We happened to stumble across this cozy bookstore while wandering Capitol Hill. Located just by Eastern Market, and across the way from a great puzzle shop, this bookstore has such a wonderful collection of unique books. The service is incredibly helpful and happy to share recommendations. The downstairs kids section is fantastic. I came here with my kids and they were just loving the store with the many bean bags, tunnels, and selection of books. I read several to them and they enjoeyd sitting around the little table and listening to me. There is a comfy couch area, where I sat for a moment and had a moment to just enjoy reading a book uninterrupted. The shop has a nice curated collection that reflects DC politics and travel, along with just some good reads. read more

Nice and neat bookstore with many cute gifts and additional items other than books. I loved how the books had recommended- especially from other readers who are customers. I thought it was cool that they leave the recommendation cards out to add yourself if you want to. They had a large selection of romance books which was nice. The people who worked there were friendly as well. They have some couches in the basement to sit at and read too. Definitely worth checking out if you are looking for a new book! read more

East City Bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I love this bookshop the employees are always so friendly and it's just very beautiful

The staff were so kind! The store had an amazing selection and was really well organized. It's hard to find a bookshop with a nice couch in DC but this one is back! I'll definitely be back. read more

East City Bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My sister and I are big book readers so I knew when she came to visit I had to take her to a good bookstore. This quaint two story bookstore in Eastern Market will now be a go-to! They not only have an excellent selection, but also have signed copies of new books from some of the most popular authors! The space is cute and colorful and you will most certainly get your book fix! read more

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Anytime I come to DC, I have to stop by this place. It's the perfect atmosphere and the staff are so friendly and helpful. Always find more than I need here and love to look for more! read more

New city, new bookshop stop! I had to visit this place after someone on bookstagram recommended it. Friendly greetings came right away as I took in all the creative displays of this underground treasure trove. The main floor is mainly new releases, some autobiographies and endless book lover knickknacks and souvenirs. But the best part? There's more!! They let me know that down those magical rainbow colored stairs, my mouth would drop even more. I'm honestly surprised I didn't buy the whole store! Downstairs there's art, anime, cook books, a children's section, couches and spaces for typing the next great novel... I don't think I can cover it all! I just know I was down there for a while holding and putting back and picking up several things, feeling them all out Marie Kondo style seeing if they'd make me truly happy or spark some joy (yes, every. single. thing did) before I decided to settle on several other things. And a book. I made sure to get a book haha! All this to say, go ahead and lose your book loving mind here!! A hidden DC gem for sure!! read more

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What a lovely shop to visit! Although, they did not have what I was looking for, they were friendly.

I love it here! ECB is such a haven of an indie bookstore in DC. They are a welcoming space, offer amazing events, and have many book clubs to join. There is something for readers of all ages! I even moved further away and I still travel in to buy my books here. read more

Lovely book store. Great organization and displays, lots of variety and great authors. Lots of adorable book related gifts and even some local area gifts. Great variety for kids, teens, and adults. read more

My favorite local bookstore near my neighborhood. The staff is very friendly and helpful, they are great about getting you information and also getting you pre-ordered books in a timely way (on release day!). I only wish it were a bit closer to where I live, because it's just far enough that I don't get there enough. read more

Right off the Eastern Market metro, East City is perfectly located! It's bright and colorful, they have sooo many fantastic book clubs and their staff is friendly! They also have some cool additional programming and a huge selection of books. They also have some of the best sidelines of the bookstores in DC which is important to me! Their space isn't accessible though and their events are often downstairs. Similar to Kramers, you won't really find many indie published or unique titles, which I always love to hunt for. but you will definitely find the hits. read more

I love this bookshop! It's always a wonderful experience stopping in and they definitely have a pulse on what their customers want. Everyone I've interacted with has been lovely. After having it on my list of places to check out, I finally stopped by with a friend a month or so ago for a YA trivia night! Yes, we are both adults but who doesn't love a little YA. The atmosphere was so welcoming and fun. We're hoping to go back for their W(h)ine and Angst book club - we can't get enough YA - but it hasn't aligned with our schedules yet, sadly. I also dropped by last weekend for their 3rd birthday celebration while doing the Independent Bookstore Day Book Crawl. It was honestly the most perfect day. In addition to an impressive collection of books across all genres and age ranges, they also stock adorable knick knacks and local DC mementos. If you're ever around Eastern Market, highly recommend dropping by! read more

East City Bookshop - The lovely new mural outside the shop! - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

12/10 highly recommend!! This local women-owned bookshop is a book lovers dream and the staff are simply incredible!! I recently discovered this shop when looking to make book purchases to donate to a couple of local groups serving girls. The staff, Sarah and Jennifer, were kind and able to direct me to more than 40 book suggestions that were written by women authors or included women/girls as main characters. The variety of books available at this shop is impressive and there is an array of books with diverse representation (which is super important to me). It was quite refreshing and appreciated! The team also helped me identify a number of books to begin a library selection at our office. They have books for all ages and even couches if you decide to sit down and stay a while. I look forward to visiting again and have found one of my fav new book shops! read more

On a recent MLK getaway, this was a secret gem to stumble across after a lunch at Eastern Market. A very clean and fresh bookshop on Capitol Hill, I was blown away by how much was inside here, especially the selection of non-book items that made for wonderful gifts. Staff greeted me warmly. The restrooms are surprisingly large and clean. There are plenty of comfortable seating areas throughout the store that make for an enjoyable visit to this neighborhood bookshop. If I didn't live in California, I'd visit at least once a week! read more

East City Bookshop - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

On my way to nearby Bourbon Coffee, I saw a sign for a brand new independent bookstore just one block from the Eastern Market Metro right on the famous Pennsylvania Ave. The simple, yet modern sign drew me in and the friendly, local staff, beautiful layout and enormous selection of books kept me there. This bookstore is the only independent bookstore (Capitol Hill Books doesn't count since it's all used books) in the SE quadrant. The owner and most of the staff have lived on Capitol Hill for 20+ years and have a heart for the community and it shows! There's an event space and lounge on the bottom floor that can host book readings, lectures, book clubs and even parties. Being so close to the Metro, this may be the most prime event space on Capitol Hill! Go to their website to find their events: http://www.eastcitybookshop.com/in-store-events/. There are two floors of books, cards, and local DC goods like hand crafted greeting cards and notebooks. They have a travel section, mystery section, kids section....literally everything! If they don't have a book, they can order it and often get it in the next day. The owner and staff have put a lot into every detail from the lighting (It's very inviting!) to even the decorations around the store. Many of the crafts perfectly placed around the store are made by their staff including the paintings on the side of their round tables downstairs! If you're on the Hill and/or love books, you MUST pay them a visit. Ask for the owner, Laurie, and she'll greet you with open arms! P.S. They have free wifi! read more

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A hidden gem indeed, I hope that East City Book Shop stays around for a long time. It feels like the kind of neighborhood shop that wants to be a NEIGHBORHOOD shop--the owner/employees will take time to chat and get to know you, appreciate a compliment, and are happy to give you suggestions of any kind. The friendly vibe is much appreciated, and the selection of books and gifts is fun. It is located on the lower level, so don't miss it! read more

East City Bookshop - Great children's and "middle readers" sections! - Bookstores Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Such a cute bookshop, but if you walk by too fast, you'll miss it! This is a two-level bookstore with plenty of offerings and cool books all around. I loved perusing all of the different sections and liked that there were couches and seating areas which were perfect for sitting down with a book. The shop is pretty quiet and also had some great art prints that I would love to pick up if I were to go back. Something I thought was interesting was the personalized recommendations the staff made on the bookshelves with a little summary of the special books they picked out. Staff was really friendly and I could definitely see myself being a regular here. read more

Great little bookstore! It's kind of hidden off of the Main Street (you have to go down stairs before you can get to the entrance) so I didn't notice it until I went looking for it. It has two floors and a wide variety of books - I have always found what I'm looking for. They also have a bunch of unique book clubs that I would love to try out (one for Gilmore Girls books, YA lovers, young professionals, and more). Definitely recommend checking them out! read more

Such a cute gem of a shop. It looks small when you first walked in but once you get downstairs its expands even more. Def check it out and support this local business. read more

Such a lovely bookshop. Clean, organized and friendly knowledgeable staff. I came here twice and both experiences were great- I attended book talks and signings. My daughter (who is 4 days shy from turning one), was able to attend these book events and was welcomed with open arms, which made me so happy. Definitely will be supporting this local shop. read more

This is the perfect independent bookstore! The owner and staff are so, so knowledgeable about all of their offerings. I can walk in and say - "Niece, 15, likes Harry Potter, what do you have?" and in seconds, I have so many selections to choose from. They don't just carry best sellers, they have it all. Today I was able to knock out all of my shopping in an hour and they had some local students expertly wrap everything for me! I love that it is locally owned and operated and I can walk there! read more

