WHERE
TO SHOP.
While the boycott is ongoing, it is important to continue supporting the Black-owned and allied businesses that have benefited from Target’s now defunct DEI programs.
Below is a list of Black-owned companies with products in Target as well as businesses that support a Free DC with links to their websites below:
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Afro Unicorn
The brand has skyrocketed onto the scene with 25 categories, from apparel and accessories to toys, puzzles, books, bedding, bandages, backpacks, collectibles, and more to inspire and remind women and children of color how unique, divine and magical we truly are. With the May 2022 Walmart launch, April Showers’ Afro Unicorn® brand is a true pioneer - the first female, Black-owned business to own a licensed character brand in major retail. The Afro Unicorn®️ brand can be found in Target, Kohl's, Amazon, JCPenney, HomeGoods, NovaKids, and more than 3800 Walmart stores nationwide in many categories.
All Purpose StudioWhere: 1445 Constitution Ave NE, allprps.co
When to visit: Friday 1-6pm, Saturday 12-6pm
What you’ll find: A circular lifestyle studio and community
Why we love them: They have a wide variety of unique vintage clothing and home decor.Amaranth Costume DesignWhere: amaranthcostumes.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Sustainable fantasy and historical-based costuming.
Why we love them: Committed to inclusive clothing, all pieces are designed and made right in DC.Analog
Where: The Arts Walk, 716 Monroe St NE Unit 5, shopanalog.com
When to visit: Fridays 3–7pm, Saturdays 10am–4pm, Sundays 12–4pm, or anytime online
What you’ll find: An independent boutique and workshop, featuring handmade paper goods, vintage clothing and accessories, and home goods.
Why we love them: Unique cards and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Shop owner Melissa played “post office” as a child and still loves connecting with customers that share her joy of paper letters, cards, and mail as a creative way to connect with others.Because Science
Where: 1759 Columbia Rd NW, becausesciencedc.com
When to visit: Sunday-Thursday 12-6pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-7pm
What you’ll find: A gift shop that celebrates the intersection of art and science, offering unique, often handmade items like jewelry, art, and home decor, with a specialty in upcycled circuit board creations from their "Circuit Breaker Labs" collection.
Why we love them: Great variety of cute items and science themed books, kits, and more for all ages. You won’t find it elsewhere in DC!The Big Bad Woof
Where: 6960 Maple St NW, thebigbadwoof.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 9am–7pm, Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Food, treats, and supplies for your dog, cat, bird, fish, goat, horse, or other non-human family member.
Why we love them: As a DC Benefit Corporation, they support local makers and producers, focus on sustainability, and reduce transport costs and their carbon “pawprint.” 100 solar panels on the roof power all the store's freezers!Bol Coop BookstoreWhere: 716 Monroe St NE, Studio #11, bol.coop
When to visit: Thursday–Friday 4–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–3pm
What you’ll find: Curated, diverse, unique books, community, and events.
Why we love them: They are the first worker-owned cafe, bookstore, and event space in DC. They encourage community and solidarity for social change.Bold Alley
Where: 5008 Connecticut Ave NW, boldalley.com
When to visit: Always online, pop-up through the 24th. Check their website for details.
What you’ll find: A home goods pop-up store with curated vintage and modern pieces.
Why we love them: Proudly women-owned and based in DC, Bold Alley is there to “elevate your space.”Bold Fork Books
Where: 3064 Mount Pleasant St NW, boldforkbooks.com
When to visit: Monday-Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
What you’ll find: DC's only dedicated culinary bookstore
Why we love them: Owned by a couple who used to work in the DC restaurant industry, this cookbook shop has a wide selection plus regular events, including a “cookbook club” where everyone cooks a dish from the same cookbook and then gathers at the store to share their food and discuss the book.Camp Wonderland
Where: camp-wonderland.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: A jewelry and handcrafted fashion business
Why we love them: Cute jewels that have been worn by Chappell Roan! You can shop by item or vibe and Ellie also does customs.Canino Dog Boutique
Where: 1409 Belmont St NW, caninoboutique.com
When to visit: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm & 4-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 10:30am-4:30pm
What you’ll find: A queer-, Latina-, immigrant-, and woman-owned dog boutique in DC that curates high-quality, health-forward products from mostly small, independent brands.
Why we love them: They’re passionate about helping dogs live longer, healthier lives while supporting fellow small businesses and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community.Clothes Encounters
Where: 202 7th St SE, clothesencountersdc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 12–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–3:30pm
What you’ll find: Women’s consignment clothing
Why we love them: Love this place! Less expensive than some of DC’s consignment stores and always packed to the brim with great stuff. They’ve been around since the 1970s!District Cutlery Where: 1309 5th St NE, districtcutlery.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: From home kitchens to Michelin-starred restaurants, you can find a knife that works for you and keep it sharpened to perfection.
Why we love them: A veteran-owned family business, the two brothers who run this store help keep DC sharp.
East City Bookshop
Where: 645 Pennsylvania Ave SE, eastcitybookshop.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday 10am–7pm, Sunday 11am–6pm
What you’ll find: Neighborhood independent bookstore
Why we love them: Lovely staff, cute gifts, in-store events, and if they don’t have a book in stock they’ll order it for you. We kind of want to live in this store.Fantom Comics
Where: 2010 P St NW 2nd Floor, fantomcomics.com
When to visit: Tuesday-Sunday 11am-6pm
What you’ll find: A comic book & games store selling all kinds of graphic novels, manga, zines, and nerd culture stuff that also hosts events nearly every night of the month-art workshops, book clubs, gaming tournaments, fundraisers, etc., and aim to serve as a third space building community in DC.
Why we love them: Very friendly customer service, and they’re always featuring diverse comics and creators.Femme FataleWhere: 3409 Connecticut Ave NW, femmefataledc.com
When to visit: 11am–6pm, plus events
What you’ll find: Art, clothing, jewelry, housewares, and gifts, plus community events in their beautiful space.
Why we love them: Dozens of creatives coming together to sell their wares!Foxprint Cards
Where: instagram.com/foxprintcards, etsy.com/shop/FoxprintCards
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Handmade linocut cards, art prints, and ceramics.
Why we love them: Over the years, they’ve donated thousands of dollars in proceeds to community groups advancing LGBTQIA+ rights, indigenous and Black-led social movements, humanitarian aid, abortion access, and more. In 2025-2026, 20% of proceeds will go to Khartoum Aid Kitchen, ColectiVA, Trans Justice Funding Project, and Palestine Children's Relief Fund.Fresh Pear
Where: freshpearjewelry.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Bold earrings for bold humans.
Why we love them: Alicia works expertly with polymer clay to create cool, colorful earrings and accessories.Greenthinker Zero Waste Store
Where: 7006 Carroll Ave, Takoma Park, MD, greenthinkerdc.org
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–6pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–7pm, Sunday 10am–4pm
What you’ll find: A shop offering refill soaps, detergents, and other eco-friendly products.
Why we love them: They are one of the only resources like this in the DMV.Groovy dc Cards & GiftsWhere: 321 7th St SE, groovydc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–6pm, Saturday 10am–4pm, Sunday 11am–4pm
What you’ll find: A staple in Eastern Market for over 18 years, Groovy dc has a wide selection of cards, gifts, and party supplies. They sell unique cards from small, independent companies.
Why we love them: They take pride in highlighting and supporting local artists and small stationery and gift companies.Grounded
Where: 1913 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, feelgrounded.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 7:30am–7pm, Saturday 8am–7pm, Sunday 8am–6pm
What you’ll find: Where "plant care meets self care"—Grounded is a biophilic wellness studio, café, and plant shop designed to reconnect you with nature and yourself.
