Union Market Mornings: 5 Must-Try Breakfast Spots in DC’s Culinary Hub

Union Market in Washington, DC, is far more than a food hall — it’s a cultural crossroads, a local institution, and one of the city’s most diverse culinary destinations. Early risers in NoMa or Northeast DC know it as a secret weapon for morning fuel. From craft coffee to international pastries, this vibrant marketplace brims with options that cater to professionals, creatives, and flavor-chasers alike. If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then Union Market is the best place to make it unforgettable. 

Below are five breakfast spots that offer both distinctive menus and energizing atmospheres — each one worthy of becoming your new morning ritual.

Buffalo & Bergen: Classic New York Deli Vibes with a DC Twist

📍1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

Nestled inside the bustling market, Buffalo & Bergen channels the charm of a retro soda fountain with the grit and heart of a New York deli — all while adding a playful Washingtonian flair. This spot is a haven for bagel purists and brunch lovers alike.

The crown jewel of the breakfast lineup here is the “Lox’d and Loaded Bloody Mary” — a savory concoction topped with a mini everything bagel, perfect for those who believe brunch drinks should double as meals. Classic knishes, bagel sandwiches stacked with cream cheese and lox, and even egg creams are all on the menu, making it feel like Katz’s Deli met Eastern Market for brunch.

The atmosphere is laid-back and slightly nostalgic, with a steady stream of regulars catching up over bottomless coffee. Whether you're taking a seat at the counter or grabbing something to go before hopping on the Metro, it’s hard not to start your day on a high note here.

Yellow: Where Levantine Pastries Meet French Craft

📍1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

If your mornings call for something elegant yet unexpected, Yellow delivers that perfect café experience with flavors that linger. Created by Chef Michael Rafidi — the mastermind behind Michelin-starred Albi — Yellow combines French patisserie technique with bold Middle Eastern ingredients.

Signature items like the Za’atar & Labne Croissant or the Baklava Kouign Amann are not only Instagram-worthy but masterfully balanced in texture and flavor. The Baklava Mocha Latte, infused with honey and pistachio, is a fan favorite and makes for a sweet yet sophisticated caffeine fix.

The clean, minimalist interior invites you to slow down and savor, though many Union Market professionals swing by for a morning pick-me-up before diving into their workday. Yellow is more than just a breakfast stop — it’s a cultural moment served in a pastry box.

Toastique: The Superfood Sanctuary for Clean Starts

📍760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024 (check brand site for Union Market updates)

Toastique has become a staple for wellness-minded Washingtonians looking to power up with nutritious yet crave-worthy options. While the Union Market location is part of the brand's wider DC footprint, it fits perfectly into the market’s dynamic energy.

The “PB Crunch” — a hearty open-faced toast slathered in peanut butter and topped with bananas, strawberries, granola, and a drizzle of honey — exemplifies what makes Toastique so addictive. It’s fresh, filling, and perfect for anyone needing fuel for a long day of meetings or market hopping.

The modern, light-filled space encourages mindful eating, and with smoothie bowls, protein shakes, and wellness shots on offer, it’s also one of the most balanced breakfast destinations in the area. Health-conscious without being pretentious, Toastique offers food that’s as good for your body as it is for your palate.

St. Anselm: Rustic Indulgence and Southern Charm

📍1250 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

Some mornings call for more than a pastry or toast — they demand something hot, hearty, and comforting. That’s where St. Anselm comes in. Located just around the corner from the main Union Market hub, this tavern-style eatery is renowned for its wood-fired meats and Southern-accented brunch menu.

Start your morning with their iconic buttermilk biscuits served with pimento cheese, or go all-in with steak and eggs cooked to perfection. The coffee is strong, the portions generous, and the space feels like a stylish cabin tucked away in an urban jungle.

With rustic wood interiors and an inviting brunch crowd, St. Anselm is an ideal choice for slow, luxurious mornings, especially when you’ve got nowhere to be but happy.

On Toast: Creative Spins on a Global Staple

📍Inside Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Union Market Directory – On Toast

Located inside the heart of Union Market, On Toast may be small in footprint, but it’s bold in flavor and concept. This Aussie-inspired toast bar lets a single slice of bread become a canvas for world-spanning ingredients — and trust us, it’s anything but basic.

Their Avo Toast with Vegemite stands out as a divisive yet deeply satisfying option. Salty, savory, and packed with umami, it’s a must-try for adventurous eaters. For those less daring, there are plenty of other toppings that range from classic to innovative, including smoked salmon, whipped ricotta, or even seasonal fruit jams.

The ambiance is charmingly artisanal, surrounded by the buzz of the market and ideal for grabbing a quick yet meaningful bite before diving into the day.

A Final Bite

Union Market offers a breakfast scene as multifaceted as DC itself — full of contrasts, cultures, and community. From the savory comfort of Buffalo & Bergen’s bagels to the flaky innovation of Yellow’s Middle Eastern pastries, these five spots reflect the rich culinary diversity that keeps Union Market buzzing long before lunch.

Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, a diehard foodie, or simply in search of a good cup of coffee to start your day, Union Market has a breakfast destination tailored to your cravings. So next time you’re in NoMa or Northeast, skip the predictable chain café and opt for something memorable. Your morning deserves it.