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I came to Emissary with a group of friends after doing yoga next door. It was a very casual spot with ample seating when we arrived. I got the iced matcha latte and the bagel with lox. Everything was made fresh to order so there was a small wait, but once everything came out it was all so great. I will definitely be back to try out more items.
My new go to place for coffee anywhere near DuPont Circle. The vibe is great--comfortable, fun, serious about coffee. The person who greeted us was clear--enjoy your beverage, stake out a table and work, catch up with friends, have a meeting, read the paper, chill--make yourself at home. The coffee was superb and meets one of my hurdles for serious coffee--no paper cups for people hanging at the shop to enjoy their coffee. Good food with a Latin focus. This is the coffee place you should find and support.
This is a popular place! It was uber crowded at Noon when I arrived and finding a table was a challenge. It also took awhile to get my latte. They also were all out of the croissants I read about on Yelp and wanted to try, so that was disappointing. But what I did try was fantastic! I got a caramel latte with almond milk (they were out of soy too). This hot latte was one of the best I have ever had, and I've enjoyed plenty of coffee!!! I also got an egg and cheese sandwich on a brioche bun. I added bacon to it. OMG it was so delicious, and the bun was so soft and fresh! I have to rank this breakfast sandwich among the best too. If you haven't been and find yourself in the area, you simply must try it. I cannot vouch for what will be in stock but I am pretty sure whatever they have will be yum!
A classic for a reason! This Dupont Circle favorite features a wide selection of tasty caffeinated beverages and American-style fare, served in a super spacious and cozy cafe with friendly staff. I've been to Emissary more times than I can count for morning coffee, mid-day coffee, and evening coffee -- there are very few places I can find in the city that serve coffee and/or allow people to hang out and work / read / chill so late. I generally just get their coffee, but it's all been great, whether you're looking for an iced coffee or something espresso-based. The matcha isn't my favorite but it's still pretty solid, and I've only ever tried their fries (which are more like patatas bravas or larger chunks of potatoes vs. American-style fries) but they were super tasty.
This is one of my favorite places to simply enjoy coffee, their delicious salads, sandwiches, and ambiance. It's great for remote work time or simply to read a book. The music selection is always on point but today, it added a special magic. I ordered the orange juice and tuna ciabatta sandwich while my boyfriend did an espresso. The orange juice was bottled and freshly squeezed-refreshing! The tuna ciabatta was complemented by a fresh garden salad-delicious! Such an enjoyable tuna, not too heavy on mayo and lightly seasoned adding great flavor. My boyfriend also enjoyed his espresso and while not hungry, he had a small bite of my sandwich and said that he wouldn't mind ordering it next time. Overall, I've been a customer here for years and the service is pretty quick, the seating is super comfy, and the decor is perfect!
Cute place in DuPont Circle area for a nice cup of coffee. The place have outside seating and plenty of indoor seating. I ordered to go Cortada and it was delicious. The setting is quite odd because they don't have a hostess so you seat any where and someone will come to you. I would go back for some great coffee. The place is open until 5pm only.
Come with me to the perfect WFH spot in the heart of DuPont. Once you enter Emissary, you're met with the tranquil, moody vibes that are reminiscent of a Brooklyn hole in the wall. Everything about the decor and layout is peaceful and inviting, including the hidden speakeasy in the back room (how chic is that!). I ordered the black tea, which was brought in the cutest steel pot. The wait staff is always attentive and swift, and I got SO much work done due to the insane vibe duration. Only 4 stars because it's a bit overpriced, but nonetheless, I can't wait be back!
Wow!!! I have been in the search for the best almond croissant in the US to compare with the ones I've had in Europe and this one comes as close as I have tasted! It was perfectly buttery yet crunchy croissant, enough almond filling and perfect amount of almonds on top! Wish I got two!!