Why we love them: Serene a verdant setting for coffee, tea, pastries and patties that sells house plants labeled for beginners and experts alike. Ask about the yoga studios in the back!Hill’s Kitchen
Where: 713 D St SE, hillskitchen.com
When to visit: Tuesday-Friday 11am-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
What you’ll find: A small gourmet kitchenware store that sells everything one might need for their home kitchens, as well as tools for professional chefs and food service members. They also offer food-related programming such as author talks and workshops, and are working very hard to begin to offer cooking classes for all skill levels.
Why we love them: Restaurant industry experts with really helpful tips on what to buy.iconsDC
Where: iconsdc.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: From posters to prints to stationery, icons DC is an online retail hub of fine DC-themed gifts.
Why we love them: They are proud members of the Made in DC Program, Museum Store Association, DestinationDC, and the DC Makers Guild.ImSoDC
Where: 508 H St NE, imsodconline.com
When to visit: Wednesday-Saturday 12-7pm, Sunday 12-5pm
What you’ll find: Urban clothing apparel brand that recognizes all DC residents as Natives no matter how long you've resided in DC.
Why we love them: They’re huge DC boosters and have an entire basement with vintage clothing.Labyrinth Games & PuzzlesWhere: 645 Pennsylvania Ave SE, labyrinthdc.com
When to visit: Monday 12–7pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 11am–10pm; Wednesday 11am–9pm; Saturday–Sunday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: All the games and puzzles you could want, for both kids and adults!
Why we love them: They host gaming meetups, they’re active in the community, and they donate to DC schools.Little District Books
Where: 631 Pennsylvania Ave SE, littledistrictbooks.com
When to visit: Tuesday-Friday 11am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 11am-6pm
What you’ll find: An LGBTQIA+ Specialty Independent Bookshop
Why we love them: D.C.’s only queer bookstore as of April 2026.Loyalty Bookstores
Where: 4203 9th St NW, loyaltybookstores.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday 10am–7pm, Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Loyalty Bookstores centers diverse voices across literature for all ages as well as gifts and programming centered on our community!
Why we love them: They are Black, queer, and Asian-owned. Through the 2025 holidays, they’ve also partnered with The DC Pop Up at Walter Reed for an additional location.Mayapple Soaps
Where: Brookland Farmers Market, 716 Monroe St NE, mayapplesoaps.com
When to visit: Check website for farmers market dates
What you’ll find: Soaps, salves, and related products made from natural ingredients.
Why we love them: Amanda grows or forages for many of her ingredients and makes the products in her solar-powered kitchen in Brookland.Merry PinWhere: 7350 Georgia Ave NW, merrypindc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Saturday 8am–9pm, Sunday 10am–5pm
What you’ll find: Art and craft supplies, seasonal décor, a café, bar, and community space.
Why we love them: Open crafting every day to help you unleash your creativity or work on your latest masterpiece.People’s Book
Where: 7014 Westmoreland Ave Suite A, Takoma Park, MD, peoplesbooktakoma.com
When to visit: Monday–Sunday 9am–8pm
What you’ll find: With over 15,000 new books, this indie bookstore offers stories for readers of all ages.
Why we love them: The store is super charming, well-organized, and has super personable and knowledgeable booksellers ready for your questions and recommendations. Grab a drip coffee or kombucha from the front, take a long browse, and soak in the vibes.Pots & Plants
Where: 10106 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA, pots-n-plants.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm, Sunday 9am–5pm
What you’ll find: Garden center, landscape design, architectural elements design.
Why we love them: A one-stop shop for all your outdoor—and indoor—needs.Solid State BooksWhere: 600F H St NE and 1809 14th St NW, solidstatebooksdc.com
When to visit: H St: Monday–Friday 10am–9pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–9pm; 14th St: Monday–Saturday 10am–9pm, Sunday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: Books! A café. Great community vibes. Merch and gift cards are also available.
Why we love them: Black-owned bookstore with an amazing selection and a strong supporter of DC statehood. Check out their statehood t-shirt designs!Spin Time Records
Where: 613 Pennsylvania Ave SE 2nd Floor, spintimerecords.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–5pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–6pm
What you’ll find: Specialized, curated record store in Capitol Hill.
Why we love them: Want to support the local music scene? Heard a great band and want more? This place has got you covered with a comprehensive catalog featuring the work of our local musicians. With their knowledgeable staff and wide selection, it’s easy to find the sound you love or discover your new favorite artist!Tiny Vinyl
Where: 2501 Champlain St NW, tinyvinylshop.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 4–7pm, Friday–Saturday 12–8pm Sunday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: Record shop in the heart of Adams-Morgan off of Columbia Road.
Why we love them: Investing in physical media is an excellent way to divest from the corporations that harm our community. Come to Tiny Vinyl for a big selection of vinyl, CDs, and cassette tapes for affordable prices.
Woven History & Silk RoadWhere: 315 7th St SE, wovenhistory.com
When to visit: Wednesday–Sunday 11am–5pm
What you’ll find: Beautiful rugs and weavings from around the world.Why we love them: This family-owned business has been in Eastern Market since 1986.
Little Muffincakes
When we surround Black & Brown babies with faces that look like them, we can inspire confidence, create authentic joy and empower the freedom to play. Babies absorb the world around them from their earliest moments. So, swaddle your babies in affirmations and snuggle up with possibilities. A life filled with joy and pride awaits.
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As You Are
Where: 500 8th St SE, asyouaredc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 12pm–12am, Friday–Saturday 12pm–3am, Sunday 12pm–12pm
What you’ll find: Queer cafe & bar.
Why we love them: They pride themselves on being a safe space, have a full menu, and host great events.Cafe U
Where: 1017 U St NW
When to visit: Monday–Friday 7am–5pm
What you’ll find: Coffee shop on U Street, serving coffee, juice, and bagels.
Why we love them: A great place for breakfast and coffee. Word is that they have an amazing mocha.Chinatown Liquor
Where: 602 H St NW
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 11am–9pm, Thursday–Saturday 11am–10pm, Sunday 12–8pm
What you’ll find: Friendly service and a well-stocked store.
Why we love them: A variety of beer, wine, and liquor convenient to downtown and metro-accessible.Creative Grounds
Where: 1822 N Capitol St NW, creativegroundsdc.com
When to visit: Monday-Saturday 7:30am-5pm; Sunday 8am-5pm
What you’ll find: Cafe and creative arts space. Both indoor and outdoor seating.
Why we love them: They host special events and diverse vendors and artists, featuring an ever-changing selection of art for sale on their walls. For years, they rented space to DC’s first bookstore cooperative. Black woman-owned.Domestique Wine
Where: 10 Florida Ave NW, domestiquewine.com
When to visit: Tuesday-Friday 12-8pm, Saturday 11am-8pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
What you’ll find: A neighborhood natural wine shop sharing wines from thoughtful, dynamic producers from the U.S. and across the world.
Why we love them: Helpful selection advice, either in-person or on their website. Go get educated about some natural wine!Ellē
Where: 3221 Mt Pleasant St NW, eatatelle.com
When to visit: Sunday-Monday, 8am-3pm, Tuesday-Saturday, 8am-9pm
What you’ll find: A coffee shop, bakery, restaurant, and bar all under one roof
Why we love them: Delicious coffee & pastries, inventive cocktails, and award-winning food serviceEveryday Sundae
Where: 713 Kennedy St NW, everydaysundaedc.com
When to visit: Wednesday–Sunday 3–9pm
What you’ll find: Ice cream shop.
