I called and asked to speak with one of the owners and the female who answered the phone told me that they have "a protocol" which I couldn't guess what that could possibly be except some people trying to make themselves seem way more important than they are (!) for me to make an appointment to make such an appointment since this chippy was just able to speak with the owner whom I could hear in the background, yet he couldn't speak to me because he was in a meeting! Need I tell you that I was just as rude with this "sister" as she was with me in no uncertain terms! Heaven help us with leaders like these! Dick Gregory is and has always been listed in the public telephone listings and there have been public "hits" put out on Gregory's life! That's like regular company's customer service reps. not giving their last names supposedly because of fear of reprisals from customers but I think so that said reps. can't be held accountable for their actions (!) while ALL IRS reps. (that massively hated organization!) give their first AND last names AND an ID number when I call them ! Puhlease people!

I knew I had to visit this place and didn’t get a chance to do so for the many trips I took to DC. This time around I made it work; from the moment I stepped in, till I read all I could from all the available books written by or about Black people, till I talked to good people there, grabbed a cool chai latte - an amazing cooler - and had two items of the menu (one vegan one carnivore ) and until I said bye - I felt black pride ✊ I felt represented, I felt like I belong, I honestly felt that I needed more of this. It’s very therapeutic and the infotainment is eye opening. Give thanks until I come next time either with my own book to put on the shelf or to just grab a coffee - Peace be with you brethren and Sistrens!! ✊
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Features
Dine in: Yes
Outdoor seating: Yes
Takeout: Yes
Delivery: Yes
Curbside pickup: Not sure

Great space to sit and read any number of books by African Americans on numerous topics, includes children's books. Quite a few tasty wraps and coffee drinks. The salmon melts and healthy shakes are especially popular. Sit indoors or out, front or back. I believe you can host small gatherings there. It seems to be set up that way. This small business has been around a long time now; which is most likely due in part to the fact that all of the staff act like family. They're more than cordial, they're genuinely kind and loving. One issue: even if you call ahead the food takes 15 minutes because they don't start until they see you. That's disappointing because I only have a half hour for lunch and hubs and I wanted to make that our new midday spot. Still, it's definitely worth checking out. I'd rather their current vibe and freshly prepared food than hustle and bustle and food that sat around before setting before me.

I don’t know why they are careless but they don’t have no respect for customer, this is their 2nd time messing my food and first time I called she told me she didn’t mess it up she just add few things to make it look nice even If I told her when I place the order I don’t want no spicy and today she completely mistake my order or didn’t hear me correctly from the quantity of the order to the wrong food, when I call to confirm that I have received the wrong food she tells me that’s not what I order, it’s one thing to apologize or let me know they have made mistake she tells me I’m wrong? How Am I wrong on what I want plus she replace it with completely different food and didn’t even ask me or let me know what I will receive! And have the audacity to tell me to come back like I have all day for them to remake my food Very bad customer service! Very bad on following instructions on how you want your food! Never again!

Sankofa is a whole vibe. Amazing, friendly service from the cafe to book store counter - they make you feel like family. Coffee, smoothies and food are also really good - the ful is everything! They keep old, new, rare, famous and little known authors’ books and everything in between. I love the community events hosted there but even on a random day you never know who you will connect with. Today, my family and I chatted it up with a renowned photographer Roy Lewis who has captured the likes of Audre Lorde, Alice Walker, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Muhammad Ali and more and low and behold, found out he had also photographed my aunt, a prominent West African Dancer and teacher, in Chicago in the 60s and he even had a book with her on the cover. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Sankofa offers a wonderful selection of progressive books in all genres for a diverse audience. The presenters and the attendees at the book and poetry readings, panel discussions, lectures, and cultural events are often committed activists in different areas of social justice work, as are the hosts/owners themselves (iconic film-makers). The shop is as inviting as the atmosphere is positive and uplifting, the jewelry and other craft work gifts are lovely, and the food is fresh, carefully prepared, and reasonably priced. Nice patio to boot!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

I checked this place out because I work nearby, it stays open late and it’s a small business that promotes African culture- which I think is wonderful- I went there for the love of coffee and that’s what I got. it was horrible!!I went there again with a friend for a double shot espresso to give it another shot. Again, I got a horrible drip dark roast in a big cup. I think any café would know how train their employees to make a descent espresso. I’m sure the book collection is great and I can’t speak for the food there as I haven’t tried. This review is just for the coffee! Please make it right.

