Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Runaway

    3.9 (43 reviews)

    The Runaway Photos

    THE RUNAWAY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Divey
    Intimate
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - The Runaway

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Linda O.

    The panko fried eggplant appetizer is marvelous; curry aioli which accompanies has a memorable kick. The grilled wings are decent; bourbon-barbecue option is good. Served in a fondu pot over a sterno-type warmer, the artichoke-spinach dip is a presentation concept that doesn't quite work. The wick keeps going out. The dip however is respectable. Tried "Born on Saturday Night", an original cocktail creation, made with melon gin and fresh melon balls. I find it smooth and refreshing. The beer menu is pretty substantial, and a surprise. The barkeep told me the place is named for Joan Jet and the Runaways. As a nod to that, a thoughtfully curated soundtrack of rock songs, spanning from the 50s to present day, plays in the background. Placed front and center on the main floor is a vintage Led Zeppelin pinball machine. This location last housed a bar called Steel Plate, but it's been closed for several years. It's lovely to see that this space has been brought to life again by The Runaway.

    Joan Jett Burger with Runaway Nuggs
    John K.

    I. Love. This. Place. The burgers are awesome, my favorites are the Joan Jett with its creamy spinach, or the Rock/Roll - chicken fried bacon? How could you not. There's usually something going on later, karaoke, live show, etc. Good beer list, strong drinks, and laid back staff. They're pleasant at the bar in the evening, or if you're there w kids for lunch on the weekends. Great to have in the neighborhood!

    Pinball Machine
    Shari D.

    Literally stumbled in here on a Saturday night and it was the best experience! There were a few bands performing and they really brought the house down. The drinks were affordable and service at the bar was pretty speedy. They have tons of shows during the week so I plan on stopping by

    Bump and Grind coffee
    Ruben M.

    Had a great brunch recently at this place! My cousin ordered the Jalapeño cheddar pancakes with hollandaise sauce it was surprisingly delicious :) The pancakes were light and fluffy plus you could really taste the jalapeño. The eggs were cooked well but the sausage was a little dry. I had the runaway breakfast and it's basically a standard hangover cure lol make sure to order the eggs runny and enjoy eating them with the potatoes and juicy bacon. For the amount of food that you get the price is very reasonable. Would definitely recommend for those who visit DC and especially the Catholic University of America Area.

    Burger & fries $ old fashion
    Sandy O.

    If you're a foodie and looking for an experience this isn't it... But if you're looking for a great place to hang out with friends and catch - this might be your spot. My burger was just okay - nothing I would come back for. Service was slow but relatively friendly. The street facing balcony is what I paid for on a 79 degree day in DC on a Saturday afternoon. Great promise but not quite there yet.

    Drekker Lemon Apricot Smoothie Sour Beer
    What.ap.gotta.say D.

    I was recommended this by a friend and it DID NOT disappoint!!! I got a Mustang Sour Beer which was raspberry and guava, and then a Drekker Brewing Lemon Apricot Smoothie Sour Beer! Both were incredibly delicious! I got the Joan Jett burger which was awesome with the spinach and artichoke dip. I don't really test vegetables so this secretly gave me my vegetable servings I needed The service was great. The food took a little while to come out but was totally worth the wait! I came here for dinner and they also do a $33 (bottomless drinks + entree) bottomless brunch that I absolutely will have to come back for!! Very excited about this recommendation and can't wait to go back.

    Super mediocre. I ordered the "a pinch of rock and a dose of roll" medium rare. The burger came out with no red in the meat at all. Fries were cold. I also expect that if I am paying $17 for a burger and fries it's going to come out on a plate. We were seated on the balcony and got a plastic basket with paper napkins but I could see the patrons inside had cloth napkins. Why is the water served in plastic cups the size of a rocks glass? Beer menu is decent and I like the wood paneling in the building. The place that was in this space before was also overpriced pedestrian bar food so I'm sad this new pub is no different.

    Projection screen on the inside, a nice touch.
    Rusty S.

    So I was looking for a brunch spot that me and Boomhauer could enjoy on a relaxing Sunday away from Arlen. Nancy was busy doing stuff for the news station so I try to decide something new. I was greeted with a nice patio and not that busy and a lot of space. This further confused me because it took a long time for my drinks and orders to get fulfilled. Also some of my food was not exactly what I ordered and had to be remade and still wasn't the right way hence the 4 stars. Outside of those follies the bottomless drinks and brunch entree were a great combo and the French toast was really solid. This place has some operational stuff to work on but the food, vibe and location were solid. Back to Arlen...

    The runway burger
    Bernardine A.

