Top 11 Brunch Spots in Washington, DC

The brunch scene in Washington, DC is just as diverse and exciting as the capital city itself. From neighborhood coffee shops and diners to Parisian-style brasseries, DC has a brunch spot in every corner of the city. Whether you’re looking to cure a hangover or celebrate a special occasion, DC has something for everyone. Here is a list of the top brunch spots in Washington DC that are worth the time and money.

Brunch some of the best breakfast and lunch combinations this world has to offer. But it comes at a high cost. GiftYa has your interest in mind and that’s why they’re committed to helping you enjoy brunch by offering e-cards to the top spots in DC. After you purchase a card, you can upload it directly to your debit card. Grab your electronic gift card today and try out some of the best Brunch spots in DC!

1. Founding Farmers DC

A co-op-owned American eatery serving delicious brunch options in a rustic-chic style!

1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW #3607 | Washington, DC | wearefoundingfarmers.com

At Founding Farmers, nothing is too small. They are focused on serving better, smarter, and healthier options. This means that everything is made from scratch whether it’s bread or booze. Order whatever you want from freshly House-Roasted Coffee, espresso drinks, and donuts to all their farm favorites, including great salads, Chicken and Waffles, a hand-crafted burger with fries, and their house-made pasta.

Now to what Founding Farmers is known for, its varied menu that features farmhouse favorites such as breakfast chicken and waffles, breakfast meats a la Carte options, avocado, and egg white toast. They also grind their own beef in-house, bake their own bread, churn their ice cream, and of course distill their house-made booze. They also spot award-winning signature cocktails and spirits that are available to enjoy in-house or at home. 

2. Le Diplomate

Modern brasserie dishing out classic French fare and drinks as part of the varied menu!

1601 14th St NW | Washington, DC | lediplomatedc.com

If having breakfast or brunch outdoorsoutdoor is your thing, then Le Diplomate is the place to be. This modern French brasserie is popular for its charming sidewalk seating, which features stylish enclosed booths with café tables and green striped wicker chairs.

The main draw here is their basket of three types of delicious, freshly baked bread and soft butter. Order one of their delicious egg shies off the “Les Oeufs” menu, such as eggs basquaise, lobster omelet, or the classic French fare like trout amandine and steak frites. If you’re in the mood for sandwiches be sure to try either the country chicken club, warm shrimp salad, or the burger Americain. You will surely love the vibes in this place and a zinc bar which is a show stopper.

3. Unconventional Diner

An upscale Industrial-chic eatery and bar serving comfort fare, pastries, coffee, and signature cocktails!

1207 9th St NW | Washington, DC | unconventionaldiner.com

We understand that exploring a huge city like DC is hard work. But why not take a break and grab some amazing brunch at Unconventional Diner? Located inside the Water E. Washington Convention Center, this bistro serves modern comfort food in a colorful setting. You can come here any day of the week and enjoy something delicious from their extensive menu.

Curious to find out what items are on the menu? Well, you will get a classic diner fare such as avocado twist with confit egg yolk and cilantro, tip-top chop that includes options such as chicken, smoked salmon, shrimp, and falafel. Vegan and vegetarians will also find plenty of gluten-free diets to enjoy. Be sure to try out their signature drinks and savory desserts to go along with your main course.

4. Fiola Mare

Classy Italian seafood and classic wines and cocktails await you at this modern restaurant in DC!

3100 K St NW | Washington, DC | fiolamaredc.com

Of course, many restaurants can satisfy your craving with tasty flavors especially for breakfast and brunch. Fiola Mare, however, is one of the few that exceeds expectations.

This stylish, coastal-based Italian bistro inspired by Fabio Trabocchi’s love for seafood features an extensive menu that combines flavors of American cuisine that we’re all familiar with and some Italian dishes as well. On the menu, you can enjoy savory options such as wonderful crudo, seafood towers, and changing daily selections of whole fish and most pristine seafood from across the globe.

Chef Claudia’s pastry and breadbasket are also a must-try. And don’t forget to try the “sparkling brunch” that features a choice of entrée, appetizer, and desserts along with bottomless Prosecco or otheranother brunch cocktails and a complimentary bread basket and pastry.

5. Busboys and Poets

Laid-back bistro, coffee shop, bar, and local hangout popular for serving vegan-friendly American cuisine!

2021 14th St NW | Washington, DC | busboysandpoets.com

We know how badly you’re craving nice vibes with regular brunch. So, why don’t you drop by the Busboys and Poets and enjoy savory American brunch classics? It’s referred to as a community gathering spot which derives its name from Langston Hughes, a famous poet who worked as a busboy in the 1920s at the Wardman Park Hotel.

The menu is quite extensive with varieties of brunch offerings. For breakfast, they have classic benedicts with a choice of sweet potato fries, French fries, side Caesar salad, side house salad, home fries, or a cup of soup and scrambled eggs. You will also find sweet potato pancakes, French toast, omelets, bread, and muffin, as well as other specialties. You can also try some other unique options such as brunch mimosa or brunch bloody mary.

6. Ted's Bulletin

A casual eatery in DC offering comfort food plus liquor-infused milkshakes served in a cool setting!

1818 14th St NW | Washington, DC | tedsbulletin.com

If you’re the type that loves exploring something different for brunch, then you should head down to Ted’s Bulletin. This unique spot always seems to be full of regular diners looking to try some of the interestingly-named items on the menu.

