DC’s countless brunch options can make choosing the right spot a real challenge.
The city’s brunch scene has something for every budget. dLeña stands out with its luxurious all-you-can-eat food and drinks at $69. Medium Rare serves an award-winning steak brunch that won’t break the bank at under $35, and Founding Farmers brings farm-fresh ingredients to your plate. Unconventional Diner takes brunch to another level by serving it until 4 p.m. daily. You can satisfy your French toast or jerk chicken wing cravings any day of the week.
The city’s best brunch spots offer amazing experiences that we had to share with you. The Park at 14th pours endless mimosas, while Alta Strada creates unique dishes like everything bagel pizza with smoked salmon. You’ll find outdoor patios to enjoy when the weather’s nice. Let us help you discover your next favorite brunch destination.
Food-Focused Brunch Spots in DC: Where Culinary Excellence Shines
Washington DC’s brunch scene has a mouth-watering mix of food choices that food lovers can’t resist. The capital city’s restaurants serve creative dishes with farm-fresh ingredients and flavors from around the world.
Farm-to-Table Favorites: Founding Farmers and Seasons
Founding Farmers has made its mark as a go-to farm-to-table spot in Foggy Bottom. The restaurant gets its produce and meat from family farms across the region and even as far as North Dakota. People love coming here for the hearty salads, homemade pastas, and their famous chicken and waffles.
The restaurant takes its eco-friendly mission seriously. They recycle their used fryer oil and use recycled and compostable takeout packaging. This approach matches what DC diners want – places that care about the environment.
Seasons in Georgetown gives diners a more upscale farm-to-table experience with regional and fresh options at different food stations. The restaurant’s brunch comes with bottomless mimosas to make the meal more fun.
International Flavors: Zaytinya, dLeña, and Estadio
DC’s brunch places bring flavors from all over the world, showing off the city’s rich food culture. José Andrés’s Mediterranean restaurant Zaytinya brings Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese tastes to the capital.
Zaytinya’s menu features the Omelet Horiatiki – a folded two-egg omelet topped with manouri cream, tomato, feta, cucumber, kalamata olives, Vidalia onion, and Greek oregano. Sweet-toothed visitors love the Ashta – a Lebanese-style French toast with orange blossom water, Attiki honey, local fruit, and fresh mint.
14th Street’s Estadio draws crowds with its Spanish-inspired brunch dishes. Food lovers keep coming back for the restaurant’s fun atmosphere and creative menu.
Sweet Tooth Satisfaction: Ted’s Bulletin’s Pop Tarts and More
Ted’s Bulletin has become a DC icon thanks to its homemade pop tarts, known as Ted’s Tarts. These nostalgic treats are so loved that local couples serve them at their weddings.
Making Ted’s Tarts takes time and dedication. The kitchen makes two to four different flavors each day, with one batch giving them 162 tarts. Ted’s 14th Street location sells between 300 to 800 tarts on a regular day, not counting special event orders.
Customers can pick from four Ted’s Tart flavors: strawberry, blueberry cheesecake, brown sugar cinnamon, and salted caramel. These sweet treats go great with Ted’s other breakfast items like their popular French toast and short stack pancakes.
Chef-Driven Brunch Experiences
Shaw’s Nina May gives diners a seasonal, locally-sourced American brunch in a cozy setting. The menu features shared plates like nutmeg and vanilla French toast with citrus butter and bourbon-stewed peaches. They also serve an omelet topped with salad, whipped ricotta, and parmigiano reggiano cheese. The Chef’s Choice tasting menu lets you try four seasonal dishes for $ 39.00 per person.
Chef Matt Baker’s Gravitas adds another great option to DC’s brunch scene. Though dinner is their main focus, Gravitas serves a Modern American brunch that celebrates the Chesapeake Bay watershed’s bounty. The kitchen’s focus on seasonal ingredients and local sourcing creates dishes that surprise and satisfy.
Unconventional Diner gives you a more laid-back chef-driven brunch experience. Their “Everyday Brunch” menu runs until 4 p.m. daily with treats like Georgia French Toast, loaded breakfast biscuits, and corned beef hash.
DC’s brunch scene stands out for its amazing food. You’ll find everything from farm-fresh ingredients to international dishes, sweet treats, and chef-created meals. The city’s restaurants welcome you with creative dishes and friendly service, whether you want a relaxed weekend meal or a quick weekday brunch.
