Coffee, conversation, and community activism share the same table here, where ordering a sandwich might come with a side of poetry reading. If you are looking for the Busboys & Poets Menu with Prices before you visit, you have come to the right place. This guide breaks down the full food and drink list, what things actually cost, and how to get the best value for your money.
Busboys and Poets is not just a restaurant. It is a cultural hub with locations in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The menu is big, with everything from vegan bowls to hearty burgers, and the prices are fair for the portion sizes you get. Below, we will walk through every section of the menu so you know exactly what to expect when you sit down.
Busboys & Poets Menu With Prices
We have compiled the most current price list from the standard menu. Please note that prices can shift slightly depending on the location you visit, but these figures are accurate as of this writing. The menu is split into breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a dedicated vegan/vegetarian section.
Breakfast And Brunch Prices
Breakfast is served all day at most locations, which is a huge win for late risers. The portions are generous, and the coffee is strong. Here are the standard breakfast items and their costs.
- Classic Eggs Benedict – $14.95
- Busboys Breakfast (2 eggs, home fries, toast, choice of meat) – $13.50
- Vegan Tofu Scramble – $13.95
- Buttermilk Pancakes (short stack) – $10.75
- French Toast (brioche, berry compote) – $12.50
- Shrimp and Grits – $16.95
- Breakfast Burrito – $12.95
- Oatmeal Bowl (with fruit and nuts) – $9.50
If you are watching your wallet, the oatmeal or the short stack are the cheapest ways to fill up. The Shrimp and Grits is the most expensive breakfast item, but it is loaded with flavor and enough for two meals.
Appetizers And Small Plates
These are perfect for sharing at the table while you sip on a craft cocktail. The portions are meant for two or three people, so factor that into your total bill.
- Fried Green Tomatoes – $11.95
- Hummus Plate (served with warm pita) – $10.50
- Buffalo Cauliflower – $11.00
- Mussels (white wine garlic broth) – $14.00
- Quesadilla (cheese or chicken) – $10.95 / $13.95
- Deviled Eggs (half dozen) – $8.50
- Calamari – $12.95
The Buffalo Cauliflower is a crowd favorite even among meat eaters. It is crispy, spicy, and comes with a cool ranch drizzle. The Hummus Plate is also a safe bet if you want something light before a main course.
Sandwiches And Burgers
This is the heart of the lunch menu. Every sandwich comes with your choice of fries, salad, or fruit. You can also upgrade to sweet potato fries for a small extra charge.
- Busboys Burger (half-pound, cheddar, lettuce, tomato) – $15.95
- Veggie Burger (house-made black bean) – $14.50
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich – $14.95
- Po’ Boy (fried shrimp or oyster) – $16.50
- Reuben (corned beef, sauerkraut, swiss) – $15.50
- Turkey Club – $14.95
- BLT (with avocado) – $13.50
- Portobello Mushroom Sandwich – $14.00
The Busboys Burger is the signature item. It is juicy, messy, and served on a brioche bun. If you want to save a few dollars, the BLT is the cheapest option and still very filling.
Salads And Bowls
If you are looking for something lighter, the salad section has plenty of protein options. The bowls are grain-based and very trendy right now.
- Kale Caesar Salad (with chicken) – $14.95
- House Salad (mixed greens, tomato, cucumber) – $9.95
- Mediterranean Bowl (quinoa, feta, olives) – $13.95
- Thai Peanut Bowl (with tofu or chicken) – $14.50
- Cobb Salad – $15.95
- Harvest Bowl (sweet potato, kale, cranberries) – $13.50
You can add grilled shrimp to any salad for an extra $5.00. The House Salad is the cheapest, but you will likely want to add a protein to make it a full meal.
Entrees And Mains
Dinner entrees are larger and come with more sides. These are designed for a full evening meal, not a quick lunch.
- Grilled Salmon (with rice and vegetables) – $22.95
- Jambalaya (chicken, sausage, shrimp) – $19.95
- Short Rib (braised, mashed potatoes) – $24.95
- Chicken and Waffles – $18.95
- Pasta Primavera – $16.95
- Fish and Chips – $17.50
- Steak Frites – $26.95
The Steak Frites is the most expensive item on the dinner menu. The Jambalaya is a great middle-ground option if you want something spicy and hearty without breaking the bank.
Vegan And Vegetarian Specialties
Busboys and Poets is famous for its plant-based options. They do not treat vegan food as an afterthought. These dishes are just as good as the meat versions.
- Vegan Burger – $14.50
- Vegan Chili (cup or bowl) – $6.95 / $9.95
- Vegan Tacos (3 pieces, jackfruit) – $13.95
- Grilled Tofu Plate – $15.95
- Vegan Mac and Cheese – $12.95
- Black Bean Quesadilla (no cheese, add guac) – $11.95
The Vegan Chili is a top seller. It is smoky, rich, and served with cornbread. The Vegan Mac and Cheese uses a cashew-based sauce that is surprisingly creamy.
