Washington DC is well known for its monuments, but it also boasts several historic restaurants that provide unforgettable dining experiences for families. You could dine where JFK proposed to Jackie O or enjoy classic American dishes in a Federal town house – each offer something truly memorable!
Since 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill has been hosting presidents, celebrities and more at its antique-filled restaurant with classic atmosphere (men should wear jackets). Enjoy quality cuisine in a classic setting.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Old Ebbitt Grill, situated just blocks away from the White House, is a legendary American restaurant beloved by famous politicians. Known for both its exquisite and affordable traditional comfort food offerings, Old Ebbitt Grill draws both tourists and residents. You will see both casual attire such as shorts and T-shirts dining alongside longtime residents dressed for evening attire.
Old Ebbitt has amassed many antiques and memorabilia over time. Our Main Bar features mounted game trophies and antique beer steins; as well as several paintings by marine artist Peter Egeli and Chesapeake Bay watercolorist J. Robert Burnell. Meanwhile, The Corner Bar up the marble stairs on the left of our foyer recalls both downtown club culture and Eastern Shore hunt club camaraderie.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group began operating this eatery in 1856 as a tavern serving American meals, eventually moving around Washington D.C. It later was sold at auction in 1970 to satisfy federal tax liens, and is currently owned by them to this day. Their menu offers seafood such as jumbo lump crab cakes, fried oysters, and artichoke dip.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Ben Ali, a Howard University graduate and his wife Virginia established this restaurant on U Street’s Black Broadway district in 1958. It quickly became a gathering spot for jazz greats such as Miles Davis as well as civil rights leaders who would come in to enjoy delicious American cuisine and spend time with their friends.
As the chaos surrounding Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination unfolded in April 1968, Stokely Carmichael managed to keep the restaurant open after curfew so people could find shelter while finding sustenance to fuel their struggle for freedom. The restaurant provided shelter from police as well as protesters seeking freedom. Stokely even obtained special permission to remain open after curfew so people could eat and find respite from its effects.
Over time, Ben’s Chili Bowl became an institution in Washington and was visited by celebrities and dignitaries such as presidents. Photos of these influential visitors can still be found adorning its walls at its original location; going here almost feels like a prerequisite for any Washingtonian.
The Monocle
Since 1960, this vibrant yellow townhouse has made itself at home in Capitol Hill as an informal lunch or dinner spot for senators and representatives. Offering classic American dishes like jumbo lump crab cakes and clam linguine among its menu items.
At The Monocle restaurant, it’s impossible to miss seeing at least one prominent political figure. Situated across from Senate office buildings, its staff–from owner John Valanos and maitre’d Nick–treat all customers equally with respect and treat Senators and lobbyists equally well.
Sit at the bar to overhear Hill staffers discussing politics over ginger manhattans and don’t miss the creamy shellfish bisque which is one of the city’s best! Plus there’s delicious roasted chicken and steak for dinner; spending an evening feeling like part of government will surely put a grin on your face!
Tabard Inn
Tabard Inn is one of Washington, DC’s longest continually operating inns and restaurants. Established at 1739 N Street NW by Marie Willoughby Rogers in 1922 to replicate an English country inn atmosphere, modeled on one from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.
Tabard Inn has long served as an invaluable training ground for local chefs, who use its kitchen as an introduction to more prestigious dining environments. Their staff understands the power of food to energize lives.
Visitors to this hotel can dine at the on-site restaurant and sip cocktails from the bar, and choose one of 35 individual rooms available with complimentary wireless Internet access and housekeeping services; cooked-to-order breakfasts may also be made available for an additional fee.