Bottomless Brunch Deals: Sip and Savor Without Limits
Bottomless brunch has become a weekend ritual locals love in Washington, DC. The city buzzes with dining spots that serve unlimited drinks and bites. You’ll find everything from classic mimosas to creative cocktails that fit any taste and budget.
Best Value Bottomless Mimosas in Washington
Several DC spots serve excellent mimosas without emptying your wallet.
The Commodore, a laid-back bar near Union Station, keeps things simple with a $21 bottomless option. Guests can mix their champagne and orange juice just the way they like it. This makes it popular among people who want their mimosas with an extra kick.
Big Stick stands out as a budget-friendly choice at just $14 for unlimited orange juice mimosas. The menu might be simple, but the price tag makes it worth checking out.
All-Purpose Pizzeria in Navy Yard steps it up a notch with a $19 bottomless drink deal when you buy a brunch item or pizza. The restaurant lets you sip endless Aperol spritzes and grapefruit mimosas while taking in beautiful Anacostia River views from their patio or rooftop.
All-You-Can-Eat Brunch Feasts
DC’s brunch scene serves more than just bottomless drinks. Some restaurants go all out with unlimited food too.
Ambar brings Balkan flavors to Capitol Hill and Clarendon with its famous all-you-can-eat brunch. $36.99 gets you unlimited small plates with favorites like cheese pie and grilled steak. Add bottomless drinks for just $12.99 more.
dLeña takes Mexican brunch up a notch in Columbia Heights. Their $69 deal includes unlimited plates and drinks with three mimosa flavors, Bloody Marys, and margaritas. The menu features delicious options like carnitas tacos and chicken and waffles.
HalfSmoke in Shaw keeps things casual with an all-day bottomless brunch. $48 gets you a brunch entree plus unlimited mimosas or sangria. Their French toast covered in cinnamon toast crunch keeps bringing people back.
Unique Bottomless Options Beyond Mimosas
DC restaurants now offer more than just mimosas. Creative cocktails have joined the bottomless brunch scene.
Bar Chinois mixes Chinese and French flavors in Mt. Vernon Triangle with a $20 bottomless deal that includes select beers. They spice things up with monthly drag show brunches.
El Chucho brings tropical vibes to Columbia Heights. Their $36.96 bottomless menu features spiked tamarind and hibiscus agua frescas. These drinks pair perfectly with their Mexican brunch dishes.
The Commodore steps up their game with a $26 deal for bottomless bubbles, mimosas, and poinsettas. The relaxed vibe and quick service make this spot a local favorite.
Bottomless Brunch with a View
DC’s brunch spots pair great food with amazing views.
City Cruises takes brunch to the water with a $39.95 bottomless mimosa cruise on the Potomac. The experience includes a chef’s buffet, unlimited mimosas, and stunning city views. Guests 21 and older can enjoy endless champagne and sparkling cider while feasting on fresh entrees, salads, and desserts.
Sequoia at Washington Harbor serves a Sunday Brunch Buffet overlooking the Potomac River. The price includes a full buffet with chef stations plus bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys.
El Techo brings tropical vibes to Shaw’s rooftop scene. Saturday brunches cost $55, while Sundays run $49. The menu features bottomless margaritas, frozen drinks, and Tecate beer alongside classic mimosas and Bloody Marys.
Fiola Mare serves upscale seafood brunch on Georgetown’s waterfront. Though not bottomless, the elegant setting and river views make it perfect to celebrate special occasions.
Most DC bottomless brunches last between 90 minutes and two hours. Some places need the whole table to join the bottomless fun, while others let each person choose.
DC’s bottomless brunch scene fits every style and budget. From cheap mimosa deals to fancy feasts with views, the nation’s capital serves up perfect spots to drink, eat, and hang out with friends.
Quick Brunch Options for DC Visitors on the Go
Washington DC’s culinary scene has plenty of quick yet delicious brunch options that let visitors enjoy great food without spending too much time at a table.
Gourmet Grab-and-Go from Call Your Mother and Buffalo & Bergen
Call Your Mother, a self-described “Jew-ish” deli, has become a DC favorite thanks to its creative bagel sandwiches. The signature “Sun City” bagel sandwich comes loaded with local bacon, pastrami, or Impossible™ sausage. Local eggs, American and cheddar cheeses, and spicy honey on an everything bagel complete this perfect meal.
The deli’s homemade pop tarts, known as “Ted’s Tarts,” are a sweet nostalgic treat. These pastries have become so popular that local couples serve them at their weddings. You’ll find flavors like strawberry, blueberry cheesecake, brown sugar cinnamon, and salted caramel.