Had a great visit to this low-key, charming Dupont coffee shop. They host a variety of food offerings alongside standard coffee options. Some good Latin-inspired options like empanadas, chilaquiles, and breakfast burritos which I appreciated. The classic breakfast was a good deal including all the breakfast staples: scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, and brioche toast. The almond butter toast was also good on this brioche with fresh fruit, but had just a bit too much honey for my taste. It's a great place to bring a laptop and get work done while enjoying the food/drink menu any time of day. Would love to come back for more of the afternoon/evening food and happy hour drinks.
FOOD We came in around 2pm, and there was ample seating available in the store. Most people were studying, reading, or working from home, though some guests were catching up with coworkers/friends. We ordered their chilaquiles and egg/cheese sandwich with matcha and honey caramel lattes. My friend enjoyed their chilaquiles, though she did note it was a little bit too acidic. The egg/cheese sandwich was great-- not too oily and had a great amount of egg-to-bread ratio. The salad on the side added a fresh contrast to the sandwich. DRINKS The matcha latte came unsweetened, and while the matcha flavor was strong, the grassy taste was a bit too much. We had to add some sugar to even it out. The honey caramel latte wasn't too sweet and was great. Would definitely get it again my next visit here! SERVICE The staff are kind and friendly! There is a grab-and-go location across the street, but this location is for seating. That being said, you can still grab and go when ordering at the counter here. If you're looking to sit down, a staff member will take your order rather than ordering at the front and picking up your order there. There are two gender-neutral bathrooms by the front. They are clean and tidy with a lot of room. AMBIANCE There is ample seating available inside the store. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, and many guests were studying or working from home. The location doubles as a nice sit-down dinner restaurant/bar after 4 pm. Before 4pm, it serves as a cafe/coffee spot. PARKING Limited street parking is available.
Tons of seating inside! All tables and chairs. The baked goods looked great, though we did not try any. My lavender latte was very smooth and creamy, and made with care!
My friend and I were exhausted after walking around in the classic DMV heat and humidity this past Saturday, so we stopped by Emissary to eat and drink for an excuse to sit inside for awhile. The seating is self-serve, and we didn't have to wait to find a table. Within five minutes, we were given water and menu. Our order came out pretty quickly after. PARFAIT WITH LOCALLY SOURCED GRANOLA - 12 Lots of toppings! This parfait isn't 90% yogurt, but much more balanced, like 30-40%, maybe. There was so much berries, granola, and chia seed that were fresh and delicious. The bit of honey drizzled on top added the perfect amount of sweetness. I was able to enjoy a variety of toppings for every bite. It is a bit expensive, but this parfait is one of the better ones out there. My friend's latte had a strong espresso flavor that was enjoyable. Overall, Emissary was a good snack stop this past weekend.
Great spot for a coffee and brunch! Cute vibes and good drinks. Definitely recommend their mocktail espresso martini (the chai flavor is excellent).
