"Some DC traditions never get old: cherry blossoms, brunch debates, and The Market Lunch at Eastern Market. This breakfast counter has been slinging their legendary blueberry buckwheat pancakes since 1978, and we hope it outlives us all. The menu is stacked with old-school breakfast classics—fluffy, golden-seared french toast, buttery grits, crispy, salty bacon, and crab cakes that serve as a gentle reminder that DC is, in fact, a waterfront city. Yes, there will be a wait, but grab a barstool and people watch while you wait for your number to be called. It’s the perfect morning meetup spot before you inevitably drop $40 on a candle that “smells like autumn in Provence." - omnia saed, mekita rivas, tess shiras