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Top Brunch Hotspots for Your Weekend in Arlington, Virginia

It's the weekend, which in Arlington means it's time for brunch. Arlingtonians take brunch seriously with heated debates over who has the best brunch in town. From bottomless brunch tapas to Southern classics, Arlington has a global variety of gourmet brunch options, making deciding where to dine a challenge. But don’t worry, these Arlington restaurants have transitioned to provide socially distancing dining options and curbside pickup. They’ve also gotten creative with outdoor seating, enjoy a leisurely weekend morning dining in the fresh air. Please check individual restaurant websites for the most up-to-date information.

The Pinemoor: Clarendon’s newest restaurant and lounge offer country favorites and craft cocktails in a cozy, fun environment.

“Tried the Pinemoor today for brunch and was so happy to see such a great use of this space in Arlington!! First off, the atmosphere is amazing, felt like I was almost in Nashville with great murals of willie and cash and beautiful flowers everywhere. We were also welcomed so nicely by the host and the manager Kyle! Staff and service was 10/10. Finally the food and drinks! All great, highlight at the table was the jerky Bloody Mary and the truffle Mac and cheese and the chicken and waffles!! Can't wait to come back for happy hour and late night for more ranch water!!” - Caitlin A. (Yelp)

steak, eggs, and fries for brunch at Medium Rare
Medium Rare via @brunchingbabies

Classic American Brunch

Medium Rare: Well-known throughout the D.C. area for their bottomless brunch, this lively restaurant offers steak frites prix fixe in a bistro setting.

“Amazing for brunch! You get unlimited mimosas, with an app and main course! I especially like the mimosa style because they serve bottles per table so you can pour the ratios yourself! The food was also spectacular! I got the steak and eggs and was so happy with my choice. My friend even ordered a second serving!” – Alana G. (Yelp)

Ruthie's All-Day: This classic breakfast all day joint serves brunch on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some of their menu items include a delicious Brisket Bennie, Apple Pie Pancakes, a Fried Chicken Biscuit sandwich and more.

"Here's the deal Jack!  Ruthie's All-Day ROCKS THE BOAT!  This place is seriously good.  I have never been disappointed by anything I have ordered.  The waitstaff is alway helpful. Do yourself a favor and visit this place." - Stringfellow H. (Yelp)

Tupelo Honey Café: This Court House cafe is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. Their menu changes seasonally, but brunch hits include their famous fried chicken, waffles, benedicts and biscuits.

"Enjoyed a nice Sunday brunch! I had the steak and eggs, food was good and a size-able portion! Would definitely return to try more items on the menu! Also enjoyed a blueberry and grapefruit mimosa." -Robin R. (Yelp)

The Liberty Tavern: A local institution, this circa 2007 Clarendon restaurant features fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared by Executive Chef Matt Hill and his team. Their gourmet brunch buffet is a popular option, but the tavern also offers an a la carte menu.

"Best brunch in the area. Totally reasonable price and incredible quality of food. The breakfast pizza, the carving station and their amazing fried chicken are worth it all by themselves. Then add in everything else, including the dessert table with home baked goods and you are stuffed to the brim :)" -Joel B. (Yelp)

breakfast pizza at The Liberty Tavern
The Liberty Tavern via @lunch_at_the_bar

Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant: Northern Virginia's only LGBTQ, straight friendly restaurant and bar, Freddie is a lively gathering spot known for its fabulous, diner-style breakfast buffet.

"I have always loved this place as it is so welcoming to everyone and the service is awesome! The brunch we had today was absolutely amazing ! What a wonderful place. Truly a neighborhood gem. If you haven't been to Freddie's you are certainly missing out!" -J T. (Yelp)

Circa at Clarendon: Clarendon neighborhood bistro serving delicious New American food and drinks.

"One of the best brunch places around DC. Servers are friendly and the food is great. I had the eggs Benedict for brunch and it was pretty good. My friend had the fried chicken sandwich and it turned out great too. Would definitely recommend this place for brunch!" -Sarah S. (Yelp)

Lyon Hall: A lively neighborhood brasserie, Lyon Hall serves a delicious brunch with European influences. Popular items include housemade doughnuts, house-smoked salmon, and brioche french toast.

"Super cute for brunch date or brunch with a group of friends! I've been here a few times and they have both, indoor and outside seating. Their food is delicious & the service is awesome! Everyone is super helpful with the menu and nice!" -Jennifer B.P. (Yelp)

syrup being poured over french toast with mimosas and donuts on the table at Lyon Hall
Lyon Hall Brunch @dc_gourmand/Instagram

Globally Inspired Bottomless Brunch

Ambar: Serving Balkan small plates, Ambar is a local favorite for brunch, especially for Balkan Experience bottomless brunch. Try the salmon Benedict, the spreads, meat and cheese pies and potato hash.

"Best bottomless brunch I've had!! And such a steal for the DC area - for $34, you can get unlimited drinks and plates with no time limit." -Emily D (Yelp)

a variety of breakfast plates cover a table at Ambar in Clarendon for brunch
Brunch at Ambar in Clarendom @ambar_clarendon

Bar Bao: East meets West at Bar Bao in Clarendon serving its take on traditional Asian fare. Their bottomless brunch small plates includes Braised Pork Belly Bao, chicken dumplings, and Shiitake Bacon Gravy Biscuits.

"We came for the bottomless brunch and it was great! The 99 cent mimosas were strong and the food was tasty. Our waitress Sara was attentive and funny and gave great recommendations. We were not rushed at all, either, which is rare for Arlington/DC brunches." -Katherine F. (Yelp)

Palette 22: Located in Shirlington, Palette 22 embraces art and creativity serving up incredible flavors from around the world. Their bottomless brunch include churros, brick-oven pizzas, tacos and Spanish tortillas.

"This is one of my FAVORITES... for brunch! I love their brunch. Amazing bottomless menu. Everything is good.. especially the waffles and tacos! Recommend making a reservation or you may be waiting awhile. I'm still not the biggest fan of their dinner menu, but I do love that they have a "pup menu" for dogs on their patio." -Brie H. (Yelp)

waffles, breakfast tacos, and other plates cover a table for Brunch at Palette 22 in Shirlington
Brunch at Palette 22 in Shirlington

Ser: Though not bottomless, Ser's Spanish brunch is takes you to Spain with traditional tapas, cheeses, charcuterie boards, and fresh seafood.

"I love this place, especially for weekend brunch! Great service, fun cocktails, and the food is authentic and delicious. It's always nice to be able to see (via a large window at Ser) into the kitchen and notice a clean and vibrant environment with everyone working hard." -Marissa B. (Yelp)

Hankering for brunch during the week, too? Check out our round up of everyday breakfast options.


Hero Image Photo Credit: @katiescardiokitchen

Author: Talia Salem