Need a pick-me-up after a tough work week or a long night out? Here’s the scoop on the most sumptuous eats, the smoothest coffee and the most unique brunch cocktails in town.
Check out these best-of-brunch spots in DC to refuel, recharge and start your weekend off right:
Heat Da Spot
3213 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010
Head to Heat Da Spot for an Ethiopian brunch served up right with a delightful family vibe and cozy atmosphere. You’ll be welcomed like a close friend as soon as you walk in the door.
Far more than just a coffee shop (although breakfast is served anytime), this place has unique warmth and charm. Enjoy legit Ethiopian fare solidly homemade with African spices. Be sure to check out the all-you-can-eat Ethiopian brunch available on Sundays.
Hot Coffee Spot: The coffee here is must-have, if you appreciate smooth, dark coffee – with free refills.
Best Dish: Try the vegetable omelet, topped off with their secret sauce (you have to ask for it). Another all-time favorite is the bacon, egg and cheese croissant.
Pennsylvania 6 DC
1350 I St NW, Washington, DC 20005
When you need a classic brunch cocktail, stop in at Pennsylvania 6 DC for their all-you-can drink Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. It’s a fun experience, with a wide range of garnishes (baked bacon, anyone?) to make each drink unique. Servers stand by to ensure your glass never gets empty.
Frequently named the best brunch option in DC, this restaurant holds a delightfully lovely and trendy ambiance. Sit outdoors if you’d like when the weather is nice.
Best Brunch Item: Try the $1 Friday brunch oysters (check with the restaurant to verify prices) with house-made cocktail sauce.
Hot Tip: Ditch the diet this weekend (you’ll thank us later)– this place serves cinnamon covered donuts while you wait for your food to arrive!
Ted’s Bulletin
505 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Head to Ted’s when you’re in the mood for fun, traditional American cuisine. Enjoy sampling all the classics against a traditional diner ambiance, complete with black-and-white movies playing.
Try the homemade blueberry cheesecake pop tarts, the most interesting concoction on the menu. The key lime pop tart is also fantastic. Wash it all down with an adult milkshake.
Prefer to go savory? The crab cake eggs benedict is another uniquely popular brunch item.
Don’t miss their chicken and biscuits drizzled with honey. This is a dish done right, right down to the light and flakey biscuits, nicely breaded chicken, and perfectly-sweet honey.
And if you’re super hungry? Go BIG with the Big Mark Breakfast–it includes everything you expect in a hearty breakfast (and more).
Founding Farmers – D.C.
1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006
Fresh is the operative word at this farmer-owned restaurant. Dine against a rustic-modern theme. Enjoy scratch-made comfort cuisine cooked with a farm to table concept. Each bite incorporates locally sourced, farm fresh organic products. It’s a very popular spot.
Be sure to try their applewood smoked bacon and the spinach scramble. Or enjoy the classically inspired chicken and waffles, drizzled with cinnamon infused syrup.
Another popular dish is Uncle Buck’s Beignets if you’re in the mood for light and fluffy deliciousness.
Cool Factor: Peruse the cocktail menu. They distill their own gin. Ask the bartender for the “surprise me” option–they’ll work with your preferences to make something uniquely splendid.
Hot Coffee Spot: Get the French press or the first bake drip coffee to pair perfectly with your brunch.
Looking for the perfect spot shouldn’t be a hassle. Be prepared to take it easy, catch up with friends and get your brunch on.