September 13, 2023

A Capital Brunch Affair: Discovering Washington DC's Most Delectable Destinations

Explore the top brunch spots in Washington DC, featuring an array of global cuisines, classic comfort food, and innovative dishes that capture the essence of the city's diverse culinary scene.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
DC
A Capital Brunch Affair: Discovering Washington DC's Most Delectable Destinations
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Welcome to the vibrant culinary capital of the United States, where the perfect brunch is waiting to delight your taste buds! Discover the best brunch spots in Washington DC, where you'll find an irresistible mix of global flavors, classic American comfort food, and innovative dishes that reflect the city's diverse culture. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, these brunch destinations are a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike. So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a delectable journey through the capital's brunch scene!

Le Diplomate

1601 14th St NW, Washington

(202) 332-3333

Reviewed by:

Le Diplomate is a fantastic restaurant in the D.C. area, offering excellent brunch options. The server was knowledgeable, professional, and funny, while the Quiche Florentine, salad, and fresh bread were excellent. The atmosphere was calm and fitting for the restaurant, and the onion soup, escargots, duck, and profiteroles were all delicious. The only negative was the open windows, which allowed flying insects to bother guests occasionally. Despite this, the restaurant is highly recommended for brunch or special occasions, with standout dishes like egg Benedict, mushroom tart, escargot, and quiche.

18th & U Duplex Diner

2004 18th St NW, Washington

(202) 265-7828

Reviewed by:

18th & U Duplex Diner is a great place for brunch in Washington DC. The burger with cheddar and sweet potato fries was cooked perfectly and the staff was kind. The duplex option, with scrambled eggs, bacon, and grits, was a hit, and the mimosa pitcher was just the right amount for three people. The meatloaf dish was also delicious, and the football game on the TVs added to the homey atmosphere. Overall, a fantastic brunch spot.

Unconventional Diner

1207 9th St NW, Washington

(202) 847-0122

Reviewed by:

Unconventional Diner is a must-visit spot in Washington DC for both brunch and dinner. The menu offers a large variety of unique and flavorful options that will not disappoint. The wait staff and service are exceptional, making for a cozy and enjoyable dining experience. The portions are almost perfect and the prices are affordable. The sunny egg dessert and dirty Caesar are standout dishes, while the pot pie poppers are a must-try. The restaurant is also accommodating for those with dietary restrictions. The only downside is the lack of outdoor heating, but this is less of an issue as the weather warms up. Overall, Unconventional Diner is a fantastic restaurant that combines the flavors of multiple cuisines to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Ted's Bulletin

1818 14th St NW, Washington

(202) 265-8337

Reviewed by:

Ted's Bulletin is a fantastic spot for brunch in Washington DC. The portions are generous and the staff are welcoming. The tarts are heavenly and the pancakes are a hit. They are also thoughtful in their presentation, separating meals for sharing. The homemade pop tart is a must-try. The restaurant offers American comfort food and is well worth the price. While some dishes, such as the fish and chips, may have room for improvement, the overall experience is enjoyable. The restaurant is family-friendly with a bakery on-site. While the coffee may not be the best, the aesthetic and customer service make up for it. Overall, Ted's Bulletin is a great place for a tasty, comfortable meal.

Ted's Bulletin

505 8th St SE, Washington

(202) 544-8337

Reviewed by:

Ted's Bulletin in Washington DC is a great spot for brunch with classic diner-like atmosphere and delicious food. The apple cider pancakes and tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwich are highly recommended, as are the milkshakes and Irish coffee. While there were some minor service issues, the ahi tuna sandwich, smoked salmon rangoons, and biscuits and gravy were all standouts. The ambiance is amazing and family-friendly. The short rib roast dinner and carrot cake are also must-tries. Overall, Ted's Bulletin is a great spot for breakfast or brunch in DC.