Kids Menu
If you are bringing the family, the kids menu is reasonably priced. Each meal comes with a small drink and a side of fruit or fries.
- Grilled Cheese – $7.95
- Chicken Tenders – $8.95
- Buttered Noodles – $6.95
- Mini Burger – $8.50
- Quesadilla (cheese) – $7.50
Kids meals are only for children under 12. Portions are smaller, but they are enough to keep a picky eater happy.
Desserts And Sweets
You cannot skip dessert here. The pastry case at the front always has fresh options, but the menu staples are listed below.
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $8.95
- Cheesecake (seasonal flavor) – $7.95
- Key Lime Pie – $7.50
- Brownie Sundae – $8.50
- Seasonal Cobbler – $8.95
The Lava Cake is the most popular. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare because it is baked fresh to order. Worth the wait.
Drinks And Coffee Menu
The drink menu is extensive. They have a full bar, a solid wine list, and a coffee program that uses local roasters. Here are the standard prices for beverages.
- Drip Coffee (bottomless) – $3.50
- Latte or Cappuccino – $4.95
- Chai Latte – $5.25
- Fresh Juice (orange, grapefruit) – $4.50
- House Cocktails – $12.00 – $14.00
- Draft Beer – $7.00 – $9.00
- Glass of Wine – $9.00 – $13.00
- Soft Drinks (refillable) – $3.25
The bottomless coffee is the best deal on the menu. You can sit for hours reading a book or working on your laptop, and they will keep refilling your cup.
Happy Hour Prices
If you want to save money, go during happy hour. It typically runs from 3 PM to 7 PM on weekdays. The deals are significant.
- Half-price appetizers
- $5 house wines
- $6 select draft beers
- $7 specialty cocktails
- $8 vegan sliders (2 pieces)
Happy hour is very busy, so expect a wait for a table at the bar. But the discounts are worth it if you are flexible with your time.
Tips For Ordering
Here are a few practical tips to get the most out of your visit. These come from regular customers who know the menu well.
- Order the bottomless coffee if you plan to stay and work. It is the cheapest way to spend an afternoon.
- Share an appetizer and a main course. The portions are large enough to split.
- Check the daily specials board. There is often a soup or sandwich combo that is not on the printed menu.
- Ask for the sauce on the side. Some of the dressings are heavy.
- Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday night. It is less crowded than the weekend.
How To Save Money
Eating out can get expensive. But there are ways to keep your bill low at Busboys and Poets.
- Skip the appetizer and get a side salad instead.
- Drink water instead of soda or alcohol.
- Order the vegan chili with a side of toast. It is filling and under $10.
- Use the happy hour window for half-price appetizers.
- Split a burger and a salad with a friend.
You can easily eat for under $15 if you are smart about your choices. The lunch menu is generally cheaper than dinner, so try to go before 4 PM.
Location Differences
Prices can vary by a dollar or two depending on the location. The downtown D.C. locations tend to be slightly more expensive than the suburban ones in Virginia or Maryland. The menu items are the same, but the rent costs affect the final price.
Also, some locations have a separate brunch menu on weekends. This menu includes bottomless mimosas for a flat rate, usually around $25 per person. That is a good deal if you plan on drinking multiple glasses.
Online Ordering And Delivery
You can order online through their website or third-party apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash. However, the prices on delivery apps are usually 15-20% higher than the in-store menu. You also have to pay service fees and delivery fees.
If you want to stick to the prices listed above, pick up your order directly from the restaurant. They have a dedicated pickup area at most locations, so you do not have to wait in line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Busboys and Poets menu expensive?
No, it is mid-range. Most entrees fall between $13 and $20. You can eat for less if you choose sandwiches or salads.
Does Busboys and Poets have a gluten-free menu?
Yes, they have gluten-free bread and bun options. Many salads and bowls are naturally gluten-free. Inform your server about any allergies.
Are there any student discounts?
Some locations offer a 10% discount with a valid student ID. It is not advertised, so you have to ask your server.
What is the most popular dish on the menu?
The Busboys Burger and the Vegan Chili are the two most ordered items. The Shrimp and Grits is also very popular during brunch.
Do they take reservations?
Yes, you can make reservations for parties of six or more. Smaller groups are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Final Thoughts On Pricing
The Busboys & Poets menu with prices is fair for the quality and portion size. You are not just paying for food; you are paying for the atmosphere, the live poetry slams, and the community vibe. A typical meal for one person with a drink and a tip will run you about $25 to $30.
If you are on a strict budget, stick to the breakfast items or the vegan chili. If you are celebrating something, go for the steak frites or the short rib. Either way, you will leave full and satisfied.
One last thing. The menu changes seasonally, so some items may not be available when you visit. Always ask your server about the daily specials. They often have a unique soup or a fresh fish dish that is not listed on the standard menu.
Now you have the full breakdown. You can walk in with confidence, know exactly what to order, and have a clear idea of what your bill will look like. Go enjoy the poetry, the coffee, and the food. It is an experience worth having at least once.