Rare find! Sankofa is a must-visit for the best in the latest books, nicely curated talks, impressive rare books, and friendly customers. The cafe offers smoothies, lattes, vegan options, breakfast, bakery items, and Wi-Fi. The book collection includes one of the largest selections of children's books, rare books, film, art, sci-fi, health, spirituality, biographies, history, music, and more from across the African diaspora. It is one of the few long-standing black-owned businesses that remain on Georgia Ave. The front patio is a nice place to spend a warm day with a book or a friend.

The air of a successful business is in this place. The food looked amazing coming by on the plates. I was looking for a particular book so I didn't eat this trip but I certainly wanted to. Students were everywhere out front there was an impromptu market where young people offer their wares. The staff was friendly and spoke to the guests in the bookstore. I was very impressed from the artwork or the walls to the books displayed this was an iconic bookstore right across from Howard University keep up the good work and thank you for your hospitality.
Price per person
$30–50

Love love love the energy in this place and the food was amazing! As I sat at the far end of the establishment I could hear conversations about the various intellectual works within the shop. I could have joined in and felt like I was among family. If I'd had the money I'd have bought a lot more books... I was more than impressed with the selection. They have a large selection of children's books too! So nice to see books in an establishment for melinated children for once! Happy to support this black owned business. This shop makes me wish I lived here... sigh

Great grilled cheese on a croissant and coffee at this Ethiopian/Egyptian themed coffee bar. It has alcohol for coffee shot as well. It does seem to not be best utilized with the indoor being overrun by a cluttered bookstore. They're forgoing their $10k annual return per coffee table for book mounds so be prepared to sit outside on their outdoor patio. It across from Howard University making it a great place to grab a coffee before touring the campus...like I did
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10

This is like SUPER my kind of place. Hippest coffee joint in DC for sure, I was delighted to find they had fresh fruit smoothies! Something I thought I was sacrificing when I picked Sankofa over a smoothie place down the road, even though I really wanted a fresh fruit smoothie. That's how cool this place is. Great book selection, great crowd, great style, and the food looks like something I WILL try next time I get a chance. Love it.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

There happened to be a children's book reading when I visited for a quick bite. The author of the book presented two of her books and danced with the kids. The atmosphere was very grounded and encouraging.These types of happenings aren't rare for Sankofa and I appreciate it every time. This place is community-oriented, socially conscious, and makes a darn good chai latte. I thoroughly enjoy browsing the book shelves and have a hard time leaving without at least one new read.

If you are looking for a bookstore that celebrates Black Culture to the fullest, this is where you need to come! Every single peice of literature in the store, is written and features Black excellence. From children's books to autobiographies, and even science fiction; the genres are all present. They also have a cafe with delicious paninis! The searing area is great for a Spring or Summer day. I highly recommend this bookstore!
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

If I could it would be no stars! My wife and I were traveling in the DC area and stopped by this Cafe where she was refused service. My wife has a service dog and needed a coffee and a snack. The owner personally refused to serve her. Then suggested she be serviced outside at a side door. My wife is a white patron and because it was an all black business they stated that they have the right to refuse service because it was a personal business.

Let me find out Sankofa is run by foreigners and not Foundational Black Americans! Other than that, awesome place to chill. I bought 2 books and chopped up some game with Baba Oduno. Must go to place when in Rome. I ENCOUNTERED A LOT OF BEAUTIFUL BLACK WOMEN AND I DAM NEAR LOST MY MIND! ✊❤
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

The customer service in the cafe is very bad and unprofessional. The staff is rude and they will have you standing there forever. Don’t bother wasting your money on the low quality overpriced food. I would only go there for their okay selection of books. I would highly recommend Solid State Books instead they are also Black-owned. Solid State Books has a much wider selection and they are less Hotepy and very professional.

