Picture this: you’re a new grad spending $600 a month on a makeshift room in a Columbia Heights group home. You’re basking in the sun with friends on the Wonderland patio sharing a plate of tots just a little hungover. Life is full of possibilities. That’s the beauty of the 11th Street strip.
While I’ve since moved (my tolerance for Craigslist roomies hit its limit) the area is still my favorite hangout spot in the District. You can garden, snack on crispy pig ears, and grab frozen margs — all within a few blocks.
First, Let’s Get Coffee!
The only cafe on 11th Street itself is The Coupe, but you won’t catch me complaining. They may not have the most dialed-in espresso but the seasonal flavors (pistachio dragée latte?!) and complimentary side of animal crackers put my coffee snobbery to rest. A little farther out, you have Doubles pulling shots from small-batched beans which are well worth the extra four blocks.
What To Do:
Check out one of the community events at the Columbia Heights Green, a community run urban garden that hosts open mics and volunteer opportunities in the warm seasons. If that’s not your thing, head to the bougie bodega Odd Provisions to peruse expensive spices and kombucha before settling on a freshly made onigiri. On Thursday evenings you can find trivia at The Coupe (tip: the music played between rounds always includes a hint).
Brunch time at Wonderland Ballroom. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
What To Eat:
This is where the fun begins. Queen’s English is one of my all time faves. It’s an upscale Hong Kong-style restaurant with a rotating seasonal menu and impeccable interior design. But it's not an everyday affair. For that you’ll want to head to RedRocks Pizza for their dependable neapolitan pies with a neighborhood vibe.
Now that Makan has closed (RIP) I’ll also throw an honorable mention to the El Chucho rooftop for days when you really just need some al pastor and a frozen marg with Tajín on the rim.
Where To Drink:
Of course, you can rave upstairs at Wonderland Ballroom — it is a D.C. rite of passage. But in my old age (30 😉) I’ve come to prefer soaking up sun and mimosas on its patio instead. Plus, I’ll never say no to their greasy brunch (except the mac n’ cheese pancakes; they’re not made for human stomachs).
Down a couple blocks, you’ll find Buddy’s. I don’t follow sports, but luckily, Buddy’s is more of a good bar where sports just happen to be playing. The roomy outdoor bar is equipped with TVs, lanterns, and lots of seating — perfect for a lazy afternoon.