1 month ago
I popped into Emissary to grab a drink to go, but I was pleasantly surprised by how inviting the space was inside. They have a great seating area that's perfect if you want to stay awhile and get some work done or catch up with a friend. read more
Staple spot! Came here to work remote and was pleasantly surprised with the amount of seating. There is a front and middle area where laptops are permitted, and the back room is just for people dining without laptops. It felt like a separation between the cafe and the restaurant which was cool. I saw some reviews that mentioned issues with the wifi, but I haven't had the same problem. I ordered a vanilla latte (extra sweet) and it was delicious, and very big! Definitely got my money's worth there. My partner and I also ordered the smashed avocado toast and the Desayuno cafetero, both 10/10 no notes. Overall super happy and will be coming back! read more
7 months ago
Very nice espresso, very sweet staff. It came with a glass of water. How refreshing! Very full spot, I went on a Monday at 11 and it was packed. They have no laptop seating, as well as minimal outlets. Overall a very nice place to go. I really find the space charming. There is outdoor seating as well, very nice neighborhood. read more
I came to Emissary with a group of friends after doing yoga next door. It was a very casual spot with ample seating when we arrived. I got the iced matcha latte and the bagel with lox. Everything was made fresh to order so there was a small wait, but once everything came out it was all so great. I will definitely be back to try out more items. read more
My new go to place for coffee anywhere near DuPont Circle. The vibe is great--comfortable, fun, serious about coffee. The person who greeted us was clear--enjoy your beverage, stake out a table and work, catch up with friends, have a meeting, read the paper, chill--make yourself at home. The coffee was superb and meets one of my hurdles for serious coffee--no paper cups for people hanging at the shop to enjoy their coffee. Good food with a Latin focus. This is the coffee place you should find and support. read more
This is a popular place! It was uber crowded at Noon when I arrived and finding a table was a challenge. It also took awhile to get my latte. They also were all out of the croissants I read about on Yelp and wanted to try, so that was disappointing. But what I did try was fantastic! I got a caramel latte with almond milk (they were out of soy too). This hot latte was one of the best I have ever had, and I've enjoyed plenty of coffee!!! I also got an egg and cheese sandwich on a brioche bun. I added bacon to it. OMG it was so delicious, and the bun was so soft and fresh! I have to rank this breakfast sandwich among the best too. If you haven't been and find yourself in the area, you simply must try it. I cannot vouch for what will be in stock but I am pretty sure whatever they have will be yum! read more
A classic for a reason! This Dupont Circle favorite features a wide selection of tasty caffeinated beverages and American-style fare, served in a super spacious and cozy cafe with friendly staff. I've been to Emissary more times than I can count for morning coffee, mid-day coffee, and evening coffee -- there are very few places I can find in the city that serve coffee and/or allow people to hang out and work / read / chill so late. I generally just get their coffee, but it's all been great, whether you're looking for an iced coffee or something espresso-based. The matcha isn't my favorite but it's still pretty solid, and I've only ever tried their fries (which are more like patatas bravas or larger chunks of potatoes vs. American-style fries) but they were super tasty. read more
This is one of my favorite places to simply enjoy coffee, their delicious salads, sandwiches, and ambiance. It's great for remote work time or simply to read a book. The music selection is always on point but today, it added a special magic. I ordered the orange juice and tuna ciabatta sandwich while my boyfriend did an espresso. The orange juice was bottled and freshly squeezed-refreshing! The tuna ciabatta was complemented by a fresh garden salad-delicious! Such an enjoyable tuna, not too heavy on mayo and lightly seasoned adding great flavor. My boyfriend also enjoyed his espresso and while not hungry, he had a small bite of my sandwich and said that he wouldn't mind ordering it next time. Overall, I've been a customer here for years and the service is pretty quick, the seating is super comfy, and the decor is perfect! read more
6 months ago
Cute place in DuPont Circle area for a nice cup of coffee. The place have outside seating and plenty of indoor seating. I ordered to go Cortada and it was delicious. The setting is quite odd because they don't have a hostess so you seat any where and someone will come to you. I would go back for some great coffee. The place is open until 5pm only. read more
