Emma's Torch

Restaurant · Woodridge

Emma's Torch

Restaurant · Woodridge

2212 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC 20018

Highlights

At Emma's Torch, we offer a culinary experience unlike any other. Our kitchen and dining space are vibrant tapestries of global culture and tradition, brought to life by refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking from over 50 countries. This extraordinary diversity shapes not only our menu but also the very essence of our restaurant. Our dishes are more than just meals; they are stories of resilience, hope, and cultural celebration. Each recipe is a blend of our students' rich cultural heritage and the culinary expertise of our team. Dining with us is not just about enjoying a meal, it's about engaging in a global conversation, a unique exchange of flavors and stories from around the world. As our community of over 250 students and graduates continues to grow, so does our menu. It evolves as a learning platform for our students and a testament to the universal language of food that connects us all. When you choose to dine at Emma's Torch, you're not just selecting a restaurant; you're embarking on a culinary journey that supports, educates, and empowers. It's a dining experience that feeds the soul as much as it satisfies the palate.

2212 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC 20018 Get directions

emmastorch.org

$$ · Menu

@eater

"WOODRIDGE—Emma’s Torch, a breakfast and lunch spot on a mission to give refugees employment and culinary training opportunities, opened its latest cafe in D.C. on Wednesday, February 7." - Tierney Plumb

All the New February Restaurant Openings to Know About Around D.C. - Eater DC

View Postcard for Emma's Torch

@eater

"Restaurants such as Saint Julivert and Emma’s Torch — as well as colleagues in the dairy industry — have flocked to Instagram with tributes to the late cheesemonger." - Emma Orlow

Anne Saxelby, of Saxelby Cheesemongers, Dies at 40 - Eater NY

View Postcard for Emma's Torch

Dana T.

Yelp

The food was spot; price was a bit high but the entire experience was worth it. The salmon bagel was topped with thick pieces of salmon (pictured is only half the order) and the cream cheese tasted whipped (light and fluffy). The avocado toast was so flavorful on a small, thick slice of bread (sourdough?) and also had a spicy kick to it. The chai latte was not overpowering, smooth and tasty. We came on a rainy Saturday, and the ambiance was wonderful for brunch. Music level was appropriate, welcoming staff, and the herb propagator in the corner was a lovely touch. The space is small with 7 tables but plenty of seating as many customers took their orders to go. If dining indoors, the food comes on recycled throwaway plates. They ask that you "don't bus your dishes" as you're part of their culinary training program for students learning restaurant skills. Standout notes: eco friendly plates and cups! Diaper changing station in bathroom! Free water!

Austin G.

Yelp

Emma's Torch is more than a coffee shop. They employ refugees and asylees, providing culinary and employability training. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., some items on the menu are inspired by flavors from around the world- homemade chai, hawaij (a Yemeni spice blend) mocha, shakshuka, chai spiced donuts. There are open seats and WiFi. My little family of three went Sunday around 9 a.m. and there wasn't a wait despite a few other customers in the cafe. We ordered the donut, blueberry muffin, and banana bread. My wife got the hawaij mocha and I the latte. (They use Zeke's coffee beans.) Everything was great! Not loving sweet drinks, my wife really enjoyed the hawaij mocha. The cafe has water for everyone and restrooms.

Suzanne B.

Yelp

Love the mission which led us to try Emma's Torch - the art, the coziness and friendliness of the staff was so welcoming. The food was fresh and delicious. Lots of different choices with reasonable prices. The black eye pea fritter salad was unique with great flavor. Suggest - please use less wasteful plates, utensils, etc. Otherwise, love it!

Andrew B.

Yelp

Emma's Torch is a delightful café that serves espresso, snacks, breakfast, and lunch five days a week. Service is attentive and friendly, food is great, and the vibe is relaxed. Great place to either grab a quick bite or hang out with friends or work remotely.

Janet T.

Yelp

Had a breakfast bowl and some coffee. Reasonably priced. Nice atmosphere and good cause. Glad it is in the neighborhood.

A H.

Yelp

Amazing food and awesome purpose!!! Can't wait to return!!! We split the pancakes and another entree. Also had the amazing hot chocolate and brought home baked goods to our friend who couldn't join us. Everything was delicious!!!

Miranda B.

Yelp

everything that i ate here was really good. all of the staff was super friendly and helpful! would definitely recommend stopping by.

@eater

All the New February Restaurant Openings to Know About Around D.C. - Eater DC

View Postcard for Emma's Torch

@eater

"Restaurants such as Saint Julivert and Emma’s Torch — as well as colleagues in the dairy industry — have flocked to Instagram with tributes to the late cheesemonger." - Emma Orlow

Anne Saxelby, of Saxelby Cheesemongers, Dies at 40 - Eater NY

View Postcard for Emma's Torch

Dana T.

Yelp

Austin G.

Yelp

Suzanne B.

Yelp

Andrew B.

Yelp

Janet T.

Yelp

Had a breakfast bowl and some coffee. Reasonably priced. Nice atmosphere and good cause. Glad it is in the neighborhood.

A H.

Yelp

Miranda B.

Yelp

everything that i ate here was really good. all of the staff was super friendly and helpful! would definitely recommend stopping by.

Emma's Torch

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Highlights

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