Compass Coffee is EASILY my favorite coffee shop in DC. Judging from the lines out the door on the weekends, the "real good coffee" cups I'm spotting all over the city and the multitude of features I'm seeing on this fine Shaw establishment, I'm not alone in my feelings. First off, Compass has coffee that actually tastes really good! I feel like so often I just want coffee to help me wake up and I forget that good and bad coffee actually taste quite different. Compass roasts their own beans and you can watch the process from the bar in the back. They sell their coffee in the shop so you can enjoy a cup of Compass at home or gift it to your coffee loving friends. I prefer their dark roast, but all three roasts are quite good. They offer soy milk and almond milk for no additional charge. Such a luxury. Additionally, they have delicious foods. Who doesn't love a rosemary bacon biscuit!? I'm also quite partial to their chocolate biscuits and BLT sandwiches (that also come on a biscuit). Clearly I think they are nailing the biscuit game. They also have a selection of normal coffee shop fair like local yogurt and biscotti. The staff at Compass is an all star cast. The cashiers are always so pleasant, seem to enjoy making conversation and are helpful with recommendations. They also offer discounts to military personnel. Stand up folks. The space can get a little insane on the weekends. I would recommend getting there very early or go in expecting to share a table. A group of 4 is probably not going to have great luck getting a seat. Don't let this deter you though! Gotta check out Compass. Gotta do it. read more

Compass Coffee - Chocolate biscuit and a medium coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

When the NYT cited a lack of good coffee options in the District, I thought the writer was high. I mean, how do you miss Sidamo, Vigilante, and M.E. Swing, and even places that use more commercial beans, like Peregrine or La Colombe? And, as of now, Compass Coffee, as well. Located in a favorite neighborhood, Compass has lots of space (many shops do not) and a welcoming atmosphere. Friendly staff answered my questions. My almond milk caramel latte proved to be tasty and well-made. A sweet potato bacon biscuit was the perfect accompaniment, even if I didn't get much of a bacon flavor. It's definitely high-up on my list of favorite lattes, so I'm excited to return. read more

Nice location, lots of space. I got the lavender latte delicious. It's not too strong it's hot the perfect hint of lavender. read more

Compass Coffee - Lavender latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I came here on the recommendation of my brother, who wanted to check the place out because of their nitrogen infused coffee. The interior of the coffee shop is modern, chic, and open, which I really liked. They have some cool decorations around the shop, and you can see a huge coffee roaster from the main portion of the coffee shop if you look toward the back. They also have a coffee lab of sorts in the back when you go towards the bathroom, and it's kind of like a little scientific laboratory (not sure if it's just decorative?). So, we ordered a few drinks here, including a regular latte and their nitrogen infused coffee. The lattes were pretty good, and the nitrogen infused coffee was interesting. I've never had nitrogen coffee before, but the way that the nitrogen swirls around in the coffee makes it look really cool. The lattes were creamy and perfect for a cold winter day in Baltimore. The coffee was altogether high quality, and the prices aren't that bad here. If I'm ever back in the area, I would definitely drop on by again! It's a cool concept, but I can't imagine that they're making much money from the shop itself since they have so much expensive equipment there. I'm thinking they make most of their money through sales of their beans.. read more

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I am a semi regular to Compass Coffee around the city and am typically happy with my experiences there. This morning however I watched an encounter that made me uncomfortable as I saw a supervisor or manager reprimand an employee in front of the whole store at the front counter. I could tell the employee was visibly uncomfortable and the manager continued to berate and follow them around the shop area. I enjoy supporting this business as a native Washingtonian given that it started here in DC but can't in good conscious support the treatment of workers this way. The supervisor was an older African American woman and the employee was a younger white person with overalls on. This encounter occurred on 4/19 in the early morning. read more

Heard the buzz? I originally read the wash post articles about the building of this business and it was incredibly cool to see the final product. Absolutely gorgeous space, bright and big right on 7th near P. Walking in you know they are serious. Coffee? Stellar. I've only had the drip but for someone who always puts milk in coffee it was a revelation to be able to drink theirs straight. Still, I can't wait to try their latte. I also went home with 3 canisters of beans.12.95 a pop but since they roast I knew I was getting something great. Also have had the pleasure of meeting some of the staff and even one of the owners. Personalities really make the spot, ya know? read more

