For reasons unknown to any of us, breakfast food just hits differently after the sun goes down. Maybe it’s the allure of bucking norms when you opt for a fluffy waffle come dinnertime. Or is there some nostalgia that comes with cramming into a booth with friends for a late-night omelet, decades after leaving college? Whatever the motive, there are plenty of restaurants ready to serve—at any time of day—when only pancakes will do.
Amphora
1151 Elden St., Herndon
If you’re seeking a late-night breakfast nosh, look no further than Amphora. Its brioche French toast is house-made and dishes like the Zorba Omelet—made with gyro meat, feta, and tzatziki—add an international flair for which Amphora is so adored.
Bob & Edith’s Diner
Multiple locations: Springfield, Arlington, & Alexandria
The 24-hour diner has been a staple of NoVA for over 50 years. It’s a beloved—and often bustling—local chain where the conversation between regulars flows as freely as the coffee, and cooks churn out hot cakes, eggs, and home fries seven days a week.
Lazy Mike’s
7049 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
This unassuming delicatessen is known for its homemade corned beef, so its hash breakfast platter is a fan-favorite. Lazy Mike’s also serves classics like bagels with lox, build-your-own omelets, chocolate chip pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches.
Matt & Tony’s All Day Kitchen + Bar
1501 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria
The menu at Matt & Tony’s will please any breakfast purist with items like steak and eggs, as well as biscuits and gravy. But more adventurous eaters will swoon over creative dishes like masa pancakes with mole maple syrup and Scotch eggs served with chimichurri mayo.
4711 Lee Hwy., Arlington
Metro 29 can only be described as a blast from the past. The neon lights that illuminate the exterior and a soda fountain-style bar makes it the perfect setting to enjoy a cup of coffee and silver dollar griddle cakes, just like Mom or Grandma used to make.
7381 Sudley Rd., Manassas
Brunch in the DMV gets a Turkish twist. Its signature, and most popular choice is the serpme, consisting of a sensuous selection of cheese, nuts, fruits, olives, homemade sauces and jams, and choice of egg dish. (Try the sucuklu yumurta.)
Multiple locations: Fairfax, Reston, & Arlington
Ted’s is one of those places you walk into with every intention to eat a well-balanced dinner, but after taking one look at the all-day breakfast menu you end up with at least one of their homemade Pop Tarts (called Ted’s Tarts). Every time. Sometimes with a boozy milkshake to wash it down.
Feature image courtesy Fransmart
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