Washington, D.C. – Soho Coffee and Tea, a beloved institution in Dupont Circle, has unexpectedly closed its doors after decades of serving the community. On the evening of November 25, employees began removing artwork and menus from the café, and by the following morning, all furnishings, including rolling counters and patio furniture, were gone. Now, only the iconic yellow walls remain.
The café’s closure comes after several challenges faced by the business. Eduard Badalyan, who took over the café in 2018 through his company Group Soho, and his sister Liana, the café’s manager, transformed Soho into a popular neighborhood spot. However, the rise in rent and a gradual decline in business made it difficult to keep the café running. “Unfortunately, it was no longer sustainable,” said Badalyan in a statement.
Soho Coffee and Tea was more than just a coffee shop; it held a special place in the hearts of many, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. For years, it was a central gathering spot in West Dupont Circle, once considered the heart of D.C.’s gayborhood. Just across the street was P Street Beach, a grassy area that hosted the city’s unofficial Gay Pride celebrations and served as a popular spot for sunbathing. Soho became a regular destination for late-night patrons, especially after bars like Badlands, Fraternity House, and Friends Piano Bar closed for the evening.
Soho was originally opened in 1994 by entrepreneurs Helene Bloom and Fran Levine. They envisioned the café as an eclectic, New York-style hangout, and it quickly became known for its relaxed atmosphere, serving not only coffee but also offering a space for book clubs, art shows, and political meetings. It was a home for the community—a place where people could gather to unwind and connect.
For many longtime customers like Gordon Binder and Michael Rawson, the closure of Soho marks the end of an era. “We’ve been going to Soho several times a week since the ‘90s, enjoying the atmosphere, the friendly staff, and of course, the chicken salad sandwich. We’ll surely miss this neighborhood hangout,” Binder said.
Soho’s closure is a bittersweet reminder of the changes in Dupont Circle and the loss of a space that was more than just a café—it was a hub for connection and community.
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