Compass Coffee - Spotted at DC tech day alongside RideScout! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I came here on a Saturday morning. It was fairly busy, but the staff was able to keep the line moving quickly. It's a big place with lots of seating and great natural light. On less busy days, it seems like it'd be a good place to come and get some work done. I ordered the maple latte and a coffee cake. The coffee cake was very fresh and delicious. I wasn't a huge fan of my latte, but that is mostly because I was expecting it to have more maple flavor--so mostly a preference thing. I am currently working my way through a tin of their cardinal coffee, and it's delicious. Look forward to trying more of their coffees! read more

Compass Coffee - Maple Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Typically, I avoid buying coffee since I already have a French press and canister of Trader Joe's coffee waiting for me at home. Plus, if I stop buying coffee, I can put that money toward buying a historic rowhouse in DC per my life goals. However, living around the corner from Compass has made this much more difficult. There is no better treat on a slow weekend morning than to traipse to Compass in sweatpants to purchase a small $2.75 nitrogen cold brew. It is rich and foamy like a geyser; it feels like such a luxurious drink that the fact that it costs less than 3 bucks makes it feel like a bargain. I like to add a splash of almond milk for some sweetness, though it doesn't really need it. It does get very crowded on the weekends, so you will likely have to take your coffee to go. One time, I went at 9am on a Sunday and was able to find a seat (!), but no available outlets, so my laptop died and I had to go home. Once you accept that there WILL be crowds, you will achieve a higher state of zen. Excited to go back soon now I see that they have mint cold brew! read more

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OMG they have the second best coffee in town after Philz Coffee (sorry I love their Mojito Coffee so much!). Their nitro cold brew ice coffee is amazing and have the best value compare to other coffee shop in the area. For example, some places charged $6 for one tiny cup of nitro cold brew :( The other best thing about this place is that they currently served kolaches! read more

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Consider me a fan. I might not be the most knowledgable or sophisticated coffee drinker (mine is always accompanied by a lot of milk and flavors, haha), but Compass Coffee as a whole impressed me. First of all, the space is gorgeous. Bright, bright, bright! And spacious! Lots of tables for small groups, or individual stools. I came here today at about quarter to noon and it was full of people working on their laptops, reading books, or lingering over a drink in conversation with a friend or two. They clearly don't want you to grab-and-go here (alas, I did - as one often must do with a toddler in tow), but instead stay and enjoy your drink in this lovely setting. Secondly, the staff. They know what's up. As they should, yes, but coffee-smart and friendly baristas aren't always the norm. Before I ordered, I waited behind three people who were getting quite an info session from one of the baristas. He was detailing the different types of coffee available, how they each differ, and made recommendations for each person accordingly. Compared to the rush-to-get-your-order vibe in many other boutique-y coffee places, this was really refreshing to witness. The barista who took care of me (forget his name, youngish male) was super warm and friendly - there was not an ounce of pretentiousness to be had here, despite the fact that they mean serious business. Prices and drinks themselves: a lot of reviewers complained about the prices. I found them to be totally fair (see my pic with the drink menu board). As one person noted, it would be nicer if they served drinks for the seated customers in porcelain cups with saucers, but overall everything is really good. I had a chai latte, and was pleased to learn that they make their chai lattes sans the artificial syrupy goo that other places use. Also, if you want to add to your coffee, they provide simple syrup at the bar, as well as several milk and non-dairy options (almond milk!). There are also baked goods available (biscotti, giant cookies, hummus sandwiches, savory biscuits, etc) which I hope to try next time. Welcome to the neighborhood, Compass! read more

