ItвЂ™s a full-service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a side of social justice. Busboys and Poets describes itself as a community gathering place that serves as of a progressive and cultural hub for artists, activists, writers, thinkers, and dreamers. As does a rotating selection of artwork from local artists. Or simply enjoy a thought-provoking evening alone.Murals of Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Barack Obama adorn the walls of Busboys and Poets locations throughout the greater Washington DC area. So gather with like-minded friends or family members for brunch or dinner, and when they return for in-person showings, a poetry slam, or an author event. ItвЂ™s a casual neighborhood joint meant to foster positive vibes through food and conversation. WhatвЂ™s the real-real on why weвЂ™re coming here? ItвЂ™s a bookstore at its heart, so itвЂ™s a good place to fill yourself with virtue-thanks to powerful words and bold writers, and community-minded folks who want to make a difference.

There are occasional one-offs and delays on busy days, but we find more to like than to complain about. Newer additions include Wandering in Strange Lands: A Daughter of the Great Migration Reclaims Her Roots, by Morgan Jerkins.ДЄnd how did the front-of-house folks treat you? The staff is, for the most part, friendly, accommodating, and willing to offer suggestions (and answer questions).

More than anything, however, use a visit here as a reason to feed your soul with a new book the restaurant highlights works and authors who have lent their words to social struggles, like the Black civil rights movement, womenвЂ™s equality, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options abound. ThereвЂ™s everything from the tasty sweet potato hash (if it's on the menu, donвЂ™t miss it) to warming tomato soup to variations on the burger (lamb, turkey, black bean).

The dishes lean into the idea of comfort through food-you can easily find classic brunch, lunch, and dinner choices, as well as a few bites that just slightly push the boundaries. Give us the lowdown-especially what not to miss. (Due to COVID guidelines, some restaurants currently require you to order food with alcohol, so check beforehand.) You can easily savor a drink sans food if youвЂ™re meeting a friend for a cocktail or if you seek a solo sip. For brunch, the Bloody Mary is a solid choice. What should we be drinking? Skip the wine and get into the spirit of the place with a cocktail. The outdoor patio draws loyalists even when the temperature dips. Evenings might be leisurely, with diners lingering over friendly conversation and simple, unfussy fare. Weekend mornings can be lively, with folks tucking into a DC favorite brunch. WhatвЂ™s the crowd like? The crowd varies, based on time of day, event lineup (though they are currently virtual) and whatвЂ™s going on in the world when you visit. Part restaurant, bookstore, and hub for driving social change, the establishment is eclectic and comfortable, outfitted with murals and art depicting activists and progressive movements. What were your first impressions when you arrived? ItвЂ™s hard not to be taken with Busboys and Poets, particularly if you have an affinity for cozying up with a compelling book and a steaming cup of coffee.

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