Starbucks is so “been there, done that.” Here are three alternative D.C. java huts with some extra flavor!

Soho Tea and Coffee in Dupont Circle

Sure you can order a cup of coffee or a skim latte at Soho but only if you want to be deemed a bore. Who can resist a fancy beverage called the “Hello Gorgeous Macchiato,” or the “Bahama Mama?” From the names of the beverages to the employees to the ambiance, everything about this café is funky and fresh.  The decorations are as eclectic as the crowd; the walls are covered in pictures of clowns, giraffes, dogs, and various Betty Boops. Feel free to stay well into the night. This spot stays open till 2 am on weekends.

Tryst in Adams Morgan

You’ve got to love a coffee spot with the slogan “No corporate coffee, no matching silverware.” Discovering Tryst is basically hitting the trifecta; it’s a coffeehouse, bar and lounge all rolled up in one neat little, heavenly scented package. I went there on a rainy Sunday, expecting that the weather would make for a sparse crowd but even torrential downpours can’t keep the loyal customers away. Though space is large, it’s warm orange and brown hues and plush couches make it cozy as ever.  Extra bonus? My latte came with two animal crackers on the side.

Bourbon Coffee in West End

At Bourbon Coffee, you can always caffeinate with a clear conscious. The coffee shop prides itself on its core values: Quality, Equality, Sustainability, and Cultural Integrity. Bourbon promises to “return higher prices to community farmers than conventional coffee traders” and works to supply bikes to farmers in rural areas in Africa.  Talk about multitasking! Earn a few extra karma points while sipping on a seriously delicious cup o’ joe.