My most recent Peregrine experience ocurred as I stopped by their Union Market location early 
one Saturday morning. The previous night had been one of merrymaking with friends. As I stood, absentmindedly staring at pastries, the cashier asked for my order. Instinctually, I blurted out my most common request– “vodka soda”, before realizing I was in fact at a coffee shop on a Saturday morning, NOT still out drinking with friends on a Friday night.
My first memory of Peregrine however, was long before this embarassing moment, back when I was just a shammy barista at a college coffee shop. My big sis treated me to a barista class at Peregrine. This was a time when Union Market was still more scary than cool, and boy did I learn a lot (mainly that I was completely unqualified to be serving anyone anything with espresso or steamed milk). Peregrine still offers classes, which can be a fun way to learn more about espresso.
Despite these two mentions of the Union Market location, I’m most likely to visit their 14th Street spot. This location is closer to me (read: I stick to NW), but its hipster baristas seem too hipster for me.
That being said, I once stopped for tea after work as they were closing and they gave me a free pastry (by free, I really mean “too old to be sold”). Given my love for free things and my passion for pastry, their offer of a crusty afternoon croissant forever endeared me to this spot.
14th Street doesn’t lack good coffee spots, but Peregrine has some of the best coffee on the street (in my humble, and often debated, opinion). Perhaps equally important in DC, the small spot ranks highly for best dog sightings. It’s rare to stop by and not find a mutt tied up while its owner pops into the shop for a cup of joe, or for someone to sit outside at the store’s lone table, accompanied by a dog. Were I a single male with a dope dog, I would certainly sit here and get attention from passersby.
They have a nice selection of savory or sweet pastries, yogurts, or chocolate bars, though there are better spots to be stopping if what you really want is a snack. The small area better lends itself to coffees-to-go before hurrying on to work. Two small tables line the front window, in addition to three mini tables—the equivalent of a shelves with stools are the only seating options.
The workers here aren’t the friendliest, but it’s a chill spot and the coffee’s tasty. I actually prefer their coffee to Wydown’s. However, if seats and nibbles are what you seek, keep walking (with perhaps a quick break to pet whichever dog is outside).
Stats
Price of a 12oz coffee: $2.75
Adult beverages: No
Vibe: Brick walls and clean spaces.
Music: Low key in the mornings, and louder in off hours.
Work/Study Spot?: Yes.
Wifi: Yes.
Food: Some pastries, yogurt, and chocolate.
Punch Card: No.
Website: peregrineespresso.com
Hours:
Mon – Fri (7AM-7PM)
Sat – Sun (8AM-8PM)
Location:
1718 14th St
Washington, DC 20009
Other locations in Eastern Market and Union Market.
Wow! I never knew about their barista classes! Awesome to know!
Quick question-are you into dogsitting? Your posts seems to be really pet-focused which I love! You’re #pawesome