#grocerystorecoffeeshops

[groceryproject2017]

Grocery Visit 5: Dean & Deluca, Georgetown Similar to Little Red Fox, I found a more curated gourmet experience at Dean & Deluca. The espresso bar is definitely the largest structure for an in store coffee shop that Ive seen thus far. The espresso bar features a variety of hot drinks, pastries, and gelato. However, focusing only on seating and drink-only purchases, I grabbed a tea and went to the seating area. Unique to itself, Dean & Deluca has a screened outdoor only seating area. In times past, the seating area would be empty due to the weather. I was fortunate to visit on a warm day and see just how many people were using this space. Since, just like LRF, there is a popular hot food section in the gourmet, most patrons seated had meals with them, but I did observe a few tables that only have beverages.

[groceryproject2017]

Grocery Visit 3: Giant Grocery Store, Mclean, VA

During my third visit, I visited what used to be my local grocery store. The Mclean Giant is a fairly large store, and adjacent to one of the entrances is their miniature Starbucks Coffee shop. Once Starbucks opened, the shopping carts were redesigned to include cup holders for the shopper’s convenience. Not pictured, I did observe several patrons perusing the aisles with a coffee in their hand or held in their cart. Observing the shop itself, it seems to be that those buying a drink didn’t have a full cart with them, so there’s a chance that most patrons order coffee before they start their visit. The seating area is small, two tables and four chairs. It’s not utilized very often, since the Starbucks seems to be more a convenience on the go. 

[groceryproject2017]

Grocery Visit 2: Little Red Fox, Tenleytown

In juxtaposition to the Foggy Bottom Whole Foods, Little Red Fox markets itself as a equal parts coffee shop and marketplace. The right walls are lined with shelving that includes high end oils, spices, tea, and other goods, plus a fridge with more dairy and products. There is a glass enclosed section to the left with food made fresh (likely in house), and a handwritten sign for sandwiches and soups to order. Just beside the glass is the coffee shop menu. Little Red Fox’s seating area is titled a “community table” with some gentle guidelines. There is also outdoor seating. During my visit (approx. 2-3 PM), most patrons that sat down were eating a full meal, although a couple of women sat down with coffee for a casual chit chat. The atmosphere is overall very locals oriented and cozy.