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Coffee is good, but beware the subscription service. Twice in the last several months they've been unable to fulfill my ("automatic") recurring order. First they stated they were out of capsules and my order would have to wait for those to arrive. Now, in December, they told me they had "just too much" holiday business and as a result can't fulfill my order (though they were certainly able to charge my card on time!) Well, what about those of us who been around for a while? How quickly we forget our friends. My advice: enjoy their coffee in the shop, but don't love it too much. Subscription home delivery is a rabbit hole you don't want to go down with this company. read more

This quaint coffee spot offers delicious beverage options, yummy food choices, free WiFi and a lovely atmosphere. Stop by today! read more

Compass Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I drink a fair amount of coffee...at least 2 cups a day that I grind fresh and hand pour. I do this all myself because I've never been able to find a place in DC that knows how to ACTUALLY make a good cup of coffee. Until. Now. Compass Coffee is the first place in DC that I've been to that not only knows how to make a great cup of coffee, but also has by far the best atmosphere. The focal piece of Compass Coffee, beyond the amazing shot of espresso or perfectly executed pour over, is the roasting station. Watching the beans being roasted, asking the owners questions along the way, is hypnotizing and provides an experience that cannot be matched. Make the trip to Compass Coffee. It's not only worth the trip, it's worth becoming your regular coffee shop. I'm truly excited for this place and look forward to many cups ahead. read more

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Wow, SUPER FRIENDLY people... I had never heard of this place before, but my buddy told me to meet him there for a coffee. Surprisingly, there was plenty of parking at 4/5ish pm on a weekday... I was a bit zoned out when I arrived, and I am sure that I was rambling and confused about what to order. The guy at the register, which I now realize was a co-owner, was super nice and patient. I love my coffee strong, but not bitter like Starbucks. And, somehow I was craving milk. After explaining the options (the pictures helped on the board), I decided to try the cortado. He also pointed out the espresso makers. Nicollete (I think that's her name) rocks. The cortado was excellent. Yum. I watched her make a few drinks, and she explained some of the types/methods of brewing. She had a drink order cancelled and she offered to make me a mocha with the milk. Wow. I will probably order one of those next time. Wonderful high ceilings and skylights. Lots of space. Lots of light. Lots of tables. With a cool view of the roasting machine (whatever it's called) and a back room for tastings at some point. Just a really great atmosphere. read more

Best cup of Nitro Cold Brew I've ever had. I drink cold coffee almost exclusively. I stopped by Compass Coffee one morning while visiting a friend in DC, and decided to try their Nitro Cold Brew. It was truly the best cold brew I have ever had. It was flavorful, yet subtle, and the taste wasn't overpowering. They also had Almond Milk creamer out for anyone to use. I typically prefer almond milk, and the fact that I did not have to ask for it here was awesome. I could not recommend Compass to anyone more highly. read more

My friend recommended this place because they supply their coffee to Founding Farmers, but also said "it's so far away you'll never get there" but I wanted to try it so much I drove over-and parking is great at 7 AM! The coffee was delicious, although I felt a little judged by the baristas when I was excited about the latte art. That being said, the latte art was exceptional, given the fact that I got my latte with almond milk-a hard medium. So the baristas really know what they're doing. They also sell coffee in really cool packaging. The atmosphere is classic cool hip urban coffee shop and I would definitely come here for a good Instagram and delicious lattes. Aesthetically, I give them 6 out of 5 stars. read more

Compass Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Each coffee shop has its own energy .I would describe this one as the modern polished vibe .It's extra clean and new and has fancy coffee brewing gear on display in the back . They have innovative lattes like maple flavored which was sweet , delicious, and a good option for chai tea lovers who want to try something new . There's wooden tables , no couches , and outlets bordering the walls mostly . It gets packed on weekends so it's loud and you might even have trouble finding a seat . They serve you at the cashier so no need to budget for tip - spend that extra cash in lattes galore ! Also extra props for asking name spellings when writing names on hot drinks . Starbucks, take notes . read more

Compass Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Great coffee and very spacious for DC area coffeehouses. Saw a couple people with laptops getting work done but also locals just grabbing a coffee to go. read more

