Café Bonaparte - a little a lot

In the heart of historic Georgetown, amidst the antique shops, lies a diminutive and cozy European café—Café Bonaparte. Small in stature, it has a surprisingly extensive repertoire of food and drink. What appears from the street as nothing more than a coffee shop, also serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.

The ambiance is personal and romantic. The façade of the café is completely paned windows infusing the dining room with light--coalescing historic Georgetown with a taste of Europe. The walls are adorned with a series of art deco pieces--all of which are for sale. The pastels give added color to an already sunlit room. The tables are tiny and close in proximity, however, amazingly, I have never felt cramped. Meanwhile, the waitresses do an exceptional job of navigating the tight quarters. The size and popularity of the cafe do lend themselves to weekend morning lines. Just leave your name and take a twenty minute jaunt around the corner to the many antique shops—it is worth the wait.

I have yet to try any of their dinner entrees, but their Elba sandwich--smoked turkey with apples, brie, and honey Dijon--was excellent. Their brunch is even more inspiring, as their Renoir—scrambled eggs, Italian sausage, green peppers, and onions rolled in a crepe & topped with cheddar and Swiss cheese—is heavy on the taste buds but not on the stomach. It is light not greasy. The food prices are reasonable, but the drinks can be a bit pricey. Mimosa’s and Bloody Mary’s run around ten dollars and a couple can add up quickly. Nevertheless, they are both excellent. And finally, the small unassuming bar is a great setting for a nightcap, appealing to the night owl craving something sweet. I hear their deserts are excellent.

Café Bonaparte, as small as it is, somehow manages to offer a little of everything for everyone, at anytime.