Ann Limpert

2 weeks ago | washingtonian.com | Ann Limpert

A&JOur favorite dim sum houses serve up thousand-layer pancakes, crispy potstickers, spicy noodle dishes, vibrant salads, and more starting at 11:30 every day. A feast here is one of the area’s best values. BalosThis vibey Greek restaurant in Dupont is serving its three-course prix fixe brunch ($45 per person) with optional bottomless espresso martinis mixed tableside (also $45).

4 weeks ago | washingtonian.com | Ann Limpert

Start the day with kouign-amann, a labne-filled croissant, or freshly dipped doughnuts. Boulangerie ChristopheThe morning pastries here are lovely—apricot-topped croissants, turnovers with chocolate and pastry cream—and so are the filament-thin crepes, which come with sugar and berries, Nutella, or savory fillings. Bread FurstMark Furstenburg’s Van Ness bakery quietly serves some of the city’s best bagels (the smaller, skinnier Montreal style) and doughnuts (we’re fans of the passionfruit).

4 weeks ago | washingtonian.com | Ann Limpert

Mikey & Mel’sThe ClevelanderWashington’s appetite for Jewish-deli fare is ravenous—just look at the crowds at this six-month-old lunch destination in downtown DC. While the menu is stacked with various iterations of corned-beef and pastrami sandwiches, our favorite overstuffed creation is more inspired by the Midwest. Brother owners Aaron and Harley Magden are from Ohio, and their hefty offering tastes like a Thanksgiving sandwich crossed with a club.

1 month ago | washingtonian.com | Ann Limpert

On Mother’s Day, I’m looking to brunch somewhere that’s relaxed but that still feels a little special (no crazy-expensive set menus, no hokey themes).

1 month ago | washingtonian.com | Ann Limpert |Anna Spiegel

Our Washingtonian Recommends lists bring you the best places to eat, drink, and be entertained—all selected by Washingtonian editors. This post was updated in April 2025. Capital One Arena is in the Chinatown/Penn Quarter neighborhood, home to many good restaurants. But not all are suited for the lively Wizards, Caps, and concert crowds. These are a few of our favorite pre- and post-game options both in and around the venue. Interested in eating inside the arena?