Songkran II

Afterwords isn't the place to go for fantastic food. It's where you chill out after a long week's work and a hard evening's browsing of Kramerbooks' offerings. It's where you meet up with your friends for some chocolate cake or berry pie.

Don't come here on a date unless you want to impress your potential partner with your bookishness. Do come for a chat with friends over dessert and coffee, or maybe alone with a book and an espresso.

Ambiance? Check.  People watching and overhearing? Check.  Great book selection? Check. Desert selection? Double check.  Actually, triple check.  Excellent brunch? Check.  But, that is where I draw the line.  The service is schizophrenic at best, and for their cost, the entrees are nothing to write home about.  Regardless, for the cool crowd, this place is the bees knees of DC.    

This is equal parts book store and restaurant; not expansive in either case but more than sufficient.  The line for a table is never long for small groups (6 and fewer), but you can browse the book selection while waiting.  Nearest to the host station are the nonfiction, political and language books, but the PA system can be heard in both rooms if you decide to wander elsewhere.  Fiction and best-sellers are also in the main room adjoining the cafe, while the biography, travel, poetry, graphic novel and children's section are next to the bar.

The food is slightly overpriced, but usually satisfying.  The desserts are especially delicious.  Their flourless chocolate cake is a rich, smooth wedge resembling fudge.  Pie-lovers will like their mixed berry dessert topped with streusel.  For real food, their option of mixing appetizers for a meal is nice for those who like variety - the macaroni and cheese is delicious.  The menu seems to frequently have New Orleans or Caribbean-inspired dishes, and their jerk seasoning is tasty if not authentic.

Afterwards Cafe and Kramerbooks is a really good location to peoplewatch as well.  The storefronts open to both Connecticut Avenue and 19th Street, allowing vistas from both windows.  Lively discussion always fills the storefront, often inspired by the books being browsed.  Certainly a fun place to pass through.