This hot and trending neighborhood is brimming with culture, arts, fine dining, and much more. Shaw is home to families who’ve lived there for generations, while younger families and single professionals have also moved into the area, especially in the last couple of years.
Shaw is appealing to both groups of demographics because of how accessible and walkable it is. Metro stops are located at both U Street and Shaw-Howard on the Green and Yellow lines.
Walking around this charming and historic neighborhood, it’s not hard to believe why it’s beloved by so many and why families have lived here for generations. Known for its quirky alleyways, two of them—such as Blagden Alley—have recently transformed into delightful urban spaces, popping up with new restaurants, shops, and cafes.
For a strong and incredible cup of coffee, head to Compass Coffee, where the owners personally handpick the coffee beans, or La Colombe Coffee Roasters, where the coffee is rich and flowing.
Shaw is also brimming with hidden bars and beer gardens where you’ll find charming craft cocktails and ales. When it’s cocktail hour and you’re searching for a fun place to go out, head to Dacha Beer Garden, Maxwell Park, or Right Proper Brewing Company.
Dacha Beer Garden is not only dog-friendly but is serving up world-class German, Belgian, and American craft beers in a chill outdoor setting. Another beer spot that’s received rave reviews is Right Proper Brewing Company—a brewery with housemade brews and Southern-influenced bites. If you’re looking for a more upscale and intimate atmosphere, head to Maxwell Park—a cozy neighborhood wine bar where you can order a unique, curated glass of wine.
As amazing as the drinks spots are in Shaw, the restaurants are equally as incredible. For a bite to eat, head to The Dabney, a rustic restaurant located in a former row house that’s serving up Mid-Atlantic dishes sourced from the finest farms and purveyors in the region. Another DC dining hot spot is San Lorenzo, an intimate Italian restaurant with a simple but sophisticated menu filled with decadent dishes like pappardelle with rabbit ragu, branzino, and T-bone steak.
The options for entertainment and activities are almost endless in Shaw. From seeing a movie or concert to shopping, there are plenty of options for residents.
Catch the most recent blockbuster in a comfy, indie atmosphere at the Atlantic Plumbing Cinema. This movie theater, just over a year old, offers comfy seating and appetizer and cocktail options for moviegoers.
With tons of shops for both men and women, some of the standout spots to check out include Filson, a Seattle brand for both men and women that’s known for its century-old rugged style and Frank + Oak, a men’s store with trendy shoes, patterned shirts, and even a barber chair for in-store cuts and shaves.
Whether it’s grabbing a beer outside with friends or catching a show with a loved one, Shaw is the perfect blend of a lively community and peaceful residence so that people both young and old enjoy living there.
