Hours

Monday	8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday	8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday	8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday	8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday	8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday	9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday	9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Photos

Reviews

• Shane Oltman
  ★ 5

  Relaxed atmosphere, not loud, not awkward. Easy place to sit and actually enjoy your meal. Food came out quick, tasted fresh, and was filling without feeling heavy. Coffee was good too.
  
  What I like is it doesn’t feel rushed. You can eat, talk, catch up, or knock out some work without feeling like someone’s trying to flip your table.
  
  Service was friendly and straightforward. Nobody hovering, nobody disappearing.
  
  Overall, good food, chill vibe, easy experience. Definitely a place I’d come back to.

• Anthony Harrison
  ★ 5

  What are you looking for? Do you want a welcoming atmosphere, food to brag to your friends about of service that is on point? No need to compromise when Busboys and Poets is all of these and more. We took a morning walk and found this great restaurant that exceeded all of our expectations. The decor is familial, inviting and creates the environment to be yourself.
  
  We were promptly greeted and seated within a few moments. I took at the menu and everything seemed to be a great selection, however, I wanted to try their Chicken and Sweet Potato Pancakes. The chicken was delicious and the sweet potato pancakes are the best pancakes I've ever had. My wife and daughter tried some and even though they aren't fans of sweet potatoes, they loved them.
  
  The waitstaff was wonderful, they made sure everything was great. We didn't want for anything as they took care of everything. Their professionalism was some of the best we've experienced and we were thankful for that. The atmosphere and decor was lively and inviting, no pretentiousness, no overcompensating, just perfect.
  
  We enjoyed Busboys and Poets so much that we came back the next day for breakfast. I definitely recommend this restaurant for some of the best food that DC has to offer. You will not be disappointed.

• Mario Alex Gonzalez
  ★ 5

  Great cafe for food, coffee, or just a place to work. All the appetizers we got were delicious and had solid portion sizes. It was a great meal for two people, and a fun atmosphere to hang out or read

• Maira Z
  ★ 3

  Busboys and Poets is not just a restaurant — it’s a piece of history. It’s an iconic space known for hosting talks, readings, and meaningful conversations, and it also doubles as a bookstore. The overall vibe is relaxed, intellectual, and welcoming, making it a great place to sit for hours, read, talk, and soak in the atmosphere.
  
  The food doesn’t quite match the standards of many dedicated restaurants, but it’s still enjoyable for a casual meal. I especially liked the lamb wrap and the beans and rice, which made for a light and satisfying dinner while browsing books and enjoying good conversation.
  
  Overall, Busboys and Poets is more about the experience than the food. It’s a wonderful spot for community, culture, and connection — a place you go to slow down, think, and enjoy the moment.

• Jeannie Tene
  ★ 5

  My waiter was Karis and she was phenomenal! She entertained all of my questions and was very kind. I will DEFINITELY come back to this amazing place with its AWESOME food. My vegan burger was great!