Filter

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Filter Coffeehouse and Espresso Bar
Location: Washington DC [Dupont Circle shop]
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

There always exist a few coffeehouses that take me forever to reach. Whether it be a conflict of hours or simply an inflexibility in my travel plans, I sometimes wait years to get to some places. It's even more frustrating when such a cafe resides relatively close by amidst the crowded throngs of Washington DC. I speak of a multi-location shop called Filter Coffeehouse and Espresso Bar.

Fortunately, I was recently dealt an opportunity to finally pop by this DC coffee fixture. Out wandering the city streets one slightly brisk day, my family and I happened upon Dupont Circle and fortunately, Filter's front stoop. The shop itself is in the lower level of a tan stone building. Outside, the rock face is emblazoned with bright orange trim, providing a nice backdrop for the quaint brick patio. Inside, their long space exudes an earth-toned coziness, a mix of fluorescent light, orange walls and the hum of patrons.

The coffee comes from Annapolis' Ceremony Coffee Roasters, a welcome sight in the hands of the Filter baristas. I decided upon an espresso of their Sweet Cheeks blend and a pourover of a Colombian. The espresso, pulled short with brown crema, resonated sweet lemon, chocolate, apricot, a little minestrone and a touch of green tea, making for a sweet and hearty 'spro. The pourover kicked out delicious notes of cherry, chocolate, almond cookie, vanilla ice cream and peanut sauce in a light/medium body, proving overall very sweet and nutty.

Despite this being a long-awaited visit to Filter, the place felt like a frequent haunt. If you happen to be in the Capitol looking for a great cup of coffee, head over to Dupont Circle or to any of Filter's three locations. You shan't be disappointed.



These wonderful folks made this visit possible in part. Make sure to check them out!