Budget-Friendly Georgetown Brunch

Update: Prices at the bottom have been updated for 2023.

Georgetown is not the place you think of when talking inexpensive brunch. But after a long bike ride using Capital Bikeshare from Bethesda to Georgetown, we ventured away from the waterfront in search of just that. We headed up 31st Street when we spotted a cute little house that had been transformed into an Italian restaurant called Ristorante Piccolo.  The hostess explained the $20 brunch meal comes with an appetizer, entree, and 1 drink. She hooked us immediately. 

As soon as we sat down, we noticed the excellent service. The waiter and servers were extra attentive, which we appreciated, especially since the meal was such a deal. We kicked off our meal with drinks – there is a choice of champagne, a mimosa, or a Bloody Mary. 

Next up – time to choose food! Even though Piccolo is an Italian restaurant, the menu does not only feature carbs. There are plenty of pasta dishes but also many lighter dishes to choose from. We picked a classic brunch option and a lamb dish to try a variety of the menu. 

We started with the mussels which are topped with just a touch of tomato sauce. This small plate of mussels is a fun twist on the more traditional entree version of mussels in a pot. We also tried the Caesar salad (not pictured) – a pretty classic way to start off your Italian brunch.

For one of the entrees, we tried the seafood omelet which does not skimp on the seafood. Packed with scallops, shrimp, and fish, this is one of the most generous seafood omelets we’ve ever had. The omelet comes with a side of cheesy bread and orange slices. Substituting bread and fruit for breakfast meat and potatoes helps tie in the Italian theme of the restaurant.

We also tried the lamb risotto which was cooked to perfection. It is a more hardy dish – perfect for the cooler weather.

All $32 brunch deals come with a choice of 1 drink – champagne, mimosa, or Bloody Mary. You can make it bottomless for an extra $20. Ristorante Piccolo is open for brunch Saturday and Sunday. They also have an express 2 course lunch meal for $19 Monday through Friday and a dinner menu 7 days a week. 

At a Glance

  • Brunch, dinner
  • 1068 31st Street NW
  • $32 per person for 2 courses plue and entree
    +$20 for bottomless drinks (2 hour time limit)
  • Capital Bikeshare nearby