Coolest Breakfast Spots in Washington Loved by Locals

1818 14th St NW, Washington

(202) 265-8337

Ted's Bulletin has quickly become my go-to spot for breakfast in D.C. My brothers and I were thoroughly impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and the delicious menu options. Mustafa, our waiter, was wonderful—full of good energy and attentiveness, despite a minor delay in checking on us once the food arrived. The pot roast I ordered was tasty, albeit a bit warm instead of hot, but that didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the meal. My daughter loved her Reuben, and we both appreciated the variety of choices. Special mention goes to the grits and cinnamon bun, which were standout dishes. We were lucky to be seated by the natural lighting, which added to the great experience. Fernando, another server, delivered exceptional service, making our visit memorable. While there was a slight issue with the waiter being busy with a large group, the manager stepped in, which was much appreciated. We left with plans to visit again soon, and without hesitation, I highly recommend Ted's Bulletin for a satisfying breakfast experience in D.C.

2122 P St NW #100, Washington

(202) 466-7171

Okay, so there's a lot of talk about Bagels Etc., so of course, I had to see what the fuss was about. It's a staple in Dupont Circle, right on P Street, and has become one of my favorite breakfast spots, especially since Bethesda Bagels closed nearby. The first thing you notice is that it's cash-only, which might throw some people off, but I think it's a smart move. It keeps the lines moving quickly, and there's an ATM just in case. One time, I came in, and the place was pretty empty, so I got a bagel sandwich, iced coffee, and a pastry. The second time, it was packed, but the service was still super quick, and everything came out within five minutes. The bagels are chewy and delicious, and I can't get enough of the sesame bagel with chive cream cheese, onion, and tomato. The super bagel with jalapeño cream cheese is also a winner. Portions aren't huge, and yeah, it can be a bit pricey, but it's the same everywhere these days. It's not just the bagels that keep me coming back; it's the efficiency of the staff. The women running this place are fast and friendly, and it's open early, which is perfect for my 6 a.m. starts at the farmers market. Whether you're hungry, hungover, or just want a tasty treat, Bagels Etc. is the go-to spot.

3513 12th St NE, Washington

(202) 529-4078

Murry & Paul’s Restaurant is still excellent and remains one of the best deals in Washington for breakfast. It’s a beloved gem in the area, known for its friendly service and laid-back atmosphere. The staff here genuinely remember their customers, which adds a personal touch you don’t find in many places. I often take the kids for breakfast here before heading to Turkey Thicket playground, and it’s always a hit with them. The food is great, offering good old-fashioned eats that are both delicious and incredibly affordable. It’s such a relief to have a real diner in the neighborhood. The portions are generous, often more than I can eat in one sitting, which is fantastic given the prices. Although we did wait over an hour and a half for our food, the quality makes it worth the wait. My brother, who’s been coming here for years, agrees that it’s one of the best meals for the price in DC. One thing to remember is to bring cash, as it’s cash-only. Despite the wait and the small hiccup with service at the front desk once, I’ll keep coming back for the great food and the warm, welcoming environment. The staff are usually friendly and make the experience enjoyable. If you’re in the area, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try—and don't be surprised if you leave with a full stomach and a smile on your face.

1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington

(202) 822-8783

I took my family to Founding Farmers DC for breakfast, and it’s always my go-to spot when guests are in town. Despite a brief 12-minute wait even with a reservation, everything was fantastic once we sat. Our server was kind and really helpful with all our questions. I tried the hibiscus soda for the first time and loved it—it wasn't too sweet and I highly recommend it. For my main, I had the pot roast, which was great. The restaurant gets pretty busy during brunch, but the food was worth it. While the meals weren't mind-blowing, they were solid and made for a nice family breakfast. They offer a complimentary sweet dish for birthdays, which was delicious. There's a parking lot across the street, and they offer a military discount, which is a nice touch. Overall, it’s a fantastic casual place to grab good food in Downtown Washington DC. The food was well-cooked and flavorful, and their cocktails are perfect for a quick buzz. You can really taste the freshness of the ingredients. The Chicken Pot Pie is a bit non-traditional—it doesn’t come in a pastry bowl—but with a puff pastry on top, it was outstanding. The place is popular in bursts, so making a reservation for brunch is a smart move. For appetizers, we had avocado toast with perfectly ripe avocado on grilled bread—it was delicious. For dinner, we tried the Chicken Pot Pie, which had a perfectly cooked biscuit, and the Spatchcock Chicken, which was the highlight—tender and with a hint of honey. It was out of this world. Curtis, our server, was attentive and kind, making the experience even better. The entire food experience didn’t disappoint at all.

