Busboys and Poets

I came for Happy Hour and a meal after. I really liked the food, the service was good and the atmosphere was pleasant. I ordered two "New Fashioned", which tasted fantastic drink by the way, but I felt like I got short-handed on the drinks. I've had plenty of Old Fashioneds before and I'm well aware it doesn't fill the cup up, but this was even low for that. Taking the ice and fruit out, it couldn't have been more than an oz and a half for the whole drink. Picture is the cup before I drank any. I'd have like to give 4 or 5 stars, but could not justify it. I hope next time is better.

Popped in for lunch while visiting from Texas. There is no street parking but there’s a free public garage right across the street. We were greeted and quickly assigned our table. The waiter was nice just not super friendly (maybe I expected friendlier hospitality being from “The South”) —nonetheless, he took our order and checked on us once to refill our drinks. We were a party of 9 — we ordered the nachos which I wish had more meat, the fried chicken sandwich was delicious, juicy and crunchy. The Cubano sandwich was also piled high with ingredients and full of flavor. I snapped a few pics of the cozy bookstore at the entrance of the restaurant. Overall, I recommend Busboys and Poets for a nice meal and a cute tour of the library where you can snag a book or souvenir.

The comic genius show most recently had a Comedy Game night for Fathers Day. Sold Out! I enjoyed a new experience. Same quality of food and service. Loved the location, too.

Some of the best pancakes I’ve had in a while. I’ve been thinking about this stack since last weekend. Very delicious, fluffy, thick and light and crispy. I was full but had to finish a stack. I wish there was a bit more syrup with this serving but I have no other notes. They also have 6$ brunch cocktails on weekend that are brand new and sooo tasty if you like bubbly drinks.

I came to Busboys and Poets to decompress after a long day and enjoy happy hour. Unfortunately, the service was terrible and untimely, and I regretted my decision shortly after arriving. The bartender moved slowly, prioritizing personal conversations with one guest over the remaining guests. I ordered a cider, wings, and Brussels sprouts, but I found out the cider was out after waiting 5 minutes. She did offer other options, but I went with a gin and ginger ale. She poured the gin and then took my drink to the back of the restaurant (out of sight) to pour ginger ale, which made me uncomfortable. The food came out, and I didn’t have utensils, and she wasn’t making eye contact or listening when I tried getting her attention. I managed to get her attention, and I got utensils. She never checked back in, and while I enjoyed my meal, she kept talking to the guest until they left. She was only making drinks one at a time, slowing down service. As a bartender of 7 years, I know she could be more efficient since tickets were backing up. I also would have bought more if she had even paid attention, so I left a lot earlier than I would have with good service (money missed in sales and tip) After my meal, I was waiting with an empty cup and dirty plates, and she would not look up, so I had to call her again. Overall, she was nice, but inattentive and way too slow, leading me to leave as promptly as possible.

Managers please talk to the happy hour bartender. She doesn’t know the first thing about the service industry. Too busy trying to look cute and not doing anything related to her job. Please if you are a manger here help her come to Jesus and learn that your job is to pay attention to the whole bar not just one person or herself. If you see an empty glass ask the customer if they would like another. This isn’t hard.

Went to go get take out, I ordered fried chicken and a Caesar salad with steak. Food took 30 minutes. Chicken was so small look like a chicken tender salad had no steak, the host had an attitude upon giving me my food for no reason. She just put it on the table when she gave others people, the food in their hand. I Was better off going to chipotle or potbellies

Enjoyed a nice meal here. Unique setting with stage. Staff was very friendly, altho food coming out of the kitchen was a little slow. Nice choices on menu. I had the lamb burger in a pita. Great twist on a gyros.

First time here. The food was very good. The chicken is excellent. The grits and eggs Benedict was a great choice. We are glad we stopped in. Everyone cleared their plates. Service was friendly but slow. Plenty of servers standing around and we had to request water. We had a nice table but it was stuffy in there.

Drove by and decided to spot in for breakfast, early on a Monday morning. I found parking on the strip nearby, used Parkmobile which was about $2.45 an hour I had the classic benedict with grits $18 with Coffee $4 After adding sugar, the grits were really good! The Benedicts were okay. The muffin was too soft for me, and pieces of the ham were "fatty". I actually left pretty hungry The tea was kind of warm There was about 1 waitress for 5 tables

Severely understaffed, you will be waiting as you starve! You will be asking for water and napkins twice and four times and they won't come. The food is ok, but the service is below minimum.

Zac!!!! Lead server? Needs to be. Touched the table letting us know he was available but it wasn't overbearing. Was honest with recommendations.

