The Lighthouse Cafe

Ladies and Gentlemen,
This is perhaps the only place in DC where you’ll get true espresso breve — not that diluted latte crap everyone else serves.
Espresso breve is simply that — espresso + breve (cream). It’s a Spanish style of espresso that tastes remarkable when served right. And it’s always served with a double-​shot. AND it’s never diluted with a glass of cream! Only a few drops!!!
Traditional espresso cafes (both in the US (well, basically Seattle, since there are no true espresso cafes on the East coast) and Europe) always serve this drink: it’s a staple to the menu.
Why is it so good here? Because it’s made by Italians!!! Right, the manager of Lighthouse is Italian, and who better to make an Italian drink?!
So bypass those other phony-​baloney «espresso cafes» that serve caramel-​lattes with sprinkles and orange peels (which honestly sounds like a coffee smoothie, right?) and call that concoction «breve».

How have I never noticed this cute, little shop before? I was told they have been here for 7 years!
On my way to a meeting in Georgetown, I dropped into this small café to grab a cup of something warm on a dreary Friday afternoon. When I say that this shop is «small,» I mean just enough room to fit a line of about 3 – 4 people small.
But as I said, it was cute and they offered a variety of teas, coffees, smoothies, beverages and even a few baked goods.
The gentleman at the counter that seems to either manage or own the tiny shop is extremely friendly and engaging, making the experience all the more pleasant.
I would give the overall experience a 3.5 rating. The service, prices and coffee quality were great, but this is definitely a grab and go spot, perfect for a quick fill up — so don’t pull out that laptop!