Washington, DC is a brunch town. A lot of restaurants have closed, reopened, or reinvented since March 2020. Brunch – especially bottomless – is looking a little different as restaurants decide what the post-pandemic era looks like for the city. But that doesn’t mean they are no deals to be found and value to be appreciated. This isn’t necessarily the cheapest finds in town but I always leave feeling like I’ve received a great experience for the price.
ala
ala in Dupont Circle just received a coveted mention on the Michelin guide and in my opinion, it is very well deserved. I originally discover ala after an invited to their opening week back in 2021 but I have been back countless times since. The menu includes bottomless dips plus one choice from the snacks, eggs, and dessert list. Drinks are also bottomless and include a great variety including a mimosa bar, Bloody Marys, and simple cocktails (liquor + one mixer). If you aren’t drinking, juices and sodas are included.
Reservations are highly encouraged. If you can, choose the colorful outdoor patio. If you are in a rush or work in Dupont, stop in the bakery for a coffee and snacks.
801
801 is a very reliable brunch spot in Shaw with 3 floors of dining including a rooftop and a street patio. Order from a variety of entrees and side plates – don’t miss the lobster mac and cheese balls! My go-to entrees are always the breakfast tacos or the French toast but you can’t go wrong with any of the options. The best part is for $21/person, get endless bottles of champagne plus for fruit juice to mix however you like!
dLeña
dLeña opened in 2021 and celebrates the concept of “leña,” or firewood. Chef Richard Sandoval brings a modern approach to classic Mexican dishes with wood-fired food and smokey mezcal and tequila-centric menus.
This is a true bottomless brunch with pricing for drinks ($55/person) and food only ($35/person). The menu is a little small but you don’t have to worry about ordering. They will bring you a taste of everything and you can order more of your favorites. Drinks include mimosas, Bloody Maria’s, micheladas, and margaritas.
Hanks Oyster Bar
Hank’s Oyster Bar is not bottomless but is one of my favorite places for something on the fancy side. Enjoy seafood brunch plates like the lobster omelet, crab cake benedict, and salmon platter. Or try the po’boy or crab cake sandwich. Large plates like pasta or fish dishes are also available.
Both locations have expansive outdoor seating and are perfect for people watching. Enjoy water front dining and shopping at The Wharf or stop by the Dupont Circle location after a trip to the Dupont Farmer’s Market.
The Coupe
The Coupe offers brunch all day, every day with inexpensive options. It’s a great quick spot on the weekend or for late-night munchies. Enjoy all the best brunch classics like a bagel sandwich, pancakes, chorizo scramble, huevos rancheros, and more. The best part is all coffees come with two animal crackers for an extra bit of fun.
The Coupe is part of Tryst Trading Company which also includes Open City (Woodley Park & The National Cathedral) and The Diner (Adams Morgan).
Brookland’s Finest
Brookland’s Finest has cute outdoor seating and more lunch options on their brunch menu. Enjoy classics like scrambled eggs and breakfast burritos plus a club sandwich and chicken and waffles. My favorite is the huevos rancheros. Plus don’t miss extensive drink options including a variety of cocktails. This can also be a budget brunch if you stick to just an entree and coffee.
Barrel
Barrel is a whiskey bar with a lot of comfort food brunch entrees to ensure that you will not leave hungry. Try brunch biscuit sandwiches, chicken and waffles, french toast, and more. Or if you can’t decide, add on sides like half a waffle or fried chicken. They have an extensive drink menu or you can add bottomless bubbles with multiple juice choices for $26. Entrees are around $20 but the bill can add up depending on how many sides and cocktails you get.