    Derive was great here with the brunch you get unlimited mimosas. Our waiter kept it coming with no hesitation when you truly enjoyed our experience here the food was good I had to squid ink burger also called the one Runaway burger. Pretty tasty and the fries were good also. My friend had a vegan wings and also had a sandwich and we ended the meal with a sesame seed ice cream with poundcake definitely a inquired taste we didn't like it so we sent it back. Other than that everything was great, rooftop dining is very lovely I will definitely return to this place.

    This burger was supposed to be medium rare.

    See all

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Yvette W.
    37
    192
    31

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 2 of 2

    Ask the Community - The Runaway

    You might also consider

    His & Hers - Woodbridge Burger

    His & Hers

    4.0(87 reviews)
    1.0 miBrookland
    $$

    Don't go here - period. I went with my partner attempting to support a local business and have…read morebrunch - I wish I'd cooked at home. They don't have typical bacon or sausage because "the owners don't eat pork" which really sounds like something more appropriate for their house, and not their restaurant business on Rhode island ave. The "chicken sausage" was a shriveled up piece of chicken paste that they cooked in the microwave. I ordered scrambled eggs, and when they came out, they had that crust that scrambled eggs get when they sit out after being cooked. The grits were lumpy and outside of the cheese sauce they put on the top - had no flavor. The French toast tasted like milk eggs and burnt grill. And the pancakes, were very obviously pre made and microwaved. Additionally - the meal I ordered is listed to come with a bread, eggs, a side and a meat. I asked for bacon, and was told the owners don't eat pork. I asked for the chicken sausage.. 5 minutes later the server asked me if I wanted the sausage spicy or not. Then when she brought the bill, there was a $4 up charge for spicy sausage that she neither told me, nor was it on the menu. And to make matters worse - the sausages were not spicy and were actually just flat out nasty. This is a SAD excuse for a restaurant. I'm sad that I spent calories walking there and dollars eating there.

    This place is a must. The food, the vibes and the service is just there! I've been several times…read morenow and I haven't been disappointed! I love that they have brunch daily!

    Photos
    His & Hers
    His & Hers - Chicken and waffles. Waffle was delicious.

    Chicken and waffles. Waffle was delicious.

    His & Hers - Spinach Dip

    See all

    Spinach Dip

    The Capital Burger - Our namesake burger is served French onion-style with caramelized onions, Wisconsin Grand Cru gruyère and shallot aioli.

    The Capital Burger

    4.3(1.2k reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    Very good service! I will definitely come back to this place. All of Telma's recommendations were…read moreexcellent and she gave us great suggestions. The service she provided was outstanding!

    This place is sooo good! Perfect ambiance, the vibe is kind of a modern pub without being dark and…read moredreary, big comfortable booths, plenty of space to not feel like you're part of someone else's conversation. Honestly we were so pleasantly surprised by how good the burgers are! I had the Capital Burger which had such incredible flavor and the burger itself is thick and juicy. Despite having just had a big dinner somewhere else, as I write this, my mouth is watering. My daughter had the wild mushrooms burger and she loved it -- the aioli had the perfect tang to go with the mushroom and Swiss, both burgers were cooked perfectly medium as requested. The old fashioned was just your typical old fashioned with a slice of candied bacon attached to the outside of the glass. We were hoping for something smokier and a little different but it was still a very good Old Fashioned. We shared the chocolate mousse and it was perfection. Yum! If I lived here this would be my new regular spot.

    Photos
    The Capital Burger - Our Stoli Doli spiked shake is long sought & loudly slurped. Stoli Vodka hand-spun w/rich vanilla ice cream & topped w/candied pineapple

    Our Stoli Doli spiked shake is long sought & loudly slurped. Stoli Vodka hand-spun w/rich vanilla ice cream & topped w/candied pineapple

    The Capital Burger - Blue Cheese and Truffle Burger topped with cabernet-braised red onions.

    Blue Cheese and Truffle Burger topped with cabernet-braised red onions.

    The Capital Burger - The Capital Burger offers signature burgers, handcrafted cocktails, local brews and award-winning wines.

    See all

    The Capital Burger offers signature burgers, handcrafted cocktails, local brews and award-winning wines.

    Double Up Burger

    Double Up Burger

    4.0(16 reviews)
    2.3 miH Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast

    I saw this place on Instagram and I love a good burger. I knew I needed to stop by. I walked in and…read morewas immediately greeted by the young lady running the register. I asked for her recommendations on the menu and to my surprise she suggested the Chopped Cheese. I definitely wanted to try to burger but always heard about Chopped Cheeae from New York. I took her up on her suggestion and had a seat inside. There are about 10 tables, some big and some small. I can tell this place will be jumping when the weather gets nice as there is a coffee shop and a hot chicken spot inside this Halal food hall. There are also windows that open with better weather. The food was made to order. Freshness off the grill. The French fries were piping hot. The Chopped cheese was quite filling. The bread is super soft and delicious. The wagyu meat is delicious as well. I could really taste the flavor along with the cheese mixed in. The sauce adds a quality taste as well. I'll without a doubt be back as there is more I'd like to try from the menu.

