An airy social spot

The food: Best known for its weekend brunch—with omelets, French toast and steak-and-eggs ranging from $8 to $18—this convivial cafe serves contemporary American fare. A full-service juice bar offers smoothies and freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices (mango, papaya, and celery, among others). There are several entrée-size salads such as mixed greens, Gorgonzola, and asparagus topped with grilled steak, or ahi tuna with endive, arugula, and lemon-sesame dressing. Dinner entrées include grilled salmon with lemon-butter sauce, crab cakes with rémoulade, and a classic hearty meatloaf. And you can always get a burger.

The scene: This trendy and modern restaurant is a popular lunch and brunch spot for the Georgetown crowd, young and old. Sidewalk tables attract passers-by in warm weather. Inside, grab a bar stool if you can—table space can be cramped.

What’s nearby: Just off the main intersection in Georgetown on residential Prospect Street, Peacock Cafe is surrounded by chain clothing stores, preppy bars, and old-Georgetown taverns. It’s right next door to another social hot spot, Cafe Milano.

Insider tips: If you’re indecisive about what to order for lunch or brunch, try a combo ($10.95 to $12.50), which lets you mix and match among the soup, chili, salad and sandwich selections.
Peacock’s owners just opened an offshoot of the Georgetown location, the Peacock Grand Cafe (2020 K St., NW; 202-530-2020; peacockgrandcafe.com).