Unconventional Diner Menu & Prices 2026: DC's Modern American Diner

Unconventional Diner serves modern American comfort food — a creative reimagining of classic diner staples. Chef David Deshaies blends fine-dining technique with soulful diner DNA: expect elevated pancakes, creative burgers, plant-forward brunch plates, and inventive dinner entrees like Whole Grilled Branzino and slow-roasted Meatloaf. The restaurant is strongly vegetarian and vegan-friendly, with clearly marked dietary options across the entire menu.

Unconventional Diner is located at 1207 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the Shaw neighborhood. The restaurant is walkable from the Mount Vernon Square / 7th St–Convention Center Metro station (Green and Yellow lines). Phone: 202-847-0122.

Unconventional Diner is open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM. Everyday brunch is served before 3:45 PM; dinner begins at 4 PM. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 6 PM in the bar area. Confirm current hours directly with the restaurant before visiting, as holiday hours may differ.

Yes — Unconventional Diner is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. The menu uses designation icons (v for vegetarian, v+ for vegan, gf for gluten-free) throughout. Popular plant-forward options include the Avocado Toast, Mushroom and Black Bean Burger, Impossible Shepherd's Pie, Pasta Primavera, the Granola Bowl, and the Veggie Scramble. Many items are also customizable for dietary needs — ask your server.

Unconventional Diner is helmed by Chef David Deshaies, who brings a haute technique background to an approachable diner-food canvas. His philosophy — described as combining 'soulful comfort with fine-dining technique' — defines the menu's identity. Signature dishes like the Blueberry-Lavender Pancakes, Tiramisu Flambe, and the Whole Grilled Branzino reflect his influence.

Unconventional Diner falls in the moderate ($$) price range for Washington, DC. Brunch entrees typically run $13–$19, burgers and sandwiches $14–$18, dinner entrees $18–$28, cocktails $12–$15, and desserts $9–$12. Note that the restaurant adds a 20% service charge to all checks, which is directed to staff wages — this is included in place of traditional tipping.

Yes. Unconventional Diner accepts reservations for parties of all sizes through its website at unconventionaldiner.com. Private and semi-private dining is available for events and groups of 13 or more. Online ordering is also available for takeout. Gift cards ($25–$200) are sold on the website.

Yes — Unconventional Diner has received significant press recognition in Washington, DC. It has been featured in the Michelin Guide, Washingtonian's 100 Very Best Restaurants, Washington Post, Elle, Washington City Paper, and Capitol File. It is widely regarded as one of DC's most creative modern casual-dining destinations.

Yes. Unconventional Diner adds a 20% service charge to all checks. This charge goes directly to staff wages in lieu of traditional tipping. The restaurant's model is designed to ensure equitable pay across front- and back-of-house staff. No additional tip is expected, though it is always appreciated.