Historic restaurants of Washington DC connect us with its past through their timeless charm. Ranging from fine French dining rooms to popular American joints, these legendary establishments play an invaluable part in shaping its culture and history.
Explore American history while dining at one of these historic restaurants in Washington DC. From 1789’s Federal period dining rooms to Martin’s Tavern’s booths where former Presidents have sat, these historic dining establishments provide the ultimate educational experience.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Old Ebbitt Grill has been serving tourists and locals since 1856, moving several times but remaining an icon for both. Offering delicious cuisine for every palate and offering catering and counter service. The Old Ebbitt Grill remains an institution in DC today.
Old-fashioned food and decor transport you back to American saloons of days gone by. This restaurant was frequented by President Grant, Cleveland, Harding and Theodore Roosevelt and frequented by other political figures, journalists and celebrities. There is also a grand wooden bar at this establishment whose walls are filled with paintings as well as historic memorabilia.
Old Ebbitt Grill’s lobster roll is an exceptional offering, while their crispy and salty fries make for an irresistibly crunchy experience. Additionally, this restaurant is well known for their comprehensive gluten-free menu as well as staff trained to manage food allergies.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street has long been more than a place for delicious sandwiches – it has also become a symbol of civil rights activism, through race riots, drug wars and subway projects – becoming an icon of civil rights activism itself. Politicians, tourists and locals still visit its cozy environs today!
Ben’s Diner stood as a beacon of stability during April 1968’s unrest following Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination, providing food to both protestors and police during the battle that ensued. Such dedication to its community makes Ben’s so special; they truly go above and beyond what one might expect of an ordinary diner.
Kamal and Nizam Ali of Ben’s will soon open multiple new locations nationwide, each featuring the look and feel of its original U street location with features like its signature jukebox and menu options including vegetarian items like the veggie chili dog. Already popular at Nationals Park and Reagan airport locations, Ben’s will soon expand with plans to open a location at downtown convention centers as well.
The Occidental
Washington DC’s trendy hotspots garner much of the city’s spotlight, but don’t overlook time-tested dining establishments that have played an essential part of its history – like Ben’s Chili Bowl which opened 63 years ago serving comfort food classics while honoring D.C’s African American heritage and hosting Presidents from Harry S Truman to George W Bush as well as celebrities such as Jesse Jackson and Serena Williams.
Washington DC’s historic restaurants boast numerous compelling narratives. For instance, Yenching Palace became one of the first places that combined neighborhood dining and high society scene in post-segregation Washington. Additionally, this legendary eatery became an arena for political discussions which helped ease Cuban Missile Crisis resolution in a back booth.
DC may no longer boast much of a power-lunch culture, but once upon a time this French dining room near the White House was known for drawing both politicians and journalists alike. Paul Delisle was known for cultivating regular customers who regularly made reservations at his establishment while enjoying an exclusive menu that featured vichyssoise as part of its pricey bill.
The Lafayette
From its colonial beginnings to the seat of our government today, Washington DC has long been home to politicians, dignitaries, and dignitary who need sustenance – these historical restaurants provide a fascinating look back into history while adding an interesting culinary component to your trip itinerary in DC.
Historic restaurants of Chicago continue to thrive and serve delectable dishes, like Old Ebbitt Grill (established 1856) with its classic atmosphere and cold oysters; Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a landmark since 1958 and continues to draw celebrities and former presidents who can enjoy their famous half smokes or flavorful chili.
