Busboys and Poets is a community meeting place, and a café and restaurant, which boasts not only a great menu but also a space for curated events, such as poetry and literary nights, open mic nights, and special music events. They’ve had their doors open since 2005, and since that time they’ve made sure to entrench social causes in their business. If you’re not sure where to start, you can even check their book stores that they have on-location.
In terms of food options, they have multiple options. A breakfast menu, lunch menu, desserts and teas, and even a kid’s menu are on offer from their kitchens. They have a number of options which are vegetarian, some which are vegan, and for those with dietary requirements they also have gluten-free options.
They don’t just incorporate social justice and the arts into their business – they have a solid sustainability record in their business practises. Their oil is recycled for biofuel, and they also make a point to recycle their paper, plastic, glass, and aluminium. Their disposable items are made from recycled and compostable materials, and their food and drink is sourced from sustainable, fair trade, and organic sources. Even their wine and beer is vegan, and their meat is 100% hormone-free. The sustainability even extends to the salads – their salad greens are often sourced from organically-grown local farms.
Looking to try out their food? You can find locations on 14 th & V, 450 K St, Brookland, Takoma, Anacostia, Hyattsville, and Shirlington. Their original store (and biggest bookstore) is on 14 th & V, which opened in 2005. Other stores opened later, first with the 450 K store, and Brookland in 2016 on New Year’s eve as their newest store. This chain is worth trying if you want to not only enjoy delicious food, but also feel part of a community of likeminded people who value social issues and sustainability.