Come with me to the perfect WFH spot in the heart of DuPont. Once you enter Emissary, you're met with the tranquil, moody vibes that are reminiscent of a Brooklyn hole in the wall. Everything about the decor and layout is peaceful and inviting, including the hidden speakeasy in the back room (how chic is that!). I ordered the black tea, which was brought in the cutest steel pot. The wait staff is always attentive and swift, and I got SO much work done due to the insane vibe duration. Only 4 stars because it's a bit overpriced, but nonetheless, I can't wait be back! read more
Wow!!! I have been in the search for the best almond croissant in the US to compare with the ones I've had in Europe and this one comes as close as I have tasted! It was perfectly buttery yet crunchy croissant, enough almond filling and perfect amount of almonds on top! Wish I got two!! read more
Had a great visit to this low-key, charming Dupont coffee shop. They host a variety of food offerings alongside standard coffee options. Some good Latin-inspired options like empanadas, chilaquiles, and breakfast burritos which I appreciated. The classic breakfast was a good deal including all the breakfast staples: scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, and brioche toast. The almond butter toast was also good on this brioche with fresh fruit, but had just a bit too much honey for my taste. It's a great place to bring a laptop and get work done while enjoying the food/drink menu any time of day. Would love to come back for more of the afternoon/evening food and happy hour drinks. read more
FOOD We came in around 2pm, and there was ample seating available in the store. Most people were studying, reading, or working from home, though some guests were catching up with coworkers/friends. We ordered their chilaquiles and egg/cheese sandwich with matcha and honey caramel lattes. My friend enjoyed their chilaquiles, though she did note it was a little bit too acidic. The egg/cheese sandwich was great-- not too oily and had a great amount of egg-to-bread ratio. The salad on the side added a fresh contrast to the sandwich. DRINKS The matcha latte came unsweetened, and while the matcha flavor was strong, the grassy taste was a bit too much. We had to add some sugar to even it out. The honey caramel latte wasn't too sweet and was great. Would definitely get it again my next visit here! SERVICE The staff are kind and friendly! There is a grab-and-go location across the street, but this location is for seating. That being said, you can still grab and go when ordering at the counter here. If you're looking to sit down, a staff member will take your order rather than ordering at the front and picking up your order there. There are two gender-neutral bathrooms by the front. They are clean and tidy with a lot of room. AMBIANCE There is ample seating available inside the store. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, and many guests were studying or working from home. The location doubles as a nice sit-down dinner restaurant/bar after 4 pm. Before 4pm, it serves as a cafe/coffee spot. PARKING Limited street parking is available. read more
4 days ago
Business owner information
Chris T.
Maria, thank you for taking the time to share this, and for stopping…
My friend and I were exhausted after walking around in the classic DMV heat and humidity this past Saturday, so we stopped by Emissary to eat and drink for an excuse to sit inside for awhile. The seating is self-serve, and we didn't have to wait to find a table. Within five minutes, we were given water and menu. Our order came out pretty quickly after. PARFAIT WITH LOCALLY SOURCED GRANOLA - 12 Lots of toppings! This parfait isn't 90% yogurt, but much more balanced, like 30-40%, maybe. There was so much berries, granola, and chia seed that were fresh and delicious. The bit of honey drizzled on top added the perfect amount of sweetness. I was able to enjoy a variety of toppings for every bite. It is a bit expensive, but this parfait is one of the better ones out there. My friend's latte had a strong espresso flavor that was enjoyable. Overall, Emissary was a good snack stop this past weekend. read more
1 year ago
Cute spot in DuPont right by the farmers market on Sundays. I sat outside and the service was mostly good, sometimes it took a while to flag someone down but it wasn't a big deal. We weren't brought waters but maybe they just don't serve water unless asked for? The iced matcha with vanilla was fine but the desayuno cafetero was delicious! The eggs and arepa were great but I was surprisingly blown away by the side salad. read more
Came here with my friend to enjoy a coffee before a trip to NYC. I had heard great things about Emissary and was excited to try their Iced Coffee. The ambiance is spacious, but seats do fill up quick! My friend was met with a bit of hostility when we were asking about their availability - it is unclear and needs to have more direction. Our iced coffees were flavorful and bold. I would come back to try different menu items or have a WFH day here. Fingers crossed my next experience will be better. read more
3 years ago