It is a wonder to me how certain coffee shops gain such popularity with such mediocre product; however, with Compass I understand. While the beverages I have had (typically chai lattes) are not very good this location is without question the best coffee shop within a 10 minute walking radius and with so many businesses clustered right at the metro it's hard to justify walking elsewhere when Compass is just so convenient. Therefore, people flock to Compass which is always bustling with people and they do an excellent job of keeping up an efficient service despite the bustle. read more

This location is very large and conveniently located across from the capital one arena. I ordered an iced vanilla latte with almond milk and it was perfect. By boyfriend got their nitro cold brew and said it was average/can find much better elsewhere. read more

Compass Coffee - Iced vanilla latte with almond milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Superb coffee and excellent customer service in person and online. Ordered several cans of the Waypoint, Shaw and Christmas blends as gifts this year for F&F on my nice list ;) read more

If it's June in DC, you need a tall cup of cold brew. No worries, Compass Coffee has you covered. If it's December, you might want a hotter option. Lucky you the coffee is just as good hot as it is cold. In conclusion, Compass Coffee is the cure to any caffeine fix. read more

Their cold brew was very good! Hopefully they open a Leesburg, Va branch one day. I've been to the Rosslyn and Arlington ones so far, both had very helpful staff and great atmosphere. read more

Finally! A neighborhood coffee shop with ample work space, and not to mention really good coffee :) Compass Coffee is right up there with Peregrine and La Comobe in offering delicious coffee and espresso drinks, but it's remarkable work space is what really makes it stand out. If you are looking for a coffee shop to spend the afternoon doing some work or catching up with a friend in the Shaw, Logan Circle, or Bloomingdale area, this should be your go-to spot. Plus, the staff are all really friendly! read more

Compass Coffee - Authentic!! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Great coffee. This place keeps me coming back because the coffee is just that good. I either get the vanilla latte or cortado, I've even had it straight black, and still enjoy it! The place does get a little crowded, so If you're planning on grabbing a seat and doing work, say a little prayer. I always find a seat, but sometimes I have to wait, or it'll be a tight spot. The coffee shop is actually spacious, I just think everyone likes going there! There is parking nearby, and I always find a spot! read more

Great coffee. I tried the Fresh Mint Cold Brew and was pleasantly surprised by the smooth, refreshing taste. As a study space, there is ample room and table space but few outlets. Bring your laptops charged! The back area has an exposed brewery component that showcases their unique Nitrogen brewing process. read more

Compass Coffee - Nitrogen Cold Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

One of my favorite coffee local coffee 'chains'. High quality espressos and tasty pastries. I was a HUGE fan when they opened their first location in Shaw. It now is so packed! I'm excited they are expanding and have now added a couple more locations in the neighborhood, including this one in Chinatown! We need some great coffee closer to the heart of the city! My comments on this place: - Pretty ample seating (30+) including cozy couches and unique configurations! Smaller than the Shaw location, but still a decent size. - Modern, sleek interior that matches their other locations - High quality, consistent espresso drinks. Also serve tea, cold brew. They sell their beans too! If you want an indulgent drink, get the Nutella Mocha! - And they DO have wifi here, which is a shocker compared to other coffee chains in DC read more

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Big fan of this excellent Shaw beanery - a sleek and minimalistic interior with an inviting, floor-to-ceiling windowed exterior that lets you peek inside to see what's good...or outside to people-watch! My favorite seats are near the window, if you couldn't tell. The beans here are the best in the city and the baristas are the friendliest around. I use Compass Coffee for all my home cold-brewing and the Brazilian and the Colombian - both with chocolate flavors brightened via the cold-brew method, however the Brazilian with a more nutty, buttery flavor while the Colombian leaned toward fruit and berries. I also keep coming back here for their scrumptious nitro vanilla cold brew, which you can get growlers of here for low low! My final, other favourite is the lavender latte - creamy, yet floral all whirling around your tongue in a magical mix mmmm. When it's warm out, hang on the bench right outside with the linked up dogs and enjoy the sun! read more