Why we love them: Owned by a former executive chef who’s been living in the neighborhood since the early ‘90s, this eatery gives back to the community through their Scoop Fund.Fat Pete's BBQ
Where: 3407 Connecticut Ave NW, fatpetesbbq.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11:30am–10pm
What you’ll find: Lip-smacking, finger-licking NC-style barbecue and sides available in the restaurant or via a catering or takeout order.
Why we love them: The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff!Granville Moore's Brickyard
Where: 1248 H St NE
When to visit: Thursday–Monday 5–9pm, happy hour 5–6:30pm
What you’ll find: Belgian moules frites and Belgian beer.
Why we love them: Food & Beer happy hour and a kids happy hour! Did you hear us say Belgian beer and moules frites?Gray’s Market
Where: 3306 Georgia Ave NW
When to visit: Sunday, 7 AM–12 AM, Monday–Friday 7am–11pm, Saturday 10am–11pm
What you’ll find: Convenience store
Why we love them: Friendly convenience store with great service run by “Mr. Gray”.Greens & Beans Grocery Co-op
Where: Logan Circle neighborhood; Inquire online --> greensandbeansgrocery.comWhen to visit: They meet on Sundays.
What you’ll find: A membership-based grocery purchasing co-operative.
Why we love them: Very affordable membership!Haydee's Restaurant
Where: 3102 Mount Pleasant St NW, haydees.com
When to visit: Sunday 6pm-1:30am, Tuesday-Thursday 6:30pm-1:30am, Friday-Saturday 6:30pm-2:30am
What you’ll find: Salvadoran family owned karaoke bar and grill.
Why we love them: They’ve served the community for over thirty years and host regular live music and karaoke events.Hayden’s LiquorsWhere: 700 North Carolina Ave SE
When to visit: Monday 3–8:30pm, Tuesday–Saturday 12–8:30pm, Sunday 1–5pm
What you’ll find: Cozy and convenient to Capitol Hill, they carry local and national brands of liquor, beer, and wine.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of a Free DC!Imperial Wine and SpiritsWhere: 620 12th St NW, dcimperial.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: A wide selection of options for your next dinner with friends, with staff who can guide you toward choices that fit your preferences and budget.
Why we love them: Centrally located near the White House, this small business carries a full range of liquor, wine, and beer—and they ship!Italian Pizza Kitchen
Where: 4483 Connecticut Ave NW, ipkfamily.com
When to visit: Every day 11am–10pm
What you’ll find: Italian pizza and pasta restaurant, with dine-in and delivery service.
Why we love them: In warmer weather their patio is often packed with locals and families enjoying Italian cuisine.IYMA Daily Essentials
Where: 400 Kennedy St NW, instagram.com/iymadedc
When to visit: Sunday 8 am–7 pm, Monday-Saturday 8 am–9 pm
What you’ll find: Organic supermarket
Why we love them: Straight from a customer review: “Great little selection of fresh produce and dry grocery items, both organic and conventional. I was super pleased to find gluten-free products and several of my Whole Foods staples. Will definitely be back often!”Izakaya Seki
Where: 1117 V St NW
When to visit: Tuesday–Sunday 5–9pm
What you’ll find: Fresh Japanese dishes and a wide, curated selection of sakes and wines.
Why we love them: There’s always something new to try at this family-owned spot located in a converted rowhouse. Check out their hand-illustrated daily menu for ever-changing specials, including seasonal sashimi.Kitchen Savages
Where: 1211 Marion Barry Ave SE, kitchensavagesdc.com
When to Visit: Tuesday–Friday 3–10pm, Saturday–Sunday 12–10 pm
What you’ll find: A casual Black-owned eatery and bar, featuring a menu of outstanding classic comfort fare, cocktails, and exceptional service.
Why we love them: They serve their creations with a powerful mission "to use every dish we serve as a bridge to connect underserved communities, empower at-risk young adults, and deliver exceptional service."La Tejana
Where: 3211 Mt Pleasant St NW, latejanadc.com
When to visit: Wednesday–Saturday 7:30am–1pm and 5–10pm. Sunday 7:30am–1pm
What you’ll find: An award-winning, Rio Grande Valley-inspired breakfast taco shop by day and cocktail bar by night.
Why we love them: Some of the tastiest tex-mex you will find in all of the District. Try their breakfast tacos, they truly speak for themselves.
Lazy Bones PizzaWhere: 2801 8th St NE, lazybonespizza.com
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 5–10pm, Thursday 5–11pm, Friday–Saturday 4–11pm, Sunday 4–10pm
What you’ll find: A pizza business working out of Dew Drop Inn.
Why we love them: They make fresh and tasty pizza in a vibey location.Le Pain Quotidien at Eastern Market Where: 660 Pennsylvania Ave SE
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday and Friday 6:30am–6pm, Thursday 6:30am–4pm, Saturday–Sunday 7am–6pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, pastries, delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Why we love them: Outdoor seating next to Eastern Market that’s delightfully full of puppies and babies. Come for the food and drinks and stay for the lively atmosphere both inside and outside.Marx Cafe American Bar
Where: 3203 Mt Pleasant St NW
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 5pm-2am, Friday 5pm-3am, Saturday 11am–3am, Sunday 11am–2am
What you’ll find: A cozy Mount Pleasant bar and restaurant that offers Mediterranean eats, a full bar, local band performances, karaoke, and sports games on its TVs.
Why we love them: A place to always feel warmly welcomed, especially by our favorite bartender, Manny, who's a fixture in the neighborhood. In recent weeks, they've stepped up their commitment to Mount Pleasant even further by launching a hyper-local food bank.metrobarWhere: 640 Rhode Island Ave NE, metrobardc.com
When to visit: Wednesday 5–10pm, Thursday 5–11pm, Friday 5pm–1am, Saturday 12pm–1am, Sunday 12–10pm
What you’ll find: A chill, metro-accessible, mostly outdoor bar with staff who strongly support local causes. Often hosting live music, local sports teams, or trivia.
Why we love them: It’s a great space for happy hours and other group events. Plus, you can drink in a decommissioned Metro train car.Miss Toya's Southern Cajun Kitchen
Where: 3216 Pennsylvania Ave SE, misstoyasouthernkitchen.com
When to visit: Sunday–Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday–Saturday 11am–10pm
What you’ll find: Southern cuisine, delicious comfort food, and weekend brunch specials.
Why we love them: Friendly service and outstanding food with neighborhood bar vibes. Locally founded and owned by Takoma Park native Chef Jeffeary Miskiri. Try the hot honey salmon bites!Nido Wine Shop and Market
Where: 3155 Mt Pleasant St NW, nidodc.com
When to visit: Sunday–Friday 12–7pm, Saturday 10am–7pm
What you’ll find: Mediterranean-focused wine selection, delicious prepared food and specialty Mediterranean food items, including cheeses, cookies, grains, conservas and much more. Fresh baked breads, salads, and sandwiches daily!
Why we love them: A woman-owned wine shop and market specializing in natural wines and Mediterranean fare with friendly staff always ready with a recommendation. Next time you’re entertaining, pop in and get everything you need to be the host-with-the-most!Old City Market and OvenWhere: 522 K St NE
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 8am–8pm, Friday–Saturday 8am–9pm, Sunday 9am–8pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, made-to-order pizzas and lasagnas, gourmet groceries and wines, and a downstairs with toys and books!
