Local Businesses

Kramers is a beloved Kalorama landmark that blends an indie bookstore with a full cafe, bar, and restaurant, all open late. With a 4.5 rating across thousands of reviews, it draws book lovers and brunch fans alike for its warm, thoughtfully designed space and upscale American fare.

4.5 (4759)

Second Story Books is a beloved Kalorama institution carrying a vast collection of used and rare books, plus maps and prints. With a 4.6 rating across more than 900 reviews, it's a haven for booklovers hunting for hidden gems at friendly prices, supported by staff known for their warmth and knowledge.

4.6 (925)

A beloved multi-level used and out-of-print bookstore that's been a neighborhood fixture since 1981, Lost City Books draws book lovers with its vast, thoughtfully curated selection and warm, knowledgeable staff. With a 4.7 rating across more than 600 reviews, it's widely regarded as one of DC's best.

4.7 (606)

JF Books is a beloved bilingual bookstore in Kalorama, just steps from Dupont Circle Metro and next door to Kramer's. Known for its thoughtful selection of Chinese-language and English titles on China, Asian studies, and social and political issues, it draws readers with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. With a near-perfect rating, it has quickly become a treasured independent spot in DC.

4.9 (111)

Bold Fork Books is a beloved Kalorama gem devoted entirely to cookbooks, food writing, and kitchenware. With a near-perfect rating and a warm, knowledgeable staff, this compact shop is a haven for foodies who love to browse, learn, and connect over the art and science of cooking.

4.9 (100)

Middle East Books and More is a cozy Kalorama bookstore specializing in the politics, culture, and history of the Middle East, paired with art, gifts, and Palestinian pottery. With a 4.8 rating across nearly 100 reviews, it's celebrated as one of the most comprehensive bookstores on the MENA region in the country, and a favorite local landmark.

4.8 (98)

Solid State Books is a beloved independent bookstore in Kalorama, known for its spacious, welcoming layout and a thoughtfully diverse selection of new books. This Black-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, dog-friendly shop earns a stellar 4.8 rating, with readers praising its passionate, knowledgeable staff and standout recommendations.

4.8 (91)

Specialty grocer with housebrand items. Grocery chain with a variety of signature items, plus produce, dairy & more (most sell wine & beer).

4.6 (2598)

A reliably stocked Harris Teeter in Kalorama, this large supermarket earns a 4.4 rating for its fresh produce, friendly staff, and solid selection. Shoppers appreciate the quality veggies, meats, and organic options, plus a deli that's handy for quick meals, all at prices many find gentler than Whole Foods.

4.4 (1291)

Supermarket standby for groceries & more. Longtime supermarket chain carrying brand-name & house-label groceries, plus a deli, bakery & more.

3.9 (1066)

Supermarket standby for groceries & more. Longtime supermarket chain carrying brand-name & house-label groceries, plus a deli, bakery & more.

3.6 (992)

Hana Market is a beloved, compact Japanese grocery in Kalorama with a stellar 4.8 rating across more than 900 reviews. It's known for packing an impressive range of Japanese staples, snacks, and fresh produce into a small space, plus fresh morning onigiri that fans rave about. Friendly, helpful staff and great prices make it a local favorite.

4.8 (930)

Streets Market and Cafe is a cozy neighborhood grocery, deli, and eatery in Kalorama, valued as the closest thing to a real grocery store in the area. With a well-stocked produce section, sandwiches, and a solid craft beer and wine selection, it earns a 4.3 rating across 404 reviews.

4.3 (404)

Quaint shop stocking locally sourced produce, cheese and wine, plus sandwiches.

4.5 (265)

Curated Asian grocery store stocking Thai groceries along with cooked meals, plus beer, wine and home goods.

4.7 (180)

Dupont Market is a beloved neighborhood corner store in Kalorama with a true local, bodega vibe. Known for fantastic gourmet sandwiches, a solid wine selection, and friendly faces behind the counter, it's a reliable stop for breakfast, coffee, or a quick lunch. With a 4.2 rating across 173 reviews, it's the kind of small market regulars hope sticks around.

4.2 (173)

Small grocery store for fresh produce and natural foods, plus wine and bread.

4.3 (144)

Grocery store for vegetables, fruit, sweets, and other necessities, plus rare candies.

4.3 (112)

Neighborhood market for groceries (and some vegan items) plus beer and wine.

4.3 (76)

Capitol Grocer is a small boutique grocery store in Kalorama, beloved by neighbors for its surprisingly deep selection in a compact, brightly lit space. It leans toward higher-end, natural, and organic products, making it a reliable stop for quick runs and specialty needs like keto-friendly items.

4.5 (55)

4.5 (24)

4.3 (20)

e.Laniese is a woman-of-color-owned online boutique offering distinctive women's clothing, from dresses and jumpsuits to pants sets, blouses, and vintage-inspired jeans. With a perfect 5.0 rating across 89 reviews, it earns devoted praise for impeccable quality, flattering fits, and a warm, personal shopping experience led by owner Erinn.

