Rare Bird Coffee Roasters

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
Location: Falls Church, VA
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

As I recall it, the DC metro area was one of the few places on the east coast to first spawn (or at least feature) good coffee over a decade ago. Since then, excellent roasters and quality espresso havens have continued to thrive despite the horrid traffic and rising rents.

One of my more recent favorites happens to reside a bit to the west of DC in Falls Church, a small roaster called Rare Bird. My first encounter with their coffee came one sunny afternoon as I headed north, looking for a quality respite. I found sanctuary in their bustling cafe, a space full of chic trimmings and a healthy quantity of seating. 

As for coffee, I ordered up an espresso of their Birdie Blend and a batch brew of a single origin Honduras. The espresso, pulled short/medium with brown crema, doled out notes of chocolate, lime, salted caramel, cherry, basil and pomegranate, proving potent and vibrant. The drip coffee also wowed, with smooth notes of sweet cream, pear, shortbread, arugula and a little root beer.


All around, I found Rare Bird to be a splendid bastion of coffee excellence. The next time you happen to be in the area, check out their cafe for a glorious espresso in-house or a spectacular coffee to-go.

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