Why we love them: This friendly neighborhood hangout has a curated selection of goods that are perfect for everything from a picnic to a kid's birthday party.Oohh's & Aahh's
Where: 5933 Georgia Ave NW and 1005 U St NW, oohhsnaahhs.com
When to visit: Georgia Ave: Sunday–Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am–11pm; U St: Sunday–Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday–Saturday 12pm–4am
What you’ll find: Soul food restaurant
Why we love them: A delicious DC institution for 23 years.Paragon Thai
Where: 3507 Connecticut Ave NW, paragonthairestaurant.com
When to visit: Monday-Thursday 11:15am-9:50pm, Friday-Saturday 11:15am-10:20pm, Sunday 11:30am-9:50pm
What you’ll find: A Thai Restaurant in Cleveland Park DC
Why we love them: They're conveniently located right next to the Cleveland Park metro, with solidly good food, friendly staff, and the option to dine in or carry out.Passato Pizza & Grill
Where: 2455 18th St NW, passatopizzaandgrill.com
When to visit: Sunday–Wednesday 10:30am–2:45am, Thursday–Saturday 10:30am–3:45am
What you’ll find: Pizza, jumbo slices, & comfort-food favorites
Why we love them: They say they have the best pizza in Adams Morgan. Try them out and tell us if you agree!Paste & Rind Cheese Co.
Where: Operating out of Henceforth at 1335 H St NE, pasteandrind.com
When to visit: Thursday–Saturday 3–9pm, Sunday 12–6pm
What you'll find: DC's only cheese bar, plus retail, a wine bar, and a monthly cheese club
Why we love them: They know their cheese! And they have a very cute dog in charge of "quality control and office management."The Queen Vic
Where: 1206 H St NE
When to visit: Wednesday–Thursday 5pm–12am; Friday 5pm–1am; Saturday 9am–1am; Sunday 9am–12am
What you’ll find: World Cup and football on the screen, great beer, delicious food, and a festive vibe.
Why we love them: No need to feel alone in your love for your team! Find your fellow soccer fans at Queen Vic!Quick Shop Grocery
Where: 707 Kennedy St NW
When to visit: Sunday–Friday 8am–11pm, Saturday 9am–11pm
What you’ll find: Local convenience store and grocery store.
Why we love them: A local convenience & grocery store with 5 star reviews and outstanding service. The staff is bilingual in Amharic & English too!Republic Restoratives Distillery
Where: 1369 New York Ave NE, republicrestoratives.com
When to visit: Monday-Friday 11am-5pm
What you’ll find: A women- and LGBTQ-owned distillery and craft cocktail bar.
Why we love them: They are the largest crowdfunded distillery in the world and often use their business for good, whether it's hosting fundraisers for LGBTQ+ inclusive organizations during Pride Month or releasing themed spirits with a portion of the proceeds going to nonprofits.Space DC Restaurant and Iconic DC
Where: 1355 U St NW, spacedclounge.com
When to visit: Monday–Sunday 3pm–12am (Offside), Thursday–Sunday 10am–11pm (Space)
What you’ll find: Restaurant and lounge
Why we love them: A space-themed spot to eat and drink with an open-air rooftop. They also host Offside, a space to watch international soccer games.Spark Social House
Where: 2009 14th St NW, spark-dc.com
When to visit: Monday–Wednesday 8am–10pm, Thursday 8am–11pm, Friday 8am–1am, Saturday 9am–1am, Sunday 9am–10pm
What you’ll find: Coffee, cocktails, and mocktails in a space for the LGBTQ+ community
Why we love them: There’s always something going on at Spark Social! Check out their events such as pop-up markets, movie nights, open mics, and more.Takoma Park Silver Spring Co-Op
Where: 201 Ethan Allen Ave, Takoma Park, MD
When to visit: 8am–10pm
What you’ll find: Local and organic foods at reasonable prices.
Why we love them: The co-op has been a fixture of the community and a gathering place since 1981.Tango Pastry
Where: 408 H St NE, tangopastry.com
When to visit: Tuesday 8am–3pm, Wednesday–Friday 7am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–5pm
What you’ll find: Argentine bakery and cafe.
Why we love them: Chef Katriel brings the rich flavors and traditions of homemade Argentine cuisine to DC.Taqueria Roticeria Fresca
Where: 701 H St NE, frescadc.com
When to visit: Tuesday-Thursday 12-9pm, Friday 12-10pm, Saturday 9am-10pm, Sunday 9am-9pm
What you’ll find: A traditional Mexican restaurant with a lovely outdoor patio and excellent Mexican food - tamales, tacos, quesadillas, horchata, and more.
Why we love them: They’re incredibly community-oriented, supporting local schools in the area and immigrants rights.Thai Pad
Where: 4481 Connecticut Ave NW, thaipaddc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday–Sunday 11:30am–9pm
What you’ll find: Thai restaurantWhy we love them: A delicious range of Thai dishes and a great outdoor patio.
Unite Foods
Inspired by our love of travel, adventure, and flavor from around the world.
Proudly Company
The first baby brand centering the unique skin and hair needs of Black and Brown babies.
Hot N Saucy
Hot N Saucy is your classic hot sauce, reimagined. Vegetable based sauces curated in small batches by Chef Sam Davis-Allonce. Our bright, bold and colorful sauces give you the heat you want and need at no additive cost. Yep, it’s all sauce and all natural.
Brooklyn Tea
Brooklyn Tea's mission is to connect people through the art and ritual of tea. We are dedicated to sourcing and curating the highest quality teas from around the globe, while fostering a sense of community and sustainability. Our commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and education ensures that every cup of Brooklyn Tea is a transformative journey of flavor, aroma, and culture, elevating the tea-drinking experience to an unparalleled level of excellence. We strive to empower individuals to discover the joys of tea, promote wellness, and embrace diversity, while leaving a positive impact on our planet and the communities we serve. Join us in savoring the simple pleasures of life, one sip at a time.
The Get Down Coffee
As the owner and leader of The Get Down, Houston is building his team from within the North Minneapolis community. He leads The Get Down in ways that honor his core belief in the power of human connection and cultural collision. For Dogwood, the best metaphor is that The Get Down is a sibling, openly sharing knowledge, experience, people, resources, relationships, facility and equipment.
Sol Cacao
Welcome Sol Cacao is a bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturer located in the heart of the South Bronx, founded by three brothers, Dominic, Nicholas, and Daniel Maloney. As the first bean-to-bar chocolate factory in the Bronx, we specialize in crafting single-origin dark chocolate from beans sourced from small family farms around the world. Our mission is to create exceptional, high-quality chocolate using only certified organic ingredients, bringing rare and hard-to-find flavors to market.
Kahawa 1893 Coffee
“Kahawa” means “coffee” in Swahili -- our language -- and 1893 is when our story begins. While coffee’s origins can be traced back to ancient forests in Ethiopia, coffee had to travel around the world before it made its way back to Africa in the late 1800s.
Red Bay Coffee
Red Bay Coffee Roasters was founded in 2014 by Keba Konte, a renowned artist and successful food entrepreneur with deep roots in the San Francisco Bay Area specialty coffee and hospitality industry. Red Bay Coffee is at the forefront of what we believe is the fourth wave of coffee—a firm commitment to ensure coffee production is not only high quality and sustainable, but a vehicle for diversity, inclusion, social and economic restoration, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. We are foodies, artists, activists, community folk, and innovators who love, love, love what we do.
Myles Comfort Foods
Myles Comfort Foods, formally known as 8 Myles, was founded by food entrepreneur & aspiring chef, Myles Powell in 2015. Myles developed a line of fruit based BBQ sauces reminiscent of his traditional family recipes. While the sauces were delicious, the true magic was in their pairings. Using only the highest quality protein and whole food ingredients our Buffalo Mac & Cheese quickly became a fan favorite. The people had spoken! And our convenient, easy to prepare line of comfort foods was born.
La Fete Du Rose Wine
Inspired by the vibrant St. Tropez lifestyle, La Fête embodies a celebration of diversity, a deep passion for life, the joy of travel, and the appreciation of fine wine.
Partake
Our products give delicious peace of mind to those with dietary restrictions... and "How is this so good?" enjoyment to everyone else.
Junita's Jar
Junita's Jar was inspired by the simple goodness of favorite childhood recipes, baked with high quality, real ingredients - like real butter, pure vanilla, brown sugar and delicious chocolate chips. Simply put: Our cookies are what you'd make yourself if you had the time.
Mocktail Club
Mocktail Club is perfect for people who want a healthier lifestyle and alternative to alcohol but still want the kick. Mocktail Club is excited to build a platform of better-for-you non-alcoholic beverages for the sober curious and mindful drinkers, with the added benefits of prebiotics and antioxidants.
Yolélé
Bringing craveable, flavor-forward, “where-has-this-been-all-my-life?” West African foods and flavors to your table.
WTRMLN Water
We believe Mother Nature has all the answers and for more than a decade, our passionate team of Melon-thusiasts have been committed to harnessing her power by bringing delicious WTRMLN® refreshment to thirsty humans. On their way to achieving optimum ripeness and readiness, our melons absorb all the goodness from the soil and energy from the sun to deliver a nutrient powerhouse and taste perfection. From there, we carefully blend watermelon juice with other simple and natural ingredients, never using heat in our processing to protect that delicious watermelon taste and all the benefits nature has to offer. The result is WTRMLN® perfection, what we call liquid love, packed with electrolytes, antioxidants, and happiness, from us to you.
BLK & Bold Coffee
BLK & Bold pledges 5% of its profits to nonprofit organizations nationwide that are dedicated to giving America's children-in-need what is necessary to be the best versions of themselves. Let your daily ritual be a resource for our youth.
Viarae Wine
Viarae Prosecco is a sparkling white wine from Issa Rae, the celebrated creator of "Insecure". Perfect for those candid, unfiltered moments with friends, toasting to the level ups, or...just because. It’s an any-occasion kind of vibe. More than just a fresh take on Italian wine, this crisp, bright, and lively blend represents the freedom to let loose and be authentic.
A Dozen Cousins
Authentic meals and sides inspired by Creole, Caribbean, and Latin American recipes.
Bean Fruit Coffee
BeanFruit Coffee Coffee Company is a small coffee roasting company located in the Jackson, Mississippi Metro Area. This company began with a desire to provide fresh roasted coffee to the Jackson Metro and educate local consumers about great tasting coffee.
Goode Foods
Convenience shouldn't have to sacrifice nutrition, that's why our Family-owned canned beans and vegetables are All-Natural with No Sugar Added. From delivering cans in the trunks of our cars, to later shipping truckloads across the country, the company's mission has always remained the same: NEVER, EVER, GIVE UP.
McBride Sisters Wine
McBride Sisters Wine Company was founded by sisters, Robin McBride and Andréa McBride John, who believe wine companies should be accessible, sustainable, socially conscious and culturally aware. Our mission is to transform the industry, lead by example and cultivate community, one delicious glass at a time.
Yo Mama's Foods
Premium sauce producers.
Supergut
Everybody with any body deserves to have great energy, a clear mind, good sleep, and a metabolism that doesn't fall off a cliff. But it's nearly impossible to find convenient foods with real nutrition that fit into your busy life. That's why we created incredible tasting nutrition that's backed by the science of the gut microbiome, to show you how great you can be.
Capital City Mambo Sauce
Established in 2011, Capital City, LLC, was created to give a taste of home to Washington, D.C. metropolitan natives. We are a specialty foods manufacturer, based in Arnold, Maryland, and we produce a regional cult-like chicken wing condiment called mambo sauce.
Pipcorn
Pipcorn is a better-for-you brand on a mission to make delicious salty snacks you can feel good about eating, using our not-so-secret ingredient: HEIRLOOM CORN.
Everything Legendary
We are a black-owned company and proud of what we’ve created. Proud to be leading the way for everyone craving legendary flavor. This flavor will get you. For real, it’s a whole other level of taste. Take a bite. There’s no turning back to that bland life. This is the start. It’s going down. Join the flavor movement. Fight to make Everything Legendary™. Because taste is everything.
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Argosy Barber & Vintage
Where: 1510 U St NW, First Floor, argosybarber.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday 11am–5pm
What you’ll find: A gender neutral barbershop, with a side of vintage treasures.
Why we love them: Nicole curates a “unique kind of barber experience, one for people of all identities in a space that celebrates art and creativity.”Bluebird Sky Yoga
Where: 3101 12th St NE, bluebirdskyyoga.com
When to visit: See schedule on website
What you’ll find: Bright yoga studio that also offers art exhibits.
Why we love them: In addition to yoga classes, they do a free meditation class once a month to build community and make meditation more accessible.Bluntsluts Cannabis Club
Where: 2451 18th St NW Unit 2, bluntsluts.com
When to visit: Monday-Thursday 11am-8pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm
What you’ll find: A medical cannabis dispensary and lounge.
Why we love them: They also host events like yoga, meditation, and book clubs.Bright Bear YogaWhere: 1000 Florida Ave NE, brightbearyogadc.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details
What you’ll find: A variety of yoga classes with something for everyone.
Why we love them: They are a welcoming space with the ethos that yoga is for every body. We love their commitment to inclusivity and that they are frequently adding new offerings to the schedule.Chillville DC
Where: 2113 Rhode Island Ave NE, chilvilledc.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 10am–8pm, Sunday 12–8pm
What you’ll find: Your neighborhood dispensary, with lots of deals and a loyalty program.
Why we love them: We love their tagline: “We will not tolerate stigma or bend to hypocrisy.”Color Lab by TSRWhere: 1607 Connecticut Ave NW, besthairdc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–6pm
What you’ll find: Upscale salon offering haircuts, styling, and color services. Gifts for curly hair, grey hair, and every other type of hair product you might need.
Why we love them: They are a proudly inclusive space for all genders and hair textures.Dispensary Near MeWhere: 610 H St NW, dispensarynearme.biz
When to visit: Sunday–Wednesday 11am–7pm, Thursday–Saturday 11am–9pm
What you’ll find: A medically licensed dispensary in Chinatown, committed to quality-sourced cannabis products and thorough testing for quality.
Why we love them: They are enthusiastic supporters of a Free DC!District Wrestling ClubWhere: 702B L’Enfant Plaza SW, districtwrestling.org
When to visit: See website for practice times and details
What you’ll find: Folkstyle and freestyle wrestling instruction, practice, and competition for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Why we love them: LGBTQ+ founded and operated to provide a safe and welcoming space for individuals of all skill levels to learn and participate.D's Barber and Salon
Where: 401 Butternut Street NW
When to visit: By appointment. Please give them a call at 202 248-1399.
What you’ll find: A barber shop serving the Takoma neighborhood.
Why we love them: They have been serving the Takoma community for decades and are strong supporters of a Free DC!Georgie’s Barber
Where: 6929 Laurel Avenue, Takoma Park, georgiesbarber.com
When to visit: Monday 11am–5pm, Tuesday–Friday 10am–6:30pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: The 2024 Best of DC Winner for Best Barbershop, this shop offers gender-neutral haircuts designed to leave customers with a precise, polished result.
