Busboys and Poets 14th & V

Busboys and Poets 14th & V is a restaurant, bookstore and event space at 2021 14th St NW in the U Street and 14th Street area of Washington, D.C., United States. The venue was conceived as a community gathering place, combining a restaurant and cafe with a bookstore and a programme of readings, discussions and live events. The cuisine is American with global influences, and the signature items include burgers, vegetarian plates and brunch dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed, bookish and community-minded, with art on the walls, a mix of tables and lounge seating, and a moderate noise level that rises during events. Dress is casual and the venue suits solo diners with a book as well as groups. The beverage programme includes coffee, tea, beer, wine and cocktails. Prices are in the $$ tier. Reservations are not required for small parties, but visitors can call +1-202-387-7638 to ask about larger groups, and it is wise to check the event calendar at busboysandpoets.com since programmed evenings can fill the main room. Listings show daily service from about 8am or 9am to 10pm, with later hours on Friday and Saturday, so confirming by phone is advisable. Weekend brunch and evening events are the busiest times, and weekday mornings and afternoons are the quietest, which suits visitors who want to browse the bookstore or work from the cafe. The location is on 14th Street, near the U Street corridor with its theatres, music venues and murals, and within walking distance of the U Street metro station. The restaurant is useful for vegetarian and vegan travellers because of the number of plant-based options on the menu, and it offers a broad enough menu for mixed groups.