The Royal

"Royal is one of the first shops to occupy the all-day cafe niche in the D.C. scene. In the morning, go for Counter Culture Coffee and matcha lattes, and don’t forget to add a breakfast sandwich or arepa. Sit and stay in the stylish corner cafe or order takeout or delivery." - Tierney Plumb, Emily Venezky

"Located in the heart of the historic LeDroit Park neighborhood, Royal is an all day spot – coffee shop by day and bar/kitchen by night. Beautiful. Elegant. Intimate." - Cherry Blossom Creative

"This airy, quaint, and relaxed all-day spot likes to keep things low-maintenance. The price point too is agreeably lower than its fussier competitors, and the Latin American food is decidedly scrumptious. No wonder, it's a legitimate local favorite.Breakfast is a must, especially if the messy, eggy arepa is on offer. Served wrapped in a white pouch, it resembles a present crafted from seared masa and filled with a fried egg, tomato, cotjia, and avocado. At dinner, hungry fans head to the intimate second-level space—complete with original details—to try their hand at tender pork empanadas laced with aji and the heavenly scent of garlic. The masa “gnocchi” is a rare treat, tossed with braised beef, maitake mushrooms, and loads of herbs." - Michelin Inspector

"The breezy cafe’s espresso martini showcases the team’s coffee-making skills. Freshly-pulled Counter Culture espresso joins forces with vodka, Borghetti Cafe liqueur, and sugar ($16). Its coffee cocktail selection also includes a hot Latin carajillo with Licor 43." - Mekita Rivas, Tierney Plumb

"This neighborhood cafe and bar has a wood-burning grill and a Latin-leaning menu that offers empanadas, arepas, and huevos rancheros throughout the day. Don’t skip the guava pastries." - Tierney Plumb, Tim Ebner