Quill & Crumb Café

The Quill & Crumb Café, nestled within the stunning Folger Shakespeare Library in the heart of Capitol Hill, has quickly established itself as one of Washington, D.C.’s most distinctive and beautiful culinary destinations. Far more than just a quick museum stop, this full-service café and bakery has transformed the Folger's historic Great Hall into a vibrant community gathering space, offering a unique blend of literary charm and sophisticated dining. Whether you're a local looking for a productive workspace, a casual lunch, or a refined spot for evening drinks, the Quill & Crumb offers an ambiance that truly feels like stepping into a storybook.

The café's atmosphere is a major draw. The Great Hall, with its towering plaster strapwork ceiling, rich oak-paneled walls, and massive windows, has been thoughtfully repurposed from an exhibition space into a bright, welcoming environment. The design subtly nods to a 16th-century English home, providing a backdrop that is both formal and inviting. Patrons can choose from varied seating options—including cozy lounge areas, classic tables and banquettes, or convenient high-top tables near the coffee bar—making it ideal for any occasion, from a solitary read to a lively meeting. The name itself, "Quill & Crumb," was crowdsourced from public suggestions, perfectly blending the Library’s literary roots with its new culinary focus.

The Quill & Crumb Café enjoys a prime location in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, making it easily accessible for Washington D.C. residents and visitors alike. It is situated right next to the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress (Jefferson and Adams buildings), and diagonally adjacent to the Supreme Court, placing it at a major cultural and governmental crossroads.

The café is located in the Folger Shakespeare Library's historic Great Hall, with its official address for the library and main access being 201 E Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003. While the address provided in your prompt, 1 2nd St SE, is technically a corner of the building's block, the Folger's primary public address is 201 E Capitol St SE, and is a better reference point.

Accessibility is a key feature of this location, and the cafe is open to the public without needing a ticket or timed-entry pass to the Folger Library itself.

The Folger is highly accessible via public transportation:

• Metro Rail: The closest station is Capitol South (Orange, Blue, and Silver lines), a pleasant four-block walk up the hill. The Union Station stop (Red Line) is also an option, about eight blocks away.
• Bus: Several Metrobus routes, including the 32, 36, 96, D6, and X8, have stops within walking distance. The DC Circulator Congress Heights – Union Station route also stops nearby at 8th Street and East Capitol Street.
• Parking: While the Folger does not have a visitor lot, metered street parking is available, though often limited. Taking public transit is highly recommended.

For all guests, the facilities include a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible restroom.

The Quill & Crumb Café offers a comprehensive dining experience that evolves throughout the day, providing everything from morning pastries to evening cocktails.

• Bakery & Pastry Service: Featuring a delectable selection of artisan baked goods like the popular Cranberry Orange Scone, Pain Au Chocolate, and specialty items such as the Lavender Blackberry Financier.
• Coffee & Tea Service: Serving quality coffee from local roasters, Compass Coffee, and a robust selection of Harney & Sons Tea. Specialty espresso drinks include the unique "Ophelia’s Bloom" (espresso with elderflower & lavender syrup and pistachio milk) and the classic Latte, Cappuccino, and Cold Brew.
• Full Lunch Menu: Offering salads, soups, and substantial entrees with an English-inspired twist, such as the Salmon Gravlax, Coronation Chicken Salad Croissant, and the hearty Baked Mac & Cheese.
• Grab-and-Go Options: Convenient selections for those on a quick visit, including the Turkey Sandwich Grab & GO, Charcuterie Box, Chobani Yogurt, and fresh Fruit Cup.
• Evening Bar Service: Transitioning into a full-service bar in the evening, offering an excellent selection of Beer and Wine, including local craft options like Right Proper Pale Ale and fine wines like Cabernet and Rosemont Sparkling Rosé.
• Concessions and Shared Plates: Perfect for pre-performance light bites, including items like Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Duck Confit Crepes, and the famous Raspberry White Chocolate Macarons.
• Takeout and Dine-in: Both options are available for a convenient meal or a leisurely experience in the beautiful Great Hall.

The Quill & Crumb stands out in the D.C. food scene by combining high-quality menu items with an unparalleled, historic setting.

• Historic and Elegant Setting: Located in the Folger Shakespeare Library’s stunning Great Hall, the café is celebrated for its beautiful architecture, including oak-paneled walls and a magnificent ceiling, creating a unique and sophisticated atmosphere often compared to a storybook setting.
• Public and Accessible: Unlike many institutional dining spots, the café is open to the public without requiring a separate museum ticket or timed-entry pass, positioning it as a true community meeting spot for Capitol Hill.
• Literary and British-Inspired Menu: The culinary offerings, managed by the respected Constellation Culinary Group, feature updated British pub flavors and elevated versions of classics, drawing inspiration from Shakespearean-era cuisine. Specialties include the English Waldorf Salad and the exotic Ophelia's Bloom espresso drink.
• Flexible Seating for All Needs: The Great Hall is cleverly divided into three distinct seating areas: tables for leisurely lunches, high-tops for quick snacks, and a lounge area with cozy couches perfect for relaxing or pre-theater drinks.
• Full Bar Service: Beyond standard café offerings, the Quill & Crumb features a full-service bar, making it an excellent spot for happy hour or a pre-show cocktail, with a menu of beer, wine, local cider, and seasonal cocktails.

For those planning a visit to the Folger Shakespeare Library or the surrounding Capitol Hill area, here is the essential information for the Quill & Crumb Café:

Address: 201 E Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003 (Located inside the Folger Shakespeare Library)

Note: A phone number is not consistently published for direct café contact; for general inquiries, it's best to contact the Folger Shakespeare Library directly.

For the D.C. local or visitor seeking an exceptional experience, the Quill & Crumb Café offers a combination of atmosphere and elevated cuisine that is truly unmatched. What makes it a top choice is the seamless blend of history, culture, and high-quality food and drink.

First, the ambiance itself is the main attraction. The opportunity to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee inside the beautifully renovated Great Hall of the Folger Shakespeare Library elevates a simple break into a memorable cultural experience. It is a stunning, inspirational setting for work or relaxation—a peaceful and productive counterpoint to the hustle of Capitol Hill.

From the menu, you must try one of the bespoke espresso drinks, particularly the Ophelia’s Bloom or the Honey Cinnamon Latte. The coffee program, featuring local Compass Coffee, is high-quality and carefully prepared. The pastry case is another highlight, with the Cranberry Orange Scone and the unique Lavender Blackberry Financier being favorites among patrons. These items showcase the pastry chef's dedication to refined flavors and textures.

For a more substantial meal, consider the Coronation Chicken Salad Croissant, an elevated British classic, or explore the varied soup menu, which often features seasonal, imaginative selections like the Roasted Tomato & Orange Bisque or the Henry V Potato & Leek soup. Finally, given its location and unique offerings, the Quill & Crumb is an ideal place to grab a refined light bite and a glass of Gruner Veltliner before a theater performance, utilizing the cozy lounge seating designed specifically for that purpose. It's an essential Capitol Hill spot for those who appreciate history, quality, and a touch of literary magic with their meal.

Quill & Crumb Café

1 2nd St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA