Must-try brunch spots in Washington, DC’s Navy Yard

The nation's capital is one of the best places to be if you're a food enthusiast. There's no shortage of delicious cuisines to sample, brunch included. If you find yourself in the Navy Yard neighborhood, you're in for a real treat. The area, which is popular for its historical landmarks and growing entertainment scene, also boasts some of the best brunch spots in DC. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite or a fancy restaurant for the ultimate brunch experience, here are some of the top spots you should check out during your next visit. 

1. Circa at Navy Yard 

Located on the waterfront, Circa at Navy Yard serves up classic American cuisine with a contemporary twist. Available Saturday to Sunday from 11 am-3 pm, their brunch menu includes everything from eggs benedict to avocado toast to sandwiches and flatbreads, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can also enjoy a brunch cocktail while you dine with options like Bellinis (peach or blood orange), a classic Bloody Mary, or other craft cocktails.      

2. The Salt Line

If you’re a seafood lover, The Salt Line is a must-try brunch spot. Known for its seafood dishes and extensive raw bar, The Salt Line is a trendy spot recognized for their unique twists on classic brunch options and their scenic views of the Anacostia River on their outdoor patio. Their brunch menu, live from 11 am-3 pm on Saturday and Sunday, offers creative seafood bites ranging from Eggs Benedict with king crab to lobster rolls to shrimp and grits. Oysters and other shellfish delicacies from the Chesapeake and New England regions are also up for grabs at their raw bar.  

To wash it all down, they offer a variety of craft cocktails, wine, and beer from local breweries. For brunch, we recommend trying their ultimate brunch cocktail, “The Perfect Storm” – a double Bloody Mary served with a lobster claw, cocktail shrimp, dressed oyster, fried coddie, and accoutrements. 

3. Osteria Morini 

If you're looking for an upscale Italian dining experience, look no further than Osteria Morini. This restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and dishes inspired by the Emilia Romagna region of northern Italy.  

Their brunch menu features unique Italian-inspired dishes like Ricotta Pancakes, a breakfast panini with sweet Italian sausage and scallion aioli, and baked eggs in a rich tomato sauce. Don't forget to pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails or a refreshing Bellini. With its rustic-chic decor and cozy ambiance, this establishment creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a one-of-a-kind brunch experience. Moreover, their open kitchen allows guests to witness the culinary artistry unfold before their very eyes. 

Osteria Morini has received a number of accolades including two and a half stars from The Washington Post and two and a half stars from Washingtonian Magazine. Zagat and Thrillist also consistently rank it among best Italian in DC. 

4. Due South 

Southern comfort food is the name of the game at Due South. A Southern staple since 2015, Due South offers brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am-3 pm and brings the spice, the sips, the sweets, and the savor of the South to the Southeast waterfront in DC. 

Their brunch menu includes classic Southern dishes like Shrimp and Grits, Chicken and Waffles, and Hot Fried Chicken and Biscuit. Speaking of biscuits, Due South also offers ‘Biscuit Snacks,’ which can be paired with go-to's like butter and jam and sausage gravy. They also offer brunch-centric drinks like bottomless mimosas.  

The atmosphere exudes a warm and inviting ambiance, featuring an outdoor patio adorned with whimsical string lights. In essence, Due South's relaxed and casual vibe sets the perfect stage for a leisurely weekend brunch. 

5. Mission Navy Yard 

For a Mexican-inspired brunch experience, look no further than Mission Navy Yard. This hot spot declares itself to be “Navy Yard’s Most Fun Bottomless Brunch” with its bottomless brunch special which includes ninety minutes of margaritas, mimosas, Bud Lights, and Bloody Marys.     

Foodwise, their brunch menu (11 am-4 pm, Saturday and Sunday) offers popular dishes like the Breakfast Burrito, Breakfast Quesadilla, and Tinga Brunch Bowl with Mexican rice and scrambled eggs. 

With its colorful and lively atmosphere, complete with a vibrant bar and outdoor seating, you'll feel like you're on vacation (with all the margaritas – we recommend the Blueberry or Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita) when you grab brunch at Mission Navy Yard.  

Experience Brunch Bliss in Washington, DC

Whether you're a brunch aficionado or just looking for a great meal to kick off your day, the Navy Yard neighborhood in Washington, DC has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're in the mood for Eggs Benedict or a specialty drink, the restaurants here have it all. From cozy cafes to fancy bistros, you'll find a brunch spot that suits your taste buds and ambiance preferences. To discover another destination we consider pure bliss, check out Coda on Half, a Placemakr Experience.  

Discover Coda on Half, a Placemakr Experience