5.0 (89)

This Madewell on 14th Street is a beloved stop for stylish denim, apparel, shoes, and accessories, earning a 4.6 rating largely thanks to its warm, attentive staff. Reviewers consistently praise the team for making the fitting experience kind, patient, and genuinely supportive.

4.6 (62)

Delorean 88 is a well-loved vintage clothing and sneaker shop in Kalorama, specializing in vintage apparel, streetwear, and shoes that you can buy, sell, or trade. With a 4.5 rating across 35 reviews, it's praised for its clean space, knowledgeable staff, fair prices, and a curated selection that helps shoppers stand out.

4.5 (35)

Mercedes Bien Vintage is a quaint, established Kalorama boutique specializing in vintage designer clothing and high-end accessories for women, with a small but well-curated menswear section too. Beloved for its unique, old-school pieces and the knowledgeable, passionate owner, it earns a 4.6 rating and a devoted following.

4.6 (31)

Marine Layer in Kalorama is a clothing shop beloved for its remarkably soft, well-made apparel and genuinely warm, personable staff. With a 4.6 rating, it earns repeat visits from shoppers who come for the cozy vibe as much as the clothes. A neat, welcoming spot worth popping into just to browse.

4.6 (28)

Metro Club Vintage is a beloved Kalorama vintage shop with a near-perfect rating, known for its eclectic, one-of-a-kind selection and genuinely welcoming vibe. Beyond curated men's and women's vintage, you'll find house-branded pieces designed by owner Omar, plus jewelry, candles, and art.

4.9 (19)

MOOD DC is a beloved, family-owned CBD shop in Kalorama with a perfect 5.0 rating and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its CBD teas and oils, knowledgeable owners, and a slew of products—even options for pets—it's a go-to spot for locals seeking wellness essentials.

5.0 (19)

West Elm brings its signature modern furniture and stylish home accessories to a chic two-level space near Kalorama. Known for on-trend sofas, rugs, dishes, and decor at a slight premium, it's a worthwhile stop for anyone furnishing or refreshing a home in the area.

3.5 (221)

Room & Board brings its minimalist, U.S.-made furniture to a spacious Kalorama showroom, offering modern wood designs for living, dining, bedroom, and outdoor spaces. With a 4.3 rating across 203 reviews, it draws both longtime loyalists and newcomers furnishing condos, apartments, and full homes. Expect high-quality contemporary pieces, helpful design guidance, and prices to match.

4.3 (203)

Salt & Sundry is a charming home and lifestyle boutique in Kalorama, beloved for its beautifully curated mix of artisanal pantry items, barware, linens, and cookbooks. With a 4.6 rating and warm, knowledgeable staff, it's a go-to for thoughtful gifts and design inspiration.

4.6 (90)

Brooklinen's Kalorama outpost is a home goods store specializing in bedding and bath, where soft sheets and towels meet genuinely warm, knowledgeable service. With a 4.8 rating across 68 reviews, it's beloved for staff who make choosing among the options feel easy and personal.

4.8 (68)

Jenni Bick Custom Journals is a beloved Kalorama lifestyle shop dedicated to notebooks, journals, and pens, with a thoughtfully curated selection that includes coveted brands like Hobonichi, Travelers Company, and Blackwing. Beautifully organized and easy to browse, it's a haven for stationery lovers and a go-to for unique gifts. With a 4.7 rating across nearly 300 reviews, it draws devoted fans who happily spend an hour exploring every corner.

4.7 (292)

SpaceShip Weed Club at Capsterdam University is a highly rated Kalorama gift shop with a relaxed, welcoming vibe and a loyal following. Reviewers praise the professional, friendly staff, the wide selection, and fair prices, calling it a hidden gem that's easy to recommend.

4.8 (192)

Because Science is a beloved Kalorama gift shop packed with science-themed treasures for every kind of curious mind. With a near-perfect rating and a geeky, tongue-in-cheek charm, it's a go-to for fans of chemistry, dinosaurs, computers, and everything in between. Kids and grownups alike find something to love here.

4.9 (60)

Tibet Shop is a warmly run Kalorama gift shop specializing in Tibetan treasures — incense, statues, jewelry, and singing bowls, plus bags and clothing. With a 4.7 rating across 59 reviews, it's beloved for its thoughtful selection and genuinely kind, conversational staff. Browsers and gift-seekers alike find it a welcoming stop worth lingering in.

4.7 (59)

Urban Dwell is a beloved Kalorama gift shop with a near-perfect 4.9 rating, known for its calm, welcoming atmosphere and a wide, carefully curated mix of DC-themed goods, candles, coasters, journals, jewelry, and more. Shoppers praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the feeling that there's something for everyone here.

4.9 (50)

Blooms Collective is a beloved Kalorama flower and gift shop known for gorgeous, custom bouquets, candles, and thoughtful gifts. With a 4.8 rating and glowing reviews, it earns praise for high-quality arrangements and phenomenal, welcoming service. It's a go-to for everyday flowers, special occasions, and weddings alike.

4.8 (46)