Nice little quaint bookstore/restaurant/intellectual stimulation meet up spot. They sell some clothing, bags and jewelry. The owners are melinated of African decent (black owned), and are film makers. Its not very noticable unless youre casually walking by and taking in the sites so gps would be a good too. The employees were nice and i enjoyed my food. I'll be going back for books and maybe an open mic or two.

"I'm rooting for everyone black" -Issa Rae This is the vibe of Sankofa. The food is good and there is outdoor eating space. If you want to support black business, your efforts are doubled here as your dollar supports the store and black items they sell. Great place to garner research information on Africa and African Americans. Yes, this place is connected to the movie of same namesake. My favorite bookstore.

Excellent service and communication. I recently ordered a popular title, and even though it was not available immediately for shipment, Sankofa wrote to me letting me know of its delayed arrival. A few weeks later when the title had been reprinted and was ready to ship, it only took 1-2 days to get the book in the mail. I will absolutely continue supporting Sankofa and look forward to shopping in-person!

Three words: chocolate chai latte! This coffeeshop and bookstore across the street from Howard University makes a mean cup of coffee and has the nicest staff ever. It's a good place to linger on a weekday afternoon and also a great place for a lecture or poetry reading in the evenings. Their unique coffee drinks are pretty inventive, but the standard espresso is high quality as well.

Cool spot, has a collection of books about people of African descent around the world. Has both indoor and outdoor seating, got a hot chocolate which tasted different than other hot chocolates I've had and was okay, a bit sweet but interesting flavor. Came on a Sunday afternoon, inside had quite a few people sitting around and outside tables were pretty free. Good spot to hang out!

Very homey small space with a good supply of books by black authors ranging from Childrens books to black history and other black modern topics. Ordered a chicken panini and it was delicious, chicken was heavily spiced (tasted more like curry than pesto) and the bread was crisp. Very nice staff.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

I love this activating space on Georgia ave! You can always walk into conversations with like minded people; meet new friends; enjoy a book and tea; enjoy a workshop or open mic session; come thru and chill or do work/homework... most the time I’m in the area I’ll stop thru for decent vegetarian fast food... my usual is the ousmane sembene and a habesha

The bookstore felt like sacred space--libraries & bookstores have always been community gems--this store ranks high. Such a wonderfully diverse book collection one rarely finds. I came in to eat but bought several books. The cafe has scrumptious fare. This carnivore thoroughly enjoyed fula (??sp) suggested by my vegan guest. She raved about her order too.

Feed the mind/soul (books, book club discounts, film, speakers, Black diaspora patrons- countries, faiths, perspectives, politics, history, evonomic empowerment/circulation of dollars commUNITY events, flyers, newspapers,) & the body (salmon panini, ginger sorrel both have healing powers). I try to visit everytime I travel to DMV from NC

Great events, great food, & great drinks, consistently. If you have a baby with you, be sure to bring a changing mat & use your stroller on the flat (newborn) setting. The women’s restroom is big enough to fit most strollers, but does not have a changing table.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

I found my place. There was a black owned bookstore (minus the cafe) like this in my hometown when I was growing up. You walk in and feel understood, embraced, and accepted without explanation or word said. The books, pictures, and music. Everything was affirming. It was peaceful. I was peaceful. The food was good, too. The staff kind.

