you rub elbows with locals, regulars, and hungry tourists alike.

Founded by two former Marines, Compass Coffee has grown into a popular local chain with more than 20 cafés across the DC area. Beans are sourced from coffee-growing regions like Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Brazil, then roasted in-house to create blends that range from light to dark, making it easy to find your preferred flavor. The airy, industrial-style café near Gallery Place is a convenient stop for a latte, pastry, or sandwich before setting out to explore the city.

Since 1986, Pâtisserie Poupon has been serving Georgetown a sweet slice of France. This charming bakery-café is beloved for its mouth-watering pastries, from buttery croissants and jewel-toned fruit tarts to delicate macarons that look almost too pretty to eat.

Tucked away in Georgetown, Baked & Wired is a quirky, family-owned café that has built a loyal following for its strong coffee, oversized cupcakes, and signature house-made granola. It's got an artsy and relaxed vibe, which makes it a favorite haunt for university students. Everything is baked in small batches with top-notch ingredients, so whether you’re after a morning espresso or a sweet pick-me-up, you’re in for a treat.