Emissary is a newer coffee shop and light lunch restaurant off Dupont Circle. My friends' called this place a favorite and took me for a weekend morning coffee. They explained the building was empty for a long time, and the designed leaned into that aesthetic with exposed floors and brick walls. They also have a bunch of outdoor seating, which would be nice in the warm months. Inside there are many tables, but this place is always busy so it was hard to find one but eventually did. I was struck by how loud it was; regardless of people reading and working on laptops all around, the prime activity here was talking happily while enjoying a hot drink. They have a menu of breakfast/brunch fare like burritos, classics, and sandwiches. The line to order went quickly, the cashier was friendly and welcoming. I had an iced black coffee and an apple cinnamon scone; both were excellent and flavorful. Toward the back is a cozy cocktail bar, with darker lighting. I was told the whole place turns into a music, dance, drink venue in the evening, which I'm sure is an equally cozy vibe while imbibing. If you're a fan of local coffee shops, this is great one to try. read more
2 years ago
6 months ago
There's an interesting vibe going on in here. It's unique. At one table you have a group of friends eating off the menu, and at another you have a couple ordering a mimosa and a spritzer. They're playing backgammon. The place is cozy on a cold winter's day. It attracts all kinds of people. I met a friend for a coffee catch up. She ordered a London Fog with their lavender flavored syrup. I had a latte. The coffee was robust and smooth. It was good. She enjoyed her tea. All in all, I enjoyed the environment, coffee, and catch up. It was a good time. I'd like to go back over the summer to see what a summer's day feels like at Emissary. It's a fun place! read more
7 months ago
3 years ago
Stopped by one weekday morning to catch up with an old friend and this was the perfect place to do it. Loved the space and how relaxed the environment was. Here are some of my thoughts: Environment I really loved the space - it was very chill and relaxed. Plenty of space inside to sit and relax whether it be hanging out with friends, catching up on work or reading a good book - there are plenty of places to tuck a way and make it your own experience. The vibe is chill, warm and welcoming. It's somewhat tucked underground but still has great natural light that adds to it's charm. I loved that there was also options for outside seating - which is great on a nice day and where me and my friend decided to sit. It was fairly empty at the time that I went so not sure what its like on busy days but i can imagine that it can fill up quickly. Service The service was great and fairly quick. You order at the counter and then they will make your order and call you when it's ready like many coffee shops. Friendly barista and staff that were very accommodating. Food and Drinks I only had a mocha that was pretty good and would definitely go back to try other things off the menu. Overall Perfect place to relax and grab a coffee or a snack with a friend or for a break at work or just to catch up on news or read a good book. Ambiance was relaxed and chill with good warm welcoming energy. I would add this to the list of places I would go to for a good coffee and talk. read more
My latte was great. Had an expresso one but it was a bit busy so the crema was gone. Service is generally good but can be a bit slow to recognize your presence unless you sat at the bar. Gnocchi - it is solid. Something to order again especially in a cafe for a casual bite with a glass of wine. read more
3 years ago
I love the outdoor seating at most DC establishments. Emissary is a café off Dupont Circle with plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the spring weather. There is no need to go inside to order; a waitress is outside to serve customers. I ordered the El Smoothie Verde, which has mango, pineapple, avocado, spinach, banana, honey, and coconut milk. It was delicious, filling, and healthy. The waitress was friendly too. This is a nice place to take a break and enjoy a smoothie, coffee, or alcoholic beverage. Emissary also serves all-day breakfast, salads, and sandwiches. read more
3 years ago
A bit peckish, I stopped by Emissary for a snack and a rest on my day of sightseeing in DC. The shop was in a garden level space that had multiple bars and rooms to rest in. Very welcoming with fantastic service, it was just what I was hoping for. The expanded coffee/brunch menu was attention grabbing and I chose the avocado toast - Rich smashed and seasoned avocados with heirloom tomatoes and a pickled onion made this an exceptional small (large) bite. The coffee was delicious as well. The place was on the full side but it is so large, getting a table was not a problem. There were lots of people engaged in conversation and other you could tell had made this their home office (I would). Give this place a try, you won't be disappointed! read more