1090 I St NW, Washington

(202) 984-7540

Tatte Bakery & Cafe in City Center is a fantastic spot for breakfast if you're planning to head to Ford’s Theatre or just need a light meal before work. The line can be slow, and finding good seating might be a challenge, but it's worth the wait. The selection of bakery goods is impressive, and they'll happily heat them up for you. Everything I tried was flavorful and delicious, with the coffee being a solid choice. It was refreshing to see a black sesame drink on the menu. The atmosphere is bustling, and there's both indoor and outdoor seating available. My smoked salmon, avocado, and egg sandwich with a fresh OJ was delightful, and my sister enjoyed her croissant breakfast sandwich with a turmeric latte. Unfortunately, our friends had some issues with their house breakfast plates, which arrived cold and one even had a hair in it. However, the staff quickly replaced one of the plates. Despite these hiccups, the pastries are great, especially the Apricot Plum galette and the focaccia with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Prices are reasonable, especially for DC standards. Just remember to clear your table afterward. Overall, it's worth a morning stop if you're in the area.

3528 12th St NE, Washington

(202) 526-7419

Don't judge a book by its cover because you'll miss out on some really great food. The Brookland Grill might not look like much from the outside, but stepping in is like discovering a hidden gem for breakfast in Washington. I’m not one to fuss over decorations when the real centerpiece is the food, and here, the grits are flawless, and the pecan waffles come out perfectly warm and satisfying. Sure, parking can be a bit tricky, but it's worth taking a couple of extra laps around the block. The breakfast offerings are consistently amazing. My personal favorites are the steak and eggs or the sausage and egg sandwich, which comes on perfectly toasted bread. And the homemade iced tea? It's absolutely outstanding and adds a refreshing touch to the whole experience. Everything on the menu is well-prepared and budget-friendly compared to other spots in the area. This place might be a little hole-in-the-wall with its limited seating and old decor, but it's clean and delivers solid meals every time. It's such a classic neighborhood joint with a dedicated staff that truly knows what they’re doing. I've been enjoying breakfast here for years, and one of my go-to orders is the big breakfast with bacon, home fries, grits, and wheat toast with jelly. I generally like my eggs over easy or sunny side up, and they never disappoint. The owner and manager always bring a friendly vibe, and though it can sometimes get busy, the service remains top-notch. All in all, The Brookland Grill is a fantastic spot to start your day.

505 8th St SE, Washington

(202) 544-8337

Ted's Bulletin is one of the most fun breakfast spots I've been to in Washington! The atmosphere is lovely, with the old-time video projector adding a nostalgic touch. It's become a holiday tradition for us to visit, especially to watch the stop-motion shorts while sipping hot chocolate surrounded by festive decorations. It's a family favorite, and our parents make it a point to come whenever they visit. During our most recent visit, we decided to brave a busy Sunday morning. We had a bit of a wait, so we chose to sit outside. Our server, Michael, seemed preoccupied with other tasks, which was a minor blemish on an otherwise good experience. My eggs were cooked over medium, which wasn’t ideal, and the sausage patty felt like it came straight from the store. The highlight of my meal was the pop tart, despite it being a bit dry; the delicious jelly and soft butter saved the day. On another occasion, Tiffani served us, and she was wonderful. We were seated and attended to quickly, which made for a pleasant breakfast. The avocado toast was a standout, thanks to the phenomenal bread. Although the tuna wasn't the freshest, it was tasty and didn't cause any issues. We've had our share of highs and lows at Ted's, from battling fruit flies to enjoying exceptional chicken and waffles. The chicken and biscuits were a hit with my wife, and my daughter loved the grilled cheese. The mocktail my wife tried was quite tasty too. While there were some downsides like missing out on cinnamon buns and the extra service charge, the overall service has been solid. There's a lot more on the menu I'd like to try, and despite some minor hiccups, Ted's Bulletin remains a solid choice for breakfast. Overall, a solid 4/5.

