Breakfast in Washington DC has become an art form, with chefs across the city transforming morning meals into unforgettable experiences. From fluffy pancakes drizzled with local maple syrup to savory egg dishes with international flair, the capital’s breakfast scene offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend tradition or a visitor wanting to start your day of sightseeing right, these ten breakfast spots have earned their reputation as the best morning meal destinations in DC.
1. Ted’s Bulletin
Morning nostalgia meets modern comfort at this beloved 14th Street institution. The restaurant’s Art Deco interior immediately transports you to a simpler time, while the scent of freshly baked pastries welcomes you like an old friend.
Locals swear by the homemade pop-tarts, which come in rotating seasonal flavors that put the store-bought version to shame. The menu features hearty classics like the Big Mark Breakfast with eggs, bacon, hash browns, and toast that could fuel an entire day of museum-hopping.
What truly sets Ted’s apart is their boozy milkshakes – yes, even at breakfast. Try the Walk of Shame breakfast burrito if you’re nursing last night’s adventures.
2. Founding Farmers
Farm-fresh ingredients steal the show at this farmer-owned collective that’s redefining the farm-to-table concept in DC. Every morning, hungry patrons line up for a taste of their legendary weekend brunch buffet – a testament to its well-earned reputation.
Scratch-made everything is the philosophy here, from the honey-pot fried chicken to the impossibly fluffy pancakes. Vegetarians rejoice over thoughtful options like the gardener’s scramble, packed with seasonal vegetables and herbs straight from partner farms.
Beyond the food, Founding Farmers commits to environmental sustainability through composting, recycling, and energy conservation. The restaurant’s rustic-chic ambiance features reclaimed wood and earthy tones that complement its farm-forward ethos.
3. Unconventional Diner
Chef David Deshaies breaks all the breakfast rules at this Shaw neighborhood gem where comfort food gets a sophisticated makeover. French training meets American diner classics in dishes that are both familiar and surprising.
The blueberry pancakes arrive topped with lemon curd and white chocolate – an unexpected combination that somehow works perfectly. Savory fans rave about the meatloaf and eggs, served with a mushroom gravy that would make any grandmother jealous.
Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the modern space with natural light, making it an Instagram favorite. Don’t skip the coffee program featuring beans from local roasters and specialty drinks that rival dedicated coffee shops. Even the humble breakfast potatoes get special treatment, tossed with herbs and caramelized to perfection.
4. The Pembroke
Elegance meets accessibility at The Pembroke, where breakfast feels like a special occasion without the stuffiness. Housed in The Dupont Circle Hotel, this gorgeous restaurant features curved banquettes, brass accents, and a wall of windows overlooking the neighborhood.
European influences shine through in dishes like shakshuka with spiced tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs. The avocado toast elevates the millennial favorite with watermelon radish, pickled onions, and a sprinkle of za’atar that makes it truly memorable.
Service here strikes the perfect balance between attentive and relaxed. Even their freshly squeezed juices get special treatment, with combinations like carrot-ginger-turmeric that wake up your taste buds. Morning meetings feel more productive when conducted over The Pembroke’s exceptional coffee service.
5. Busboys and Poets
Social consciousness meets culinary creativity at this iconic DC institution that’s equal parts bookstore, restaurant, and community gathering space. Named for Langston Hughes, who worked as a busboy before becoming a renowned poet, the space honors its literary roots with book-lined walls and regular readings.
Morning favorites include the vegan breakfast burrito that could convert even dedicated carnivores. Their fair-trade coffee supports small-scale farmers worldwide, perfectly complementing dishes like the MLK Jr. breakfast plate with scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, and rosemary potatoes.
The diverse clientele reflects DC’s multicultural makeup, creating a vibrant morning energy unlike anywhere else in the city. Weekend brunches often feature live music or spoken word performances, feeding both body and soul. Don’t miss their famous sweet potato pancakes topped with apple-cinnamon butter.
