The place is much nicer than Google Maps makes it seem due to the elaborate closing-up practices at the restaurant next door. It is basically a take-out place with coffee, espresso drinks, bagels, and other baked goods. We got Breakfast there a few times during our stay in DC.
Cute little spot with friendly service and a convenient location. Parking was a little tricky but the coffee was really good and the girls working the counter were friendly and efficient. Egg, bacon bagel was exactly the fuel I required.
I like Sylvan Café but am frustrated they're not always open on time.
Quick service. Reasonable prices. Good design. Okay staff.
I love this place! It's a small business with a calm, pleasant atmosphere, a big menu, and a kind + quick staff. The space itself is fantastic as well - there's a nice seating area with big tables and window seats, a piano by the counter that anyone is allowed to play, and a cool marquee sign out front! I love working in this cozy cafe on cold and rainy mornings.I spent a few months living in DC, and while I was there, I made it my mission to find the best lox bagel. I've visited a LOT of DC bagelries in my day (including CYM), and Sylvan Cafe was my favorite of all of them. (You can trust my judgement; I'm Jewish.) The bagels are toasty and well-seasoned - I always get an everything bagel, and they don't skimp on the seeds. The fish is fresh, the fixins are neatly-stacked, and the ratio of lox:vegetables:cream cheese was just right for me. I've been back a few times, and the quality is consistently high. If lox bagels aren't your thing, there's a wide variety of sandwiches, paninis, pastries, and Ethiopian veggies for you to try instead! This place has something for everyone. It's perfect for all of your breakfast/brunch/lunch/snack needs, and is a wonderful local business to support!
Good to be here drinking a coffee ☕️!
Food is solid takeaway for something simple, quick and well priced. It’s not turning any heads but I will definitely frequent this lovely neighborhood cafe.
Great little Cafe with tasty sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. You can work in the back as well and the staff are super kind!
wonderful bagels n great coffee (they have ethiopian espresso too) good option for a nice NJ bagel.
Poor service. The cashier was on her phone and didn’t even greet me when I entered the establishment. The bagels are mediocre at best. There are much better places in the area such as Big Bear Cafe.