### [Sankofa Video Books & Cafe](https://urbanfolk.io/listing/sankofa-video-books-cafe/)

**Published:** June 17, 2025
**Author:** Urban Folk Staff

**Content:**

We specialize in delicious! Our customers often can’t refuse the temptation to try everything on our menu. Whether you are omnivorous, vegetarian, or vegan, and you are in the mood for a toasty grilled-to-perfection Panini, a delightfully scrumptious wrap, an “i didn’t know a salad could be this good!” salad, an 100% all-fruit “this could be my meal” smoothie, or just an amazing espresso made to your liking, you’re in for a treat!

Sankofa Video, Books & Cafe is nestled in the college campus corridor of Georgia Ave, in Washington, DC, across from Howard University. Founded in 1997 by filmmaking couple, Haile and Shirikiana Gerima, Sankofa Video and Books specializes in videos and books about people of African descent around the world. Named after the internationally acclaimed film SANKOFA (produced by the founders), Sankofa Video, Books & Café carries with it an expectation of quality and discovery.

The filmmakers moved their operations from their basement in 1994 and rented offices at K and 4th Streets NW before purchasing their current location in 1997 at 2714 Georgia Avenue NW Washington DC.

Sankofa has since become a liberated zone or sanctuary for provocative black film and literature, that is all too rare around the country. Sankofa Café was added to the premises in 2007 adding a combined great cuisine and charm to the video and book business that attracts the hungry and the inquisitive sojourner.

Year Established: 1997

**Categories:** Coffee & Tea

**Features:** Offers take-out, Accepts Credit Cards, Street Parking, Accepts Apple Pay, Bike Parking, Free Wi-Fi, Offers Delivery, Outdoor Seating, Covered outdoor seating, Good For Kids, Offers Catering, Compostable containers available, Vegan Options, Good for Groups, Casual, Moderate Noise, Happy Hour Specials, Full Bar, Dogs Allowed, Many Vegetarian Options, Lunch, Bring your own container allowed, Good for Breakfast

**Regions:** Washington D.C.

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