Everyone Is Falling in Love with This New Spot: SOST

When it comes to blending culture, cuisine, and community, SOST is setting the bar high in Washington, D.C. Located in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood at 1901 9th Street NW, this three-story haven is more than just a place to grab a bite or a drink—it’s an experience. Since its recent debut, everyone seems to be falling in love with SOST, and it’s easy to see why.

A Love Letter to the Black Diaspora

SOST is the brainchild of the Abebe siblings—Siem, Izzy, and Mariam—who transformed a former Ethiopian community center into a cultural hub that celebrates their Ethiopian-Eritrean roots and the broader Black diaspora. From its design to its menu, every detail feels like an homage to heritage and a nod to the future.

The space is divided into three distinct vibes: a cozy café and wine bar on the first floor, a chic restaurant and rooftop lounge on the second, and an intimate vinyl lounge in the basement. Each area offers its own unique charm, making it the kind of spot where you can spend an entire day and night without running out of things to love.

Food That Feels Like a Warm Embrace

Led by Executive Chef D’Angelo Mobley, the menu is a culinary journey through the flavors of the diaspora. Think berbere-braised chicken that melts in your mouth, harissa salmon that’s as bold as it is tender, and jollof rice that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds). Pair your meal with a glass of wine from a Black-owned vineyard or a coffee-based cocktail featuring Ethiopian beans, and you’ve got yourself a feast that feeds both the body and the soul.

Coffee, Cocktails, and Community

By day, SOST’s café serves specialty Ethiopian coffee that’s as rich as the history it represents. As the sun sets, the space transitions into a wine bar featuring selections from South Africa and other Black-owned vineyards around the world. Upstairs, the rooftop lounge is the perfect spot for sipping cocktails and taking in the city’s energy. And then there’s the basement—a vinyl lounge that feels like a love letter to music itself. With a DJ setup, a music-themed cocktail list, and live performances, it’s where you go when you want to vibe out and let the rhythm move you.

Why Everyone Is Talking About SOST

It’s rare to find a spot that checks all the boxes, but SOST does it effortlessly. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or someone who just wants to be surrounded by good vibes and great people, SOST offers something for everyone.

The buzz online has been electric. Locals are raving about the food, the ambiance, and the sense of community that SOST fosters. It’s not just a place to eat or drink; it’s a space to connect, celebrate, and feel seen. And in a city as dynamic as D.C., that’s exactly what we need.

A New Home Away From Home

In a world that can often feel disconnected, SOST is a reminder of the beauty that comes from community and culture. It’s a space where you can feel at home, whether you’re savoring a cup of Ethiopian coffee, dancing to a DJ’s vinyl set, or sharing a plate of jollof with friends.

So, if you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for? SOST isn’t just a new spot in town—it’s the spot. And trust me, once you go, you’ll be falling in love too.