Capital One Arena is the heart of the action in downtown D.C., hosting everything from concerts to NHL and NBA games. But this February, all eyes are on the Washington Wizards, as they face off against major teams in a packed schedule between February 7 and February 26. Whether you’re fueling up before the game, needing a pick-me-up after celebrating (or drowning your sorrows), or just looking for a solid cup of coffee in the area, the right spot can make all the difference.
Fortunately, D.C.’s Chinatown and Penn Quarter have no shortage of great coffee shops within walking distance of the arena. From third-wave espresso bars to cozy cafés perfect for post-game debriefs, here are the best coffee spots near Capital One Arena to keep your energy levels up during the game season.
Just a short walk from Capital One Arena, Compass Coffee is a solid go-to for both locals and visitors. Known for its smooth, well-balanced espresso and great seasonal drinks, this spot has a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quick coffee stop before tip-off.
If you're serious about iced coffee, Gregorys Coffee has you covered. This New York-founded chain brings top-tier espresso, strong cold brew, and a variety of vegan-friendly bites to D.C. The sleek, modern space offers plenty of natural light, making it a comfortable place to wake up before an early game.
A few blocks from Capital One Arena, La Colombe is known for its smooth, nitro-infused Draft Lattes and expertly brewed cold brew. If you need a serious caffeine jolt before the game, their strong espresso-based drinks won’t disappoint. The modern, airy café has limited seating, but the efficient service makes it easy to grab a quick coffee before heading into the stadium.
For a quiet, low-key café experience, Capital One Café is a hidden gem just a short walk from the arena. It’s far less crowded than a Starbucks, offering comfortable seating, strong Wi-Fi, and a relaxed vibe. This is a great choice whether you need to get some work done before an evening game or just want a chill place to grab a coffee and a light bite.
Swing’s Coffee Roasters is a DC institution for serious coffee lovers. With a cool retro aesthetic and hand-roasted fair-trade coffee, this place is always buzzing with caffeine enthusiasts. Their Italian Roast is smooth yet bold, and their mocha and classic lattes are consistently well-balanced.
DUA DC Coffee brings an Indonesian twist to DC’s coffee scene. With unique drinks like the creamy avocado latte and a variety of savory empanadas, this spot offers a refreshing take on traditional coffee shop fare.
Ebenezers Coffeehouse is more than a coffee shop—it’s a community cornerstone. With profits going toward humanitarian efforts, this coffeehouse combines ethical sourcing with top-notch brewing. Their honey lavender latte has a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with their fresh pastries.
Zeke's Coffee is a local roastery that takes pride in serving organic, fair-trade beans. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with friendly staff and delicious drinks. Their flat white is a must-try, especially when paired with one of their famous cookies.