Their summer menu has some of the freshest additions such as huevos rancheros, chicken paillard, and the monte cristo. Enjoy classics such as Big Mark breakfast with three eggs, two slices of applewood bacon, hash browns, and Ted’s Tart, Jon’s omelet with spinach, swiss, mushrooms, and hash browns topping, and original breakfast burrito that include a choice of chorizo marinated flank steak, avocado cream, scrambled eggs, diced tomatoes, and green chile sauce.

7. The Market Lunch

Enjoy brunch all day with American breakfasts and lunchlunches options available on order!

225 7th St SE | Washington, DC | marketlunchdc.com

If you’re the kind of person who craves brunch at strange times of the week, The Market Lunch is the place to be. Located inside the historic Eastern Market building, this no-frills eatery has been serving breakfast staples such as pancakes, omelets, and eggs since 1978.

Serving one of the best Crab Cakes, along with other local seafood and regional favorites, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. Get the day started with the popular breakfast options such as French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and eggs benedict served with fried green tomato, turkey bacon benedict, and ham.

If you want to enjoy sandwiches early in the morning or later in the afternoon, you will find any variety you want with a house-made toasted roll and interchangeable meat toppings. For those who prefer something heavy, the lunch platters such as crab cake and shrimp all served with two sides and fresh bread will leave you satisfied and ready to push on the rest of the day.

8. Muchas Gracias

Creative Mexican restaurant that strives to make a positive impact on the lives of immigrant workers

5029 Connecticut Ave NW | Chevy Chase | muchasgraciasdc.com

Muchas Gracias opened during the beginning of the pandemic. In addition to serving hearty and delicious Mexican plates, the restaurant financially supports Latin American workers through career development initiatives and donations to local non-profits. 

While the restaurant hasn’t been open long, it has already established itself as one of the best brunch spots in Washington, DC. Huevos Rancheros, Chilaquiles Rojos, and more classic Mexican dishes are highly rated among guests. Thirsty? Classic brunch beverages like mimosas and cold brews are also served.

“Had a fantastic mid-afternoon meal here. We had a few tacos. But the star of the meal was the salsa negra (made of black garlic and red chiles) that accompanied the fried plantains. They have outdoor seating, but I preferred indoor seating. Looking forward to coming back soon!” - Yelp Review

9. Makan

Trendy Malaysian restaurant that is known for its unique cocktails and savory noodle dishes

3400 11th St NW | Columbia Heights | makanrestaurantdc.com

If you’re looking for a chic, trendy brunch spot, Makan is the place to go. Located in Columbia Heights, Makan offers an appetizing selection of Malaysian dishes and cocktails. Some of our favorite dishes include the Fried Yucca, Mango Salad, and Fried Rice. But you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

Classic brunch cocktails like mimosas and bloody marys are also available and are perfect for complementing your meal. If you have a sweet tooth, you need to try their Sago or Roti & Kaya. The Sago is filled with tapioca and coconut pandan cream while the Roti & Kaya features roti canai. Don’t forget to take a pic before you dive into your meal!

“I can't believe it took me three years to come here! Makan is hands down one of my ABSOLUTE favorite restaurants in DC. They have done Malaysian street food real Justice. In Malaysian, Makan means 'to eat'. In celebration of Malaysian cuisine and culture, offers delicious modern twists to some of the most famous Malaysian street food!” - Yelp Review

10. Primrose

Charming cafe that will transport you all the way to Paris

3000 12th St NE | Brookland | primrosedc.com

Getting tired of DC? Take a little trip to Paris at the Primrose. This chic French restaurant offers a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy interior design. Their bright blue bar, in particular, is popular among guests!

As for the food, you’ll find a wide selection of classic French brunch dishes. French Toast, Shrimp & Grits, Smoked Salmon Eggs Benny, and more hearty dishes await you. You can also complement your meal with some housemade bacon or potato hash. If you need a little pick-me-up, you can try their French Press coffee and Mimosas. They are to die for!

“The aesthetic of this place is *chef's kiss*. One of the best-decorated restaurants out there.  There's no shortage of things to check out. Really cozy indoor/outdoor spaces with great food to match. Super friendly staff.” - Yelp Review

11. Nina May

Small, cozy restaurant serving seasonal New American fare

1337 11th St NW | Shaw, Downtown | ninamaydc.com

Looking for a small, intimate brunch spot? Head to Nina May! This chic little restaurant offers a rustic atmosphere that will immediately put you at ease. On Saturday and Sunday, you can stop by the restaurant for their popular brunch service. 

A Chef’s Choice option that is designed for two people is available. It includes some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes on the menu, like the Ham and Cheese Croissant and Crispy Virginia Oyster with Pimento Grits. A la carte options are also available. You really can’t go wrong with anything here!

“This place was phenomenal. My boyfriend and I went there for our fifth anniversary and they really treated us! Free champagne and a slice of carrot cake. We got the Chefs Choice, which is a slightly smaller serving of four dishes meant to be shared by two people (wasn't explained super well on the menu). Each course was so so good.” - Yelp Review

Brunch is a great time to meet up with family or friends and enjoy a wonderful meal together. So, if you’re in the District and find yourself craving for a late breakfast with savory sides or even a signature drink, these brunch spots are the perfect choices. Don’t take our word for it, go visit them and see for yourself. Don’t forget to let us know your experience in the comments!