The 12 Best Brunch Spots in Washington, DC

Washington, D.C., a city pulsating with ambition and energy, has elevated brunch to an art form. Securing a table at the most coveted locations often requires advance planning, and the anticipation of a wait, sometimes exceeding an hour, is a common experience for those seeking stacks of fluffy pancakes and the effervescent allure of bottomless mimosas. The city’s brunch scene is a testament to its diverse culinary landscape.

From the unpretentious charm of classic diners and cozy neighborhood coffee shops to the sophisticated ambiance of Parisian-inspired brasseries and the vibrant flavors of contemporary Spanish tapas restaurants, the District boasts a brunch destination to suit every palate and preference. Whether you’re seeking sustenance before embarking on a day of exploration through the city’s renowned Smithsonian museums or aiming to recover from the revelries of the previous night, Washington, D.C., offers a brunch experience to revitalize and delight. From the comforting embrace of American classics at Founding Farmers to the quintessential New York City-style bagels at Call Your Mother Deli, this guide unveils the best spots in Washington, D.C., to indulge in the beloved weekend ritual of brunch. Let’s dive in and explore the culinary delights that await. Finding the The 12 Best Brunch Spots in Washington, DC is now easier than ever.

1. Le Diplomate

Nestled along the vibrant 14th Street corridor, Le Diplomate transports diners to the heart of Paris with its authentic brasserie atmosphere and inviting sidewalk cafe. The restaurant’s popularity is evident in the crowds that often spill onto the street, so securing a reservation well in advance is highly recommended. Le Diplomate’s extensive weekend brunch menu showcases a delightful array of French classics, alongside an enticing raw bar. Indulge in the quintessential Croque Madame, savor the delicate flavors of Quiche Florentine, or opt for the satisfying Burger Américain. The "Les Oeufs" section offers a tempting selection of egg dishes, including the exquisite Eggs Norwegian, featuring smoked salmon and a creamy hollandaise sauce. To complement your meal, consider the refreshing house spritz cocktail, a blend of Lillet Blanc, sparkling wine, sour orange, and rhubarb root, or choose from a selection of sparkling wines available by the glass or carafe.

• What to Order: The Duck Sarladaise is a must-try. This dish features a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg, accompanied by crispy potatoes and a rich sauce foyot, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.
  • Address: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-332-3333

2. Jaleo

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine at Jaleo, Chef José Andrés’s flagship restaurant in Penn Quarter. The bright and modern space sets the stage for a delightful brunch experience centered around Spanish-style tapas. Jaleo’s brunch menu features traditional huevos estrellados, offering the option to enhance the dish with succulent Iberian ham. Alternatively, savor the flavors of smoked salmon served on delicate Spanish crystal bread, accompanied by a hard-boiled egg, creamy goat cheese, and tangy capers. Quench your thirst with freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice, indulge in a classic house mimosa, or opt for the refreshing Rosé Sangria.

• What to Order: For a sweet indulgence, the Spanish toast with caramelized bananas and rum-infused whipped cream is an absolute delight.
  • Address: 480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-628-7949

3. Call Your Mother

With multiple locations across the District, including Park View, Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and Bethesda, Call Your Mother has established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking authentic New York-style bagels and other deli favorites. This self-described "Jew-ish" deli offers a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of the 1990s. Choose from a tempting array of 13 bagel flavors, ranging from classic sesame to poppy seed, which serve as the foundation for their outstanding sandwiches. In addition to bagels, the colorful shops also offer a variety of muffins, sweets, specialty coffees, teas, and sodas.

• What to Order: The Pastrami Sun City is a standout choice, featuring bodega-style local eggs, American and cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of spicy honey, all served on a perfectly toasted everything bagel.
  • Address: 3301 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-450-5307

4. Old Ebbitt Grill

Steeped in history and tradition, the Old Ebbitt Grill stands as D.C.’s oldest continuously operating bar. Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts building that once served as a theater, this institution attracts a diverse clientele throughout the week. During the week, patrons flock to the gilded doors for happy hour, where oyster and shellfish platters are offered at half-price. On weekends, the focus shifts to brunch, where guests can still enjoy the restaurant’s renowned oysters on the half shell and seafood platters, alongside traditional breakfast fare such as chicken and waffles, French toast, and eggs Benedict. The brunch menu also includes the restaurant’s regular entrées, encompassing burgers, sandwiches, pasta, steak, and crab cakes. Be sure to save room for dessert, as the peanut butter pie, with its peanut-chocolate chip crust, peanut butter mousse, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream, is an absolute must-try.

• What to Order: The shrimp and grits are a highly recommended choice, featuring creamy cheese grits, flavorful andouille sausage, and a vibrant crystal-tomato broth.
  • Address: 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-347-4800

5. Unconventional Diner

Located within the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Unconventional Diner has garnered a loyal following for its modern comfort food and its visually striking pop art décor, making it an Instagram-worthy destination. Brunch is served seven days a week, offering creative twists on classic diner fare. Indulge in the cheddar-chive cornbread waffle with habanero butter and "granny gravy," savor the fried eggs with Brussels sprouts, or explore the flavors of Lebanese fried rice with lentils, two fried eggs, yogurt, and almonds. Vegans and vegetarians will find a wide array of options here, as will those following gluten-free diets.