Great selection of books based upon the theme of the bookstore. Very helpful staff and good food at the café. My mind was blown looking at all quality books and information in this bookstore. It is nice and quiet with a good vibe. You should check it out.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$1–10

Everything about this place is wonderful. A true community space. Good food, good people, good literature. Worth dropping in JUST for the dirty chai. It’s so good!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Features
Dine in: Yes
Outdoor seating: Yes
Takeout: Yes
Curbside pickup: Yes

Wonderful bookstore, great coffee, good ambiance. Books for kids, books for adults. Highly recommended. Great place overall.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20
Features
Dine in: Yes
Outdoor seating: Yes
Takeout: Yes
Delivery: Not sure
Curbside pickup: Not sure

Sankofa Sankofa Sankofa! Sankofa video Cafe and Bookstore it's not just a business it's an active participating member of the community! An excellent selection of books, movie Nights, guest speakers, spoken word artists, musicians, and wonderful food! And let's not forget it's annual participation in Watermelon Day!

Received excellent customer service from Kamau Grimes. The bookstore is has a dope selection of books. This was my second time there (coming from out of town, Philadelphia) and leaving with no less than four books both trips. Looking forward to my next visit to D.C. with Sankofa as a mandatory stop for purchases.

It's all about Black studies and REAL ancient knowledge. Our African neighbors have made a comforting setting for morning coffee, midday lunching with friends or strangers. They say theirs music events in the evening but I have yet to get there. I'm around the corner with my music workshops. Get there and enjoy.

Awesome gem of a coffee shop, restaurant and book store! I highly recommend getting the chai Frappuccino, it was delicious and not too sweet. The servers were also friendly and warm. This spot also have an amazing outdoor area with a lot of spread out picnic tables and greenery. Will definitely be back!

Phenomenon Afrakan Eatery, loaded with cultured artifacts from historic or modern reads to tasty healthy mind foods that put the body at ease.. Your holistic health Seba Shamal-Ptah Afurakan on the move exploring and sharing the Vegan Shrines of Black Excellence... Ptah Hotep (Ankh☥ Udja Seneb☤) …

My favorite coffee shop in DC! I am a student and sankofa has great food, seating options, and wifi. I can always get work done here or find a book to purchase and read. Got most of my Toni Morrison collection from here and have been recommended other great books I have enjoyed! Definitely come!

Handsdown the best (almond) chai tea latte I've had in my life. The food is delicious, healthy, and with options for vegans & omnivores alike. Excellent collection of Black books that you can't find anywhere else. They are intentional about creating a space for Black community events.

I have came here four days in a row for breakfast and coffee, every single time they didn’t fail to impress. The food reminds me of a quality, home-cooked breakfast made with care. I recommend getting the scrambled eggs and asking for it on ciabatta as a sandwich 10 out of 10.

Love this little book store. When it's nice out, will take advantage of the outdoor seating. Abundance of books written by and featuring African Americans, for babies through adults. Had a patty and some iced, spiced chai while I met up with a friend. Will definitely be back.

Previously the site of the Omega Psi Phi headquarters. Now the location where it was first observed melanin is worth more than gold in March 2014 due to the insight of Baba Tarik A. Oduno. The Oduno Scale was crafted on this location and gratefully named in his honor.

What an amazing place! Didn't know about this bookstore and cafe. I was just walking around DC when I found it. Bought many books. It is great to find a place where Black intellectuality is promoted. When back in the States, and in DC, will definitely return!

Amazing food (I recommend the eggs and the Larry Clark) and the best selection of books by writers of color. The food is Ethiopian influenced and the books are extremely diverse. It is also a center for engaging programs. Certainly a D.C. BEST and must visit!

It was my first time visiting and I was extremely excited to bring my first born daughter (who is an avid reader). They had an excellent variety of children's books and a rich library for adults. I'm definitely going to make visiting a monthly adventure.

The food and coffee was delicious! My family and I just went on vacation to DC and this place was a life saver. I have a child with special needs and the staff was always very kind and accommodating to him. That means a lot to me. Thank you all so much!

I loved the energy in the space. There were people of all ages in the space which made the experience a good one. I didn't have a meal but I had a smoothie which was good. I ended up purchasing 2 books for my 1 year old to enjoy in a couple years.

