D.C. runs on brunch- well, that and unpaid interns. Washingtonians work hard and play hard all week long, so it's no surprise that they need a proper brunch to relax and refuel on the weekend. The city's restaurants sense the demand and certainly don't disappoint, pulling out all the stops with bottomless mimosas and overflowing pastry baskets. There are great brunch places all over the district, but here are the eleven spots that you absolutely must try.
1. Le Diplomate
For Paris in D.C., look no further than Le Diplomate. This brasserie serves up authentic French fare in Logan Circle, the district's millennial hotspot. Make sure you don't miss their french toast with fresh fruit and Chantilly cream. Tables fill up quick, so arrive early or make a reservation several days in advance.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 9:30am-3pm
2. Shaw's Tavern
Shaw's Tavern has quickly made a name for itself in this up and coming DC neighborhood. The tavern offers a wide variety of options, from kale salad (pictured above) to classic brunch options like omelets and pancakes. Try their bottomless mimosas: at just $14 for unlimited drinks, it's a steal.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays,10am-3pm
3. District Commons
District Commons is just steps away from the Foggy Bottom Metro, making it a great brunch option when you're on your way to Georgetown for the day. Snag a table on their outside patio for some prime people watching while you enjoy a cinnamon pretzel baguette with whipped blackberry butter (pictured above).
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays,11am-2:30pm
4. Southern Hospitality
When Kennedy said D.C. didn't have southern charm, he clearly hadn't paid a visit to SoHo. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere will have you forgetting that you're in one of the nation's busiest cities. For authentic southern fare, order their shrimp and grits and fried chicken benedict.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-3pm
5. Scarlet Oak
Situated near the Navy Yard, Scarlet Oak offers traditional American fair with a bit of southern flare. The atmosphere is laid back and unpretentious, making it a great place to relax with your friends on the weekend. Their Bellinis and crepes are the stars of the menu, but the generous portions and reliable cooking make any item on the menu a good option.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays 10am-3pm
6. Tonic
Go to Tonic on a weekend and you'll spot hoards of millennials in sunglasses trying to recover from the night before. Their logic is solid: nothing cures a hangover like Tonic's famous tots. Alongside a generous portion of tater tots, try their cinnamon french toast or breakfast burrito for a hearty meal that will alleviate any ailment.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays 10am-2pm
7. The Coupe
Step into The Coupe and you'll immediately understand why Obama has frequented this restaurant (more on that here). The hip music and local artwork in this Colombia Heights diner give it a fun vibe that makes you want to stay all afternoon. With freshed baked goods and seasonal fruits and veggies, it doesn't get much better than this.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays 7am-5pm
8. Blue Duck Tavern
Broke college kids beware: brunch at Blue Duck Tavern is not cheap. As in, it probably costs as much as your monthly rent. However, the price isn't for nothing: the service is impeccable and their brunch is one of the best in the district. If you're lucky enough to afford a meal here, try their decadent blueberry pancakes and pecan sticky buns.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays 11:15-2:30pm
9. Birch and Barley
Birch and Barley is a DC staple, and for good reason: anything you order will be delicious. Their brunch menu is short and sweet, making the ordering process a cinch. Go for the freshly fried doughnuts: trust me, it's worth the splurge.
Brunch hours: Sundays 11am-3pm
10. Boqueria
Boqueria is a great brunch place if you're getting a little bored with the usual french toast or eggs benny. Order a few of their small family-style dishes to share with your friends and enjoy. The best way to brunch at Boqueria is bottomless: $40 will get you 2.5 hours of unlimited drinks and tapas.
Brunch hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 10:30am-2pm
11. Open City
Open City is the brunch place to end all brunch places. First of all, they serve brunch literally the entire time they're open. Second, they're located right next to the Woodley Park metro station so they're super accessible. Don't miss their lox bagel plate (made with local Bullfrog bagels!) and their brioche french toast.
Brunch hours: All day, every day