Urban Roast
Restaurant · Downtown ·
Coffee, cocktails, eclectic international fare, and patio seating
Coffee, cocktails, eclectic international fare, and patio seating
"Pandemic‑born in Penn Quarter, this original has become a favorite for Buffalo chicken dip, house‑infused sangria, and head‑to‑toe holiday takeovers spanning everything from Valentine’s Day to Christmas." - Tierney Plumb
"This pandemic-born project for Penn Quarter offers a whirlwind of all-day options for coffees, sangrias, cocktails, and espresso martinis, plus a menu full of starters (the Buffalo chicken dip is a must), sandwiches, soups, salads, and fancier surf-and-turf mains. The brand is also en route to the Wharf." - Tierney Plumb
"Occasionally that ridiculous flowers and neon sign thing works, and Urban Roast is proof of this theory. The American cafe off of 9th St. is split into three sections: The main dining room, an intimate white-flower-covered alcove, and the coffee bar. The alcove feels a little like you’re in a room decorated by President Snow, but it’s our favorite place to eat here, especially if it’s date night. There’s also a small patio along 9th St. if you’re in the mood to sit outside, and fire pits that can be lit if it’s chilly. Split the spinach and artichoke dip, which is cheesy and actually full of both ingredients—no skimping here. And grab the caprese sandwich, served on a soft onion brioche bread with crisp, fresh mozzarella, tomato, and greens smothered in a balsamic vinaigrette." - tristiana hinton
"The family behind Zooz also operates Urban Roast DC, a popular Penn Quarter café and sangria bar known for over-the-top decor that changes with the seasons; they plan to open a second, family-friendly location next to Zooz in 2025 that will emphasize brunch and espresso martinis and include a sizable 1,000-square-foot patio suited for wintertime bonfires and seasonal gingerbread service." - Tierney Plumb
"The holiday party-starters at Urban Roast are at it again, covering every inch of its Penn Quarter cafe with Christmas trees, oversized ornaments, Santas, candy cane ceilings, faux snow, and tinsel. Themed cocktails include a s’mores martini topped with a torched marshmallow." - Vinciane Ngomsi