Are you tired of boring brunches with dry playlists? Washington, DC is the capitol of brunch spots, but all are not created equally. If you want great food with an equally amazing DJ, I have the perfect list for you. I’m a Howard Alumni, so you can trust that I know a good thing or two about having a good time in DC. Most of the places on this list play Hip Hop, R&B, AfroBeats, and Dancehall music. Here are the top brunch spots where you can enjoy amazing food, music, and vibes.

1. Barcode : Good Music and Even Better Vibes


A bustling brunch scene that doesn’t hold back on the weekend fun.
Vibe: High-energy with a DJ playing a mix of modern hits and nostalgic throwbacks
Must-Try Item: Steak & Eggs—hearty and cooked to perfection every time.
Highlight: Barcode has mastered the art of brunch with music, bringing together good food and high energy for an unforgettable weekend vibe. It’s a hotspot for DC brunchers who like to keep the party going.

2. Lost Society


Rooftop brunch with an unbeatable view of DC’s 14th Street.
Vibe: Hip and high-energy, featuring live DJ sets that add a party vibe to your meal
Must-Try Item: Chicken & Waffles—a brunch staple taken to the next level here.
Highlight: The rooftop setting gives you prime access to the sun and a view over 14th Street, making it the ultimate weekend escape. Lost Society nails the brunch scene, mixing good eats with a lively crowd and a killer soundtrack.

3. Nellie’s Drag Brunch


Home to some of the best drag performers in the city.
Vibe: Electric and unapologetically fun, with crowd-pumping music that keeps the energy high
Must-Try Item: Bottomless Mimosas paired with any of the breakfast classics.
Highlight: If you’re looking for a performance brunch, Nellie’s should be at the top of your list. The talented drag queens bring all the entertainment and make it a brunch you won’t forget.

4. Focus


The perfect blend of ambiance and healthy brunching options.
Vibe: Chic and modern with a mellow soundtrack to match the sophisticated space
Must-Try Item: Acai Bowl loaded with berries, granola, and honey—deliciously energizing.
Highlight: Focus’s minimalistic design and calm ambiance make it a refreshing spot for a low-key brunch. The music leans toward softer tunes, making it a great place to unwind.

5. Citizens & Culture – Silver Spring

Silver Spring’s go-to brunch spot for a cool, cultural vibe.
Vibe: Stylish and sleek with a mix of R&B, Afrobeat, and house music
Must-Try Item: Sweet Potato Pancakes with caramelized pecans and maple syrup—comfort food with a twist.
Highlight: Located in the artsy area of Silver Spring, Citizens & Culture’s brunches are not just about the food; they’re also about the experience. Expect a DJ spinning throughout the weekend.

6. Perry’s Drag Brunch


A must-visit for vibrant entertainment and brunching flair.
Vibe: Colorful and lively, featuring top-tier drag performances and a spirited playlist
Must-Try Item: Sushi Brunch Buffet—a unique twist with endless sushi and other brunch favorites.
Highlight: Perry’s is a local legend for its fabulous drag brunches, offering performances that draw in locals and tourists alike. With an unbeatable lineup of drag performers, Perry’s creates a brunch experience that’s hard to beat.

7. Lyle Brunch


Where elegance meets relaxation for a laid-back brunch.
Vibe: Elegant and relaxed, with music that brings a touch of jazz and soul
Must-Try Item: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes—a beautifully light and zesty treat.
Highlight: At Lyle, brunch is all about the experience. The space is chic yet comfortable, and the music is curated to match the calm, inviting setting. Perfect for a quieter brunch with friends or a relaxing solo treat.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant brunch with drag performances or a laid-back setting with smooth jazz, DC’s brunch scene has something for everyone. Each of these spots offers not only amazing food but also an ambiance set by music, creating the ideal brunch vibe. So grab your friends, make a reservation, and let these brunch spots take care of the rest. Have you visited any of these? What was your experience? If you have any other recommendations please a comment below.

read more
Did you find this post helpful? Please consider pinning it on Pinterest with the images below or following me on Instagram xoxo!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *