I took just one star for the service because the food was amazing. So was the atmosphere. You just need better servers.

Founding Farmers, much like America's founding fathers, is guided by a clear vision: build something sustainable, practical, and meant to last. Its commitment to locally sourced ingredients isn't revolutionary, just as democracy itself wasn't entirely new, but it's rooted in the same enduring belief in progress and the American dream. I stopped in for appetizers, choosing cornbread and deviled eggs, two Southern staples thoughtfully interpreted with a mid-Atlantic sensibility and, fittingly, served on proper plates. Simple, familiar, and well executed; proof that tradition doesn't need to be flashy to be effective. Service was top-notch, efficient without being rushed, and the location is as accessible as it gets, situated neatly between two Metro stops on the Blue, Gray, and Orange lines. Inside, the restaurant offers ample seating, anchored by a massive central bar that divides the space like a modern-day Continental Divide--bringing people together on both sides while still defining the room. Much like the ideals it quietly nods to, Founding Farmers feels grounded, intentional, and confidently American. read more

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We enjoyed our stop for dinner in D. C. at Founding Farmers. After the 'gaunlet' of hostess questioning whether we had a reservation (the restaurant was not crowded at all!) we were seated immediately. Our server was warm and recommended dishes for us which we appreciated. We enjoyed craft cocktails relaxing in the early evening ambience. The food arrived quickly, was beautiful and delish! Turns out these restaurants are well known and highly regarded. read more

Great food. And even better service! So accommodating as well. Eggs, side of tomatoes and fresh fruit. Apple walnut bread. Great coffee Thank you, Byron!!! read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We dined in on a weekday. The restaurant was busy but we were seated right away. We started with beignets which were delicious and the sauce options to dip them in were plentiful. The roasted vegetable and cheese scramble and the French toast were both very good. The biscuit was large and flaky. The French toast was thick and crispy on the outside. The founding farmer breakfasts were okay but nothing exceptional although they are plainer options when looking at all the menu options. read more

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Great meal, Farm to Table , very wholesome food baked from scratch. We have the Yankee Pot Roast, mashed potatoes, side of asparagus and also the cornbread with honey butter. Topped it off with hot Apple pie with vanilla ice cream ! So yummy. Kendra was a great waitress! read more

Founding Farmers DC - Apple pie , ice cream ! Its Forth of July weekend ! How appropriate! - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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One day, some buddies of mine were in town and we were looking for a place to eat close to the White House. We found Founding Farmer's and were blown away by the amount of food options available and different types of cuisines. I was in the mood for good soul food so I got the fried chicken and the portion was enough for two. The restaurant was huge with an upstairs and downstairs and was very comfortable. The only con was that service was notably slow. We were dining between the lunch and dinner rush around 3pm but had to wait a long time to take our order or get our check. A great experience overall. I'd definitely return! read more

Much quieter environment than before and good service. Attentive. Our order came out fast. Came here with a group of 10. I was fearing slow service, but was pleasantly surprised. The apple ginger mocktail tasted great (with real ginger). Nice nachos and chips (great presentation too). Delicious wings. All these appetizers (including baby burgers) hit the spot. Also loved their deviled eggs. read more

Went to Founding Farmers in DC for brunch and had a great experience. The menu has so many good options, it was hard to choose. Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with quality ingredients. The brunch classics were done really well, and the portions were generous without being over the top. Service was friendly and efficient, even though the restaurant was busy. The atmosphere was lively but comfortable, making it a perfect spot for a weekend brunch with friends or family. Overall, excellent food, great service, and a solid brunch spot in DC. I'd definitely come back. read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Made a reservation and was sat within 5 minutes on a pretty good rush. Had Carmen as my server, she checked up on us frequently and was overall a great server! Thank you to her! The food was also very good and was ready in an adequate amount of time. Recommend 10/10 read more