Buffalo & Bergen brings authentic New York flavors to Union Market. Their menu features classic bagel sandwiches and creative options. The “Rude Socialist” sandwich showcases their innovative spirit with its bacon and honey-walnut cream cheese combination.
Quality ingredients matter at both spots. Call Your Mother partners with One Trick Pony for their peanut butter. They believe “the best peanuts come from Argentina and the best peanuts make the best peanut butter”.
Sweet Treats from District Doughnut and Astro Doughnuts
District Doughnut stands out in DC’s brunch scene with its artisanal approach. They use premium ingredients like Callebaut® and Valrhona® chocolates to create exceptional doughnuts. Each creation features house-made pastry creams, jams, glazes, and ganaches.
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken puts a unique spin on traditional doughnut shops. Their massive doughnuts, especially the crème brûlée flavor with its crackling top, have earned quite a following. The menu also includes six different fried chicken sandwiches. You can get them on a brioche bun, biscuit, or even a savory or Old Bay doughnut.
Fast Casual Spots with Quality Brunch Offerings
DC’s fast-casual scene gives visitors several great options to grab a quick but satisfying brunch.
Founding Farmers runs First Bake Cafe at multiple locations throughout DC. Visitors can enjoy house-roasted coffee and breakfast items that showcase the restaurant’s dedication to quality and sustainability.
Unconventional Diner serves its “Everyday Brunch” menu until 4 p.m. daily. This works great for visitors who can’t make traditional brunch hours. The menu features creative dishes like Georgia French Toast, loaded breakfast biscuits, and corned beef hash.
The Market Lunch at Eastern Market gives Capitol Hill explorers a taste of local tradition. Their blueberry buckwheat pancakes and “The Brick” – a warm egg sandwich packed with bacon and potatoes – have been DC favorites for over 40 years.
Keren Restaurant near U Street brings Ethiopian flavors to breakfast until 11 a.m. Their ful medames, a hearty fava bean stew, gives visitors energy for a full day of sightseeing.
These quick-service spots let visitors experience DC’s diverse food scene without losing precious exploration time. Fresh ingredients, creative menus, and quick service make these places perfect for tourists and locals who want a great brunch without the wait.
DC might be famous for power breakfasts and long brunches, but these quick options prove good food doesn’t need to take all day. From gourmet bagels to international breakfast dishes, DC’s brunch scene has something for everyone, even those on a tight schedule.
Outdoor Brunch Havens: Best Patios in the Capital
Washington DC’s outdoor dining raises the brunch experience with patios and terraces that create scenic backdrops for morning meals. These outdoor spaces turn regular brunches into memorable occasions with waterfront views and garden settings.
Waterfront Brunch at Fiola Mare and Sequoia
Fiola Mare brings Italian coastal cuisine to Georgetown’s waterfront. The restaurant’s menu changes daily to showcase the freshest seafood. Their outdoor dining area, the Kennedy Lounge, gives diners stunning views of the Potomac River. Weekend brunch runs from 11 AM to 2:30 PM with a three-course menu and sparkling wine options.
The restaurant’s nautical design fits perfectly with its waterfront location and creates an elegant atmosphere. Fiola Mare’s wine list has earned a Wine Spectator Best Award of Excellence. It’s a favorite spot for power lunches and social events with beautiful private dining spaces.
Garden Settings at Iron Gate and Tabard Inn
Iron Gate sits near Dupont Circle and is one of DC’s oldest restaurants still in operation. A beautiful wisteria-covered patio creates an enchanting outdoor dining atmosphere. The restaurant keeps guests comfortable on cold days with open fires and propane heating.
The restaurant has:
- A sumptuous dining room
- A wisteria-canopied patio
- An enclosed carriageway housing the bar
Mediterranean cuisine inspires Iron Gate’s menu, which reflects the warmth of agriturismi and tavernas. The wisteria-covered patio and intimate firelit dining room make this spot one of DC’s most romantic restaurants.
Streetside People-Watching at Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate celebrates French café culture along the busy 14th Street corridor. The restaurant’s outdoor brick patio is perfect for people-watching, and you don’t need a reservation for patio seats.
The brunch menu features classic French dishes:
- Escargots à la Bourguignon ($18)
- Croque Madame with cotto ham and fried egg ($ 24)
- French Toast with brandied apples ($17)
A carefully selected wine list and specialty cocktails improve the authentic French brasserie experience. Le Diplomate’s semi-private spaces can host groups up to 40 in L’Orangerie and up to 60 on the enclosed Terrace.
