Sova: coffee shop by day, wine bar by night
Finding good coffee in D.C. one cup at a time
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Even if you’ve dismissed H Street’s plethora of bars due to their inaccessible location, there’s one reason to reconsider a trip to the neighborhood: Sova. Coffee shop by day, wine bar by night, the locally owned hangout is the perfect spot for a strong drink (caffeinated, alcoholic, or otherwise) and a bit of relaxation.
The coffee
The downstairs portion of the building where Sova is housed is dedicated to coffee, tea, and other café items. Usually manned by a single barista, service is on the slow side, but it’s worth the wait to ensure a well-brewed beverage. The espresso and coffee are prepared with Intelligentsia, a green roaster that has earned acclaim for purchasing its beans from recommended importers or directly from the growers themselves. The company’s dedication to both environmental awareness and quality is evident in the aromatic roasts and strong flavors, making it a perfect choice for world-savers and flavor-seekers alike. For a less caffeinated alternative, Sova also serves Rishi Tea—a winner at the World Tea Expo—which features a range of savory and exotic blends.
The food
Sova’s edibles accommodate the shop’s range of daily patrons. Muffins, croissants, and bagels are on hand (with all the usual toppings, including mini packages of Nutella), but there’s also a substantial range of sandwiches and soups, accompanied by a side salad or couscous, for later diners. Even straightforward options, such as the Mediterranean tuna sandwich, are prepared with a medley of fresh ingredients and seasonings to give it a tastier sophistication.
The atmosphere
The space is separated into several different areas divided between two floors, offering different nooks and environments for visitors of all inclinations. Downstairs tends to be busier with people bustling in and out, but the upstairs is dimly lit with eclectic furniture—velvet couches, heavy tables, vintage carpets—with one room dedicated to the wine and cocktail bar and the other functioning as more of a living room. Consistent with the neighborhood’s growing arts scene, Sova also has an artistic range with regular live music (from DJs to jazz to acoustic bands) and event gatherings for different speakers or causes.