Founding Farmers DC - founding farmers breakfast - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I'm incredibly impressed with what Founding Farmers has created. From the moment you look at the menu, you can tell this is not an ordinary restaurant. The variety, creativity, and quality of the dishes are truly exceptional, and everything feels thoughtfully crafted with care and intention. What makes Founding Farmers stand out most is the uniqueness of the experience. The food has a fresh, made-from-scratch quality that you can taste in every bite. There is a real commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preparing dishes in a way that feels both comforting and elevated at the same time. After dining there, I can honestly say it's one of those places you want to return to again and again. The menu offers something for everyone, yet each dish still feels special and distinct. It's the kind of restaurant you confidently recommend to friends, knowing they'll have just as memorable of an experience. I'm extremely glad I had the chance to dine at Founding Farmers, and I'm grateful for the care and quality that clearly goes into everything they serve. It's a truly unique dining experience that stands out in the best way. -- Peter Thompson read more

[The Savory in the wind] Visited DC for the New Year with minimal research. Yes, it's Yelp Time and found this amazing restaurant for breakfast. I was attracted to the coffee at sight and I was not disappointed. I tried the house blend this time. It stated is a mixed of Guatemala, Brazil and Columbia. It was rich in citrus taste carried with its full body all the way from the tips of my. tongue to my nostril. The aftertaste allowed me to enjoyed my steak even more. As I was hesitated to order another one, the waiter came and pour me another cup, and another cup. I said "Oh! It really raise the standard for diner coffee!" And I had three as total which I really don't do that when I go to a diner. I mentioned I have steak, right? Oh! Yeah! Rare steak and sunny side up eggs with multigrain toast and hash brown. The steak is well executed and the eggs are good naturally. I have a little regret because I put butter on my roast first. Until my wife asked me to try the house made jam. The house made Jam was not sugary. I could clearly tasted the layers of sweetness naturally from the fruit. Although the butter tasted so good, but don't miss the chance of trying the house made jam. This is truly a surprise for me in this trip. It's is the coldest winter of DC, but savory enough for this trip. Calvin read more

Founding Farmers DC - Rare Steak & Eggs* with Multigrain toast and hash browns - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Restaurant is very nice inside. Clean. Staff friendly. Multiple seating options, including inside and outside. I was quickly seated and complementary water brought to the table. Server quick to offer suggestions, and opinions on menu selection when prompted. Food arrived at my table fairly quickly. The steak was very tender and juicy also flavorful. If I had one complaint, it would be the asparagus was a bit too al dente for my taste. Pricing is fair given the restaurant environment. This is not your typical restaurant chain if that makes sense. I would gladly come back here again when I am in the area. There were several things on the menu that I would love to try. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Filet, with Mashed Potatoes, and Jumbo Asparagus. The filet was prepared Med Well - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is my second time here and the first time for breakfast. I absolutely love this restaurant! I will come here every time we come into town. It was incredible. Our waiter, Enrique, was amazing! read more

What a wonderful experience, almost entirely thanks to Ricardo's amazing service! We had a large party and thankfully thought to make reservations ahead of time since it was a Friday night. We arrived and the foyer was PACKED! Checked in and had just enough time to take off our coats before we were escorted to our table behind the bar area. Perfect! Creative cocktails. Delicious food and generous portions. But the best part? Ricardo went totally above and beyond by completely splitting our checks despite our large party size. Awesome! Would return in a heartbeat! read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We had an excellent experience at Founding Farmers DC and would absolutely come back. We made a reservation for Sunday evening, although it didn't seem like one was necessary during our visit. Everyone in our group ordered something different, and it was fun getting to try a variety of dishes. We had the Chicken Pot Pie, Chicken Noodle Soup, Country Fried Steak and Waffle, and Fried Chicken and Waffle. Everything came out fresh, hot, and full of flavor. The mac and cheese was one of the highlights of the meal, and the homemade syrup served with the waffles was outstanding. While the country fried steak wasn't our favorite, there were so many other great dishes on the table that it didn't take away from the overall experience. With a large menu, fresh ingredients, and consistently great food, it's easy to see why Founding Farmers is such a popular restaurant in DC. We left impressed and would definitely recommend making it part of your visit. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Country Fried Steak & Waffle - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I've been to a different location and it was nice. Either it's gone downhill or this location is terrible but what a bad meal. The service was subpar and the food was worse. Asked for a wine list, waitress dropped it off as she was walking, and never even came back to ask me if I wanted wine. Also, I asked if they would add alcohol to one of the mocktails and instead of just making the drink, I was served the mocktail and a shot on the side. ?! read more