I love Compass Coffee-- this particular location is airy and has tons of space to sit, study, socialize, or work. The coffee-based beverages are great and service is nice as well. Compass Coffee is always a solid choice over your run-of-the-mill Starbucks. Things I tried & liked: Chai Latte - Not too sweet, just right. A bit lacking in the actual chai flavor though. read more

All things pointed to good here. A fun place with a nice atmosphere. Most places that today there own beans are on the right track. I had my usual latte and it was made with good care. Nice thick crema and really nice milk texturing and latte art. Unfortunately, it was bitter. I tried to add sweetener which I never do, but it didn't help. read more

The cashier today, 12.16.2020, was not professional neglected me in line, and I mentioned I am in line, but she acted she was not listening and asked a person who is not in the line to come in! You need to observe such a behavior! Call it what you call it but it is clear what it means! read more

Surounded by new high-rises, this little coffee shop mirrors many that have sprung up lately in DC: smaller roasting, quality coffee makers, smancy espresso machines, smiling faces, with a side of tasty pastries. Service was friendly, decor was awesome, esp the the factory-like maker/grinder they've got open to visitors, along with their coffee LAB! I happened to be in the area and grabbed one of their pastries (Spicy Cheese Turnover). The pastry, even not warmed up, was nice and flaky. The turnover wasn't spicy at all (for someone who can't handle spicy), had a hint of spiciness, like they used Pepperjack Cheese. At 10am on a Saturday morning, this place was packed full of young coffee drinkers busy away on their laptops. I love the atmosphere here and will def be back! *Street Parking *Complimentary sparkling or regular water read more

While visiting DC for a week, some friends and I stumbled upon Compass Coffee and found it so much better than the standard starbucks you find on every corner. The atmosphere is very relaxed and people people working there are so friendly. There was lots of natural light, making it feel very open. We went there a few times before heading out for adventures and I got the Nutella Mocha and the Nitro Brew, both were very good, but the Nutella flavor was a little light. Their food is great for a light snack. My group friend some of the croissants, which were nice and fluffy, and I got a half smoked kolache. Never had one before, but it was really good. They also have a large variety of teas to purchase if you want to take some home with you! read more

Compass Coffee - Nutella mocha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Delicious coffee and friendly staff! Great lattes and cold brews. My son had an oat milk got chocolate, which he also thought was great!

Ah, Compass Coffee. Thanks for expanding. Everything is good here. Cold brew, lattes, Americanos. Even their decaf. Keep in mind that there are two locations in the Shaw area. A friend told me to meet her at "the Compass Coffee by Shaw" and both locations are equidistant from the two exits of the Shaw metro. We ended up waiting for each other for approximately 15 minutes. I like this one more than the other, because it's roomier with more seating. With that said, it can get pretty crowded here during the weekends, enough to make it way too loud for working. read more

Excellent coffee just like their logo, "Real Good Coffee" Definitely will be back Starbucks who? Lol read more

Compass Coffee - Small soy latte with Nutella Mocha flavor bomb!!!! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I like it strong and I like it fast. They do that well. I don't even like iced coffee but that Nitro Cold Brew with one of their homemade syrups was refreshing. It also kept me going after midday slumps the week I visited DC as a jetlagged traveling mom to a toddler. read more

In it for the ambiance: A naturally lit coffee spot. Also has a vibrant atmosphere and an upbeat vibe that energizes you weather it's to read or study. Great location to meet up for coffee or curl up with a book. Average Joe: I had their chai latte, but nothing special. A bit too much froth at the top and not as flavorful as I would have expected. read more

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Compass coffee is my favorite brand for home brewing, and pre-Covid, it was my favorite place for afternoon coffee breaks from work. My husband and I order a 5-pound bag of the Cardinal blend once a month (we have it on subscription). It's amazing. They've spoiled me, because now no other coffee compares! I miss my afternoon coffee breaks but hope to return post-Covid. read more

Tiny, tiny cups. Yeah, it's ok but I'm not cool with spending $3 for a mere 8oz cup of coffee or $5 for a mocha. Did I mention the cup size is tiny! 8 oz is their MEDIUM. Also, no whip for mochas. Fresh pastries, though. read more