Washington DC’s Brunch Culture - The Best of The Capital’s Scene

For many outside of the DMV, which stands for “DC, Maryland, and Virginia” the Nation’s capital is a mystery. Not many understand the rich culture and history of DC and the fact that it is a lot more than monuments, politicians, consultants, and lobbyists. Many who arrive in the city for the first time are surprised by the diversity of the city and by how lively it can get during the weekends, especially during Sunday brunch. Washingtonians know the drill: go out on Saturday and do as you please, but make sure you are ready by 11 am - 12 pm on Sunday, when the real celebration starts.

Maybe it has to do with the limited nightlife options, which became reduced significantly with closures during the pandemic, or perhaps there’s just something about wearing your Sunday’s best and getting out when people can appreciate it, but brunch in DC is undefeated, and many restaurants and bars cater to the trend. The options are endless, and the key is to know what you’re going for: Are you a foodie that wants to experience gourmet options, or are you a rooftop connoisseur who is just as worried about the views and posts that will come out of ir, or are you most concerned about the mimosas being bottomless. No matter which bucket you fall into, there’s a place for you in DC.

When it comes to good food, places like Unconventional Diner come to mind. Serving re-imagined American classics like the “Caribbean Shrimp and Grits”, and international fusion breakfast staples like the “Sweet Potato Shakshuka” in an elevated “diner” atmosphere, this place doesn’t miss. And their amazing and inventive cocktails don’t trail far behind. The best thing about this place? You don’t have to wait until the weekend to get your brunch fix, they serve their brunch menu every day before 4 PM.

Other incredible and diverse culinary experiences in the city include Lapis, an Afghan restaurant serving delicious and interesting food with a beautifully decorated backdrop. With a simple brunch menu and a few bottomless options (including their amazing pomegranate mimosa “pompagne”) Lapis offers its patrons a glimpse into a cuisine we don’t often hear about, while still keeping brunch fun and boozy. When the price is not an issue, Moon Rabbit, an upscale Vietnamese restaurant at the Wharf is a great choice. If you are looking to dress up for a girl’s brunch or for an early date, this is your place. All dishes are beautifully plated and fuse South Asian flavors in American brunch staples with ease. Their cocktails, such as the Coffee Call, which is inspired by sweet Vietnamese coffee are also must-haves.

One of the best things about DC brunch culture is that you won't have to sacrifice great food for a less expensive, bottomless, party-like atmosphere. Balkan food staple Ambar offers an outstanding brunch option that allows you to try all of their brunch dishes while also sipping on unlimited drinks for two hours. Similarly, known for their incredibly strong Margaritas and decently priced brunch is Mission in Navy Yard and Dupont Circle. Their Mexican-American menu has something for everybody, but their drinks and the guarantee of a good (or regretful) weekend story are the stand-out perks of both locations.

If eating New Orleans-inspired dishes while sipping on tropical bellinis and taking dance breaks in an almost club-like atmosphere is your thing, Creole on 14th should be on your list. One of the most fun brunch experiences in the city, with a live DJ playing hip-hop party classics and current hits, this place may seem rather unassuming from the outside, but will surely satisfy your cravings for great food, drinks, and maybe even a little twerk.

No matter what you’re looking for, the DC brunch scene is truly where it’s at.

Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself and tag us with your thoughts!