Wow. This place was recommended to us by a staff member at the Hampton Inn White House. It was close to the hotel and we were seated quickly. The appetizer of the muffins (2 orders) came with butter and strawberry jam. Delicious. My hot chicken was the best I have ever had. The coleslaw on the sandwich was amazing. I would order that again. The prime rib dip my mom had (and then my friend ordered two weeks later) was excellent. I would 200% recommend this restaurant. Can't wait to return! read more

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I hadn't been to this place in a while - I have been to other locations more recently. I met a large party there and the hostess walked around the large space downstairs with me until I found them. Even though I was late, I was still served quickly. I got the Spicy Ahi Tuna & Avocado Poke and a Spicy Paloma. The ahi tuna came with chip, nacho-style. I enjoyed it. I also loved my spicy Paloma. Our server was personable and friendly, even chatted with me after the rest of the party left. I will find his name, because he was so kind! read more

Founding Farmers DC - Spicy Paloma - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I was so excited to try this place and it disappointed me. I had the ice tea and it definitely wasn't sweetened my friend had a soda that tasted like bleach. When you see the picture of our Cobb salad with crab you'll understand what I'm talking about, it had nothing on it ! Seriously it was lettuce with some crab and scallions. I don't even know if I'd give it another chance for the price. My daughter's friend got the shrimp scampi and almost right after eating she didn't feel well. I felt really bad since my friend and I took my daughter and her friend for graduating with honors from college. The service was ok and the restaurant is pretty.Food horrible. read more

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Jose was so amazing!!! I loved his recommendations and humor!!! The food was out of this world!!!

I tried Founding Farmers during my first time visit to D.C. and it did NOT disappoint! Byron was my server and he was super kind and attentive. I ordered the Farmer Breakfast - it's a great choice if you want to mix and match sides. I got a biscuit with jellies and it was delicious! read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Wonderful experience. Jose was very personable and actually found out he is from our area in California! Super prompt meal service, great breakfast drinks. We came in hungry and leaving feeling happy and ready to take on the day. Great job Jose on your outstanding service and kindness to our group! read more

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Customer service was excellent from start to finish. I started with a coffee at the bar while waiting to be seated, and it ended up being one of the best restaurant coffees I've ever had--rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Once seated, our server was exceptionally patient as we took our time deciding what to order. He was very knowledgeable about the menu and offered several great recommendations tailored to our preferences. We began with the Brie and apple honey bread, which was absolutely delicious and definitely a must-try. My boyfriend ordered the pot roast and really enjoyed it. I chose the mahi-mahi with the butternut squash accompaniment. While the fish was cooked nicely, the dish overall was a little on the bland side for my taste. I'd still return and plan to try the catfish dish next time. Overall, it was a great experience with standout service and a few dishes worth coming back for. In addition the restaurant vibe was great. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Brie Apple Farm Bread - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Continuing in my alphabet series representing prior to 2018 is F is for Founding Farmers. Before going to the Potomac location 3 times in 2019-2020, I went to this location twice when I lived in northern VA in May 2014 & again in November 2015 I think. May 2014: I went to a dinner Meetup group here on a Monday as it was an opportunity to try Founding Farmers, and it did not disappoint! I got their iconic chicken & waffles with mac n' cheese & mashed potatoes. In 2025, it's much less common I eat this unhealthy, but it was delicious! Fresh juicy chicken, waffles with yummy syrup for the win. The service was good. As for this Meetup group, it was underwhelming. As I've said for years with Meetups that are dinner some where, it's hit or miss. Usually, it's going to be a long table (tables put together for a large group) as that's what's efficient at places. I was just at a birthday dinner yesterday, where someone said they like circular tables better as you can talk to everyone at the table, which I agree but added that the circular tables are less space efficient in a small restaurant although Founding Farmers is bigger, still not too practical. So, at a Meetup I'm stuck with the randomness of where I sit & others and stuck with whoever I'm near, and it's not always good. However, the positive was having the opportunity to try Founding Farmers. November 2015 (I think): I think it was when my parents visited me around Thanksgiving in 2015, but I may be wrong on the exact visit, but it was around this time. My parents read about Founding Farmers and knew they wanted to try. My dad was not happy with the service, and I think there was some extra charge on the bill he didn't like either but I don't recall exactly. Service was slow, and my dad had a swallowing problem and needed a lot of water, and the water refill situation was bad. In spite of those negatives, we did all enjoy our food. My mom & I chowed down, and my dad sadly took like 5x longer to eat, but it was the reality of the time. However, my dad got surgery in 2017 or 2018, and he swallows with no difficulty now. read more

