D.C. is a city that loves to brunch and we’re spoiled to have so many options with hip decor, mimosas on tap, and bourbon infused-waffles (yum!). But if you have kids you may be looking for something a little more homey. Look no further! We’ve rounded up our favorite family-owned and operated brunch spots that, while still trendy, totally understand if you’re dining with a kid that just wants to twirl under the table and scream “Bacon!!!” at the top of their lungs.
Photo: Olivia’s Diner
Olivia’s Diner
The idea for Olivia’s Diner was born on a beach two decades ago as a couple of BFF’s were daydreaming. The dream finally became reality when Olivia’s Diner opened this past July. The Diner is named after the daughter and god-daughter of these best friends. Olivia’s features a bottomless brunch with pancakes, mimosas and bloody Mary’s. Breakfast is served all day, in addition to a full menu with lunch and dinner options and a full bar. From cinnamon bun pancakes (which are AMAZING!) to cobb salad to nutella-banana milkshakes, there is something on the menu for everyone.
1120 19th St., NW (Downtown)
202-775-3777
Online: oliviasdiner.com
Photo: Sally’s Middle Name
Sally’s Middle Name
Sally’s Middle Name is owned by husband, Sam (the chef), and wife Aphra, who also operates a lifestyle boutique on the first level. It really is all in the family with this place and the restaurant got its name from an inside joke between Sam and his sister, Sally. The menu changes daily and the day’s dishes are written in marker on the wall. Bring the whole family to sample the farm-to-table brunch (Sat. and Sun., 10:30 am-3 pm) served on small plates. Features have included fried chicken and a biscuit, gazpacho, and perfectly prepared eggs and doughnuts. Good to know: Another thing to love about the restaurant is its effort to provide its employees with a livable wage, including the 18 percent fee included in every check that is shared equally between all employees working any given shift.
1320 H St., NE (H Street)
Phone: 202-750-6529
Online: sallysmiddlename.com
Photo: Mark’s Kitchen
Mark’s Kitchen
This Takoma Park institution serves a mix of Korean and American dishes, with lots of vegetarian and vegan options, too. Mark’s is turning twenty-five this year and some of its regulars are kids that grew up going to the kitchen. The small (and always bustling) neighborhood restaurant has an extensive menu that features brunch options ranging from a Korean steak and kimchi omelet, green tea pancakes as well as your standby eggs, bacon and French toast. Share an eclectic array of plates with your kids and say hi to owner and namesake Mark Choe who is often hanging around.
7006 Carroll Ave. (Takoma Park, Md)
Online: markskitchen.com
Photo: Jennifer R. via Yelp
Mike’s Deli at Lazy Sundae
First came the ice cream shop in 1996. Then it grew to include a short order grill and sandwich shop that also serves breakfast all day. If you’re a family who loves to bike together, the restaurant is conveniently located next door to the W&OD Trail. Bring your kids to this local joint and they will be sure to love something on the menu (think: homemade corned beef, soups made from scratch, veggie burgers, homemade English muffins and crazy-good sundaes).
112 N. West St. (Falls Church, Va)
Online: mikesdeliatlazysundae.com
Do you have a favorite family-friendly brunch spot? Tell us about it in the comments section.
—Monica Nelson
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