    Pulled up to this spot after craving a taste of their Waygu Beef Cheeseburger a couple weeks back…read more I needed more. If you are looking for a classic burger and fries combo that is much worth the price, this is the place. Typically I do not do cheese but when in Rome, right? It was delicious. Fries were perfectly crispy and hot, added a Mexican coke because who doesn't need almost 40 grams of sugar?! lol The service was quick and hospitality was great. Tall chick with a British accent, super sweet. The atmosphere was great. I sat in the hall and enjoyed my meal. 10/10 would definitely go again

    Photos
    Double Up Burger - Inside

    Inside

    Double Up Burger - French Fries

    French Fries

    Double Up Burger - Menu

    See all

    Menu

    Lucky Buns - The spicy fried chicken sandwich with jalapeno and bacon added

    Lucky Buns

    3.8(112 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    I live in the neighborhood and have eaten at Lucky Buns a few times now. I usually stick to the…read moretraditional burger but order it without the bun. This time, I switched it up and got the mambo chicken sandwich over a bed of lettuce so essentially, a salad. My dad ordered the Lucky Burger, and we shared an order of fries. And honestly... this reminded me why I'm a bit torn on Lucky Buns. The food itself is definitely delicious and well-seasoned, but as someone who's gluten-free, I really wish they offered a lettuce wrap to simulate a bun instead of just turning everything into a salad . Being gluten-free already limits options, and the lack of gluten-free buns here is a bit of a bummer. For drinks, we grabbed the canned Snoop Dogg beverages, which were fun and different. They also offer beer, soda, and water - all canned or bottled. As for the setup: since it's located in Union Market, it's more of a food hall experience than a traditional sit-down restaurant. That said, the service is always solid, the staff is kind, attentive, and I really appreciate that they don't charge extra for sauces (a rare win these days). My biggest gripe is the pricing. I'm very familiar with Union Market and dine here often, but $17 for a burger without fries feels steep especially considering this isn't a full-service restaurant with wait staff. Overall: tasty food, great service, but I'd love to see more gluten-free-friendly options and slightly more reasonable pricing.

    My first time trying this popular spot and it was a smash hit. Juicy and meaty burger, hot fresh…read morefries, great dipping sauce. Snagged a local brew from another vendor to share the love. Check them out if you're craving a good burger.

    Photos
    Lucky Buns - Curry Fries on the counter

    Curry Fries on the counter

    Lucky Buns - Fries from Lucky Buns and a glass of bubbles from La Jambe = success

    Fries from Lucky Buns and a glass of bubbles from La Jambe = success

    Lucky Buns

    See all

    Pennyroyal Station - Potted Chicken Liver Mousse

    Pennyroyal Station

    4.3(279 reviews)
    1.6 mi
    $$

    I am so glad that this place is still doing well! And what's better than a Sunday Funday with their…read morepretty darn good happy hour? Somehow, I had only been to this place during the winter time, but it is a completely different vibe during the warmer months. The outdoor space is stunning, and everything just feels brighter and happier. The staff are really nice, the patrons are enjoying themselves, and they just have excellent food. My friend and I happen to come during this fashion show event so there were complimentary hors d'oeuvres for everybody present, but we still ordered delicious deviled eggs (I could've eaten a whole tray of them) and had some great cocktails. You know, for the first time ever, I paid attention to a bunch of board games that they have on a shelf. But based on the stuff that's on the shelf in front of them, I am not 100% sure that they are up for grabs, but it still looks cool. Anyone who is in this area should definitely pay them a visit. You won't regret it.

    Beware--on Saturday and Sunday, the kitchen closes from 3-5pm! The hours listed on Yelp are not…read moreaccurate. My friend and I showed up for a late lunch, and after I stood waiting for service for almost five minutes, the bartender finally came closer to me and said the kitchen was closed. She had been looking at me the entire time and didn't say anything or try to signal to me, so I found her behavior pretty rude. Also, I had previously visited this restaurant for happy hour and found the food and service to be average.

    Photos
    Pennyroyal Station - Inside

    Inside

    Pennyroyal Station - Penny's Royal Burger

    Penny's Royal Burger

    Pennyroyal Station - Green Goddess

    See all

    Green Goddess

    The Runaway - salad - Updated July 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...