Emma’s Torch in Eater Washington, DC

The Best New Restaurants Around D.C., July 2026

Originally a much smaller operation in Brooklyn that has grown to multiple locations in New York, this 4,500-square-foot Silver Spring cafe and training center teaches culinary skills to refugees, asylum seekers, and survivors of human trafficking.

The nonprofit’s new flagship will help to give financial independence to over 185 students from over 75 countries each year, while serving classic breakfast fare like egg-and-cheese biscuit sandwiches, avocado toast, and pastries like smoked cheddar broccoli tarts and cinnamon buns.

A vast array of brunch options includes brown butter pancakes and vegan chickpea shakshuka, plus the cafe also offers catering services.… read here.