Founding Farmers DC - A rare food pic from 2014. My delicious chicken & waffles with mac n cheese & mashed potatoes. All yummy! - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Came for breakfast on a Wednesday morning. They take reservations for certainty to be able to get in and out in a timely fashion. Service was great. I tried the Crab cake Benedict, chicken sausage, and Beignets. The beignets were absolutely amazing! I now must get this anytime I'm back in town. I also loved the bulee'd grapefruit side that I ordered with the crab cake Benedict, however I didn't care for the actual crab Benedict entree. The chicken sausage was also okay. read more

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I went to Founding Farmers for a family lunch, and since it was my first visit, I was really looking forward to trying it. There were five of us in total. We arrived a little before our reservation, so we sat at the bar and had a few drinks and appetizers while we waited for our table. The drinks and appetizers were decent, but nothing particularly memorable. When our table was ready, the hostess seated us, and our waiter introduced himself. At first, he seemed attentive, so I thought we were off to a good start. Once the food arrived, though, we were all pretty disappointed. Everything was presented very well, but the flavor just wasn't there. The food was surprisingly bland, and everyone at the table shared the same opinion. It looked much better than it tasted. Unfortunately, the service also went downhill. After our food was delivered, our waiter never came back to check on us, ask if we needed refills, or see how everything was. When he finally returned, it was only to drop off the check, mentioning that they had been busy. The restaurant really didn't seem that busy, so that explanation didn't match our experience. After he left the check, he still never came back, and I eventually had to go to the hostess just to pay the bill. Overall, it wasn't the first impression I had hoped for. I had been excited to finally try Founding Farmers, but between the underwhelming food and the lack of service, the experience fell well short of expectations. I might be willing to give a different location a chance in the future, but I don't see myself returning to this one. read more

Food was absolutely incredible, and the service was even better. Everything we ordered was delicious, and our server Jose was attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience so enjoyable. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip to DC! read more

Such amazing food!! Great vibes!! Byron is so attentive and kind :). Chicken and waffles was a must!!! Spicy or southern both slap. read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Morning brunch was on the mind when we made the trip to FFDC. Sadly, we missed the window and settled for normal lunch instead. Thankfully, the menu offered a great mix of options that all looked delicious. And from the many plates being served all around us, my wife and I were confident we wouldn't be disappointed. We ordered a butter honey cornbread to start, coupled with some mimosas (duh). Both were outstanding which were followed by our entrees which were rich with flavor, great portions, and were combined with a comfy atmosphere of chatter, music, and experienced bar tenders who absolutely make drinks to a high quality. While somewhat crowded, the service was exceptionally fast and on top of ensuring we were well taken care of. Our servers were so friendly, always smiling, and who recommended delicious drinks that met our needs of an early afternoon relaxer. For anyone moving through the Northern DC side, or for anyone in search of a relaxing vibe venue for a sit down meal, FFDC is a spot to try. 10/10 service and speed 8/10 food taste and flavor 8/10 drinks 7/10 price (a bit on the high side for the value) read more

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We had breakfast here and it was delicious. We were all able to find something delicious for each family member. Great staff. read more

