Brunch Date: Policy, DC

Often in this city, reputation is king. We find it to be true time and time again, but enjoy the rare occasion when a restaurant’s reputation is a startling contrast to the jewel we experience. In this case, Policy qualifies as that exception.

Though known to the masses as a great lounge and night spot (let’s be honest – word on the street is that you can get drunk fast), it seems that people are too tired from closing down Policy’s bar to be up in time to witness the quality they plate for brunch. Last weekend, Scott and I got to witness firsthand that the kitchen at Policy can hold their own – and then some.

For some, bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys would do the trick to get them in the front door. We are slightly tougher critics, and we appreciate a brunch that revolves around the same expectations we have for any dinner date. We want great service, atmosphere/presentation, and quality dishes. It’s safe to say that if you take our advice and order some of our favorites from the menu, you’ll walk out of there 3 for 3.

We did start the meal with a Mimosa and Bloody Mary, though Scott got adventurous and caved when he saw the Beermosa on the menu. All the cocktails were solid, and the beermosa (though nothing fancy) was still fun to order and for the beer lover, a must try.

Fortunately when it came to ordering brunch, we were surrounded by foodies who all had the same thought – order and share. We were able to sample twice the number of items on the menu, and have a few strong suggestions for you.

First of all, Scott and I were delighted with our Breakfast sliders and the Beignets. The pastries were above and beyond our expectations, and I could have easily consumed two orders myself. The Breakfast sliders were favored over the lambsliders, and were a comfy combination of bacon, egg, cheese and tomato. Who doesn’t love a breakfast sandwich?

The Shrimp and Grits were another table favorite, but we suggest ordering the dish to split, as the cream is heavy and a few bites go a long way. Still, it was flavorful, perhaps the most flavorful of the brunch, and we can totally understand why the restaurant boasts of this dish.

There were mixed reviews about a few of the other dishes, but Scott and I seemed to agree on our mutual enjoyment of the housemade hashbrowns, though slightly greasy, but layered to perfection.

We felt that a my dish, the Breakfast Skillet, was slightly lacking in flavor. For all of the incredible opportunities for flavor found in that dish, it was bland – why, I’m not sure. But I definitely appreciated the chorizo in that dish, and as an avocado fanatic  (and honestly, I ordered the dish when I saw the ingredients included guac on top…) I felt it needed a little more in that arena.

Scott ordered the Steak and Eggs, and gave a review of “solid”. Nothing notable, but definitely worth the order if that is your thing. I am not a fan of steak for breakfast, but munched happily on his crispy potatoes, my favorite side of the meal. The potatoes are sprinkled with Parmesan and crunch to perfection, and therefore are nothing short of addicting.

We did sample the lamb sliders, scallops, tuna tartare, and crab eggs benedict. I’m not a huge fan of those dishes to begin with, so my assessment is slightly biased. I felt the Crab and Eggs Benedict was good, and would order it on a return trip rather than the Skillet.

Our love of fine presentation is a reason that Policy scored HUGE points with us- their dishes were plated beautifully and all were so visually appealing.  As a couple who looks at the overall picture rather than the intricacies and nuance of each dish, we love a restaurant that takes pride in the whole package. We are happy to overlook one or two “so-so” dishes for a consistent and high level of presentation and top notch service. Policy has a staff of the most delightful people, and their commitment is tangible.

Policy, you are more than just a lounge to us. We’ll be back for another brunch, and in the meantime we will dream of those crunchy potatoes…

-Al

Policy DC

1904 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Sat-Sun Brunch, 11:00-2:30