So I think I’ve got a bead on a pretty bangin’ brunch. Normally I ignore the ritual preferring to lounge at home with a press pot and records, but a recently stoked soccer addiction has me dragging my ass out of bed. Bars and restaurants all over the city are taking advantage of games televised as early as 7:oo am to pull in patrons that might otherwise sleep late. And Cafe Nema on U street has just entered my rotation.
I love the coffee which Nema brews to order from Lavazza beans. Dark intense bitter capped in a sepia crema and included gratis with breakfast. 11 bucks gets you unexpected items like lamb-chops and a vinegary green salad spiked with tuna and coriander alongside the familiar scrambled eggs, french toast, crepes and a glass of OJ.
I’ve got no clue how any of this leads to a discussion of veal and chicken bones with Robert who was working the bar. But sure enough there I am pointing out the importance of skimming impurities and maintaining the laziest of simmers to prevent cloudy stocks. Discussing mirepoix and herbs intently ignoring Nani’s pass to Berbatov. All while the espresso machine’s throaty belch of steam was drown out by a cheering crowd — I’d missed another goal.
Cafe Nema
1334 U Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20009-4445
(202) 667-3215