Founding Farmers DC - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The restaurant was quite busy when I walked in but I was able to grab a seat at the bar which was fine with me. Once the waitress took my order my food came out really quick. The faro salad was delicious and the turkey BLT was stacked with meat. The restaurant also looks like they can accommodate a large party if necessary. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Roasted Turkey BLT & Avocado with Cauliflower, Butternut Squash & Farro Salad - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a food delivery review. The food was excellent! Everything arrived warm, flavorful, and beautifully packaged for transport. Each container was securely closed, and even the outer bag was sealed perfectly. Despite a 30-minute delivery time (and that's nobody's fault as it reflects the true distance ) , the food tasted freshly made. I was genuinely impressed....both the food and the packaging were top-notch. (The pic of chicken wings was taken after having ate 3 wings ) read more

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Always a great time at HH! David, Wally & Shak are awesome bartenders!! They're very attentive and make sitting at the bar such a fun time! Must get the baby smash burger and the garlic black pepper wings for happy hour! The vibes are always chill!! read more

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I've heard this spot is a DC area staple, and stopped in yesterday. I wanted a place to eat breakfast outside while working and this was the perfect place. For breakfast, they have an assortment of sweet and savory options - breakfast scrambles, benedicts, waffles and pancakes, tons of brunch options. I opted for the Founding Farmer's breakfast which is two eggs your way, a choice of meat, a side, and choice of toast. I have been traveling all week so I kept it simple and did egg whites with spinach, steak (an extra charge of $5), seasoned tomatoes, and multigrain toast. I had already had coffee so I stuck with water, but their bar and coffee sound great. My service was friendly and I enjoyed the free wifi as well. Next time, I'd love to come back for brunch to indulge in some of the more rich items on the menu. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Founding Farmer's Breakfast: 2 egg whites with spinach, Seasoned Tomatoes, Steak (an additional $5) , and Multigrain toast - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Founding Farmers DC is a solid pick for breakfast or brunch solid service that's friendly and quick even when it's packed, with servers keeping things moving without hovering. Food's hearty and consistent: love the fried chicken & waffles crispy, flavorful, and generous portions of fresh, farm-sourced stuff that hits the spot. Decor's fun urban-farmhouse vibe reclaimed wood, high ceilings, quirky silo booths, and cool art like the flying Pegasus and seasonal lamb mascot warm, bustling, and casual without being stuffy. Gets loud when full, but that's the energy. Great value near the White House; I'd go back in a heartbeat. 5 stars. read more

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This is a great craft beer with a small butt, mighty selection of craft beers. They actually have more of an impressive craft spirit collection, with interesting chins and whiskeys available. It is a good size place, with an outdoor patio when the weather is nice. I ordered the 10 ounce prime rib, wondering how a prime rib could be 10 ounces. However, I was pleasantly surprised. It was a good cut of beef, it came with some nice side, sauces, and I was able to order it with two vegetable sides versus a starch. Service was great, I would come back here again. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Prime rib with a double side of broccoli. - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I want to like them. I've realized all of their food is saturated in butter and cream my goodness. I ordered the fish of the day with risotto,crab and artichoke dip and a strawberry donut. There was so much grease in the donut I was disgusted. The dip? They didn't even bother to cut the artichokes a little, it was swimming in grease, the crab was fishy and there was a hair in it. The fish was decent but again everything was just saturated in grease. Honestly the worst meal I've ever had and I paid $60 for it. When I came here the first time I actually enjoyed the cornbread and dip. The entree again was terrible. I think I'm expecting too much out of this place. read more

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This place is awesome!! It's huge, it's beautifully decorated, the staff are warm and friendly, and the food is deliiiiuciiioouusss. It's only my second time here (from NYC) and today my server Enrique was a superstar! Super friendly, super charming, very accommodating, and just an overall cool dude. I am definitely coming back here every time I have to work in DC. read more

Founding Farmers DC - Beef Pastrami Poached Eggs - American Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This restaurant is always busy yet they manage to always provide the best customer service. We were seated immediately and greeted by our lovely waitress. For breakfast I had the poached eggs with bacon, home fries and biscuit. The biscuit was the star of the show. My poached eggs arrived overcooked. The waitress was kind to remake them for me. The level of customer service here is what always brings me back when I'm in town. read more