Brought my whole crew for lunch here. Place is cozy, filled with unique afrocentric books and gifts. Food was yummy, machiato was on point, service super friendly. Totally recommend a stop here (especially if you're visiting Howard University).

Wonderful black owned establishment... Great selection of books & the staff were friendly & helpful. The cafe had a great menu I definitely will be returning.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20

Wonderful bookstore, cafe. It has all the vibrations you want in a book store and it’s a major pillar in the Black community. Go and support. My boyfriend got us 2 books on the Nation of God and Earths. They also have tarot decks.

Sankofa bookstore is an amazing bookstore. It has all of the classic books as well as new books revealing hidden knowledge and secrets about black history and culture. The staff is amazing and wonderful, and the food is excellent.

Powerful people with life changing conversations. Everyone I've visited, I've left with new friends and a new outlook on life. The books are good but the people you can meet are better! The also have excellent food and smoothies!

I love coming here! Especially when I was in college. The food today was good, but the bread on my panini was a little too toasted. Other than that I love Sankofa. It is such a historic and important place for our community.

It is a wonderful exemplary bookstore that can be used as a library and a reference materials source for researchers in Black America/African history and culture. If you have time, go there and get your favorite readings!

Just had a very satisfying smoked salmon melt and another terrific double espresso. So enjoyed that. Digging the vibe here, too. The fare is flavorful and freshly prepared, and the energy is pleasant and laid back. Nice.

This quaint coffee shop was definitely unexpected. Lots to see relaxed environment good coffee good treats. Unique books and gifts available for purchase I made sure I bought a couple of things to take home to my family

great coffee and delicious, fresh, homemade food. I tried the ful, highly recommend! Also great bookstore with indoor and outdoor seating
Service
Take out
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

Great energy. Good books and good beers. They also have some cool features vents. Top notch. The place is simply BEAUTIFUL and a very important fixture! Resuscitative to the spirit. Love Sankofa Books and Cafe. Love it.

Wonderful community spot, excellent guest speakers - authors you may hear being interviewed on WPFW, KPFA etc. Good selection of substantive books to make a bibliophile smile along with music AND food...yaaaay! …

Had a cozy couple of hours hanging out and sipping the wonderful sweet espresso with a hint of cardamom, a falafel wrap and warm atmosphere started my winter break from teaching. Thank you. It was purrrfect …

Very cool spot to grab a bite chill. Food was delicious, and the vibe is nice
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Vegetarian options
Plenty options for vegans. Natural juices, and other foods

Great bookstore and Cafe. Plenty of great books, movie and events. The conversations are what I love about this place. You meet people you don't know and can have a deep conversation or debate the issues of the day.

I went here with my two friends to celebrate my birthday with a nice meal. Food was delicious and the staff was kind and attentive. We didn’t get to check out the book store and events but I’m sure they are great.

Great experience the books are awesome. The venue is great for reading , doing computer work, just chilling. Also venues, the get together for Juneteenth was cool many talented people in area with great VIBES!

Such a warm cozy nook of an atmosphere. Just want to stay for hours and take in the colorful collection. Your spirit always leaves with more than you came.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

First time visiting this place. Brought a lot of books. I forgot the cashiers name. The brother was very nice. I met Haile Gerima he was very warm and welcome. Thank you all for the wonderful experience.

The vibe has definitely changed over the years. The food is still decent compared to other places, though it too has declined in recent years. Meh. Time for a new spot. Maybe I'll start a cafe.

Smoothies are a little over priced I. my opinion for the size but the food is okay. I am not a huge fan of croissants for sandwiches which seems to be their default bread of choice for their melts.

With the atmosphere, staff, book selection, cafe with vegan options, and outdoor patios, I thoroughly enjoy my visits here. I look forward to going back every time I finish a book. See y'all soon!

