Hidden Brunch Spot in Friendship Heights

By Written by Tracey Volz on January 5th, 2010

Not sure what to do with yourself with this hot and cold weather? Regardless of your weekend plans, Sundays are bound to include a little sleeping in, followed by a hearty brunch. If you find yourself also shopping around Friendship Heights and Mazza Gallerie, Lia’s might be just what your Sunday ordered.

Bar Area

From the culinary mind of Chef Geoff’s Downtown, sister restaurant, Lia’s offers a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Wisconsin Avenue. Hidden within the same office building as the Ritz Carlton, this quaint little spot offers a wonderfully filling brunch, in an unexpected atmosphere. Mirroring that of an Italian Eatery, Lia’s also offers a wonderful selection at lunch and dinner, winning awards as both Chevy Chase and Bethesda’s Best.

If Mother Nature decides that it’s time for Spring and the sun is out, grab a spot on the outside patio and bask in the sun while enjoying a Spicy bloody Mary, made fresh to order. However, if it ends up being drab and dreary, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy some Sunday morning ESPN or a cozy table in the main dining area.

What’s on the menu, you ask? Along with your usual brunch suspects, we have the same infamous scrambles that can be found at Chef Geoff’s brunches, as well as various spins on the classic Eggs Benedict. Our choices? Eggs Chesapeake, which substitutes the ham for crabmeat, and the English muffin for homemade biscuits, and; Smoked Salmon with brioche toast. Boring, you say? Perhaps, but why must every restaurant outing be filled with creative foams and pretentious fusion?

Eggs Chesapeake Smoked Salmon Goodness

These two selections, though a bit slow in arriving to the table, were presented in a solid, sufficient manner. It is possible that if we had perhaps arrived during the height of brunch hours instead of at the very end, the service and execution of our meal could have been outstanding. Though a bit slow, and not quite as fresh as we’ve had in the past, we still wouldn’t think twice about returning. We may not rush back, but considering the hour and the location of the restaurant (which may hurt them now more than help), brunch was still quite relaxing and enjoyable.

In general, Lia’struly is a great find in the heart of Chevy Chase’s elite shopping district. Another great thing about this family-oriented, relaxed find is that it is wallet-friendly! Sundays offer half price bottles and the website offers you a $10 coupon! That’s right, with this economy, every little bit counts! Find your $10 coupon here and learn more about Chef Geoff Tracy’s other DC restaurants.

http://www.chefgeoff.com/jump/20090201_Lias.cfm

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