The Vibe

The Pembroke oozes old world charm, with gorgeous, ornate chandeliers, stunning floor to ceiling windows, and marble tables. Service is impeccable, with servers catering to your every need. Take a seat on the patio or at one of the tables lined up along the floor to ceiling windows so you can people watch. Cozy booths are also available for larger parties.

The Food

From classic brunch fare like eggs benedict and berry pancakes to the more hipster options of avocado toast and a superfood salad, everyone will be satisfied at The Pembroke. I opted for the avocado toast which featured grilled country bread crowned with layers of sliced avocado and adorned with crunchy radishes and sweet roasted tomatoes. My husband sampled the falafel, which came stuffed in a za’atar doused pita with a savory pea hummus, pickled onions, and garlicky tzatziki sauce. On the side, the rosti, featuring discs of savory mashed potatoes and herb dusted fries, are perfect. For something on the sweeter side, I highly recommend pancakes or baked French toast. Brunch cocktails are in abundance at The Pembroke; I went with a classic mimosa because it had been so long since I drank one!

The Verdict

The Pembroke is the spot for a leisurely, elegant brunch in DC. While away the afternoon over mimosas and then freshly brewed cappuccinos while you gaze at the happenings of Dupont Circle through the window. Brunching and people-watching are a sport in DC, and The Pembroke is a great place for it!

The post An Elegant Brunch in DC: The Pembroke appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

When You Want to Impress

Alhambra at St. Regis Washington, DC. Let’s begin with the décor… Alhambra is one of the most beautiful dining rooms in Washington, DC with its deep red plush chairs, shimmering chandeliers, and a gorgeous dessert display. The luxurious menu pairs perfectly with the décor. Indulge in the lobster eggs benedict or the juicy cut of filet mignon topped with foie gras. The service matches the high price tag with attentive waitstaff who know their menu and wines. This is the perfect place to have brunch in Washington, DC if you want to celebrate a special occasion or impress a client.

Alhambra at St. Regis, 923 16th and, K St NW, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Go to Keep Everyone Happy

Update (07/06/2020): High Street Café is closed.

High Street Café. This new brasserie in Georgetown offers a little bit of everything on their brunch menu. Owner Manuel Iguina draws from the diversity of his staff, family, and the city to create his menu. There’s a wood stone oven that makes handmade breakfast pizzas with chorizo and egg to the simple yet delicious Margherita. High Street Cafe also offers Mexican inspired dishes such as huevos divorciados. Manuel is originally from Puerto Rico, adding a little “sazon” to the menu with roasted pork sandwiches and the very popular seafood asopao, a savory, hearty stew.

High Street Café, 1303 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC, Website

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PSA: if in Washington, DC, stop what you’re doing and reserve a table at @napolipastabar for brunch this weekend. This neighborhood Italian restaurant has become one of my favorites in the city. With its unique decor (they gave a Vespa as a table stand), delicious homemade pasta and pastries, and legit Italian wine list, it’s becoming a local favorite. Speaking of Italia… Headed to Milano and Treviso early October. Any recommendations? #diningtraveler #cucinaitaliana #mydccool

A post shared by Jessica van Dop DeJesus (@diningtraveler) on Aug 23, 2018 at 7:01pm PDT

Where to Have Pasta For brunch

Napoli Pasta Bar. Disclaimer: This is one of my favorite restaurants in DC, full stop. This cozy restaurant near Columbia Heights transports me back to Italy. The owner and chef, Antonio Cano makes all of his pasta in-house. When you take a bite of the al-dente rigatoni with ragu is amore! The dining room is small but big on details. Dishes are served in colorful hand-painted plates from Italy. If you have a large group ask to be seated at the very instagrammable Vespa table. This picturesque class table uses a Vespa as a base.

Napoli Pasta Bar, 2737 Sherman Ave, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Have a Girl’s Brunch

The Alex Speakeasy at The Graham Hotel Are you looking to gather all your girls and have a fun brunch in Washington, DC? Let’s start with the mimosas. Like my friend Carlis from Spicy Candy DC says, “brunch without mimosas is just breakfast.” Your first mimosa is $9, and each extra one is $1. Pair these mimosas with their yummy short rib hash. The restaurant is small, so it gives an intimate feel which is perfect for catching up with friends.

The Alex Speakeasy at The Graham Hotel,  1075 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Go for a Michelin Starred Brunch

Blue Duck Tavern. This Michelin-starred restaurant at the Park Hyatt DC is one of my favorite places for brunch in Washington, DC. The quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the inventive cocktails are flawless. A must-order is their decadently sweet sticky buns for the table. Also, talk to someone at your table (maybe yourself) into ordering the pancakes. They are one of my favorite dishes in DC, I literally craved them when I was pregnant! Blue Duck Tavern changes their pancake offerings seasonally. Whether it is lemon blueberry pancakes or sweet potato, the flavors are always on point.

