Rare Bird Coffee Roasters

My first impression, RB struck me as a bit of an old-school 1960s hippie-style coffee shops working to exude a laid-back and bohemian atmosphere. There are a few plants at RB, not the abundance of plants in hand thrown clay pots and macrame that created a lush and earthy ambiance of the hippie spots. RB does have severely worn terrazzo floors reminiscent of the worn, rustic floors and eclectic decor that added to vintage charm in the old-school spots. These coffee shops prioritize a relaxed vibe, encouraging patrons to linger and enjoy their time; I think RB does that. When it comes to their offerings, these places are known for their genuine commitment to quality. They take pastry making and coffee brewing seriously, using premium ingredients and methods. The result is a menu filled with delectable pastries and meticulously brewed coffee that reflects the care and dedication of the era's counterculture movement. Overall, these coffee shops provide a unique blend of nostalgia, tranquility, and culinary excellence, imo.

Rare bird is my absolute favorite local coffee shop the best matcha, croissants, and pour overs. They have such kind owners and the pastries and coffee are delicious. I have been coming here for 4 years and they're always bringing in new fun treats, new roasts, and new plants. They've expanded quite a bit so it's a bit easier to get a table during the week. Weekends are pretty hectic, but the line moves quickly. It's nice to see how popular they are, really love to see a local business succeeding!

Large space and a modern aesthetic! For a Monday morning it was pretty busy. There was a line but it moves fast. Lots of pastry and breakfast sandwich options available. I got their strawberry almond croissant and an iced mocha. Both were good! Inside they have several plants for sale and even propagated second chance plants available as well which I loved. There’s a good amount of seating available but most was taken; it’s clearly a popular spot. There’s a free parking lot in the back which is helpful too.

Highly recommend this coffee shop. I always try out a new coffee shop on the weekends. This location was super busy and parking was difficult but it was Saturday so to be expected. The food looked great, especially the croissant and pastries. I liked that there were unique coffee flavors. I ordered a butterscotch latte, which was the perfect hint of sweet. I love mildly sweet with undertones of flavor (I want to be able to taste the coffee and not be hit with sugar) which is exactly what I got. They had a strawberry latte that I wanted to try but they were already sold out at 10:30am. I will have to come back for one! Coffee was about $7 which is on the higher end for me personally. There is plenty of seating for single and groups. They also have outlets for charging and bathrooms for customers. The shop has large windows to let the light in and propagations of greenery everywhere. I will definitely be back to try out more items on the menu!

Rare Bird Coffee is a "rare" sight in the heart of Falls Church area. A quaint coffee bistro in a rusty, idyllic street, where other shops/restaurants such as Dogwood Tavern are located. What I ordered: Cardamom Vanilla Latte. It was so-so and while I probably would not try again, I recommend giving it a go if it's your first time grabbing something on the menu, as it was me. 2/5 stars overall. My recommendation: go on the weekends, specifically on Saturday. The local FC farmer's market runs from 9-12 on Saturdays and is easily within walkable distance of here. There's also a nicely-designed, upscale Harris Teeter's here which is a bit closer to the market, so you can also knock out grocery shopping at the same time. Parking: I took pictures and figured out there's an attached parking lot behind the coffee shop in question. A small entranceway leads off to the back, and sufficient parking there. When driving from the main road, you can take a right (and left into the lot) when you see Rare Bird's on your street-side. I did not know of this, and instead took a turn one street early; but that worked out well, as there's *another* lot there as well. Free 2-hour parking, just avoid the reserved spots and you should be good to go. Ambiance: 4/5 stars. A semi-grand, open seating (albeit in a sunny spot) near the storefront of the coffee shop. I've never sat here, but it appears packed most of the time I come here. There's also a secluded nook if you take a right from the entrance, which leads to a few tables and a calmer, more "relaxed" ambiance, likewise looking into the Main Street (see included photo). I haven't sat here, but I could easily see myself busting out my laptop along with a latte (maybe) and riding the web on the coattails of the complementary wifi for a good while here, without anyone tapping you on the shoulder and reminding you it's about time to hit the road, you freeloader you. So far I've come here three or so times, all on weekend afternoons. My recommendation would be to come early(ish) and to check the store hours beforehand, as they do close earlier than expected at times. All in all, their lattes here are nothing to write home about, and I've certainly had better ones elsewhere, in more hole-in-the-wall places. The Cardamom Vanilla latte I had, which is supposed to be their crown jewel or some such, was rather lackluster to me and borderline mediocre, meaning it barely squeezed by in the taste test. So don't expect anyone to hit anything out the park, and you should be solid. Their ambiance is spot on, and I like the ample sunlight and cooled interior on summer days, provides a noteworthy respite. The FC Main Street is right outside, and I would highly recommend going for a stroll, maybe get some ice cream on the way at the nearby shop (same side of the street). All in all, solid ambiance, good palate-cleanser lattes, and try to manage expectations and you might very well end up pleasantly surprised.

Wonderful little coffee shop in the heart of Falls Church. Parking can be tough during busy times but with their back entrance, it makes it easy to enter there. For handicapped however, they still need to enter through the front since the back stairs can be uneven and slick in the rain. Food is tasty and has unique flavours like Zaatar and brie, and a Canale made from evaporated milk so it has a delicious crunchy exterior. They have a wonderful variety of drink whether you are a coffee or tea person. Plus they roast they're own beans and have a wide selection to choose from. Highly recommended!