Great food, amazing book selection, and a pillar in the community for local activists and writers! Support this business, we need them for everything they do to bring the local area together ❤️

Love this place! Great selection of books you've never heard of but should absolutely read. And the food is delish!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

The best place to buy books, eat good traditional food, meet friends and most of all learn African Heritage. African Music and Arts, Fashion Shows are available. Great place a lot of fun too.

This is DC. Very cool little spot to enjoy a live podcast or browse for books on a variety of black focused topics. I haven't tried much of the food, but what I had was decent. Great coffee.

I was here for the food....BUT...the Poet..Raquel Rivera Flowers was Absolutely Amazing. If she is in the area reading from her Poetry books..Heathen or Trouble Accents...Go..Listen!!!

Attend the book signing for Dr. Julius Garvey and enjoyed every moment of it while taking in the ambience of a beloved bookstore!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Their iced coffees are amazing. Such a wonderful space that hat a large selection of books and community event information. POC-centered and welcoming. Also rooms upstairs for events.

I Love Sankofa. This was one of my favorite places to visit while I was a student at HU. I'm so glad that they are doing well. My favorite was the Julie Dash yummy and good for you!

Great food, very friendly and nice atmosphere, and my drink was great. Definitely will be back, better than my typical Starbucks coffee day. It’s also Black-owned, can’t beat that.

Magical. Impactful. So glad this place exists. Incredible array of books you've possibly never seen before, incense, tarot, spirituality, and a unique menu with many veg options.

I LOVE SANKOFA! From the books, to the vegan wraps, Sankofa is a staple black business in the DMV and the world! Try the chai, and attend a talk. Both will change your life

The atmosphere here is wonderful. There are so many books to look at and purchase if you would like. The food is delicious! Everytime I'm in DC I make a point to go here.

The vegan pizza is fantastic!!! The book selection is incredible with leftist, anarchist, and radical texts. I love that they open their space to community events

Excellent bookstore with an incredible variety. Cafe is also top notch with good food and coffee. Staff is friendly and helpful. This is a must visit place in DC.

Every child should experience some of the children's literature in this place, whether or not they are of African descent. Exposure is important for our children.

Food GREAT, Customer Service Excellent, Diverse Atmosphere, Great place to study, chill, mingle or just listen to various Artists. I'm Hooked on this place!

Nice coffee shop and book store. Serves breakfast as well now. I had just a sweet potato muffin. Never had one before, but plan to again. It was delicious!

What a great bookstore! The staff were super helpful and very knowledgeable. I had a smoothie at the cafe and it was super yummy. I can't wait to go back!

I love Sankofa! Such an amazing atmosphere. You meet so many positive and empowered people there. Awesome selection of books. Great staff. Chill place.

Cafe service was awful, food took forever and it was tasteless. I think they're winging it but give them an A for effort. Go here for books, not food.

Very quaint cafe, great espresso, and even better library of ethnic culture for all ages. Staff is very friendly. Live music events are held as well.

Very nive atmosphere. Lots of black history content and Great coffee.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10

Very welcoming staff and organic book store. The food is good and fresh and the atmosphere is quiet and comfortable. Its Afro Centered by the way

The food was delicious! Lots of vegan options. And of course I couldn't leave without purchasing a book or two (or 5). I will definitely return!

Very nice place, lots of character, affordable prices, yummy food!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

The absolute best service, It was an awesome, welcoming experience. So grateful to have the opportunity to visit with them. Truly a jewel.

Good place to have coffee indoors or outdoors! Books
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

Great wraps too. The Gloria Rolando is spicy if that's what you need in your life. The Julie Dash is by far my favorite. You'll thank me.

so much gratitude for sankofa — it’s my dc oasis. The food and drinks are always amazing and the crowd instantly make me feel at home.

Love this place. Great energy and vibes. Awesome books for sale. Even books that are hard to find. The salmon sandwich is really good.

Good and unique place to grab a coffee, a bit hot when I went there (since there are no air-conditioning). But otherwise a nice place.

Nice atmosphere. Purchased a gaston kabore wrap and a preach pleasure smothie tasted great. Happy to support this black own business.