Founding Farmers DC

1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington

(202) 822-8783

Reviewed by:

Founding Farmers DC is a must-visit spot for brunch in Washington DC. With a fun atmosphere, friendly staff, and fantastic food, it's easy to see why it's so highly recommended. Customers rave about the fresh, delicious breakfast options, including the pancakes, waffles, and egg scramble. The bar menu is also a hit, with quality drinks at reasonable prices. Service is quick and attentive, with staff always happy to help. Overall, Founding Farmers DC is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit.

Commissary

1443 P St NW, Washington

(202) 299-0018

Reviewed by:

Commissary in Washington DC is a top-notch brunch spot with amazing patio seating and friendly and helpful servers. They offer gluten-free options that are clearly labeled, including a delicious gluten-free brownie sundae. The pricing is excellent for the quality and quantity of food, making it a great value. The portions are large and shareable, especially the breakfast pizza. The bottomless mimosas and mixology class are also highly recommended, with informative instructors and generous pours. All in all, Commissary is a fantastic place to dine with great service and delicious food.

The Greenhouse

1200 16th St NW, Washington

(202) 448-2300

Reviewed by:

The Greenhouse is an excellent brunch spot in Washington DC that exceeds expectations with their excellent food and service. The executive chef's passion is evident in every dish, and the committed service staff make sure every experience is enjoyable. The atmosphere is flawless, with a beautiful setting and cozy ambiance. While some dishes may be spotty, overall the food is great and the experience is what makes it stand out. Highly recommended for brunch or dinner.

Founding Farmers & Distillers

600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington

(202) 464-3001

Reviewed by:

Founding Farmers & Distillers offers a delicious brunch buffet with a wide range of food options to choose from. The atmosphere is fun and the staff is friendly and helpful. The in-house made desserts and drinks are a must-try. The restaurant also offers a unique menu with dishes from different cuisines. The chicken and donuts and homemade hot sauce are highly recommended. The service is excellent and the restaurant is clean and comfortable. However, the brunch buffet cost might be a little high for some, and reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity. Overall, it's a great place to enjoy a creative and comfy brunch experience in Washington DC.

Belga Cafe

514 8th St SE, Washington

(202) 544-0100

Reviewed by:

Belga Cafe is a fantastic spot for brunch in Washington DC. The pulled pork in the cornbread waffle entree was a standout, and everything on the menu is consistently delicious. The restaurant is cute and has both indoor and outdoor seating, with a great European vibe. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, but the experience is definitely worth it. The service can be slow during busy times, but the food and atmosphere more than make up for it. However, one negative reviewer had a bad experience with their waiter and the preparation of their steak.

The Coupe

3415 11th St NW, Washington

(202) 290-3342

Reviewed by:

The Coupe in Washington DC is a great place to have brunch. The food is delicious and the coffee is great. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. They even serve animal crackers with your coffee, which is a cute touch. In the spring, they offer Cherry Blossom infused lattes and macarons. The restaurant is also dog-friendly and has outdoor seating. However, some of the staff could be friendlier, as one customer's dog did not receive the same treatment as others. Nonetheless, The Coupe is a solid choice for breakfast and lunch, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.

1310 Kitchen & Bar

1310 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington

(202) 333-8232

Reviewed by:

1310 Kitchen & Bar is a great spot for brunch in Washington DC. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, and the staff is friendly. The pancakes are amazing, and the Greek yogurt is really tasty. The chocolate cake is a must-try, and Chef Jenn is amazing. The only negative point is that there are no freshly pressed juices. Overall, 1310 Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit restaurant in DC with top-notch food, service, and atmosphere.

PILAR DC

1833 14th St NW, Washington

(202) 265-1751

Reviewed by:

Pilar DC is a fantastic brunch spot in Washington DC that offers excellent food, tasty drinks, and outstanding service. The downstairs bar area is nice and chill, with a fun playlist and plenty of tables for groups. The roasted vegetables, butter chicken, and dumpling appetizer are all wonderful, and the cocktails are tasty and strong. Although it can be a little noisy, it's a great spot for both family and party-friendly brunches. Highly recommended!

