Walk into almost any coffee shop, boutique, or food truck in Washington, D.C. these days, and you’ll notice the same thing: cash is no longer king. From contactless cards to mobile wallets and even cryptocurrencies, the city’s local businesses are embracing a wave of digital payment options. This shift is reshaping how residents shop, dine, and connect with their favorite spots across the District.

Moving from Cash Registers to Contactless Payments

For years, D.C. has been a testing ground for new technology, and the pandemic only accelerated the adoption of digital payments. Many small businesses, from Adams Morgan’s indie bookstores to the beloved food stalls at Union Market, now offer tap-to-pay and QR code options. The convenience is hard to beat—customers can split a bill with frien

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