I want to start by saying the variety of vegan options here is absolutely impressive. Seriously, they should take pride in that. However, I have to be honest: I go to the free grocery store a lot because... I'm broke. The knockoff chick'n they hand out there tastes exactly like what I had here. Don't get me wrong, I love that chick'n. It's soy protein, and it tastes like soy protein, which is fine for what it is. But for a well-known spot like Busboys and Poets, I was hoping for something with a little more flavor or creativity in their vegan protein. On another note, I also tried their Bloody Mary. It was my first time having one, and I'm glad it was my introduction!

I've been a fan of the restaurant for years and their catfish dinner is my go to. The catfish use to be served with another starch like a cornmeal pancake which was amazing. I do enjoy the grits and greens. I like the texture and taste of the grits. Parking is available in a nearby garage or street parking. The restaurant is very artistic and has its small area to browse books and other items for sale. Service was good. We got there late in the evening after 7. We didn't have to wait to be seated and receive our food fast.

Busboys and poets food is always great but I really love coming to this location! I can always go in here and get quick service before I have to leave out and continue with the rest of my day! They do have a small book store section as well and I really love that addition as well because I can check that out while I wait for my food or before I head out. I come here on lunch breaks sometimes and get work done while I eat as well because it's nearby and they have WiFi as well! I love the artsy vibe and painting they have as well and it always looks clean and well kept inside. Side note: there is only street parking at this location that's close to the restaurant but there is a garage down the street and around the corner that you can park in if you plan on staying longer.

Popped into Busboys and Poets in Brookland after a work event on CUA's campus and was excited to complete the rest of my work day from this lively restaurant. I loved the decor! The entire restaurant was covered with art from around the world, specifically depicting Civil Rights Movement, and it was such a joy to admire. While I have gone to a few Busboys and Poets locations in the past, I was eager to try a new item from their vast menu. I decided to treat myself after a long work week with the Crab Cakes! They came out to about $34 which is pretty reasonable for seafood in the DC area. The crab was cooked to perfection! Seared and seasoned very well. The remoulade was nice and spicy and paired exceptionally with the crab and crunchy green beans. I have to take a second to admire the beans - very flavorful and not soggy at all. A few issues I encountered included the fact that I received my food before I was given utensils, which made me have to wait around before I was able to start eating. Additionally, had to wait for water and receiving basic services. Granted, there were a few tables with large groups that could have left the staff a bit overwhelmed. However, my server was very sweet and ensured that she kept checking up on me throughout my visit. I am excited to bring family and friends to this beautiful B&P location! Will definitely be back for their Happy Hour soon :)

8pm on a Thursday night. No one at the desk to take names or seat people. After 10 minutes, and a line forming behind us, finally someone emerged and sat us in a booth. We've been here an additional 13 minutes and no one has come to our table. Two servers rushed by and wouldn't stop despite me asking, loudly, "are we your table?" (Since I had no idea who was assigned to us.) Giving it 5 more minutes and then I'm walking out. There are exactly 6 tables with customers in the entire place.

Food was pretty good but portion was super small. Service was ABSOLUTELY POOR. I was pissed that I was about to leave. I ate at the bar. Bartenders were there but they didn't acknowledge me for quite some time. I recently had the blackened mahi mahi with family members a few weeks ago and I came back to eat the same dish again. This time my mahi mahi was 1/2 the size of the one that I had the first time. The inferno wings were good but expensive. The atmosphere is always nice at this establishment. There was a TED talk going on too. I'm not sure that I'll give this location another shot.

I received my order of 6 piece wings, have not had time to return to the store, food was delivered with hair on it

One of the best restaurants I've been to in my 34 years of life. Visited January 2017 and still remember my experience. The food was very delicious and generously portioned. My personal favorite dishes were the nachos and crab cakes. I remember that the service was excellent. We were seated in minutes, and it was still very busy. All and all I highly recommend this restaurant and I cannot wait to go back for all their great dishes/service

Regulars of Busboys and Poets know that every Monday is Half off Burger Monday! For those who don't well... you're welcome. This in particular is my go to "healthy combo" for dinner to start the week. The turkey burger with a side of Caesar salad is legit. The turkey burger patty is not dry at all. Order online in advance as they may usually be busy for the happy hour crowd or dinner service in early in the evening.

Dinner here was a great experience, hearty and delicious. Service was great, food came in a timely manner and we all enjoyed our meal. Ambiance is cozy like you are dining at someone's home but you're out!