Blue Duck Tavern, 1201 24th St NW, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Go for an Indian Brunch

Pappe. Disclaimer: I love Indian food, and Pappe does it oh-so-well. When I heard they were doing a brunch menu, I was intrigued. Their brunch thali (a sampler of Indian dishes) is not only delicious but also a great introduction to anyone that is new to Indian food. Pappe is also an excellent pick for those who are looking for vegetarian options as their menu has a wide variety of veggie choices.

Pappe, 1317 14th St NW, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Go for a Neighborhood Feel

Brookland’s Finest. This restaurant is a favorite in Brookland, a mostly-residential neighborhood located in Northeast Washington, DC. A neighborhood restaurant, you’ll see the diversity of the neighborhood: lots of babies, students, multi-generational families who have lived in the area for decades, and maybe a member of the clergy. What makes this restaurant so special is their inclusive vibe. A must order (especially if you’re nursing a hangover) the burger. This juicy burger with gigantic onion rings has been a favorite in our family for years.

Brookland’s Finest, 3126 12th St NE, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Host a Casual Brunch for a Large Party

City Tap House, Penn Quarter. Here are some things I take into consideration when I am looking for brunch in Washington, DC for a big group: diverse menu, easy access, and an option for a private dining room. City Tap House at Penn Quarter checks all of the boxes. Start your brunch with their zesty nachos and more to more decadent choices such as the biscuit gravy chicken sandwich. If you’re feeling more sensible, the brunch menu also offers several salads and roasted veggies. Check out their extensive selection of beers on tap or if you’re feeling adventurous, a beer mimosa! You only need one of those to loosen up.

City Tap House-Penn Quarter, 901 9th St NW, Washington, DC, Website

Where to Have a Family Friendly Brunch

Hen Quarter. I know that the blog title is “Brunch in Washington, DC” but sometimes you just have to cross the Potomac for a change of scene. Hen Quarter is located in charming Old Town Alexandria. As the name implies, the specialty is chicken, but there is so much more. Guests indulge in a buffet ($30.50 per adult) and there are extra a la carte options to choose from. I am wary of buffets but the brunch buffet at Hen Quarter proved me wrong: crispy fried chicken, omelets cooked to order, great selection of fruit, old bay steamed shrimp, and much more. Make sure to save room for their beautifully delicious Bloody Marys. With its food variety, friendly staff, and ample seating, it’s a great brunch pick for families.

Hen Quarter, 801 King St, Alexandria, VA, Website

Where to Have a Fun Brunch

Punch Bowl Social. Ok… one more Virginia spot! Boozy shakes and mini-bowling? Sign us up! Punch Bowl social is a three-story maze of fun. I have to admit that I had always found these food and games places quite cheesy so when I visited Punch Bowl Social in Arlington, I was pleasantly surprised. The games have a sleek design, space is creatively decorated throughout, and the food is excellent. From charcuterie and cheese boards to a loaded bowl of poutine, there are plenty of options. Perfect for a big group. Speaking of big groups, don’t forget to order their famous “punch bowls.”

Punch Bowl Social, 4238 Wilson Blvd Ste. 1180, Arlington, VA, Website

Where to Have Dim Sum for Brunch

Q by Peter Chang. When thinking of Asian food for brunch, dim sum is the number one way to go! The perfect meal for sharing mini steamed baskets and small plates is taken to the next level at Q by Peter Chang. Start your brunch off strong with their signature “The – Q” cocktail, which blends patrón, Cointreau, and some Szechuan peppercorn spice. Follow with steaming baskets of shrimp dumplings, pork shumai, and don’t forget a platter of Peking duck! For me, what sets Q apart from many other dim sum places in the area is the fresh quality of their food. All of their dishes successfully avoid being greasy without sacrificing any of the flavors!

Q by Peter Chang. 4500 East-West Hwy Ste 100, Bethesda, MD, Website 

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The Scene

As you arrive at The Hay-Adams brunch, the white tablecloths, pristine dining room, and enchanting live piano music set the stage for a spectacular afternoon. In the center of the room are two tables, one laden with savory appetizers and the other brimming with sweet treats. As you are seated, you will be offered a glass of champagne from you warm and friendly server, which of course you should accept! From there, the culinary ride begins.

The Food and Drinks

While you sip your glass of champagne you will have time to peruse The Hay-Adams brunch menu, which features items like eggs benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, oatmeal soufflé and pappardelle with mushrooms and truffles. Once you place your order, it’s time to hit the appetizer buffet! My husband and I went to town. Oysters, asparagus salad with perfectly cooked egg yolks, crostini with avocado mousse and Romanesco, glistening tomato and mozzarella salad, greens with housemade dressing, half a dozen cheeses, croissants, apple turnovers, baguettes, muffins, and cinnamon rolls, and more.

More Food…

After you stuff yourself silly, your main courses will arrive! My husband treated himself to perfectly cooked eggs and potatoes, while I enjoyed light, fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, dusted with powdered sugar and served with a mini bottle of maple syrup. As your champagne glass is refilled once more you will find yourself slowly entering into a blissful food coma, but alas you cannot miss the chance to indulge in the dessert buffet.
My husband made a plate of macaroons, but I went all out. Mini key lime pies, teacups of crème brulee, and shot glasses of chocolate mousse. The lemon meringue was divine, and the chocolate cake was even better. There is no shortage of decadent sweets at The Hay-Adams brunch.

The Hay-Adams Brunch: The Verdict

The only problem with The Hay-Adams brunch? You won’t ever want to brunch anywhere else! At $90 it is a hefty price tag for brunch, but for a romantic escape or a treat for a special occasion, this is the spot for you.

The post Luxury Eats: The Hay-Adams Brunch appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

If you are looking for a luxurious Sunday brunch dining experience in DC, look no further I have found an epic one for you. Proof DC, one of the city’s most popular wine bar, recently launched Sunday brunch, and it is the Sunday brunch of your dreams. All about our experience:

The Drinks

Normally, I like to start by talking about the food, but the cocktails make the brunch. Proof DC has a great beverage program so it makes sense to begin my review with a recommendation as to which boozy brunch beverages you should order.

My favorite beverage from the Proof DC brunch menu was the Lovers Left Alive, a sparkling wine cocktail that is a quintessential brunch beverage. Made with rose vermouth, bruto Americano which is an aperol type liquor, OJ, rosemary, and of course sparkling wine, it is bright, cheerful and fragrant. I also loved the Bloody Mary, which features house made Bloody mix. It is spicy, so if you need to wake up, this drink is for you! The Pimm’s Cup is great too; but be forewarned that has a strong ginger flavor.

The Food

Every good brunch opens with pastries, and at Proof that means fresh, right-out-of-the-oven cinnamon rolls drizzled with a finger-licking-good sugar glaze. The cinnamon buns are pretty big, so make sure you come hungry because there is a lot more you are going to want to sample!

The best advice I can offer is to get a bunch of dishes and share, because you won’t want to limit yourself to just one dish. There are too many good choices to pass up. Toast smothered in stracciatella cheese and then adorned with fried artichokes, a sprinkling of raisins and pine nuts is a whirlwind of texture and flavor. Beet pickled eggs are as tasty as they are visually pleasing, with a bright pink color, a sinfully creamy yolk, and golden mustard seeds.

The pierogies, with a luscious goose egg yolk that serves as a sauce, is another must-try. Heaps of bright green leeks and radishes add crunch and flavor. The gnocchi is just as good; the dish changes with the season but currently the fluffy potato pillows are tossed with mushrooms and cheese. The omelet is light and puffy, stuffed with melted cheese and served with crispy breakfast potatoes. For dessert: donuts, served with a coffee-infused chocolate sauce. I told you this brunch is the ultimate in brunch decadence!

Proof DC: The Verdict

Brunch at Proof DC is great for a Sunday afternoon where you and your significant other, or you and your friends or family want to treat yourself. Sit back, relax, and stuff your face!

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Focaccia at Lupo Verde DC

For those who have spent time in Italy, you know that pancake and bacon is not their idea of breakfast. I felt the restaurant does a great job of translating classic Italian dishes into a solid brunch menu. We started our brunch with a delicious focaccia (so good I asked for more to take home) and blood orange bellinis. I went with the intent to try more cocktails to write about, but this cocktail was too good to change. We started our brunch with a delicious fruit plate and charcuterie and cheese platter. The charcuterie and cheese are cut in house and are available for purchase to take home. 

Uova in camicia

From there, we moved on the the main course. The Dutchman choose an egg dish, Uove in Camicia (Eggs in a Shirt).  The recipe is quite simple: poached eggs in a tomato sauce with olive oil. The dish is quite simple but delicious. You definitely want to dip the focaccia in the tomato sauce. The Dutchman found it good but without the bread it was not filling enough (then again he’s 6’9″, man can eat!).

Parppadelle with Mushrooms

Pasta for brunch? Why not? I loved my freshly made parpardelle pasta with mushroom and topped with a delicious burrata. One of the things I like about Lupo Verde is that they stick to genuine Italian portion sizes. In Italy, pasta is usually a starter, hence primo piatto.The portion size is big enough to fill you up but it’s not one of those massive pasta dishes. The veggies taste fresh and you can tell the pasta is handmade.

Bar at Lupo Verde DC

Verdict: We enjoyed both dinner and brunch, the cozy atmosphere, and good service. Looking forward to returning again. Tip: to work off the calories, go for a walk down T or S Street (Eastbound) for beautiful architecture. 

Charcuterie Plate at Lupo Verde DC

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