2310 Columbia Pike, Arlington

(703) 920-6103

Bob & Edith's Diner on Columbia Pike is a gem, especially for breakfast. We went on a rainy Tuesday morning and it was a seat-yourself kind of place. Our waiter was quick to greet us and took our order right away. I got the two eggs, sausage, and a pancake. Let me just say, I was really impressed! I'm usually searching for good hash browns since most places stick to home fries. Bob & Edith's hash browns were spot-on delicious. The pancakes? Top-notch! While I'm usually all about French Toast, I'd get the pancakes here again without question. My fiancé tried the French Toast and it was the best we've had from any diner. The food was served within five minutes, adding to an already great experience. It's a nice spot with a small-town diner vibe, and the staff is incredibly welcoming. We felt right at home from the moment we walked in. Bob & Edith's is not just a diner, it's a staple in the community. Great service, great food, and open 24 hours—a must-stop if you're in Arlington. The unique atmosphere, like something straight out of a coming-of-age movie, makes it a charming date spot. The booths, diner decor, and sense of history add to its authentic feel. Apart from breakfast, we also tried their intriguing burger from the "Subs" section. It came as a sub sandwich with two rolled-up beef patties and was surprisingly tasty. The pancakes stood out with a delightful butter well in the middle—something new and flavorful. To top it off, the vanilla milkshake was phenomenal, complete with extra in the shaker. Overall, Bob & Edith’s Diner provides a truly essential diner experience with a warm vibe, excellent food, and service. It's definitely a place I'll return to and recommend to anyone in the area.

1387 H St NE, Washington

(202) 397-7750

Tony's Breakfast has been a delightful experience for me and my family. Despite a few hiccups in the past, every time we order, there seems to be an improvement, and it keeps us coming back. The grits are a highlight – perfectly cooked and always enjoyable. My wife had her breakfast delivered for her birthday weekend, and it just made her day. She was so happy, and that instantly put me in a good mood too. The delivery was prompt, which was essential as we had a flight to catch. When everything aligns like that, it feels like the restaurant genuinely cares about its customers. While there have been some issues before, the recent experiences have shown promise, and that’s worth acknowledging.

1301 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington

(202) 629-1534

My first experience with Tatte was in Bethesda, introduced by a friend, and it quickly became a favorite. Now, the Dupont Circle location is one of my regular spots in DC, offering an impressive mix of real specialty coffee and sweet concoctions. The food is consistently delicious, from tempting tarts to decadent puddings. Don’t miss out on grabbing a bag of their granola for later; it’s a great treat at home. While it's on the pricier side, Tatte offers a cozy atmosphere. On a rainy day visit, I enjoyed sitting by the window with my coffee and a linzer cookie – a perfect pairing. While the main area staff was attentive, I did experience a delay at the coffee bar as the barista was distracted with chatting. Thankfully, another staff member stepped in to help. If you want a cozy café with beautiful pastries, Tatte is a great choice. Just be ready to splurge a bit, with mini cheesecakes at $7.50 and most coffees over $5.50. The interior is lovely, though I did notice some cake toppings sliding in the fridge. This location tends to be busier and noisier than others on weekdays, which might be something to keep in mind. Overall, the location is convenient with great pastry options and generally good service, despite a couple of small issues. It’s definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

2453 18th St NW, Washington

(202) 232-8800

The Diner in Washington DC is the go-to spot for breakfast! The food is delicious, with generous portions that don't disappoint. The atmosphere is lively, thanks to the eclectic music and the buzz of happy patrons, making it a must-visit when in the nation’s capital. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel right at home, quickly seating us and helping us navigate the menu. They even brought coloring sheets for the kids and took the time to get their orders just right. The menu has a ton of tasty options, making it tough to choose. I went for the French Toast with fried chicken, and it was spot on—the chicken was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and paired perfectly with the sweet, eggy toast. I also tried the diner bowl, and while the sweet potatoes could have been cooked a bit longer, everything else was fantastic. The French fries were perfectly fried, hitting the spot. The bar offers some strong drinks—I went for the bone crusher and just half was plenty to keep me satisfied. The shakes are pretty good too. This place is spacious and clean, with a fresh and open vibe. The staff is attentive and eager to help with any questions about the menu. Overall, it's a great spot to sit down, enjoy a tasty breakfast, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

2000 P St NW, Washington

(202) 459-9176

My friend and I decided to grab a light meal on a scorching day, and Le Pain Quotidien was the perfect choice. I had the Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad, which was delicious, and paired it with a refreshing Lemonade Iced Tea. My friend tried the Yogurt Granola Parfait but was a bit let down by the portion size of the yogurt. Despite that, the experience was wonderful. The café's location near the Dupont Circle Metro is very convenient, and the atmosphere is welcoming and lovely. The food is top-notch, almost gourmet, and both the flavor and portions are satisfying. Service was exceptional, with our server standing out as the nicest person ever. I loved the place so much I visited twice in one week! The breakfast options are fresh and tasty, and the coffee is served in a bowl so large you could practically swim in it—it’s definitely a fun challenge to finish it. Plus, the authentic, fresh flatbread added a wonderful touch to the meal. I'll definitely be coming back!

