Where We’re From

In 1960, The Potter’s House opened its doors as a coffeehouse church. Through a flurry of events surrounding the idea of where people would actually feel comfortable asking deep, spiritual questions, our doors opened to explore that possibility at every table.

While the café began as a restaurant and congregation meeting house, The Potter’s House has welcomed all into the space since its inception. The café offered people a revolutionary concept: a judgment-free place that would allow its patrons to come together as strangers and leave as friends through food and conversation regardless of their religious beliefs. By the mid 1960s, the “coffeehouse congregation” idea had exploded into national popularity.

Throughout its decades of operation, The Potter’s House has engaged with its neighborhood, Adams Morgan, as a partner and safe space to create change. Our neighbors have fueled our work based on their needs and visions for the future. From educational seminars to commiserating while crafting, our doors have been open for anyone hoping to bring our communities together. Most recently, The Potter’s House has transitioned to becoming its own nonprofit organization separate from its previous religious background.

Where We’re Going

With two components to our mission–good food and community for all–we hold ourselves to high standards to achieve these goals. Our food, heavily inspired by the hospitality of Mary Easley, centers comfort foods and flavors that remind anyone of home. Our spaces transform to fit the needs of our neighbors to maximize their potential. Our mission guides every decision we make, and we’re proud to uphold the decades of work our community has carried out.

As a nonprofit café and bookstore, we also focus our energy into creating better futures for others. Through our meal program (Pay it Forward) and book donation program (Page it Forward), we strive to promote dignity and respect for others no matter their background. Regardless of means, we will do whatever we can to provide for others. It’s in our mission, and built into the very fabric of our walls.