Cafe Reviews/Washington/Compass Coffee

Compass Coffee

1535 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Reviewed by Chris JordanMay 2025

Location

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Overall Score Score: 8.6 out of 10
8.6
Overall Score
Coffee Score: 8.7 out of 10
8.7
Coffee
Atmosphere Score: 8.6 out of 10
8.6
Atmosphere
Service Score: 8.5 out of 10
8.5
Service
Food Score: 8.9 out of 10
8.9
Food
Vibe Score8.0 / 10

The Story

Compass Coffee was founded in Washington, DC with a mission to make people’s days better through simple, real good coffee. Since opening their original Shaw location, they’ve become a symbol of local pride, growing steadily while maintaining a strong commitment to quality and community. Their focus on transparency and traceability has set a new standard for local roasters. Compass actively supports local events and initiatives, reflecting a broader vision of positive urban impact.

Craft & Expertise

At Compass Coffee, every cup is brewed with precision, from their signature blends to single-origin offerings. The baristas are knowledgeable and approachable, eager to share recommendations or explain their meticulous brewing process. Seasonal specials like the Honey Lavender Latte and nitro cold brew stand out for their balance and creativity. A thoughtfully curated pastry selection complements the drinks, with ample seating for both solo work and group gatherings. Drinks are served in sturdy, attractive mugs for dine-in or eco-friendly to-go cups.

What Sets This Cafe Apart

What truly sets Compass Coffee apart is its deep-rooted connection to the local community and steadfast focus on approachability. The cafe’s open, airy layout and cheerful energy make it equally suited for casual meetups or productive work mornings. Their dedication to traceable, ethically sourced beans is matched by a uniquely transparent roasting process, with much of the roasting happening right on site. Compass is memorable for making specialty coffee feel genuinely accessible without sacrificing quality.