• What to Order: The cauliflower & falafel entrée is an excellent vegan and gluten-free option, featuring tahini, pickled red onions, and green apples. For those seeking to add protein, chicken or salmon can be added for an additional charge.
  • Address: 1207 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001-4375, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-847-0122

6. Estadio

This lively Logan Circle restaurant, specializing in contemporary Spanish tapas, is an ideal destination for large groups. Arrive early to secure a table, as the restaurant fills up quickly. Begin your brunch with shareable starters such as artisanal cheese and ham croquettes, or opt for larger plates like grilled hanger steak and eggs with patatas bravas and a housemade croissant sandwich with serrano ham, manchego, and egg. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as both the Basque cheesecake and churros are exceptional.

• What to Order: The classic tortilla española, topped with a flavorful alioli sauce and sweet hot peppers, is a must-try.
  • Address: 1520 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005-3722, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-319-1404

7. Founding Farmers

As its name suggests, Founding Farmers in Foggy Bottom is majority-owned by farmers, reflecting its commitment to sourcing ingredients from local farms. Brunch is served on Saturdays, Sundays, and most holiday Mondays, with a menu focused on hearty American classics. From French toast, pancakes, and waffles to savory hashes and scrambles, Founding Farmers offers a comforting and satisfying brunch experience. Don’t overlook the drinks menu, as the restaurant features an in-house distillery, Founding Spirits, which are used to create a range of handcrafted cocktails.

• What to Order: For those who are indecisive, the house breakfast is an excellent choice, featuring two eggs prepared in any style, along with your choice of meat, bread, and sides such as grits or a Farmers’ salad.
  • Address: 1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-822-8783

8. Cafe Milano

Located in the heart of Georgetown, Cafe Milano is a sophisticated Italian-style cafe renowned for its celebrity sightings and power-broker clientele. Dine on the charming sidewalk patio or indoors, surrounded by colorful murals celebrating notable Italians, providing the perfect backdrop for leisurely sipping a Bellini or a glass of sparkling wine. The Sunday brunch menu features a rotating variety of classics, such as a mushroom frittata, an egg-white omelet topped with smoked salmon, and smoked salmon bruschetta with avocado, heirloom tomato, pan-fried eggs, and cheese sauce.

• What to Order: The bistecca con le uova, featuring a tender beef rib eye, sunny-side-up eggs, and rosemary potatoes, is a highly recommended dish.
  • Address: 3251 Prospect St NW, Washington, DC 20007-3243, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-333-6183

9. Open City

At Open City, a coffee shop meets diner in Woodley Park, brunch is available all day, every day. With a cozy indoor cafe and restaurant, as well as a delightful outdoor patio, there are plenty of places to enjoy Counter Culture coffee, fancy lattes, and hearty breakfast fare such as a fried chicken biscuit with sausage gravy, huevos rancheros, and stuffed French toast. For lighter options, opt for a yogurt parfait, smoothie, or one of several salads.

• What to Order: Indulge your sweet tooth with the pecan praline waffle, a buttermilk waffle topped with a decadent pecan praline confection and whipped cream.
  • Address: 2331 Calvert St NW, Washington, DC 20008-2622, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-332-2331

10. The Market Lunch

Located within the historic Eastern Market on Capitol Hill, The Market Lunch is a no-frills, cafeteria-style eatery that has been serving up breakfast staples since 1978. From full stacks of pancakes and perfectly cooked eggs to omelets and a wide array of sides, The Market Lunch offers a classic and satisfying breakfast experience. The restaurant also serves lunch all day, with options ranging from sandwiches and burgers to large seafood-focused platters.

• What to Order: "The Brick" breakfast sandwich is a must-try, stacked high with cheddar cheese, potatoes, two eggs, and your choice of bacon, ham, house-made pork sausage, turkey bacon, or Delaware scrapple.
  • Address: 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003-4323, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-547-8444

11. Fiola Mare

Fiola Mare’s stunning waterfront location in Georgetown provides the perfect backdrop for the restaurant’s seasonal Italian coastal cuisine. The menu is extensive, but start with raw bar favorites such as shrimp cocktail or raw oysters, or opt for the signature seafood tower, featuring a selection of East and West Coast oysters, hamachi, Nova Scotia Lobster, bigeye tuna, king salmon, prawn cocktail, and ceviche. The restaurant’s grilled items are also exceptional, including Mediterranean branzino and jumbo langoustine. The "sparkling brunch" includes a choice of appetizer, brunch entrée, and dessert, along with bottomless Prosecco or another brunch cocktail, as well as a complimentary pastry and bread basket. Please note that athletic wear, flip-flops, and torn clothing are not permitted in the dining room or on the patio.

• What to Order: The smoked salmon scramble, featuring soft scrambled eggs, mascarpone, tigelle modenese, and smoked trout roe, is a delightful and sophisticated choice.
  • Address: 3100 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-350-4982

12. Ambar Capitol Hill

Come hungry to Ambar Capitol Hill, because you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat (and drink) brunch at this Balkan restaurant on weekends. There’s a two-hour limit, and the whole table must participate, but otherwise, the deal includes unlimited flatbreads, spreads like beet tzatziki and garlic beans, soups, salads, egg scrambles, sliders, and traditional sides such as creamed corn and mushroom pilav, as well as sweets. Drinks include a Bloody Mary, traditional mimosa, and a peach lavender mimosa featuring Balkan sparkling wine. Pets are welcome on the patio.

• What to Order: The Sudzuk Beef Flatbread, topped with smoked beef sausage, sheep’s cheese, mozzarella, and drizzled with truffle oil, is a must-try.
  • Address: 523 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
  • Phone: +1 202-813-3039

Enjoy discovering The 12 Best Brunch Spots in Washington, DC and happy brunching!