Emma's Torch

I randomly found Emma's Torch on Yelp while looking for a breakfast spot in the area. Upon entry, I noticed how small and quaint it was. They were also playing great music. Customer service was great and I was greeted immediately. It wasn't crowded but there was a steady flow of customers while I was there. I ordered the Breakfast Wrap, which was fantastic along with a Granny Smith apple lemonade. I would've never thought to put those two items together but it was easily one of the best lemonades I've ever tried. I had to order a second one when my daughter decided my drink was now for her. Speaking of, my daughter ordered the Nutella Stuffed French Toast and rated it a 100/10. While waiting for my order, I had a chance to speak with one of the head chef's and he told me about the culinary program their offer to teach refugees culinary skills. I loved hearing that tidbit about the shop and found it truly admirable. Overall, my only gripe is the street parking situation can be a little tough but it wasn't too bad on this particular morning. I would absolutely return.

Wish I lived closer, this would be one of my neighborhood spots to go to on the weekend. I knew nothing about this place when I walked in, but wanted to try the hawaij mocha which I've never seen before.There was some confusion when ordering and I noticed the cashier was having a hard time understanding me and I couldn't figure out why at first. But It finally dawned on me that the staff was learning English and I saw this place helps refugees. I made sure to speak a little slower and use more common words. Learning a new language is really hard and it's easy to get overwhelmed so I get it. The owner was really nice and caught me staring off into space when I was waiting for my coffee so she wanted to make sure I didn't have a bad experience. I thought that was really kind of her, I forget I get lost in my own head sometimes and it probably looks weird to other people. I didn't get a chance to try the food, but if I'm ever in the area I'd like to try it. The hawaij coffee had a very hearty flavor to it. Hawaij spices are often used in soup, so it almost reminded me of a hearty soup with coffee. I'm happy I tried it, but I think I'll try something else next time. Overall I wish I had a place like this closer to me. They take feedback really well and everyone is so nice. I go out for brunch every weekend, it would be amazing if every place had a good cause like Emma's Torch.

Cute little place tucked in an inconspicuous stretch on Rhode Island. It has a few tables inside, with outside seating when the weather permits. Very informal, comfortable vibe. The latte was nice, and a huge egg and cheese biscuit all for $12. The staff is all really pleasant and contribute to the welcoming environment.

Hiding in plain sight?!? This coffee shop sits right on the corner of State Street within walking distance of the Bayfront do that's means I've passed it's more than a dozen times. In a search for a coffee shop ( small business) I stumbled across Emma's. I decided to try it. On a Wednesday morning at 7am the place was empty. The bright spacious coffee shop offers a somewhat limited menu, pastries and some retail options. I opted for my usual oat latte and was displeased that they only offer one size ( 12 oz). They do have a wide variety of flavor options available. Unfortunately this coffee really missed the mark and I think "torch" is your be taken literally as the coffee tasted so burnt I could not finish it. This wasn't the best start to my long day. While it was convenient, I cannot say I enjoyed the coffee at all.

Emma's Torch is more than a coffee shop. They employ refugees and asylees, providing culinary and employability training. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., some items on the menu are inspired by flavors from around the world- homemade chai, hawaij (a Yemeni spice blend) mocha, shakshuka, chai spiced donuts. There are open seats and WiFi.My little family of three went Sunday around 9 a.m. and there wasn't a wait despite a few other customers in the cafe. We ordered the donut, blueberry muffin, and banana bread. My wife got the hawaij mocha and I the latte. (They use Zeke's coffee beans.) Everything was great! Not loving sweet drinks, my wife really enjoyed the hawaij mocha.The cafe has water for everyone and restrooms.

I have been a number of times and every time was pleased with the service and food. I stopped by this Sunday for breakfast and again Emma's Torch did not disappoint! The biscuits and the crispy chicken sandwich are my favorites. Also the coffee is great. I was happy to see that they are slowly expanding their menu. They added happy hour with wine and beer a while ago and this time I noticed new menu items like a burger and fries. It's a cute little shop, nothing fancy. Overall their mission to help refugees and immigrants overshadows any missteps, which a very few and far in between.

The food was spot; price was a bit high but the entire experience was worth it. The salmon bagel was topped with thick pieces of salmon (pictured is only half the order) and the cream cheese tasted whipped (light and fluffy). The avocado toast was so flavorful on a small, thick slice of bread (sourdough?) and also had a spicy kick to it. The chai latte was not overpowering, smooth and tasty.We came on a rainy Saturday, and the ambiance was wonderful for brunch. Music level was appropriate, welcoming staff, and the herb propagator in the corner was a lovely touch. The space is small with 7 tables but plenty of seating as many customers took their orders to go.If dining indoors, the food comes on recycled throwaway plates. They ask that you "don't bus your dishes" as you're part of their culinary training program for students learning restaurant skills.Standout notes: eco friendly plates and cups! Diaper changing station in bathroom! Free water!

This place is amazing. The mission is to empower refugees through employment, which of course is a worthy cause to support. Additionally - the food and drink offerings are top notch! Try the breakfast wrap, crispy chicken sandwich, or the black eyed peas hummus wrap (note many GF and vegetarian options!). Lots of drink options as well, including a house made chai that is divine and a hawaij mocha (hawaij is a traditional spice blend from Yemen). I don't know of any other place in the DC area that serves hawaij drinks and it's a really unique and delicious flavor! There's even a W-F happy hour from 3-6 pm to check out. Definitely give this business some love, both for its fantastic mission and delicious fare.

This place is so cozy and delicious! The Nutella French toast, crispy chicken sandwich and pancakes were out of this world! The service is so friendly and you are supporting an amazing group of people

The egg and cheese breakfast sandwich comes on a delicious biscuit. The coffee is great too. Very nice laid back setting on a Saturday morning.