Why we love them: They are currently amplifying efforts to support a number of Takoma Park Elementary School families with grocery assistance.Grace Studios
Where: 8435 Georgia Ave 2nd Floor, Silver Spring, MD, graceyps.com
When to visit: See schedule on website
What you’ll find: Yoga, pilates, and strength training.
Why we love them: They offer a range of in-person and virtual classes for all experience levels, and your first class is free!Lady Clipper Inc.
Where: 1514 U St NW, theladyclipper.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Friday 9:30am–7pm, Saturday 9am–5pm
What you’ll find: Barbershop
Why we love them: According to owner Lesley Bryant, “Traditionally men looked after men’s hair and women looked after women’s hair, but now there are more and more people entering careers that are non-traditional”—and she is proof!Little Dragon Wellness
Where: 1915 I St NW #700, littledragonwellness.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–6pm, Friday 10am–5pm
What you’ll find: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle design.
Why we love them: They use a holistic approach to find the root of your symptoms and concerns, and are conveniently two blocks from Farragut North metro.Little Red Bird Botanicals
Where: 416 Aspen St NW,littleredbirdbotanicals.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: An herbal medicine practice and community apothecary.
Why we love them: Holly also runs an herbal CSA and does classes and plant walks—and she charges on a sliding scale.Lucky Pup Yoga
Where: 2469 18th St NW, 2nd Floor, luckypupyoga.com
When to visit: Varies, see class schedule
What you’ll find: A traditional yoga studio with vinyasa, yin, and kirta. They also have puppy yoga on Saturdays and work with local breeders, rescues, and training dog facilities as part of a dog socialization program.
Why we love them: They’re DC-native, queer, and veteran-owned, and they're dedicated to a free DC across the board.Ohene Beauty
Where: ohenebeauty.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Plant-based skincare on a mission to moisturize the masses.
Why we love them: They are creating a youth educational program called Aba that focuses on learners aged 6-12 and helps families bond over S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art, & math) based concepts through the art or soap-making.Opening Heart Mindfulness Community
Where: 3812 Northampton St NW, openingheartmindfulness.org
When to visit: See website for schedule
What you’ll find: Weekly classes on mindfulness and related topics .
Why we love them: The OHMCis a nonprofit organization that offers support for learning and practicing mindfulness in a nonsectarian way, based on the tradition of the Plum Village Community in France. If you’re curious about meditation or mindfulness, this is the place to go.Past Tense
Where: 3131 Mount Pleasant St NW, pasttensestudio.com
When to visit: Sunday 9am–8:30pm, Monday-Friday 6:45am–8:30pm, Saturday 8:30am–8:30pm
What you’ll find: A yoga and pilates studio.
Why we love them: A staple of the Mount Pleasant community since 2009, knowledgeable instructors lead a range of class types at this studio.Pole PressureWhere: 1322 14th St NW, polepressure.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details
What you’ll find: Dance and fitness studio specializing in pole, aerial hoop, flexibility, and grounded movement. Take a class or book a party!
Why we love them: Aerial is for everyone! Inclusive, positive fitness community for all skill levels and body types with engaging instructors. Offers in-person and livestream classes.QBU Hair
Where: 470 L'Enfant Plaza SW, qbuhair.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 9:30am–5:30pm, Saturday 10:30am–5pm
What you’ll find: Hair extensions supplier storefront and delivery service.
Why we love them: QBU delivers premium hair products straight to your doorstep, ensuring top-notch quality at affordable prices. As a local business,they pay attention to the details and offer highly customizable products to ensure you look your best and love your hair.Restorative Health and Wellness
Where: 2440 M St NW #62, restorativehw.com
When to visit: See website for contact information and to schedule an appointment.
What you’ll find: An integrative medicine clinic specializing in the treatment of chronic illness and tick-borne disease.
Why we love them: Women-founded, their goal is to create a safe haven as they restore patients’ health.Reunion Hot Yoga
Where: 3232 Georgia Ave NW, reunionhotyoga.com
When to visit: See website for class times and details, open 7 days a week for 30 minutes before and after all classes.
What you’ll find: Hot yoga and pilates classes, including family- and baby-friendly yoga. All in-studio classes are also offered via livestream, for those who want it a little less hot. Specials and gift cards available—try your first month of unlimited yoga for $64!
Why we love them: Hot yoga isn’t intimidating at this small, woman-owned, community-oriented and inclusive studio. Beginner-friendly, always sweaty, and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including a friendly space for yogis with disabilities.Scotty Bodywork
Where: 621 Upshur St NW, bit.ly/scottybodywork
When to visit: Monday and Thursday 11am–8pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11am–6:30pm
What you’ll find: 60- and 90-minute massages at a sliding-scale cost, incorporating Swedish, deep tissue, hot stones, cupping, and more. For the holidays, they are also selling massage gift cards—buy two, get a third 50% off!
Why we love them: Scotty is a licensed massage therapist and self-described “glittery being” who focuses on providing accessible and affordable bodywork to queer, trans, Black, Brown, disabled, fat, and low-income communities in DC. They are especially focused on community organizers, workers, and others who sacrifice their bodies for others but don't always have a place for their bodies to be cared for in return.Second Wind Training
Where: 5509 14th St NW, secondwindtraining.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 6am–6:30pm, Friday 6am–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–11am
What you’ll find: Crossfit gym with group classes and personal training.
Why we love them: Top-notch coaches and a supportive community, including women’s classes (Barbell Bettys) and a program for athletes over age 60. New to crossfit? Learn more through a free trial class.Shearwork LLC
Where: 720 Kennedy St NW
When to visit: Inquire at the shop or email shearworkdc@gmail.com
What you’ll find: Barbershop
Why we love them: Shearwork provides high-quality cuts, styling, and grooming services in a friendly & inclusive environment.Tower & Star Mediation
Where: 1359 Michigan Ave NE, towerandstarmediation.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: Relationship mediation services.
Why we love them: Rebo provides mediation to help couples get un-stuck, and education (talks and workshops) on topics like open relationships and jealousy.Tree of Life Art
Where: Monroe St NW & Holmead Pl NW, treeoflife.art
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Dispensary
Why we love them: They endeavor to bring the best aspects of West Coast cannabis culture to the DMV while building a distinct East Coast cannabis culture and industry that can stand on its own.Trim Salon
Where: 2700 Ontario Rd NW Ste 2, trimdc.com
When to visit: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 10–6pm
What you’ll find: Cuts, color, and everything else hair.Why we love them: They practice their values by continuing to mask to protect vulnerable community members, offering benefits to their staff, and donating to local organizations.
Bevel
Bevel is the first and only head to toe grooming brand crafted for black men, customized with the best ingredients for our skin and textured hair. That’s the Bevel difference.
Tabitha Brown
Tabitha Brown satisfies the hunger of millions with her unique approach to veganism and her wholesome, comedic personality. From teaching people new recipes, giving a word of wisdom or enjoying a good laugh, she has become “America’s Mom” to her 13 million plus followers.
Play Pits
Play Pits started out as a mother’s solution to providing a kid-friendly, all natural hygiene option for children with active lifestyles. Play Pits has now grown to a trusted hygiene solution for the entire family offering products for teens, parents and of course young athletes everywhere!
The Lip Bar
TLB is maximum impact, minimal effort beauty must-haves designed for your complexion. Founded and owned by Women of Color.
Thread
At Thread, we believe that makeup is the greatest tool for self-expression. It's a connecting thread that weaves itself through all of humanity, no matter our ethnicity, pronouns, orientation or how much money is in the bank. We also believe that while makeup isn't necessary -even though social media tries to make us feel otherwise - we're perfect just the way we are. Periodt.
The Doux
The Doux is a FAMILY BUSINESS. Black & Veteran-owned and operated. So, yeah this company is really run by us. As we grow, the goal is to nurture and support Black creatives that share our experience in the journey of love & entrepreneurship. For us, teamwork is not just what makes the dream work. Teamwork IS THE DREAM.
Honey Pot
The first complete feminine care system powered by herbs®
Evolve
Evolve® accessories are designed to meet the styling and fashion needs of trendy, fashion-conscious women. With Evolve, Firstline offers our sexiest, most “evolved” customers versatile styling options that make it easier for women to feel great about their hair and themselves.
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7DrumCity
Where: 1506 N. Capitol St NW, 7drumcity.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 1–11pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–10pm
What you'll find: Your one-stop shop for music! Lessons, practice space, and a performance venue, the Pocket.
Why we love them: They're a great space and team with lots of community events and resources for impacted students.ABBYiK.STUDIO
Where:abbyik.studio
When to visit: Anytime online!
What you’ll find: Original watercolor paintings, prints, and handpainted, tree-free holiday cards.
Why we love them: Abby focuses on using sustainable materials, and uses her art to catalyze conversations around challenges facing our communities. Check out her work at the 10X10 Art Show hosted by Shop Made in DC through January 3!Art of Noize
Where: 821 Upshur St NW, 2nd floor, artofnoizedmv.com/about
When to visit: Thursday–Saturday 12–6pm
What you'll find: A speakeasy, art gallery, and event venue
Why we love them: They are rooted in DC culture and bring together artists and community members.CHALK RIOT
Where: chalkriotart.com
When to visit: By appointment or see instagram.com/chalkriot for events
What you’ll find: A pavement mural business that creates beautiful art throughout the District and beyond.
Why we love them: Led by women and non-binary artists, they believe “the ground is the world's greatest canvas for art that unites, protects, and energizes the cities we love.”ColorTellaVisions LLC
Where: instagram.com/colortellavisions
When to visit: Online anytime
What you’ll find: An art studio that creates hand-painted interactive art and upcycled jewelry.
Why we love them: Their vibrant color palette and saturated hues and designs create or “Tell-a-vision,” seeking to transform mood, brighten physical space, spark imagination, inspire creative and positive change.Critter the Creator
Where: justcritter.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: An interdisciplinary creator specializing in textiles and fiber arts whose work features usable, unique pieces from creative re-imaginings of found and reclaimed materials.
Why we love them: Critter makes beautiful stuff and is open to teaching newcomers how to sew - either by hand or with a machine!Definition Studio
Where: 1257 Wisconsin Ave NW, definitionstudiodc.com
When to visit: Sunday 11am-5pm, Monday 11am-7pm, Wednesday-Saturday 11am-7pm
What you’ll find: Local jewelry designer / maker who also sells art, accessories, and vintage leather goods.
Why we love them: Local custom laser-welded jewelry designs and repair!Gallery Y
Where: 1325 W St NW, ymcaanthonyboweneventspacedc.com/galleryy
When to visit: Monday–Friday: 7am–9pm, Saturday–Sunday 7am–7pm & by appointment
What you’ll find: Art gallery
Why we love them: This gallery in the lobby of the YMCA Anthony Bowen features local artists and rotating exhibits.Girls Rock! DC
Where: 1640 Columbia Rd NW, girlsrockdc.org
When to visit: See website for events and contact details
What you’ll find: Girls Rock! DC is a youth organization providing music programs for young people to “learn, grow, and rock out together.”
Why we love them: Girls Rock! DC’s programs give young folks a supportive & inclusive space to develop leadership skills, explore their role in the community, express themselves, and tell their stories through original music.Glass Class Club
Where: 52 O St NW, Studio 204B, instagram.com/glassclassdc
When to visit: See their studio calendar on Instagram for upcoming events.
What you’ll find: Stained glass studio with events to teach anyone to craft beautiful pieces.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of the trans community (check out their ongoing Eon’s Crane project) and host frequent events that raise money for mutual aid.HR Records
Where: 702 Kennedy St NW, homerulerecords.com
When to visit: Sunday 12–6pm, Monday 1–7pm, Wednesday-Thursday 1–7pm, Friday 1–8pm, Saturday 11am–8pm
What you’ll find: Used record store specializing in Jazz, Soul, Reggae, African, Go-Go, and all of the music of DC.
Why we love them: A Black-owned shop whose owner co-founded the Home Rule Music & Film Preservation Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and advancing the city’s rich music and film heritage and puts on the Home Rule Music Festival.Joy of Glass
Where: joyofglass.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Glass jewelry and art for your body or your home, plus workshops in a Ward 3 studio.
Why we love them: The owner handmakes her beautiful wares right here in DC. Check out her “51” DC earrings—half of the profits go to the Capital Area Food Bank.Lost Origins Gallery
Where: 3110 Mt Pleasant St NW, lostorigins.gallery
When to visit: Friday 7-9pm, Saturday 12-5pm, Sunday 3-5pm, or by appointment
What you’ll find: Cultural / community Space
Why we love them: An intimate gallery space that displays work from local artists and hosts fun events.Music on the Hill
Where: 801 D St NE, musiconthehilldc.com
When to visit: Monday-Thursday 12-8pm, Friday 12-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12-5pm
What you’ll find: A shop that rents and sells musical instruments and accessories, and provides private and group music lessons to students of all ages and performance levels.
Why we love them: A staple of Capitol Hill, they’re an amazing music store for instruments, sheet music, and classes.Rediscover Fire Booking
Where: rediscoverfirebooking.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Live music booking and promotion
Why we love them: They help fill out the live music schedules for Comet Ping Pong and Quarry House Tavern, two great local venues.Rhizome DC
Where: 6950 Maple St NW, rhizomedc.org
When to visit: See events calendar on their website
What you’ll find: A volunteer-driven community space dedicated to art, education, and community power.
Why we love them: They provide space and support for experimental and underrepresented arts, music, and culture in Washington, DC.Steve Mabley Art
Where: stevemabley.art
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Artist specializing in oil, on-scene, open-air, and live painting.
Why we love them: Steve is a DC local and a co-founder and member of multiple local art initiatives. He offers a satisfaction guarantee and full refunds within one month on his original pieces, and also does live-painting for events!Studio Kusi
Where: Mount Pleasant, studiokusi.com
When to visit: Check website for class schedule and studio hours
What you’ll find: Ceramic art studio offering pottery workshops and sales as well as jewelry, ceramics, and paintings for sale. Gift cards available, perfect for the art-lover in your life.
Why we love them: 100% of profits from their workshops are donated to nonprofit causes, including mutual aid in DC and abroad. The studio also offers discounts for activists and organizers to support them in their work!Takoma Music School
Where: 7014-C Westmoreland Ave, Takoma Park, takomamusicschool.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 1pm–10pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–10pm
What you’ll find: Personalized music lessons specializing in drums, piano, guitar, and music production.
