Along H Street NE sits Sidamo Coffee & Tea. When you walk in, you realize that this quaint shop is all about the coffee. There’s no frills, just a few chairs and tables as well as coffee-related propaganda lightly strewn throughout the shop. I love a macchiato, I really do as it is the most pure dose you can get without being overwhelmed; however, that is not what I ordered. The kind barista behind the counter recommended a latte. Sure, why not.
Most of us coffee lovers, are not used to a specific amount of time being taken out to actually craft a cup of joe. Normally it is a rushed or afterthought of an experience but not here. Sit down, pull out a book or your laptop and wait. With only two people working, there was a calm preparation of my drink. When it arrived, there wasn’t any fancy art (even though I do like that kind of stuff, don’t judge me.) Yet, what was there, was taste.
The blend present here at the shop is an extension of the product that comes from the Ethiopian province of Sidamo. Known for its floral aroma and crisp flavors, Sidamo’s Coffee & Tea mimics this in a way that isn’t overwhelming as they serve only “organic, shade grown, fair traded [coffee.]” What I will say is when I return, their Sidamo Macchiato is next on my list. Although the latte was yummy, it was quite mellow. I wanted to taste more of the notes Sidamo coffee beans are known for. However, don’t get us wrong, great coffee but for serious buffs go for as strong as your palette can stand.
Sidamo Coffee & Tea
417 H St. NE
Washington, DC 20002
Feature photo: Yelp/Kristine M.
Jai is a culinary/travel photographer, author whose photography has been seen in publications such as Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Munchies (VICE), and Ad Week. Jai has been with GMF since 2014 is the former GMF Editor-in-Chief. She has photographed for both domestic and international tourism boards. Additionally, her work was selected as a semi-finalist in competitions such as Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s RAMMYs in Focus, and The Historical Society of D.C.’s For the Record. Contributing her photography to books like New York One-Food Wonders and Discovering Vintage Washington, DC, Jai’s creative spirit focuses on the food, beverage, and travel industries. Co-authoring Plantations of Virginia with six-time New York Press Club award winner Charlene C. Giannetti, their book is currently in its third printing within a year of being released. Jai enjoys collaborating with her clients to bring their vision to life.