Cafe Saint-Ex

Cafe Saint-Ex

Cafe Saint-Ex logo

✨ Vibe

A quintessential neighborhood staple that seamlessly transitions from a classy, sun-drenched bistro to a high-energy underground dance and comedy hub.

🍸 Best For

Late-night dancing, local comedy showcases, lively weekend brunches, and craft cocktail happy hours.

🔥 Highlights

  • Versatile Dual-Level Space: Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience on the ground floor or head to the "Gate 54" basement for a high-energy dance floor featuring live DJs and a bustling bar scene.
  • Local Entertainment: The venue is a premier destination for live entertainment, hosting regular comedy nights that showcase local talent and high-energy DJ sets that keep the 14th Street corridor vibrant.
  • Bistro-Inspired Fare: From eclectic beer selections to a menu featuring local produce and fan favorites like truffle fries and brunch classics, there is a delicious option for every time of day.

ℹ️ Need to Know

  • Catch the fantastic Happy Hour deals Wednesday through Friday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
  • If you're looking for the ultimate late-night party, the venue stays open until 3:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

📰 In the News

District Fray Feb 2, 2023

Off the Clock: Andra “AJ” Johnson

Cafe Saint-Ex is a popular late-night destination in D.C. highlighted by hospitality professional Andra “AJ” Johnson for its reliable service and atmosphere. The venue features the "No Hype" DJ set with Jamil Hamilton every other Thursday from 10 p.m. until closing.

Washington City Paper Mar 8, 2021

14 Years of Hospitality History on 14th Street

Cafe Saint-Ex, established in 2003, is a historic cornerstone of the 14th Street NW corridor that helped transform the neighborhood into a major hospitality hub. The venue is recognized for its influential basement bar scene and its role in pioneering sustainable dining under early chefs like Barton Seaver.

Eater DC May 17, 2018

15 Years Later, Cafe Saint-Ex Remains One of D.C.’s Greatest Legacies

Cafe Saint-Ex is a foundational 14th Street neighborhood staple known for its aviation-themed atmosphere and French-inspired American bistro fare. The venue features a diverse menu of seasonal dishes alongside a lively basement lounge, Gate 54, offering a consistent community gathering spot that has influenced the District's dining scene since 2003.

WTOP May 11, 2018

Ushering in a restaurant renaissance: 14th Street spot celebrates 15 years

Cafe Saint-Ex is a landmark bistro on DC's 14th Street corridor known for pioneering the neighborhood’s farm-to-table movement and craft cocktail scene. The venue features a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere with a popular basement space that has served as a staple for local DJs and the city's music scene for over two decades.

PoPville May 1, 2018

Saint-Ex Celebrates 15 Years on 14th Street NW with a Big Birthday BBQ Blowout on Sunday, May 13th

Cafe Saint-Ex serves as a long-standing cornerstone of the 14th Street Corridor, offering a variety of community-focused programming such as seasonal "Patio Sessions" and weekly dog-friendly "Yappy Hours." The venue features regular "Bucket Sunday" specials on fried chicken and beer, alongside entertainment like karaoke and DJ sets at its Gate 54 space.

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