Why we love them: Music lessons are individually tailored for each student’s success. In addition to music lesions, they’ve also got classes in songwriting and audio production.Transformer
Where: 1404 P St NW, transformerdc.org
When to visit: Wednesday–Saturday 12–6pm
What you’ll find: An artist-centered visual arts nonprofit with in-house and offsite exhibitions
Why we love them: They are for artists, by artists, about artists. And while their programming is sophisticated, they’ve kept the punk rock ethos they’ve had since they launched in 2002.Treehouse
Where: 4722 14th St NW, treehousedreamers.com
When to visit: Contact them for an appointment
What you’ll find: An artist-owned and operated multiuse event venue with a full bar and dance floor.Why we love them: It’s a beautiful space for your class, pop-up, photo shoot, party, art show – anything you need!
Be Rooted
After working in retail for 10 years, I noticed something was missing — you. So, in 2020, I founded Be Rooted, a space where women of color could see themselves where they hadn’t before. By weaving culture and representation into every design and message, the products we create inspire customers to explore their inner muse and celebrate self. We’re excited to have you as part of this journey. -Jasmin Foster
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76 Words
Where: 1255 Union Street NE #700, 76words.com
When to visit: Monday-Friday 9am-7pm
What you’ll find: Political consulting firm
Why we love them: They work on great causes, like reinstating voting rights for formerly incarcerated folks and getting more women elected to public office.Allan Woods Flowers
Where: 2645 Connecticut Ave NW, allanwoods.com
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: Seasonal arrangements and floral designs that start with a story in mind.
Why we love them: They’ve been serving the DC community for 45 years, and their designs have graced embassies, hotels, and locals’ homes.Austen Morris Furniture
Where: By appointment in the DMV and online, austenmorrisfurniture.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Creative, custom, and semi-custom furniture.
Why we love them: They see themselves as part of the DC maker community, focusing on American hardwood and other natural finishes for their designs.CORE DMV
Where: 609 H St NE, 4th Floor, CORE DMV—Fifteen Percent Pledge
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: Financial empowerment firm committed to redefining financial freedom through education and access.
Why we love them: They create custom wealth-building plans, partnering with schools and nonprofits to “deliver tech-enabled, culturally relevant solutions for underserved communities.”The Daily Rider
Where: 600 H St NE Suite D
When to visit: Tuesday–Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday 12–4pm
What you’ll find: Your local bike shop with helmets, bikes, lights, locks and all your repair and tune up needs
Why we love them: Great source for Tern bikes and cargo bikes and having them change your flat helps the local economy!DC Cycling Concierge
Where: Tours around the DMV, dccyclingconcierge.com
When to visit: Monday–Sunday, 9am–10pm
What you’ll find: Customized bike tours of the District tailored to your interests.
Why we love them: They are rated #1 for “Tours, Outdoor Activities, & Bike Tours” in Washington, DC on TripAdvisor. With a motto of “your ride, your pace,” these tours can be accessible to your fitness and comfort level.District Veterinary Hospital
Where: 3748 10th St NE, 240 7th St SE, & 801 2nd St SE, districtvet.com
When to visit: Monday–Thursday 8am–7pm, Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 8:30am–2pm
What you’ll find: A range of preventative and emergency vet care.
Why we love them: They take great care of our four-legged family members! You can tell they love animals.Festival Center
Where: 1640 Columbia Rd NW, 2nd Floor, festivalcenter.org
When to visit: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm
What you’ll find: A vibrant community center with a chapel, art gallery, co-working spaces and room rentals for events.
Why we love them: They are a long-time, committed partner to the campaign for DC autonomy and have hosted many Free DC events.Fulcrum Residential
Where: 500 13th St SE, fulcrum-residential.com
When to visit: See website to make an appointment
What you’ll find: A local real estate sales team ready to help you with your next move.
Why we love them: They are strong supporters of a Free DC!Godet Woodworking
Where: godetfurniture.com
When to visit: Always open online! Get in touch to talk about custom furniture or classes.
What you’ll find: Custom hardwood furniture and woodworking classes.
Why we love them: Less is more. A one-man shop, Adam is passionate about creating beautiful handmade items that are special and meaningful to his clients—from large-scale furniture to coasters. DIY and crafty types can also benefit from his expertise to design and build their own bespoke pieces.Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC)
Where: 800 Connecticut Ave NW, gwhcc.org
When to visit: See their website for upcoming events
What you’ll find: A membership-driven organization that supports the economic development of the Washington, DC metropolitan region by facilitating the success of Latino and other minority-owned businesses.
Why we love them: GWHCC works to support Hispanic and minority-owned business leaders, creating a strong local economy that strengthens community resilience.Illuminations
Where: 308 Florida Ave NW, illuminc.com
When to visit: By appointment only
What you’ll find: Specialized studio for contemporary lighting.
Why we love them: They offer top-notch service and beautiful design if you are looking to create something unique for your home.Leon Shoe Repair
Where: 3201 Mt. Pleasant St NW
When to visit: Monday–Saturday 4–8:30pm
What you’ll find: Shoe repair shop
Why we love them: A family-owned spot in Mt. Pleasant where you can take your shoes to get needed repairs and sprucing.Love & Carrots
Where: loveandcarrots.com
When to visit: Always open online!What you’ll find: A company that will help you plan, install, and maintain your garden.
Why we love them: Knowledgeable staff, gorgeous and prolific gardens, an earth-friendly mission.Menold Law PLLC
Where: 5071 8th St NE, www.georgemenold.com
When to visit: Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
What you’ll find: A local, solo practitioner owned and operated law firm specializing in estate planning, small and mid-sized business counsel, and litigation.
Why we love them: (POV: searching for a lawyer) A local, solo practitioner instead of a huge corporate firm? Yes please.Nest DC
Where: 87 Florida Ave NW, nest-dc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–6pm
What you’ll find: A full-service property management company or a partner for your property management company.
Why we love them: A business focused on putting people and community first, working not just to manage properties and ensure a vibrant DC, but working to advance justice, housing security, and community wellness.Optimistic Anthropology LLC
Where: optimisticanthro.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: They collaborate with organizations, partnerships, and communities to transform individuals’ every day insights into a group’s collective wisdom.
Why we love them: They center and support community members’ expertise to shine through throughout their collaboration process.The Printer
Where: 1803 Florida Ave NW, theprinterdc.com
When to visit: Monday–Friday 11am–3pm
What you’ll find: Full-service professional and commercial neighborhood printer in Adams Morgan.
Why we love them: They have a long history of supporting progressive issues and proudly support a Free DC!Renegade Lens & Ink
Where: 1320 Florida Ave NE, renegadelensink.com
When to visit: Always open online!
What you’ll find: Photography services for everything from fashion to weddings to family portraits. They also sell prints.
Why we love them: Led by a seasoned photojournalist and visual storyteller, their work is driven by “truth, creativity, and an unwavering rebellious spirit.” You’re sure to get powerful images with a unique perspective.Simply Stamper LLC
Where: instagram.com/simply_stamper
When to visit: By appointment only
What you’ll find: A youth wellness and community advocacy consulting firm.
Why we love them: They focus on creating needed safe & empowering spaces for DC youth by centering residents’ voices, building connections, and supporting organizations that strengthen the community.Union Veterinary Clinic
Where: 609 2nd St NE, unionvetclinic.com
When to visit: By appointment
What you’ll find: Preventative and urgent care for your pets.Why we love them: They’re one of the few independent vet clinics left in DC and have been family-owned for more than 20 years.
Jungalow
Jungalow started as a design blog in Justina Blakeney’s tiny, plant-filled living room back in 2009 and has since grown into a lifestyle brand and creative design and art studio located in a vibrant, creative warehouse space in Frogtown, Los Angeles. Today, Justina is the founder, sole owner, and Creative Director of Jungalow.