Rooftop Brunch Experiences with Capitol Views
DC’s iconic skyline comes alive during rooftop brunches. The Rooftop Kitchen at City Ridge shows off 360-degree views of the capital while serving classic American fare and creative cocktails.
These spots mix height with style:
- Flora Flora at The Pendry: This Latin-influenced venue overlooks the Washington Channel and serves weekend brunch with huitlacoche quesadilla and alfajores pancakes. A $ 60.00 bottomless package includes guacamole and unlimited red, white, and pisco sangrias.
- Moonraker: This relaxed rooftop hideaway at Pendry Washington DC serves Japanese-inspired light bites and handcrafted cocktails. The space shifts from daytime brunch spot to nightlife destination.
DC’s outdoor brunch spots adapt to different seasons to keep guests comfortable. Many places now use cooling systems in summer and covered lounge seating year-round. These additions let guests enjoy outdoor dining whatever the weather.
Unique Brunch Experiences Only Found in DC
Washington DC’s brunch scene goes beyond regular dining spots with unique experiences that showcase the city’s political heritage and cultural diversity.
Historic Venues Serving Modern Brunch
DC’s longest-running inn and restaurant, The Tabard Inn, opened its doors in 1922. The brunch menu combines French techniques with Southern cuisine and uses local ingredients. Georgetown’s historic Martin’s Tavern started serving guests in 1933. This landmark spot serves classic American brunch and boasts a rich history of hosting political figures.
Drag Brunches and Entertainment Options
Perry’s in Adams Morgan started DC’s first drag brunch in 1991. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet and performances for $39.95, plus tax and service charge. At Nellie’s Sports Bar, Sapphire Blue and her team put on shows while guests enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet. The menu comes with pork ribs, cheesy grits, scrambled eggs, and mini empanadas. Your first mimosa or Bloody Mary is on the house.
Baby Shank’s heated penthouse rooftop is home to celebrity impersonator shows featuring tributes to Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé. Guests can grab tickets starting at $27 and add bottomless mimosas to their experience.
Museum Cafés with Brunch Menus
Sweet Home Café inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black culinary traditions. Guests can dine from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with entrées priced between $8 and $22. Chef Ramin Coles creates dishes like curry-spiced lamb and slow-roasted lamb shoulder.
Mitsitam Cafe at the Museum of the American Indian brings Native American cuisine through four unique stations:
- Campfire Grill: Bison and venison burgers
- Mitsitam Chef’s Table: Fry bread specialties
- Four Corners: Southwest-inspired tostadas and tamales
- Woodlands and Coastlines: Fish and wild rice dishes
Political-Themed Brunch Spots
The city’s political culture shapes its dining scene through themed venues. Barrel on Capitol Hill runs presidential pop-ups with custom cocktails and themed décor:
- Slick Willy’s Jazz Lounge: Arkansas whiskey cocktails and Clinton memorabilia
- Barry’s Aloha Bar: Obama’s Hawaiian roots inspire tropical drinks
- Joe Cool’s Cocktail Parlor: Biden’s ice cream passion takes center stage
VUE at Hotel Washington gives guests stunning White House views while they enjoy a classic American brunch.
Seasonal and Holiday Brunch Specials
Local families love The Willard InterContinental’s Holiday Brunch tradition. The menu features:
- Fresh Seafood Display
- Avocado Toast and Lox Station
- Carving stations with herb-marinated prime rib
- Sweets & Treats Buffet in Peacock Alley
Adults pay $ 195.00 for unlimited mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys, while children 5-12 pay $ 85.00.
Fairmont Washington’s Christmas Day Buffet Brunch with Santa marks its 39th year in the Colonnade. Two seatings run at 11 am and 2:30 pm, costing $ 169.00 for adults and $ 39.00 for children between five and twelve years.
Figleaf Bar & Lounge runs a “Nice & Naughty Holiday Brunch” each weekend. Santa or the Grinch hosts while guests enjoy brunch favorites and unlimited spiked hot chocolate.
These special brunch experiences highlight Washington DC’s history, entertainment, and seasonal festivities. Visitors and locals can explore the city’s culture through food and celebration.
Washington DC Food Tour Private Bus Charter
A food tour in Washington DC with Metropolitan Shuttle is the perfect way for a large group to experience the city’s incredible culinary diversity without the hassle of parking or coordinating multiple rides. A private charter bus ensures seamless transportation between LA’s top foodie destinations. With spacious, comfortable seating, climate control, and a professional driver, your group can sit back and enjoy the journey while indulging in the city’s best flavors. Whether it’s a corporate outing, birthday celebration, or private tasting tour, Metropolitan Shuttle makes your DC food adventure stress-free, convenient, and delicious.
