Visiting Brightwood Park is like going back in time. This mostly residential neighborhood north of Petworth has retained a local, ungentrified feel that most of D.C. has lost. There are no tourists, or giant modern apartments, or plant stores. Just a lot of really good food, truly divey dive bars, and a distinctly “neighborhood-y” feel.
First Up, Coffee:
Start your day at La Coop Coffee on Kennedy Street, a bougie community cafe with great iced coffee and a cooler full of Dippin Dots. Or, right down the street is the newly opened Ididos Coffee & Social. It is spacious with great wifi and is one of our team's favorite spots to go for a full day of co-working.
Sushi, sambusas, and peanut tea at Mita Ethio-Japanese Cafe. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Where To Eat:
The delightful combination of Ethiopian and Japanese food at Mita Cafe is worth a trip on its own. Sushi, rice bowls, and sambusas are all freshly made to order. And don’t skip the peanut tea! A couple blocks down the road is the classic Andrene’s Cafe, a Caribbean restaurant with huge portions of jerk chicken, oxtail, and rice and peas.
For something more formal, Poplar is a relative newcomer to the scene, boasting a totally local and foraged menu that changes weekly. And of course, after all that you’ll need a sweet treat. So, head to Everyday Sundae for some of the most outstanding homemade ice cream in an unassuming setting.
Jackie Lee’s in Brightwood Park. (Ben Jaffe/Hey DC reader)
What To Do:
Just a few blocks away is Rock Creek Park with the Rock Creek Tennis Center. Play a game, or just take a walk along the Valley Trail. Also within walking distance is Fort Slocum Park, which was part of the Northern Defenses following the Battle of First Bull Run.
Where To Drink:
Brightwood Park is dive bar heaven, and I’m not talking about those “upscale dive” imitations that seem to have taken D.C. by storm. These are the types of joints that remember your order and where you’ll always recognize somebody. Neptune Room is my favorite, filled with twinkle lights, cozy booths, and $4 beers. But Jackie Lee’s is a close second with more food options, including lots of vegan junk food and a homemade crunchwrap.