Had a weekday breakfast here with wife and daughter before a college event. It was not busy and service was good but not exactly fast. I ordered the Mekhleme. Spelled wrong from its Iraqi namesake and not made the exact same way. Basically it's supposed to be ground lamb , veg, and cumin heavy sauce with eggs on top. Here it was with ground beef over cubed hash browns with sunny(part cooked eggs) over the top in a cast skillet. It's a Cumin heavy dish and some people don't care for Cumin. I love it. This was done with a rich beef sauce and tomatoes and two sunny eggs and garnish. Came with two slices of wheat toast and butter cubes. This was all really good and the toast though there were no other choices was great to wipe the skillet clean. It's a little rich though. I plan to replicate it in a better way at home with better grade middle eastern seasoning I have. My wife and daughter got a breakfast wrap and a standard breakfast that was about average at best. I never really wanted to eat here in the past but I think I'll go back!

Zac was an amazing host, very knowledgeable about the menu. The ambiance was great and the food tasted amazing. Zac was able to offer suggestions to pick a great choice. 10/10 experience.

I LOVE Busboys. This location specifically is one I frequent. It's almost like a neighborhood bar/restaurant. the food is ALWAYS delicious. My favorite meal is the sweet potato hash with kale, rice, onions, and a poached egg (try it. you may like it) The manager is professional and friendly. The remembers the regular customers and is warm welcoming EVERY TIME. 5 STARS. Location + great food + great service = winning combination!

I would highly recommend busboys and poets at Brooklands it was my first time being at a busboys and poets. The ambience of the place was actually pretty great. Everything was very detailed and aesthetically pleasing. The book section by far is one of my favorite places and I think my favorite piece to the restaurant. Overall the service and the food were great and if you're a vegetarian, this spot is probably one of the best spots to go to the menu had a plethora of vegetarian and vegan options. Don't worry meat lovers because the wings were fantastic as well as the turkey burger. I would highly recommend this restaurant , as well as I can't wait to stop by and check the other busboys and poets restaurants

We like Bus Boy and Poets because they have nice vegetarian options. We've been to multiple locations and usually enjoy it. That being said we arrived at this one and got seated. We had to ask for a waitress multiple times and it took us 30mins to finally get one. There was a mix up in communication so the waitress wasn't made aware there was anyone sitting back in the area we were seated at. That being said our waitress that finally came was very nice and apologetic. As usual the vibe there was chill and relaxed. We pretty much had the area to ourselves minus another couple. I ordered the spiced chai latte which was so good I got two. We also ordered the vegan bbq chicken bites which were meh this time around. The stars of the meal were the mini pecan pie and banana bread pudding. They were absolutely deeeeelish!!!!! Our food was decent too. The only issue I had with my meal was it was bland with no sauce and when I did ask for it, it took forever and arrived cold in the midst of me being half finished already. There were also some delays with drinks. I feel the overall service could have been better so that's why I took two stars away.

Busboys and Poets is a DC establishment. They have locations all over and the Brookland location is really pretty great. I've been to three - Takoma, Brookland and another one in Maryland somewhere. I like how close it is to the metro station, making it accessible. Lots of seating in this location - I've been here on weekend and weeknight and never really had issues with seating. The service is fair. It's not amazing, but it's suitable and acceptable. The waitress we had this last time was very new so it was hard to get any recs for the rest of the table, but I kind of just know what I know I like and was fine. It was hard to get water topped off, but it's not bad. Food: salads are pretty fresh. I also liked their tomato soup. They make a good burger but the brioche bun this time was slightly dry. Their happy hour chicken wings are very good though :) The brussel sprouts looked good, but a tad small on the portion for the price (even happy hour) - but that's just me. My friends' picks: one of them loved the blackened salmon with the white creamy sauce - she asked for 3 things of this sauce and we're just not sure what it is, except my friend kept saying it's the creamy good sauce. Their chili: pretty generous on the chips! Parking: street Bathroom: pretty clean, and I love that the sinks are out so washing hands without using the toilets is a very viable option!

