According to historians, brunch has been part of the American dining experience since the 1930s but it’s truly exploded in the dining scenes of the 21st century. D.C. is a city that loves brunch and we’ve rounded out a few of our favorite options.
1. Founding Farmers
Beignets made to order, farmhouse waffles and fried chicken, and more makes Founding Farmers a go-to brunch destination.
Their downtown location is convenient to the National Mall if you’re planning to do some sightseeing but we also recommend their Georgetown location (Farmers, Fishers, Bakers) for a brunch menu with the added bonus of a brunch buffet.
2. Ted’s Bulletin
If you like homemade Pop-Tarts and boozy milkshakes, Ted’s Bulletin in the place for you. You can order breakfast all day, every day at Ted’s but the weekend brunch is when Ted’s comes alive with a wide range of entrees, desserts, and drinks for the entire family.
3. Ambar
Nestled on Barracks Row in Capitol Hill, Ambar is a Balkan restaurant known for its tasty happy hour options and it’s endless brunch special.
For a flat rate, you can enjoy all the food and drinks you would like for two hours - options include omelets, benedicts, Mediterranean platters, waffles, burgers, Balkan sides, and more!
4. Unconventional Diner
Shaw is home to some of the city’s best dining experiences and we would rank Unconventional Diner with some of the best.
Brunch is an option every day before 4pm here, so you can dig in to some breakfast favorites, elevated with international flavors and plenty of veggie-forward options.
5. Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate has become a perennial favorite for locals and tourists alike - not to mention plenty of politicos and celebrities - but the staff manages to keep a cozy vibe for weekend brunch.
The menu leans heavy into French bistro for brunch, with plenty of fromage, fruits de mer, and hors d’oeuvres to round out the classic entrees.
6. Commissary
This casual Logan Circle cafe is a neighborhood favorite for breakfast and brunch thanks to an unfussy vibe and friendly service.
You can enjoy the extensive breakfast/brunch menu every day, meaning you don’t have to wait for Saturday to enjoy bottomless mimosas, steak and eggs, and breakfast pastries.
7. Primrose
This Brookland wine bar is known for its classic French menu and extensive wine list during weekday dinner but on the weekends, it’s all eggs, burgers, and lots of bubbly to drink.
The neighborhood favorite’s menu is curated for classic brunch favorites and sides, all prepared by Primrose’s exceptional kitchen.
8. Nina May
A newer addition to Logan Circle, Nina May’s focus is local, local, local - all menu items are sourced within 150 miles of the restaurant.
The brunch menu is curated by the chef, with options changing with the seasons, but we recommend doing the Chef’s Choice meal for two, which includes multiple courses for sharing.
9. Duke’s Grocery
What is great about this option is that brunch is served until 4pm!
Duke's Grocery has two locations (Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle). Don't let the name fool you, this isn't a grocery store.
With sit down wait service, generous pours and a really fun stuff, we love Duke's! Try to Shakshuka while you're there.
10. Fiola Mare (for splurging)
If you want to splurge on one of the pricier brunches in the city (and worth every penny), book a table at Fiola Mare.
You can enjoy the fixe prix menu of three courses plus the mouthwatering pastry basket or you can go ala carte with some of the freshest fish in the city. You may leave with your wallet a little lighter but you won’t leave hungry.