The Smith

901 F St NW, Washington

(202) 868-4900

Reviewed by:

The Smith in Washington DC is a fantastic spot for brunch. The avocado toast is a must-try, and the hamburger is great as well. The atmosphere and location are superb, and the service is generally good. For dinner, the cauliflower, pressed chicken, and burger are all delicious, while the tomato soup could be improved. The mac 'n cheese skillet is a standout dish and perfect for sharing. The energy and decor of the restaurant create a great vibe, and the black iron and wood ceilings add to the ambiance. Overall, The Smith is a top-notch brunch spot and a great dining destination in DC.

Lee's Brunch

2221 Minnesota Ave SE, Washington

(202) 582-2285

Reviewed by:

Lee's Brunch in Washington DC is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious brunch options. The steak and egg with home fries is a standout dish and the restaurant is known for attracting police officers due to its excellent food. Customers rave about the crab cake and chicken egg rolls, and the option for call and pick-up service is a convenient bonus. The reviewer highly recommends Lee's Brunch and notes that it is their go-to spot due to the quality of the food and service.

Art and Soul

415 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington

(202) 393-7777

Reviewed by:

Art and Soul offers a wonderful Sunday brunch experience with a welcoming ambiance, great lighting, and beautiful decor. The Chef 3 Course Brunch meal is a generous amount of food for the price, and the Chicken and Waffles, Strawberry Cinnamon Roll, and Steak and Egg entree were all perfectly cooked and seasoned. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and the crab deviled eggs and short rib hash are highly recommended. The only downside was the lack of communication from the host stand, but the amazing food and ambiance make up for it. Overall, a great place for brunch in Washington DC.

Teddy & The Bully Bar

1200 19th St NW, Washington

(202) 872-8700

Reviewed by:

Teddy & The Bully Bar offers a fine dining experience with outstanding decor, ambience, and customer service. The bottomless brunch option features smaller portions that are shareable and a good choice for large groups. The limited menu offers delicious food that is beautifully presented, but could benefit from more appetizers. The all-you-can-eat option includes unlimited mimosas and a waffle and omelet station. The ladies bathroom is also a highlight. While the brunch may be pricey, it is a memorable experience.

Firefly

1310 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington

(202) 861-1310

Reviewed by:

Firefly in Washington DC is a beautiful brunch spot with excellent food and ambiance. Although prices are slightly high, the presentation and quality of the food make it worth it. The staff and service are excellent and the atmosphere is nice, albeit slightly noisy. The signature cocktails are decent, but the coffee is great. The Brioche French Toast and Eggs Benedict are standout dishes, cooked to perfection. The restaurant also accommodates allergies and provides excellent service. The beautiful bathroom is an added bonus. Overall, Firefly is an excellent breakfast spot and is highly recommended.

Dirty Habit

555 8th St NW, Washington

(202) 449-7095

Reviewed by:

Dirty Habit in Washington DC is a must-visit for brunch. The Restaurant Week special was delicious and the portion sizes were perfect. The old fashioned was a hit and the vibe of the restaurant was interesting. The customer service was extremely helpful and friendly. The French toast was the best they have ever had and the mimosas were made with quality champagne. The brunch was not a club environment and the customer service was phenomenal. The fruit was fresh and the potatoes were crisp. The food made up for the decent service and the only available seats were bar seats. The customer service is outstanding and Zipporah and Michelle are sweet, attentive, and make amazing drinks. Visitors will feel welcome the second they arrive and will definitely want to come back.

DC Harvest

517 H St NE, Washington

(202) 629-3296

Reviewed by:

DC Harvest offers incredible brunch experiences with their locally-focused menu and attention to detail. The owner, Arthur, is knowledgeable and ensures a thoroughly good experience. The atmosphere is quaint and well-decorated, and the vegan menu options are fantastic. The wild mushroom toast appetizer and shrimp and grits are particularly tasty. The restaurant is popular with locals and can fill up quickly during dinner time. The food is good but may be slightly overpriced, and the gratuity is included in the check. Overall, DC Harvest is a must-visit for brunch in Washington DC.

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