An exceptional bookstore in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. When you first walk in, you will notice on the right that they have a small room covered in pictures of dogs that have visited the store. That gets them an automatic like from me! The store is modern looking and spacious when compared to nearby bookstore Capitol Hill Books. This bookstore has two floors. I spent most of my time on the basement level, where the majority of books are located. There is an entire wall dedicated to bargain books that were priced at $10 or less. The graphic novel section was interesting to peruse but small. The young adult section was vast and you will definitely find something you like if you're into that genre. If I remember correctly, there is also an entire room dedicated to mystery and thriller. Staff picks/recommendations are sprinkled throughout the shelves. I'm so happy that I stumbled upon this place. East City Bookshop is a hidden gem and I hope people continue to support this local bookstore! read more

I was gifted a book from here and I was *so* annoying about my order. I took forever to come pick it up then changed my mind and had the bookshop ship the book to me instead. Throughout the process, East City's employees were super patient and kind. Thank you! read more

Loved this place! It is very easy to miss because the entrance is down a stairway, but it is surprisingly spacious. It has two stories, the first with a lot of staff recommendations and nonfiction, and the bottom with even more nonfiction. There are also quite a few cute DC gifts. My favorite part of this bookshop was the copious amounts of recommendation cards. The shelves only have a copy or two of each book sometimes, but there are a ton of little notecards on each shelf recommending books. I think one of the best reasons to support a small bookshop is that they really curate the collection and care about what you decide to buy, and I definitely felt that here! One of the people working there even told me she didn't love the book I was looking at briefly, which i appreciated. Please support small businesses like these!!! read more

This bookstore is really nice I must say. Once you walk you the staff great you with a smile. They really know their way around the bookstore and are experts and give great advice. I was able to witness how they support customers with needs. A customer walked in stating she needs a book for her friend,who moved for a guy and got dumped. They offered her great advice that came with laughs. I was impressed with the level of service. The store is very trendy, see Destinee and she will take care of you. She is amazing and will provide much needed support. read more

I come into this bookshop pretty regularly as its close to my house and where I run errands. ECB has a good selection of books in every genre, including kids and comics so my son loves it! There is also a small selection of cards, magnets, journals and more! The cost is not as cheap as Amazon or Barnes and Noble, but that is part of shopping small sometimes. There are also a number of special events (author book talks, book clubs) and it is always our stop when going to get a birthday gift for kids and adults alike. While I still think the place deserves a five star review I have one small gripe. ECB do a really cool frequent buyer program where they keep track of how much you spend and when you reach $100 they give you a $5 coupon. However, you have to treat it like cash when they print it on the bottom of the receipt so if you lose it (even though they know when you reach it because of the way its tracked) you can't use it. read more

I debated posting this experience, as I don't take making a negative post about a business lightly. And I see that this store has predominantly 5-star, glowing reviews. I've even patronized the store, several times over the years, as it's within my neighborhood. However, my encounter at the store last weekend will be my last. On my way back home from exercising, I deliberately decided to go out of my way on my route back (walking) to stop by East City to inquire and place an order for a new coffee table book to be released next month. Like many people today, I often purchase from Amazon (amongst other book retailers), but wanted to support a local, small business and spend my money there instead. When I reached the store, it was a little after 12:30 pm. The lights were on in the shop and the door was ajar. An employee was sweeping the steps. I greeted her and she stepped aside as I walked down the steps. I opened the door further to walk inside and she immediately rushed down, slammed the door shut to block my entry and exclaimed that the shop wasn't open yet and wouldn't open until 1 pm and that I should come back then. I was completely startled and surprised - followed by disgusted. It honestly felt humiliating, because her reaction was as if I were attempting to rob the store. Here I was, going out of my way, thinking that I was making a supportive effort to purchase from the store and that was how I was treated? Honestly, I wasn't aware of what time the store opened and wasn't intentionally trying to walk in early. As I mentioned above, the door was ajar, lights on and at 12:30 pm on a Saturday, I think it would be reasonable for a patron to assume that a retail store would have BEEN open at that time. But, even outside of that - my real issue is - we're in the middle of a pandemic. Businesses are struggling. In particular, retail businesses have been decimated pre-pandemic, and now, many have been on a lifeline. Internet retailers, especially a behemoth like Amazon, are popular because of their convenience. At one click of a button, I could purchase that $80 book and have it delivered directly to my door. So, what value and advantage does a brick-and-mortar, small mom-and-pop or not, bring to the table? Why should a customer, as in this case, carry the onus of inconvenience and the brunt of terrible customer service. It literally was 23 minutes before the store was slated to open. That salesperson could have simply asked me what I needed, and offered to give me a card and suggest that I call in, if I couldn't come back or wait at that time. She didn't even give me the option of waiting in the breezeway for the 20 minutes. Why should I come back later, whether on foot or by car, having to find parking, etc.? And furthermore, maybe it wasn't necessarily a factor, but considering today's racial climate - I'm a black female consumer and the salesperson a white woman. Those optics don't look any better, in terms of her (over) reaction and handling of the situation. I don't need to be treated like that to spend my money. And I will likely simply take the easiest, fastest option of purchasing my book. Like I said, I've waffled with whether to just suck it up and not bother to say anything. Just silently go about my business of never stepping foot in that store again. But, I want East City to know of this experience - as it's just as real as their glowing ones. And as a small business, or any brick-and-mortar retailer in this day and age, to make sure that they're really being conscientious about the value proposition that they're bringing to customers and re-instilling to their employees the importance of extraordinary customer service to ALL prospective customers. read more

