In the mid 19th century, soda fountains began popping up across the major cities along the eastern seaboard of the United States, particularly in New York and Philadelphia. A trained operator, called a soda jerk, would operate the fountain, mixing carbonated soda water, flavored syrups, and ice cream for each customer’s order. Today, Buffalo & Bergen takes creative inspiration from these soda fountains of yesteryear, offering bagels and knishes alongside a menu of custom soda drinks, egg creams, and floats.
As you can imagine, Buffalo & Bergen has developed quite a following with this concept, and the eatery is generally quite busy with a combination of regular customers and shoppers or moviegoers stopping by for a quick drink or bite to eat while they’re out and about. Insider's tip for Flats 130: Regulars recommend the “Lox’d and Loaded” combo, which is a bloody Mary with an everything bagel topped with lox and plenty of cream cheese. Beer and wine are also on offer.
Buffalo & Bergen
1309 Fifth St NE
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 543-2549
www.facebook.com/BuffaloBergenDC/info/?tab=page_info
www.buffalobergendc.com