800 17th St NW, Washington

(202) 688-0341

Le Pain Quotidien, near the White House in Washington, D.C., offers a delightful dining experience. The atmosphere is charming, with beautiful decor that creates a welcoming ambiance. The food is delicious, making it a great spot for a meal. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a pleasant and tasty dining experience in the area. The food was really great - very tasty, and honestly, for the area that it's in, pretty reasonable. One of the best brunches I've ever had! Fresh ingredients, and it was tasty and delicious! Highly recommended!

815 14th St NW, Washington

(202) 783-7800

During my visits to Washington D.C., I've stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn several times, and the breakfast buffet at The Third Rail never disappoints. One of the standout features is the omelette station, where they make your omelette to order, ensuring it's always fresh and just how you like it. The thick breakfast sausage is truly the best I've ever had, and the fresh fruit is consistently top-notch every day. For those who enjoy carbs, there are plenty of options, from assorted breads and cereals to hash brown potatoes that look tempting. It's a fantastic spot for a hearty breakfast, and I would highly recommend it to anyone staying in or around the area. The overall experience is wonderful, and it sets a great tone for the day.

504 10th St NW, Washington

(202) 638-4008

Visited Lincoln's Waffle Shop with family for breakfast and had a fantastic experience. Everyone at our table loved their meal, and judging by the sounds from nearby tables, we weren't the only ones! The waffles were rich and light, the eggs fluffy and just right, and the sausage had a perfect crisp without being burnt—something that's often hard to find. The hot chocolate was surprisingly rich and milkier than it looked, which was a pleasant surprise. Special thanks to Jason for his excellent service. He was attentive, ensured everyone had what they needed, and checked in on us both while we waited for our food and after it was served. The place has that American 'greasy spoon' vibe, similar to what you might find in the UK, but it's family-run and serves up good American fare. Given its location, the prices were reasonable, the portions were massive, and the food met all expectations. We were lucky it wasn't crowded when we visited on a Saturday morning. You can walk in and find a seat yourself; we chose the counter. The staff quickly took our order, and it came out fast. The waffles were delicious, and the corned beef hash, grits, and omelet were all top-notch. It's a great little hole-in-the-wall spot for all your diner breakfast cravings. The food is phenomenal, the prices are fair for what you get, and the employees are a joy. Would highly recommend it to anyone in the DC area!

at Willard InterContinental, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington

(202) 942-7000

Café du Parc in the heart of Washington DC is absolutely adorable. The food is delicious, and the service is top-notch. The cozy and welcoming vibe adds to the overall charm. I had a tasty pork chop, and my husband enjoyed the beef bourguignon. Both dishes were amazing. We couldn't resist trying their desserts—the Napoleon and Creme Brulee were so good. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was so relaxing I could have stayed for hours. The interior design is stunning, adding to the café's appeal. The food and coffee were delicious, so much so that I had to go back the next day. I got an iced macchiato, an opera cake, and an almond croissant. I highly recommend stopping by Café du Parc—I know I’ll be back! It's a beautiful place with great staff who work as a team to make you feel welcome. The food was superb, though I was sad I forgot my leftovers on the table. The French onion soup was the best I've had, though a bit messy to eat in public. I visited on August 1st, and I can say the fries were awesome and the rockfish was perfect, even if the salad didn't quite hit the mark. Overall, service is great, and the atmosphere is excellent. I would return, but not for the salad.

1345 F St NW, Washington

(202) 347-6752

We stopped by Puro Gusto Cafe before heading out to sightsee, and it was a great way to start the day. The coffee was tasty, and the breakfast sandwich was nice and crispy. The staff was friendly and walked us through their tablet ordering process, which was helpful. The atmosphere is cozy, and there’s plenty of seating both inside and outside. It’s conveniently located right across the street from the Metro Center. While the kiosk system could use some improvements for customizing drinks, the overall experience was positive. The happy hour offers a great deal with bottomless Aperol Spritzes and snacks, making it a perfect spot for an afternoon break. I'd recommend giving Puro Gusto Cafe a try, especially if you can get in right when happy hour starts. It's a solid choice for breakfast and a good spot to relax after a day of exploring the city.

1221 22nd St NW, Washington

During my trip to Washington, D.C., I had the pleasure of visiting The Visiteur for breakfast, and it was a delightful experience. Located conveniently in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel, the restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere that made for a perfect start to the day. The service was exceptional, with attentive and friendly staff who made sure all our needs were met promptly. The breakfast menu had a wonderful variety, and each dish was beautifully presented and delicious. The quality of the ingredients was apparent, and it was clear that great care went into the preparation of the meals. Although the prices might be on the higher side, the overall experience, from the ambiance to the service, made it worth every penny. It's a great spot to enjoy a relaxing breakfast in the heart of the city, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area.