The Best Post-Run Coffee Shops in the DMV

Over the last few weeks, Capital Runner readers have voted for their go-to spot for a post-run coffee and snack. With hundreds of votes, here are the top five spots for you to try after your next long run.

St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (Locations in Del Ray, Old Town North, and Fairlington)

St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub is apparently a staple for Northern Virginia runners. Pulling away from the rest of the nominations, St. Elmo’s was the fan favorite. St. Elmo’s is also home to the St. Elmo’s Coffee & Run Crew, a group we highlighted earlier this year in a Run Club Spotlight. 

One runner said, “Great coffee and breakfast sandwiches. Great vibe with runners and tennis players from the nearby courts. Ample indoor and outdoor seating to read or listen to podcasts while recovering.”

Runners Recommend:

  • The egg and cheese sandwich on sourdough

  • Turkey breakfast sandwich

  • Everything Bagel breakfast sandwich 

  • Chia seed pudding 

The Coffee Bar (Locations in Shaw and Downtown DC)

The Coffee Bar (TCB) is another local favorite with runners. TCB has made a name for itself over the last decade as a purveyor of fine coffee from roasters across the country. Primarily a coffee shop, they do offer a few snack options that will get you home.

One runner said: “The best iced oat milk latte in the city!”

Runners Recommend:

  • Iced Oat Milk Latte

  • Dirty Chai

  • Turmeric Latte

Vigilante Coffee Company (Located in Hyattsville and College Park)

Vigilante got its local start on a back porch in northeast DC in 2012, and has grown into a beloved brand throughout the region and across the country. They have since settled in Hyattsville Arts District, with an outpost near the University of Maryland in College Park. It was another fan favorite of our readers.

One runner said: “Great coffee after Sunday group run.”

Runners Recommend:

  • Regular cup of coffee

  • Acai bowl

  • The G.O.A.T

  • London Fog

Bakery Museum & Co. (Located in Fairfax)

This is a new one for me to try out the next time I am in Fairfax. The vibes of Bakery Museum & Co. look great, and runners called it cozy and relaxing for a post-run snack.

One runner said: “Great atmosphere, friendly staff, and great coffees and lattes.”

Runners Recommend:

  • Caramel Macchiato

  • Tiramisu Latte

  • Morning Snack Breakfast Sandwich

  • Sea Salt Matcha Cloud Latte

The Andiamo Coffee Bar at The Westover Italian Store (Located in Arlington)

You may not think of coffee when you see The Italian Store, but according to a number of our runners, they pour great coffee and have great outdoor seating for a post-run cooldown. And, if you’re making pasta for dinner, you can always pick up the supplies on your way out.

One runner said: “Best coffee in the DMV. Also subs!”

Runners Recommend:

  • Iced Coffee

  • Nutella Caldo

  • The Milano Sub

  • Savory Cornetti

  • Gelato

Honorable Mentions:

Got a favorite coffee spot that didn’t make the list? Drop it in the comments and let me know.

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Run Club Spotlight: Run Club Domestique