I’ve never stopped loving the nation’s capital as a great American city to visit… exquisite architecture, an easy train ride out of New York’s Penn Station, and always tons to do or see… do you blame me? I probably can’t count the number of times I have visited the city of power and prestige. DC, unlike New York, is not about money or flashy things – but rather about culture, tradition, education and yes, power. DC is the kind of place where you are frequently asked: who do you know, where did you go to school, and what are your thoughts on Obamacare? Years ago I actually had the chance to live in DC for a few months while working in the Senate as a legal intern. My brother studied at Georgetown University so that was just another excuse to make the occasional weekend trip. With all my travels in and out of the “American Rome”, I have never lost the thrill of making a trip down on the Amtrak… DC is constantly evolving and growing into a cultural hub of the world – finding something new or exciting is typically an easy task.

After my most recent trip to DC, I can’t help but share some exciting news about a fantastic brunch spot for you to consider! We recently traveled down to DC for just a brief weekend to celebrate a friend’s birthday — they rented out the entire top floor of Clyde’s Restaurant with a live band, raw bar, full dinner and loads of fun. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton (downtown DC) and had wonderful service with a prime location. The lobby bar was a bit entertaining with some crazy characters from near and far so there was never a dull moment. If there isn’t anything good on TV and you aren’t a college football fan, grabbing a 10 dollar beer at the Ritz Bar is like purchasing a front row ticket to live entertainment. Great people watching might be worth the cost of an overpriced drink. Here is us leaving the Ritz and a glimpse at the party inside Clyde’s…

Ahhhh the morning after a late night… What is the first word that comes to mind? Brunch. The hotel recommended we try – Central. Although I had already been to Central several times before, the hotel concierge urged me that they just launched a completely new special brunch menu with bottomless cocktails. Wait, did you say bottomless? Yes.

We arrived to Central on the very first day they actually tested out their new “brunch menu” and got the star treatment, as they were trying to gauge whether this new meal option could be a midday hit. I was shocked, especially coming from NYC, with the quality and prices of the restaurant’s new menu — $25 for a three course prix fixe! This includes a delicious and probably sweet starter, a hearty brunch entree and a light dessert. Add on 10 bucks and you can sit there for hours drinking bottomless Mimosas, Bellinis and Bloody Mary’s… Sure, I’ll add on the 10 bucks, #YOLO.

Here are some glimpses of our favorite options on the menu with restaurant details below. Keep your eye out for: pancrepes, fried chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, chicken schnitzel, and coconut sorbet with macarons… Sorry if this post sabotages your paleo diet!

Central is crafted with Chef Michel Richard’s lively, jovial style of delicious food.  After winning international acclaim for his flagship fine dining restaurant Citronelle in Washington, DC’s Georgetown neighborhood, Michel turned his creativity to the “democratization of gastronomy”, creating a restaurant that is welcoming and accessible, “at a price that makes you invite more friends”.

This modern American bistro with a French twist is a recipient of the Nation’s highest culinary awards, including winner of the James Beard Foundation Award for Best New Restaurant in the US.

This is my American bistro, with a french accent….

Central – Michel Richard

1001 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004

(202) 626-0015

Click here to make a reservation! 

Planning a trip to Washington, DC? Can’t go wrong with Central in the mix for your meal plans… Have a fabulous Friday and happy traveling!