When it comes to dining out, I disproportionately go for lunches and dinners rather than breakfasts, especially in DC. 


It’s not that I’m not an early riser (which I am), it’s that too often gluten and dairy-free options on a breakfast menu are so limited I’m stuck with very few options that don’t exactly translate to something I can’t make at home (such as omelets). 


In looking for brunch options during a recent visit from my dad, Commissary in Logan Circle caught my eye with rave reviews on Find Me Gluten-Free and versatile menus with gluten-free and dairy-free options across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. Excited by the prospect of adding another reliable brunch go-to restaurant to my rotation of DC favorites, I eagerly made a reservation to take advantage of my dad coming to town to visit.


Starting off the meal, I ordered my go-to coffee house creation: chai latte. The only non-dairy milk option was soy milk, which I ordered with the drink (although it’s not my preferred non-dairy milk). I enjoyed perusing the menu and lingering over the warm, comforting brew. It was absolutely perfect on a cold February morning! 

Although my eye wandered around the menu, let’s be honest: as soon as I saw gluten-free and vegan pancakes on the menu, there was no way I was going to budge from ordering them! When I ordered, the waitress asked about an allergy or preference, and I confirmed the former so that the order would be flagged by the kitchen for extra attention and cross-contact prevention and. Of course it’s a shared kitchen so it doesn’t eliminate all risk, but I appreciate any time the wait staff and kitchen are fluent in the language of allergy and special diet accommodation.


The pancakes themselves are sight to behold, giant in circumference and stacked four high. I adored how they have a golden griddle flavor and each pancake is thick and fluffy. That combination is just unheard of in many gluten-free pancakes, and it’s clear that Commissary has perfected their batter to produce pancakes that are anything but a disappointment. 

Since they are also vegan, the pancakes are served with maple syrup and a seasonal compote. The apple compote I was served was incredible and seemed to capture the essence of fall in the small dish. With both drizzled, the pancakes become a delicious symphony of flavor with notes of sweet, sticky, and cinnamon, with the apple and maple forming a delicious duo. 

I entered Commissary with high hopes and am pleased to report they met and surpassed my expectations. On their logo, they promise a neighborhood place with honest pricing, and that’s what you get. The vibe is relaxed and it was really nice to slow down and linger over a delicious breakfast. It’s definitely not the chaotic power-brunch DC is known for, but that’s okay, I’d choose Commissary and these pancakes over the alternative any day of the week. 


Whether you live locally or are visiting the District from elsewhere, Commissary’s breakfast is definitely worth seeking out to start your day with a smile. I look forward to coming back again and again for breakfast, and checking out their options later in the day.

The Basics

Address: 1443 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005

Website: www.commissarydc.com 

Cuisine: American

Ideal For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Price: See menu prices on their website

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Disclaimer: This review is based upon the information I have at the time of the review and does not reflect changes in ingredients or availability of items. Please contact the restaurant directly for up-to-date information and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments. I was not compensated for this review and it is a reflection of my personal opinion.