This is a fun store with unique book recommendations, helpful/knowledgeable staff and fun gifts. They have done a lot of work to build a community by hosting compelling, inclusive events. I love the cozy, upbeat atmosphere. read more

I'm an Amazon Prime member, but you just gotta support the local bros and gals sometimes. And it's easy to do with a shop like this in the neighborhood. E-books? Take a hike! :-P *strokes goatee* *sips cortado* read more

Why order on Amazon when you can support a locally-owned gem like this? Even if they don't have the title that you're looking for, they can order it & have it in store within the week. I also can always find at least three more cards to add to the drawer full of them that I dig through when I realize, at least a week after the fact, that a friend's birthday has passed. read more

Great staff, great selection of books and lots of cards and gifts. I order books a lot from them if they're not in stock. And it's an independent book store! read more

Wow, this store is such a hidden gem! I live near Eastern Market and see the window when I'm walking along Pennsylvania Avenue thinking I should stop in. From the street you just see a decent size store, brightly lit, with neatly arranged books. I walked in and was warmly greeted and I started browsing. They definitely have all the newest releases displayed up front along with a nice selection of cards, and a few extra fun knick knacks. I then overheard an employee say to a different customer to follow her downstairs to a much bigger selection. I decided to head down myself and WOW! A whole new level that's at least triple the size of the main floor. Sections dedicated to children, cooking, comics, etc. Along with a cool selection of literary T-shirts and other fun gifts. I was just browsing but I couldn't resist getting myself a decomposition notebook covered in space cats along with a cat pen. In addition to a cool store I was informed they also do author signings, book readings, and release parties (Harry Potter's Birthday Party on July 31, I'm coming for you!). A great addition to the Hill and a great spot for gifts for others (or yourself!). The incredible welcoming and helpful employees made the experience even better. I'll be looking for an excuse to visit again soon. read more

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This place is really awesome. I love that they take their job really seriously. The staffers here are always ready to help you out. Best bookstore in town. read more

So happy to have this independent book store in the neighborhood. We don't have any other business like this on the Hill. It has a very open feel inside & the staff members are very helpful & attentive. There are also lots of chairs & couches to sit on & chill. Come here & buy books! read more

I love this place! It is a wonderful little piece of book heaven. The staff is excellent and the offerings are lovely. I cannot say enough about the children's section. It is one of the better curated selections of children's books I've seen. Can't wait to go back to enjoy an author talk! read more

I went in yesterday to find gifts for 8 and 9 year old girls. I immediately liked the vibe when I walked in, and the downstairs is even better. The staff picks have really great notes and include a helpful "if you like [popular book title/series e.g., Ramona], you'll probably also like this." The staff person who helped me identify some potential books was very good at giving me a couple of multiple choice questions, providing 4 options, and then gracefully moving away so I didn't feel pressured to make a decision right then. A fantastic experience overall, and one that makes me reconsider buying everything from Amazon. I'll probably try their fiction book club in the fall. Also, a hysterical assortment of greeting cards. I'm still laughing at Dear Punctuation, I want you inside of me. Love, Quotation Marks read more

A hidden gem! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, the store is lovely, bright and clean and the selection is awesome. I attended a book club discussion of the book Evicted, and the leader was quite delightful. This is my new favorite bookstore. I look forward to many more times browsing, attending events and shopping here. read more

East City is my favorite bookstore - not only in DC but probably anywhere! The staff are so helpful and kind - and they give the best recommendations for anyone (even with the most vague guidance!). I know that anytime I go near the store, I will be coming out with multiple books that I will love and I will have the best gifts for friends and family. read more

I love a good independent bookstore, and this place is a thing of beauty! Really nicely curated selection, lovely displays, cool gift items, lots of things with local ties, friendly and helpful employees. Seriously - Capitol Hill and Eastern Market - you have a gem in your neighborhood; please appreciate and support it! read more