6. I Egg You
Quirky name, serious egg mastery. This Korean-inspired breakfast spot in Adams Morgan has developed a cult following for its creative takes on the humble egg sandwich. The tiny space with minimalist decor keeps the focus where it belongs – on the food.
Their signature sandwich features a perfectly cooked egg soufflé tucked into thick-cut brioche with unexpected toppings like kimchi aioli or bulgogi beef. Vegetarians flock to the mushroom variation, with umami-rich shiitakes and truffle oil that make meat an afterthought.
Lines form early on weekends, but the efficient kitchen keeps things moving. The coffee program features beans from small Korean roasters, offering flavor profiles rarely found elsewhere in DC. Pro tip: order online for pickup if you’re in a rush – these egg creations travel surprisingly well.
7. Maman
French countryside charm has found its DC home at this Georgetown outpost of the beloved New York bakery. The space feels like stepping into a Provençal farmhouse, with whitewashed brick, dried flowers hanging from wooden beams, and mismatched vintage china.
Their famous nutty chocolate chip cookies have a breakfast-appropriate cousin in the morning pastry selection. Flaky croissants with unexpected fillings like pistachio rose or lavender honey reflect the bakery’s knack for elevating classics with subtle twists.
Morning meetings become infinitely more pleasant over their signature lavender hot chocolate. Family recipes inspire much of the menu, giving authentic French flavor without pretension. The quiche changes daily based on seasonal ingredients, but always features a buttery crust that shatters perfectly with each bite.
8. Café con Bagel
Cultural fusion creates breakfast magic at this Latin-Jewish mashup that’s breathing new life into the DC bagel scene. Located in a sunny corner space in Columbia Heights, the cafe combines family traditions from the owners’ Mexican and Jewish heritage.
Hand-rolled bagels come in unexpected flavors like jalapeño-cheddar or cinnamon-piloncillo, boiled and baked fresh daily. The signature breakfast sandwich layers scrambled eggs with chorizo and chimichurri on your choice of bagel – a cross-cultural revelation that regulars can’t stop talking about.
Coffee drinks feature beans from Latin American cooperatives, prepared with techniques from both Mexican cafe de olla and third-wave brewing methods. Weekend specials might include challah French toast topped with cajeta (goat’s milk caramel) or matzo brei with salsa macha. The welcoming staff remembers regulars’ orders and makes newcomers feel instantly at home.
9. Call Your Mother Deli
“Jew-ish” deli meets skater culture at this pink-hued Georgetown hotspot where the line often stretches down the block. The converted townhouse announces itself with a playful mural and retro vibes that set the tone for a breakfast experience unlike any other in DC.
Wood-fired bagels come in classic and creative flavors, but it’s the sandwiches that have earned cult status. The “Shyne” combines pastrami-spiced salmon with crispy potato chips and jalapeño cream cheese – a texture and flavor explosion that justifies the wait.
Don’t sleep on their breakfast burritos, which wrap potato latkes, eggs, and cheese in a flour tortilla for handheld perfection. Coffee comes from Lost Sock Roasters, another local favorite. The staff’s genuine enthusiasm for their products is contagious, making even first-time visitors feel like part of the family.
10. The Smith
New York transplant The Smith has become a power breakfast destination in Penn Quarter, where politicians and professionals gather in the soaring, tile-lined space. Floor-to-ceiling windows and white subway tile create a bright, energetic atmosphere perfect for morning meetings or weekend gatherings.
The breakfast menu balances indulgence and virtue with equal attention to detail. Their egg white omelette with spinach and goat cheese satisfies health-conscious diners, while the vanilla bean French toast with caramelized bananas tempts everyone to splurge.
Service runs with impressive efficiency even during the morning rush. The bloody mary cart lets you customize your morning cocktail with an array of hot sauces, pickles, and garnishes. Portions are generous without being overwhelming, and quality ingredients shine in even the simplest dishes like perfectly crispy breakfast potatoes.
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