Busboys & Poets

Busboys and Poets ($$) is one of the must-sees in all of the D.C. tour books, so I thought I would give it a try to see what all of the fuss was about. This U St. restaurant is known for its clientele of writers and artists. There is a book store in the restaurant, with books pertaining to black history and culture. The restaurant is surprisingly spacious. There is a stage in the back of the restaurant where poets, authors, and musicians read or perform.

Hot Chocolate

Now for the good part..the food! I ordered a mixed green salad with poached pear, caramelized onions, pecans, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It was delicious! I would definitely order it again. My only critique is that it was over-dressed, so maybe next time I will order the dressing on the side.

Poached Pear Salad with Goat Cheese, Pecans, Caramelized Onions, & Balsamic Vinaigrette

A friend ordered the Oaxaca Omelet, with black beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and guacamole. It looked very appetizing! Next time I visit, I want to try the avocado and havarti cheese panini or the peanut butter and banana with agave nectar sandwich. Agave nectar is one of my new favorites- it is similar to honey, but even better!

Busboys & Poets is an eclectic hang out spot that is definitely worth stopping by, whether it is for a coffee, a book reading, or a complete meal.

Try Tryst!

Hello again! Bella Bites is back!

The first post of the semester is of one of my regular coffee houses in Adams Morgan, Tryst ($). Think of Central Perk, from the TV sitcom Friends, but even better- with breakfast all day! The ambiance and set-up of the restaurant is the best part because of the big comfy chairs and couches. The only catch is that it is impossible to get a seat! Despite the informal array of chairs, Tryst is still a full-service café with table side waiters and all.

Granola with Fresh Berries & Milk (*also offered with yogurt)

Tryst offers a variety of pastries and quality coffee drinks. They also have waffles, bagels, salads, and sandwiches (including my favorite- the Chicken Salad Sandwich with apples and walnuts). They have fun small plates, including strawberries with nutella and apples with caramel sauce.

Last time I went, I ordered the waffle. Be warned, Tryst does not serve real maple syrup! This was a deal breaker for me so I do not think I will order the waffle again. The granola was tasty and served with strawberries and blueberries.

Waffle with Fresh Berries, Whipped Cream, and Maple Syrup

Tryst is a great place to meet your friends for coffee and a snack. Go on off hours so you do not have trouble finding a seat!