The Great and Powerful Oz at Tryst

By Elias

At Tryst, a Barista is something to aspire to, something you have to become mentally and physically. When I first began at Tryst I eagerly peered over the to-go counter, observing their smooth and efficient movements. When I am behind the espresso machine I feel like an honorable tradesman akin to a carpenter, mechanic, or mason. I have to navigate the fine balance between efficiency and quality. Over the years Tryst customers have come to expect a high quality product whether it is an extra hot soy cappuccino or a breve maple cortado. It is my role to continue the tradition of beautifully crafted espresso drinks served in a warm and friendly environment.

Direct Trade vs. Fair Trade at Tryst

By Elias

Counter Culture Coffee offers a long list of blends and single origins that we proudly serve here at Tryst. Seasonal changes to the composition of our featured espresso, called 'Toscano' and our drip blend help maintain a bold and sweet yet complex flavor profile continuous with an overall feel and atmosphere distinctly found at Tryst. Our coffee is our name.

Barista Culture at Tryst (Part II)

By Elias

Being a barista isn't something I necessarily pictured myself becoming, but now that I've begun it makes complete sense.  I was raised on coffee.  The first time I remember drinking it, I was 6 at my grandma's house using my Barbie tea set.  I was also raised with art.  My family is made up of musicians and other types of artists.  A barista combines these two enriching things into one experience.

Barista Culture at Tryst

By Elias

I became a barista at Tryst to have direct control of a product that I love, but it’s more than a love for producing an incredible Rosetta on the top of a silky smooth Cortado that keeps me here.  The barista culture at Tryst, in my opinion, strikes the perfect balance between professionalism, technical expertise and a desire to work in the coolest environment in DC.  I have yet to meet a barista here I didn’t instantly love and respect, and I look forward to work everyday.

Tryst Barista Special and Such

By Elias

We love coffee.  It’s a necessary part of your morning routine, I know I can’t start my day without an espresso or a macchiato.   It’s the perfect medium for everything from a conversation with an old friend, a first date, a business meeting, or simply a moment of solitude and serenity from the busy schedule that many of us in DC have.  Coffee is the second most highly traded commodity in the world, and provides the livelihood for countless families across the globe.   It has kept soldiers morale up, warms the weary traveler, been the cause of the rise and fall of several dictators, and is an essential part of the culture of many countries across the world.  These are only a few reasons as to why we take our coffee seriously here at Tryst. 

That love of coffee and the knowledge of the affect that it has had on ancient cultures all the way up to the array of customers that come in to have us fuel their workday has inspired us to make the best cup we possibly can.  Part of that endeavor has resulted in two barista specials to brighten up your summer, and cool you off from the mugginess that envelopes us throughout the summer. 

Why We Love Counter Culture

By Dave

A response to Alex Baca’s article in the City Paper -- Café Olé: How Counter Culture Took Over D.C. Coffee, Feb. 8, 2012

Barista 1-2-3 HAPPY HOUR AT TRYST!

By Elias

If you've visited Tryst this past month you've noticed changes...seasonal changes to the cocktail list reflecting our love for the change of seasons.. Some of our sandwiches, dips and spreads, and Seasonal salads have been updated as well... But there's one more change around the Barista station and it changes daily... The "Barista Special"..

A Litte Background on Coffee…From your Tryst Barista

By Elias

The actual origin of Coffee use tends to be a bit obscure, lending to the number of varied legends regarding its genesis.  Of the many legends one seems to be embraced more widely than others, and I personally think it has more pizzazz.  As the story goes, an Ethiopian goat herder named Kaldi was tending to his herd when he noticed his goats ìdancingî whenever they chewed on bright red berries from a specific bush.  Needless to say Kaldi was intrigued and was soon doing his own jig.  After making such an awesome discovery word soon spread, and things really began to pick up when it reached the Arabian Peninsula.

Rehydrate and cool off at Open City!

By Mick

From Chris H., an Open City manager

It might seem a little crazy to be outside in this nearly 100 degree weather. Some choose to stay indoors and venture out into the sun as little as possible during the record breaking heat we are currently experiencing in this city. Yet there are some for whom the heat fails to be a deterrent and others still who may even embrace it! Yes, we are referring to those crazy DC joggers that we see run by our giant windows every day—sometimes even during the worst midday heat. The importance of staying hydrated before, during and after these excursions cannot be overstated and at Open City we are here to help!

Tryst - Washingtonian’s Best Coffeehouses in Washington

By Dave

Coffee is a great way to end a date, but finding a coffee shop that stays open past dinner can be a challenge. Here are spots with good coffee, some atmosphere, and late hours. -- By Emily Leaman, Published Monday, July 11, 2011, Washingtonian Magazine