The hustle and bustle of Union Station quickly turns sleepy when you walk a couple blocks east towards Stanton Park. The picturesque neighborhood has plenty to fill a cozy day, particularly for the coffee and literary-inclined.
First, Coffee:
Sweet Lemon Café is heaven for a sweet treat fiend like me, then Belarus café has sweet and savory waffles, pastries, and decadent coffees like Snickers and Milky Way lattes. For an excellent black coffee and breakfast bagel, Jacob’s Coffee Bar is a well-loved classic, with a cozy atmosphere and quick service.
Lamb neck barbacoa from Pascual. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
What to Eat:
I can’t shut up about Pascual since I went, and that was four months ago. The hearth-centric Mexican city-inspired restaurant has tender lamb barbacoa, fresh margs, and an unbelievable white mole tamale. Also close is Bistro Cacao, a romantic French restaurant where you absolutely must stay for dessert.
What to Do:
The Folger Shakespeare Library – home to the world's largest Shakespeare collection – reopened last month after four years of renovations and is completely free. The changes make it more accessible and immersive than ever. Don’t miss the 82 First Folios of Shakespeare! And of course, the park itself is one of D.C.’s best for picnicking, reading, or any main character moment.
Stanton Park neighborhood guide. (Google Maps)
What to Drink:
Drinking options nearby are limited, but Union Pub is a classic dive amongst Hill staffers and sports fans alike. Great happy hour deals – like $4 mystery beers – and their famous totchos make up for the sometimes unbearable table neighbors. Across the street, Café Berlin gives beer garden vibes while still having a full hearty German menu.