We went to this location of Busboys and Poets last night. It was not very crowded at all. There is plenty of seating indoors and outdoors around 6:30. They don't take reservations, but we didn't need one, even for our party of 11 (4 kids, 7 adults). 7 out of 100 of us were there, and they said they'd seat us as long as half our party was there. The table configuration was... awkward. It was an L shape. I feel like they had plenty of space to give us a long table, but we didn't complain since they had the table ready in minutes. Our server himself was great. I'm giving grace for the amount of time it took to get our food because there were 11 of us. We ordered drinks, appetizers, and entrees. The Brussels sprouts and nachos were both delicious. My sister in law said the firecracker shrimp was good. Dinner for me was the steak and asparagus salad, which was very good. My steak was a perfect medium rare and came on a separate plate. My husband and kids all had burgers, which they said were very good. My drink was the Bring The Heat. It was very good. Our server gave me the option to have it with guava or tamarind. I stuck with the guava as listed on the menu and it was phenomenal. I'm pretty sure if there is a drink with mezcal and spice I'm always going to order it. My sister in law had the DC Water which, looks gross (as intended) but tastes like juice. Very tasty but not my style. We did not order dessert. Overall, it was a great experience. I'd go back for sure if we're in town again. They had lots of vegan and gluten free choices and were very good at noting my husband's dairy allergy. I love a place that takes an allergy seriously.

Delicious food! Ordered Halal Lamb meatballs, Harira soup, crispy brussels sprouts both ways. OMG - Zach is AMAZING!! Best server ever!!!!

The atmosphere was great. My server was attentive and my food was delicious. I order the lavender lemonade. I enjoyed it and if you try it, please be mindful that it is very sweet. For my entree, I ordered the fried catfish, over jalapeño cheese grits, with collard greens. I also ordered a crab cake sandwich with sweet potato fries to go. Everything was wonderful. Looking forward returning.

My first visit here was good! The food was good and reasonably priced, the service was good and there's a cool ambiance to the place. I had a chicken omelette and a sweet potato pancake that did not let me down. I'll be looking to try more menu items here when I'm back in DC...

My daughter and I came in to order take out .. we was told because we were paying with cash we had to order from the bar, so we went to the bar and waited for someone to take our order. While there this comes over wearing a red shirt insisting we place your order on some kiosk machine, he was being persistent.. my daughter told him we were paying with cash. That's when he said you needed to order here which is the reason why we were standing there in the first place to place our order at the bar. It's as if our cash money is a problem now and an inconvenience to them... some people still carry cash and prefer cash not to be pushed to use a credit card or a machine. The meals are already expensive enough. Where is the outstanding customer service??

Food was fine like always but my review is based off of my server. I do not remember her name unfortunately. She was lazy and more interested in sitting in a separate room where we could see her clear as day and talk to other coworkers rather than wait on us. I asked for sauce twice and she never brought it. I had to ask another waiter unfortunately for it. I will never come to this location again because of her.

Zac was amazing! Very friendly from the start of my service! My food came out fast and perfect! The pasta was absolutely delicious. I will definitely return because of the wonderful service!

We had the Shrimp and Chicken Chorizo Pasta on the recommendation of our server, Zach. It was great!! The service was excellent and it was a great break for our busy schedule! Thanks for the great time!!

Each time we've eaten has been a special time with our college age children. Service is always friendly and responsive and not too intrusive. Favorite spots are in Shirlington and Tacoma Park! Enjoy!

10 stars in not enough for the service that I received. Howard University graduation was one of best events that had as a result of the staff LORAN, Jeremy, Rio, Drew and Ashley the event planner from Bus Boys and poets who helped facilitate this event. The food and just the entire vibe was A++. I highly recommend this venue for event space or just to have a great meal out.

What a gem! We're just in DC for a few days. Their menu is amazing! We plan on coming here our next two days because the food is good, the server Liz was great, very attentive and helpful! Plus it's very close to a parking garage and a rail stop!! For us it turned out to be a perfect place to start the day visiting DC!

Our server Zach was phenomenal and the food was amazing. I ordered the catfish nuggets and they were on point! We'll definitely be back!

The food was fantastic and our server Zac was friendly and did a great job! Everyone enjoyed their meals!

I ordered food from this restaurant on a hungry night, and before the Uber driver could collect the food the establishment had closed. I paid the restaurant a visit the next day, and after reviewing my receipt without any questions asked, Joseph went and talked to management about the mixup. I was appreciative of their immediate response. Ms Marissa came out of the kitchen with a smile and asked if I wanted a refund or the contents of order. While I waited she brought out strawberry lemonade for my inconvenience. This team of young professionals whipped right into action and as a returning customer I really appreciated their service. Shrimp & Chicken Chorizo Pasta is my fav dish. If you're ever in the area stop by.

First time at this location food was awesome. The restaurant was clean and I liked the open feeling & decor. The service was a little slow but acceptable.

