Cafe Unido

Café Unido, Panama’s premier specialty coffee company, brings its signature blend of rich flavors and stylish design to its new location in Washington, DC. This sleek, 69-seat café and bar transforms a previously shell-condition space into a vibrant and welcoming environment, offering patrons an comfortable and modern atmosphere to enjoy exceptional coffee and cuisine.

The tenant buildout includes a dining area, coffee bar, commercial kitchen, and restrooms, all unified by an open floor plan that showcases natural materials like wood and stone. A natural palette with greens and warm wood tones creates an earthy, inviting ambiance. Unique design features include custom terrazzo-inspired concrete flooring, a striking millwork “eyebrow” around the dining area and coffee bar, and planter boxes to complement banquette seating, adding both functionality and style.

The unique triangular floor plan, long corridor leading to the rear exit, and an existing concrete floor 4 inches below the entry grade required a skilled design approach. These challenges were addressed with a raised floor and a ramp to the back-of-house area, ensuring smooth transitions throughout the space. The project also involved coordination with multiple vendors for kitchen equipment, coffee machines, a POS system, and low-voltage integration, ensuring that every detail was tailored to the client’s vision.

The café’s refined finishes, such as waterfall-edge countertops and custom millwork seating, elevate the space while maintaining a warm and approachable aesthetic. The large storefront windows, adorned with subtle graphics, showcase the café to passersby and enhance its street presence. Café Unido’s newest location is a standout destination for coffee enthusiasts in the heart of DC.