Comparison Table
| Brunch Category | Price Range | Notable Venues | Special Features | Signature Offerings | Operating Hours |
| Food-Focused | $35-69 | Founding Farmers, Zaytinya, Ted’s Bulletin | Fresh farm ingredients, Chef-crafted meals | Chicken & waffles, House-made pop tarts, Mediterranean dishes | N/A |
| Bottomless Deals | $14-69 | The Commodore, Ambar, dLeña | Custom mimosa blends, Unlimited food choices | Diverse mimosa selection, Balkan small plates, Mexican brunch specialties | 90-120 minute limits |
| Quick Options | N/A | Call Your Mother, Buffalo & Bergen, District Doughnut | Easy takeout service, Casual atmosphere | Bagel sandwiches, Artisanal doughnuts, Breakfast biscuits | Until 11 AM (some venues) |
| Outdoor Patios | $17-24 | Fiola Mare, Iron Gate, Le Diplomate | River views, Garden ambiance, Street seating | Fresh seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, French classics | 11 AM – 2:30 PM (some venues) |
| DC-Exclusive | $39.95-195 | Tabard Inn, Perry’s, Sweet Home Café | Heritage buildings, Drag performances, Museum dining | DC-inspired cocktails, Native American dishes, Holiday specials | Varies by venue |
Conclusion
Washington DC’s brunch scene features everything from quick bagel stops to luxurious waterfront dining. Budget-conscious diners can enjoy bottomless mimosas at The Commodore for $21. dLeña’s $69 unlimited food and drinks package appeals to those who want a premium experience.
Chef-driven spots like Nina May and Gravitas showcase seasonal ingredients with creative flair. Iron Gate and Fiola Mare’s excellent food pairs perfectly with their stunning settings, making them ideal for special occasions and weekend gatherings.
Call Your Mother and District Doughnut prove quality doesn’t require long wait times. These spots serve delicious breakfast options that satisfy visitors who have big appetites but limited time.
The capital’s brunch scene truly stands out with its unique offerings. Perry’s hosts entertaining drag shows, Barrel serves political-themed cocktails, and Sweet Home Café offers museum dining. Each venue creates memorable experiences by combining entertainment, history, and excellent food.
DC’s diverse brunch options satisfy every taste, schedule, and budget. Diners can choose from Founding Farmers’ farm-fresh eggs, Zaytinya’s Mediterranean small plates, or Ted’s Bulletin’s homemade pop tarts. Each venue contributes its own flavor to the city’s rich array of dining options, making DC’s brunch scene worth experiencing.
FAQs
Q1. What are some unique brunch experiences in Washington DC?
Washington DC offers several distinctive brunch experiences, including drag brunches at Perry’s in Adams Morgan, political-themed brunches at venues like Barrel on Capitol Hill, and museum dining at places like Sweet Home Café in the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Q2. Where can I find a good outdoor brunch spot in DC?
Some popular outdoor brunch spots in DC include Fiola Mare and Sequoia for waterfront views, Iron Gate for a charming garden setting, and Le Diplomate for excellent streetside people-watching. Many of these venues offer scenic backdrops that enhance the brunch experience.
Q3. Are there any quick brunch options for visitors with limited time?
Yes, DC offers several quick brunch options for visitors on the go. Call Your Mother and Buffalo & Bergen provide gourmet grab-and-go bagel sandwiches, while District Doughnut and Astro Doughnuts offer sweet treats. Fast-casual spots like Founding Farmers’ First Bake Cafe also provide quality brunch fare for those short on time.
Q4. What are some budget-friendly bottomless brunch options in DC?
For budget-conscious brunchers, The Commodore offers a $21 bottomless mimosa option, while Big Stick charges just $14 for unlimited orange juice mimosas. All-Purpose Pizzeria in Navy Yard provides a $19 bottomless drink deal with the purchase of a brunch item or pizza.
Q5. Can you recommend any food-focused brunch spots in Washington DC?
Some notable food-focused brunch spots in DC include Founding Farmers for farm-to-table options, Zaytinya for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and Ted’s Bulletin for their famous homemade pop tarts. For a chef-driven experience, consider Nina May in Shaw or Gravitas, which showcase seasonal ingredients and creative techniques.
