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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia · Specialty Coffee Brand Deep Dive

The Coffee Bar

Editorial sacred-geometry artwork for The Coffee Bar; not a documentary photograph
IndependentNamed roasting partner: The Coffee Bar acts as a multi-roaster cafe and does not roast its own beans; they rotate selections from various national roasters such as Ceremony Coffee Roasters, Onyx Coffee Lab, and Verve Coffee Roasters.Sourcing: Limited public info
TagsThe Coffee BarDistrict of Columbia coffee roastersCosta RicaIndependent
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The Coffee Bar (TCB) is a highly respected, independent multi-roaster cafe founded by D.C. native Cait Lowry in 2012. Operating out of historic locations in the Shaw and Golden Triangle neighborhoods, the brand serves as a curated platform for high-end coffees sourced from acclaimed roasters across the United States. By prioritizing a social, bohemian atmosphere over the traditional quiet coffee shop aesthetic, TCB has established itself as a vital community hub for locals and creatives. The brand is defined by its commitment to coffee education, expert barista craftsmanship, and a rotating selection of seasonal offerings that highlight diverse global origins.

Ownership
The Coffee Bar is an independent, locally-owned business founded by Cait Lowry.
Founded
2012
Roasting
Named roasting partner: The Coffee Bar acts as a multi-roaster cafe and does not roast its own beans; they rotate selections from various national roasters such as Ceremony Coffee Roasters, Onyx Coffee Lab, and Verve Coffee Roasters.. Other roasting arrangements are unverified.
What it's known for
The Coffee Bar is widely recognized as one of Washington, D.C.'s premier multi-roaster cafes, celebrated for its "choose-your-own-adventure" espresso program, rotating seasonal pour-overs, and a welcoming, bohemian atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood living room.
Sourcing countries
Costa Rica
Farm-level sourcing
As a multi-roaster cafe, The Coffee Bar curates a rotating selection of coffees from different roasters across the United States. While they emphasize partnerships with roasters that prioritize fair or direct trade, the brand does not maintain its own farm-level sourcing program or publish individual farm/producer names on its own platform.
Notable coffees
  • — Onyx Coffee Lab Costa Rica
Verify original product sources

Retailer information: The Coffee Bar

Documented physical retailers
The Coffee Bar (Shaw)
Historical source note (not live inventory): Operates as a multi-roaster cafe serving coffee and espresso drinks at 1201 S St NW.
Physical
The Coffee Bar (Downtown)
Historical source note (not live inventory): Operates as a multi-roaster cafe serving coffee and espresso drinks at 1200 17th St NW.
Physical

The Coffee Bar is a multi-roaster cafe that serves coffee from various specialty roasters rather than roasting its own beans; therefore, it does not have its own branded coffee retail line or an online shop for selling bags of coffee.

These references come from public store locators, retailer listings and brand materials — last checked Oct 11, 2026. They are research links, not proof of current stock or a buying recommendation. Verify availability, price and location directly with the source.
In the news

Recent news and media coverage about The Coffee Bar, as documented by outside outlets. We link to the original reporting and do not rewrite or endorse it.

2026-07-09 · Sprudge
Seven Great Independent Cafes In Washington, DC For 2026

The Coffee Bar was featured in a list of seven notable independent cafes in Washington, D.C. The coverage highlights the shop's diverse menu, which includes black coffee on tap and an ever-changing seasonal selection.

Sources used in this deep dive
Research disclosure — this profile was compiled from public online sources on 2026-10-03. This company overview is not a tasting review. Original tasting reviews are labeled separately when they exist. Ownership, roasting and sourcing details are attributed to documented sources. I could not verify any specific, formal philanthropy or charitable giving programs published by the brand.

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