August is the Sunday of the summer; with the impending school year winding up and temperatures starting to wind down. Plus, it’s National Coffee month! To celebrate, here are some local coffee shops to kick off your back to school shopping.
Maman
Maman, with origins in NYC, is a bakery, coffee shop, and flowery Eden located in Bethesda. Now, I am a religious black coffee drinker, but the decor alone convinced me to try their equally beautiful lattes! Their seasonal Boardwalk Sea Salt Caramel Iced latte was calling my name. This fun summer-themed latte was not only refreshing, but came topped with festive caramel corn! While they do offer pick up and to-go ordering, this is a spot that will make you want to stop and smell the roses ( or at least the coffee). (boardwalk sea salt caramel iced latte- $7)
Joe & the Juice
Joe & The Juice has multiple locations internationally and in the DMV. They are known for their variety of healthy food options including juices and smoothies, but they can also satisfy your caffeine craving! Despite having so many locations, I am always impressed with how consistent their coffee is when I often stop in to grab-and-go before work. No matter whether it’s their speciality lattes or their drip coffee, there are no wrong choices on their coffee menu! (Yellow Latte-$4.77, Joe’s Club Sandwich-$11.13)
Foxtrot
Foxtrot is one of the newest coffee stops on this list, with its first DMV location opening in spring 2021 and a total of 8 locations currently open, including one in Bethesda. I love the diversity of local brands they carry, their fresh-made meals, and that they also have a cafe! Their seasonal iced Tiramisu latte was a great pick-me-up and the perfect way to cool down from the summer heat. If you have a sweet tooth and love coffee, this seasonal drink is for you! (Iced Tiramisu Latte- $4.35)
Sunday Morning Bakehouse
While the fresh pastries alone would make me stop at Sunday Morning Bakehouse, I also love their coffee and lattes! They serve Ceremony coffee roasts and make some of the best drip coffee I’ve had in the area; with vibrant, nutty notes that go well with milk and just about any flavor like caramel or mocha. This is one of my favorite spots because of the vibe; it’s a great spot to catch up with friends, or sit and read a book with a cup of Joe. (Medium drip coffee-$2.50, Mocha Latte-$5, Shroom Croissant-$5)
Dolcezza
Dolcezza has something for both parents and kids mourning the end of the summer; who doesn’t love a gelato spot that also offers great coffee? While both are fantastic, the combination of both is one of my all-time favorite desserts; the Affogato. This Italian dessert consists of a scoop of gelato (usually vanilla) which is then topped with a shot of espresso. I visited the location in Bethesda Row just in time for their 19th birthday and ordered an Affogato with their celebratory Chocotorta gelato. This rendition of a chocolate cake went perfectly with a shot of espresso, and made the impending end of the summer just a little more bearable. (Small Affogato-$8.60)
Once you have your coffee drink in hand, sit back and relax and give my playlist a listen. Cheers!
I’m a scientist by trade, but a foodie at heart—based out of the DC Metropolitan area. I love to travel and am always looking to make connections over local food.
