Tynan: Local flair, good java

Washington D.C.’s need for caffeine is well-established, as are the providers of such a fix.  Tynan Coffee & Tea, located in Columbia Heights, looks to break into a market where area institutions come both corporate (Starbucks, Caribou Coffee) and independent (Tryst, Big Bear Cafe). Locally-owned, Tynan hopes to cement its identity somewhere between the two concepts, merging the familiarity and reliability of a corporate chain, with the responsiveness and local flavor of an area-owned business.  

 The shop’s success will likely be derived from the their central locale and their proximity to a high traffic Metro station.  Tynan looks to draw the masses traveling to and from the green line’s Columbia Heights station, as well as the young crowd of new professionals and area students with what they describe as an “inviting atmosphere and casually sophisticated surroundings.”  Part of that environment will include an originally painted mural that will appear inside the front doorway of this java joint.  

 {mosads}Tynan has now changed its policy and offers limited free WiFi internet access with a purchase of food or drink.  The policy is showing early signs of return as on one occasion I noted roughly half of the 20 or so customers arrived with laptops.  

 Caffeinated drink(s) options include various organic coffees, hot espressos, iced frappes, and teas, while customers that prefer something decaffeinated can enjoy choices including chai or fruit smoothies.  The service is quick and friendly, despite the long line.  Choices for food includes fresh bagels, pastries, sandwiches, various salad choices, but we recommend trying the Belgian waffle at any point during the day.  If you’re hoping to unwind after a long day on Capitol Hill, Tynan also offers a small selection of beer and wine.

Look for Tynan’s second shop to open in Friendship Heights on May 10th.