Let’s Go Round Two: 4E’s Guide to Winter Brunching

There are very few people in the world who can turn down a good waffle or a delicious sandwich. But what if you could have them both at the same time? This, my friends, is the beauty of brunch. Brunch is one of my all time favorite meals because brunch food is the best food. Nay, brunch is more than that: It is a lifestyle.

The best part about winter brunching is getting to sit inside and warm up. And drink hot coffee. Man, I love me some coffee.

Despite its fun facade, brunching can be tricky at times. Here are some tips on how to prepare:

1. Make sure to check out our tips for champagne brunching (The tips are pretty much applicable here, minus the alcohol, of course). The most important of these tips is to make reservations. Brunch places always get crowded and are often occupied by big groups. Be smart and call ahead.

2. Figure out how you are going to get there. Are you walking or riding? Uber or taxi? (In some cases cab rides can get super expensive.)

3. Dress to impress, but don’t dress to freeze. Yes, your sundress may be cute, but it does not make any sense when it is 25 degrees and snowing outside.

4. Go hungry. This may seem obvious, but sometimes people do not take advantage of the greatness of brunch. It will be better if you are hungry.

5. Try not to go with a huge group. While it can be fun, the bill often is unthinkably large and difficult to divide up. The smaller the group, the less stress. Brunch should not be a stressful activity.

Now the question is, where should you go?

In Georgetown:

Tombs (1226 36th St. NW) A classic and a favorite. Tombs’ location is ideal for the lazy college student but is up to par with many places in downtown D.C. Its fireplace makes for a warm atmosphere and its coffee cake is the best. (Entrees usually around $11.00)

Farmers Fishers Bakers (3000 K St. NW) For those brunchers who want to have a fancier meal, Farmers Fishers Bakers offers amazing food at a set price. Its location on the Georgetown waterfront near the ice skating rink makes for the perfect winter afternoon. Because nothing says cute and wintry like brunch and ice skating. (Set price of $29.99)

Outside the bubble:

Founding Farmers (1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW) Located in Foggy Bottom, this is a favorite for many Georgetown students (especially me!). All of the food is natural and delicious. (Entrees $9-$12)

Montmarte (327 7th St. SE) Located right near the Flea Market at Eastern Market, this brunch favorite offers both food and the possibility of shopping! Talk about the perfect Sunday. Word to the wise: the mussels are divine! (Entrees $11-$14)

Once you get to your location, here are some tips to make the most of your winter brunch:

1. Don’t just commit to one meal. The best part of brunch is the mix of breakfast and lunch! Find someone who will split eggs and a chicken sandwich with you. That is love.

2. Take cute pictures. Most of us do not have the luxury of going brunching every single weekend. So make sure to document it and relive it at a later date. Instagram away. #brunchingwiththehomies

3. All you can eat. I repeat: All you can eat. Brunch is two meals. Breakfast. And. Lunch. Do not treat it like your afternoon snack. This is the time to chow down, and no one will judge you.