The Ultimate Guide to the DC Brunch Scene

Hey bestie, it’s your Internet BFF, Kaylannk here! Let’s talk D.C. brunch!

Forget rubbery eggs and endless lines – DC brunch is a thing, baby. It’s where power players spend money to be seen, millennials trade Insta-worthy avocado toast, and weekend hangovers are refueled. Navigating this scene can be daunting. That’s where me, your Internet BFF blogger comes in! This guide will give you the insider tips to conquer DC brunch like a local.

1. Pick the spot.

You can choose a restaurant based on your aesthetic, the neighborhood it is located in, or cuisine it serves.

Aesthetic – Choose a brunch spot based on your aesthetic. If you want a:

Power Brunch: Head to The Hamilton to be blocks away from museums and a train ride away from the White House.
Insta-Worthy Brunch: The Dabney’s chic interiors and artistic presentations will have your followers begging for the location.
Foodie Brunch: Fiola Mare’s Italian seafood brunch is next-level featuring caviar and seafood towers.
Neighborhood Hangout Brunch: Compass Coffee in Georgetown is a cozy spot for pastries, lattes, and people-watching.

Location – Choose a brunch spot based on location.

Historic U Street: Look no further than Compass Rose. Not only will you experience the culture of the neighborhood around you, the menu also allows you to experience the taste of international cultures.
Lively Logan Circle: For a vibrant atmosphere and Southern food, head to Georgia Brown’s for their legendary fried chicken and waffles.
Presidential Town: For Parisian inspired cuisine, head to Cafe Du Parc for delicate pastries and quiche Lorraine.

Cuisine – Choose a brunch spot based on the menu. We will simplify this into two sections: savory or sweet versus the plethora of cuisines and dietary restrictions D.C. brunch has to offer.

Sweet: Visit Unconventional Diner for their fluffy pancakes with blueberry lavender sauce, District Doughnuts for a mix of flavors for a sophisticated taste, or Baked Join for their crème brûlée French toast.

Savory: While sweet cuisine is classic to brunch, try something new while you are in the city. Why? Because D.C. brunch offers more. Try spicy Indian street cuisine at Bindaas, go plant-based at Chloe, or travel via cuisine to Italy by eating at Lupo Verde.

2. Beyond mimosa

Bottomless mimosas are fun. But eating out is about trying something new and brunch is the perfect time to do so. DC’s brunch scene boasts creative cocktails of crafted drinks, local craft beers, lattes, milkshakes and more.

3. Reserve your space

DC brunch is known for their weekend waitlist. To avoid the waitlist, a reservation is crucial. You can reserve your reservation by phone, Resy, or OpenTable are your reservation allies. If you’re feeling spontaneous, try walk-in spots like Ted’s Bulletin. Just be prepared for a wait.

4. Know the restaurant’s policy

Each restaurant is different so do your research accordingly. Be mindful of the following things: dress code, only one card allowed for group payment, gratuity rates, and bottomless drinks specials.

5. Brunch with a view

Elevate your experience with a scenic backdrop. When the weather permits, brunch on a patio is nice. Restaurants on the Wharf or along the water in Georgetown are great for waterfront views. The Kennedy Center’s Roof Terrace boasts iconic monument views. For a more city vibe, try brunch spots with rooftop patios.

6. Have a budget and stick to it

Go into D.C. brunch like a financially responsible adult. A brunch outing can add up quickly, if you are brunch hopping especially with a large party. Be prepared to pay for gratitude for your purchases.

7. Don’t forget the after brunch move

Make the most of your time while you are out for brunch. Plan an activity after brunch, so you can have a reply for your friends that ask, So What’s next? You can either take a post-brunch stroll through The Wharf, browse the Georgetown shops, or check out the museums on the National Mall.

Bonus tips:

Parking can be a beast: Finding great parking that is close to your destination and is affordable is a task. Plan ahead and consider ridesharing or the train to get to your brunch spot.
Share the love: D.C. brunch portions are often generous. Consider splitting dishes with your friends to try more options.

Remember D.C. brunch is an adventure. Embrace the diversity, be patient, and most importantly, have fun!

Written with lots of care,

Kaylannk

Your Internet BFF

P.S. Share your favorite D.C. brunch spots in the comments below. Let’s build the ultimate brunch guide together.

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