My fiance's review: "It was fine." I struggle because I have been here a few times just to hang out and get coffee or drinks with larger groups and in those cases it has been great. Good vibes, cool decor/ambiance, great location if you're in Dupont, ample seating, and something for everyone. I especially love some of the flourishes, like the vintage-y looking floral wallpapers, the botanical wall under the bar, and the exposed brick elements. But I recently came here for my first ever sit-down meal and was a little disappointed after my previous good experiences. And it's certainly no Cafe Japone (if you know you know). We came for a late-ish lunch on a Saturday after an appointment a few blocks away, and were bummed to find that, even though it was late in the day, we were still limited to a breakfast menu that wasn't particularly ample, nor was it the kind of weekend brunch menu we would expect in lieu of having lunch options. My fiance got a grilled cheese that was...you know, bread and cheese, hard to judge. And I got an arepa (part of the desayuno cafetero plate) that I was initially excited about but kind of disappointed by upon receiving it. The menu boasted, "two organic fried eggs, house-made Colombian arepa, queso fresco, organic greens." The flavor was nice, but the menu said "queso fresco" which made me think it would come with melty cheese on it and it was actually just like a small ketchup container of shreds that basically amounted to a garnish? See my pic. When I saw "organic greens" on the menu I expected like, a salad? Again, it was more like a garnish. So basically just an arepa and two eggs for $16, and I was still hungry. I can get like two cheese-stuffed arepas at a food truck for way less, or spend $16 for pancakes, hash browns and eggs at diners in Arlington and walk home completely stuffed, without the addition of one of their giant side salads. So it was pretty disappointing. Service was OK I guess? It was kind of hard to figure out if this was actual table service or counter service, and it was hard to get attention when we needed it, though our server was perfectly nice. Since we were still hungry we decided to supplement with pastry, which was not part of the original plan as we're both trying to watch our blood sugar. This also added expense to the meal, and they were out of the pastries we wanted but which were listed on the menu and we had to get other, even less healthy options. I get that it was late in the day but it wasn't THAT late and you're a coffee shop, and if it's listed on the menu, you should probably order enough for the day. All in all I wasn't like...offended to my core by anything but it's definitely not a place I'd go out of my way to visit. In retrospect I think we would have been happier at Pain Quotidien up the street even though it's a chain. I'll come here again to grab coffees or cocktails because it's a cool place to hang, but probably not for a meal. read more
1 year ago
Emissary is the perfect place. Something for everyone. Drinks, coffee, food, and great outdoor and indoor space. Service is great. Their drinks and coffee is always great, first time having food and I was very impressed. Both the pesto pasta and the rigatoni alla vodka were incredible. Always a great spot for getting together with friends. read more
CALLING ALL YOU FOLKS THAT ARE STILL GOOFING OFF ON WORKDAYS LIKE WE'RE STILL IN THE HEIGHT OF THE PANDEMIC: Such a sweet spot to remote work and chill out with a friend. It's a hip retro coffee/wine shop with a speak easy feel. I could totally see Don Draper here with a cup of coffee in a Mad Men World, which I will be re-watching over the winter months. Okay back to the review, I had the avocado egg burrito with Adan's Oaxacan salsa. I enjoyed not one, but two flat whites, because they were so delicious. The crowd is very chill and the staff is so nice. It's well ran and I love that they bring your food and drinks to you instead of you having to stand around upfront like other coffee shops. Mon thru Sat ALL BEERS $7, HOUSE WINE GLASS $8, & BOTTLES ARE 24 MONDAY TO SATURDAY 4PM TO 7PM. That's just another reason for me to come back soon! read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Before I begin, must note I'm a coffee nerd, so very picky about how I have coffee. Been looking for a good cup in DC, found Emissary on a morning walk through Dupont. Service was excellent. Nice, friendly service in an environment that suits me wonderfully. Ordered a pour over and a chocolate croissant. The chocolate croissant was soft and flaky, chocolate was gooey. The pour over was done properly, served in a hot mug. Great coffee shop, only one note: the baristas should know what the origin of the coffee for the pour over is, thus only 4 stars. But I'll definitely be back. read more
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2032 P St NW
Washington, DC 20036
Dupont Circle, Downtown
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(202) 748-5655
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http://www.emissary-dc.com
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Emissary - coffee - Updated September 2026
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