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Washington

The best cafés to work from in Washington

The 10 coffee shops in Washington that are best for working on a laptop, led by Big Bear Cafe, Peregrine Espresso and Mercy Me.

Ranked by work score: Wi‑Fi, power, seating, hours, what reviews say about laptops and noise, and who recommends working there. One branch per chain.

A scenic view of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., with reflections in the reflecting pool and a cloudy sky overhead.
  1. Beautiful with garden patio seating and an entire upstairs with a working fireplace. The food is just OK but it is one of the coziest little nooks to do some deep focus work.
    DevourDCJanuary 2026

    Hours, amenities and photos for Big Bear Cafe

  2. Peregrine is a bright, bare-bones space that’s perfect for setting up your laptop and getting to work. The Capitol Hill location has lots of outdoor seating, which is wonderful on gorgeous spring days.
    C'est Bien by Heather BienMay 2019

    Hours, amenities and photos for Peregrine Espresso

  3. My go-to. Get bagels/coffee from Call Your Mother and pick from any of the cozy comfy couches and chairs. It’s technically a hotel lobby/bar, so anyone can come and go.
    DevourDCJanuary 2026

    Hours, amenities and photos for Mercy Me

  4. Bit pricey (it is the lobby bar for the ritzy Riggs hotel), but you’ll feel like the chicest little girly pop doing some work here.
    DevourDCJanuary 2026

    Hours, amenities and photos for Cafe Riggs

  5. Seating is ample—it’s a great place to meet fellow teleworkers and grab a large communal table.
    DC Area MomsMarch 2020

    Hours, amenities and photos for Lot 38 Espresso Bar

  6. Busboys is my go to until 10pm. Usually good number of people working there, especially on the little couch/chair area at the one on 14th
    r/washingtondcApril 2026

    Hours, amenities and photos for Busboys and Poets

  7. Wifi extends throughout the indoor/outdoor space, meaning you can lounge in the beautiful courtyard with a laptop and Frenchie’s pastry in the morning
    WashingtonianSeptember 2015

    Hours, amenities and photos for Maketto

  8. Excellent neighborhood spot with a massive patio in the back with big communal picnic tables perfect for when the weather is warm. Limited but cute n cozy seating inside.
    DevourDCJanuary 2026
    there are no outlets here though if you are outside, and the inside is packed
    r/washingtondcDecember 2025warning

    Hours, amenities and photos for Doubles

  9. Kramers is a landmark independent bookstore with a cafe in northwest Washington, DC. The space combines books with upscale American food and drinks, including seasonal specialties and brunch options. The patio is a relaxed spot where visitors easily lose track of time.

    Hours, amenities and photos for Kramers

  10. Classic light fare & organic breads fill out the menu at this rustic-chic bakery/cafe chain.

    Hours, amenities and photos for Le Pain Quotidien