Based on 6 reviews.
City Paper Review
When it first opened, you came for the light, carefully prepared food and pastries baked on the premises, not to mention a cup of very good coffee. The coffee’s still as good as ever, but, following a change of ownership several years ago, the food has declined so precipitously that Savory has become another in a long list of places that call ordinary, nothing-special nibbles “gourmet.” There are two glass-front cases—one all-veg (some vegan), the other with meat—from which to choose these preprepared, though homemade, dishes; a microwave behind the counter supplies the heat. Delicate quiches and tarts and interesting salads have given way to a Mexican lasagna, mac and cheese with mushrooms and red peppers, some suitable-for-a-picnic pasta dishes, maybe an enchilada, maybe a chicken dish. There are also made-to-order sandwiches on good, chewy bread—including a turkey with chipotle mayo and a tuna with capers and red onion. Nowadays if you come, though, you come for the show.
—Todd Kliman,
July 20, 2004
Rater Comments
These comments express the opinions of individual Restaurant Raters, not those of Washington City Paper.
Review by Dee on October 23, 2010
The last time I ate here was more than a year ago. I agree with the other reviewers that Savory used to be great, but the food and service have declined over the years. I might come here for a muffin or croissant or for a dessert, but I've stopped eating lunch here.
Review by stuadler on June 16, 2005
I recently met some friends in Takoma Park, and after dinner, they suggested we go to a 'old school' coffee shop named Savory. Upon entering the establishment, I was struck with a warm, cuddly feeling that I often get in laid back coffee shops around the US. This feeling was quickly changed to agitation, when the employee behind the counter literally said "What do you want?" as I approached the counter.
I was further confused when after ordering an espresso, she asked, "You know that is just a little bit of coffee?" I confirmed, that yes, I was aware of what I was ordering, and waited for my 'little bit of coffee.' After waiting ten minutes, I walked back up to the counter and had to ask about my coffee. She poured something that resembled coffee into a regular mug. After I asked if she had espresso cups, she shrugged and said, "I guess you want a cute little saucer too," as to insult my 'sissy' ways.
The coffee was burnt, nasty and cold (my friend's cup of house brew was the same) and the atmosphere tries to be coffee-shop-esque but just doesn't pull it off. In addition, the wifi is not free, the food was lousy and the employees were down right nasty (they have the customer service attitude more like CVS than an independent coffee shop). Somebody please SAVE (BUY OUT) this coffee shop and RENAME it!
Review by PhiloDC on April 25, 2005
A ten minute walk from the Takoma metro stop...great location for post-brunch plans (lots of shops and cafes). The brunch was buffet-style and with all you can drink OJ and coffee included. All self-serve. You can also order dishes off their regular menu. They have delicious specialty coffee drinks. A haven for vegan-veggies since they offer a vast selection of entrees, baked goods, and drinks that are sans dairy and/or meat. A great neighborhood place to enjoy a simple brunch with friends and close enough to the metro that makes it accessible for everyone else. Even though our party did not include children...it is definitely a children friendly place.
Review by physicsusanne on December 7, 2004
A great place for lunch. Quick healthy food. A nice neighborhood hang out.
Review by matthewbender on July 17, 2004
Savory is a great place to go for a quick bite in Takoma Park. Problem is, the long lines at peak times often make getting a quick bite quite difficult. They definitely need to reconfigure the space so there can be two registers with two people taking orders at the same time. Also, things crucial to one's enjoyment of a meal, like cups and napkins and silverware, need to be moved away from said line so people aren't often trying to cross it to get them. The atmosphere is charming and comfortable, and the staff is friendly. The food is fresh and healthful. However, logistically, this place is a mess.
Review by gaithera on May 25, 2004
Very good,laid-back and casual atmosphere. The outdoor seating is nice during warm weather. There are several options for vegetarians.