Amazing customer service! Our server was very attentive, professional, and friendly. The restaurant has a great selection of books and gifts. Ordered the sweet potato hash and it was soooooo flavorful and fresh. Love the inside with the fun mural painting on the wall. If you l've never been, this is a must. So many food/drink vegan options and Farm to table! Can't wait to come back and try more

I met a friend who was traveling to DC on business. We did an early dinner and BBP did not disappoint. The service was great. The food was fresh and delicious. And the atmosphere was vintage BBP.

The service I got from Zac! When I tell you the man works hard to make sure he gets it right, I mean it. He knows when to interject and he knows when to wait for a chance to see if you need anything else. He always has the kindest and most professional demeanor. I hope you get him when you go because he's a gem. The Entrees you get here are all amazing. I found my go to are the catfish and grits or the Shrimp and grits. No matter the time of day you come, there's always an ambiance of good lighting, calm and respectful staff and the room is perfectly balanced with natural light. I hope you like this place as much as I do. Cheers

Food - 5 Service - 5 Ambiance - 5 I frequent most BusBoys and Poet locations but this one, I only visit on occasion due to its location. Parking can be a challenge - street - or there is a garage which is a short walk to the restaurant. My preference is a free parking lot close to any restaurant in which I dine....but I digress. Typical BB&P! I enjoyed their appetizers - brussel sprouts, tofu bites (YUMMY!) and of course ordered the blackened salmon and subbed out the asparagus and rice for double collard greens- YUM - and my FAVE!!! The great thing about BB&P is they are ALWAYS CONSISTENT with their food and service. I've never met a bad server or had a bad meal! It's my GO TO FOR SURE!!!

Lot of delicious vegan and healthy options- is a crowd pleaser for vegans and meat eaters alike!

The food was amazing! Zac's service was awesome! He checked on us often and was super nice! We'll be back.

I had lunch at Busboys and Poets last Sunday while in the area. It's in a new shopping/residential complex less than a 5 minute walk from the Brookland/CUA Metro stop. This restaurant has not indoor and outdoor dining available. My order was for the Busboys Burger (cooked medium) meal for $14 and I chose the french fries for the included side. The food arrived about 10 minutes later and immediately I noticed that the fries were barely warm. Also at that time I needed a drink refill but couldn't get the attention of my waiter. Finally I walked up to the counter and the manager asked if he could help. 5 minutes later I got new fries and more drink. Then when finished, the waiter was doing something else and it took a long time for me to pay the bill and leave. The burger was good tasting and cooked as requested. It came with the bun and patty along with lettuce and tomato. The fries were the standard frozen out of bag but at least the second batch was hot. The food was ok but the service really lacked.

Omg! I've always been a fan of Busboy's but this was my first time back at the Monroe street location in a while. The food was great. The drinks were even better. And our guy Zach (our server) was so amazing! He made our experience even better than we'd hoped. He kept the drinks flowing, consistently checked on our table and provided great insight into the best options and deals. I'll definitely be returning. Such a cool vibe!

Had a great first experience here! Our server Zach was so kind and helpful! My food and service were a 10/10. Can't wait to come back!

Our server Zach went above and beyond to make our dining experience memorable. They were attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely kind. From the moment we sat down, they made us feel welcome and taken care of. Our drinks were always full, the timing of each course was perfect, and they even offered great recommendations. It's rare to find someone so professional and personable--this kind of service elevates the whole meal. We'll definitely be back

Our waiter made sure to visit our table often for our orders and in case we needed anything while eating, so that was nice. Unfortunately he did mess up my friend's fry order but that mistake was quickly fixed, so no harm there. I got the Mediterranean Lamb Burger and it was great to say the least. I would definitely order that again. The spices in the burger were good and the sweet potato fries complemented it well. I was not disappointed at all. I also love their signature DC Tapwater drink lol. The sour mix doesn't really disappoint.

As always my experience here was great! The staff is always so attentive from the greeters, wait staff, to the kitchen, any remaining staff with a purpose. My server was Sunshine and I must say she was a breath of fresh air. She was super attentive, and made sure that I was well taken care of with drinks, food, and humor. Let's not forget that it appears she had four or five tables. From what I could tell no one lacked 5 star less than five-star service! Thank you Sunshine!

Must stop by if you're in DC! We arrived too late to the restaurant so we didn't get to see the spoken word performance but we were able to indulge in their delicious food offerings! I love that this place has food for everyone dietary preference. I highly recommend visiting! Picture- vegan beef stir fry! It was delicious!

Minnah is a outstanding young lady who gave such good service from her attitude to her ability to not crack under pressure. Definitely will be back for her next shift !!!! - Carleton