"Old Ebbitt Grill is one of DC’s most storied saloons, packed with old-school charm and still drawing crowds today, over 150 years after its opening in 1856. It’s moved around a bit over the years and the exact original location is a mystery, but what’s clear is its longstanding VIP appeal—President McKinley was such a fan he reportedly lived there during his Congressional days. Presidents Grant, Johnson, Cleveland, and Roosevelt all stopped in, basically making it the Studio 54 of 19th- and 20th-century Washington. Today, Old Ebbitt Grill sits just steps from the White House and right across from the Treasury building. The ambiance is undeniably tavern-like, from the bar staff’s suspenders to the cherry wood and brass fixtures overhead. In its maze-like dining rooms you'll find tourists, families, and regulars alike digging into classic American fare like sirloin steaks, New England clam chowder, and chicken and waffles. The crab cakes—decadently moist and served with a mayo-heavy tartar sauce and tangy coleslaw—are a crowd favorite. There’s also an oyster happy hour from 3-5pm, where you can snag a half-dozen for $16. Food Rundown photo credit: Old Ebbitt Grill Oysters Old Ebbitt’s oysters are sourced seasonally and locally, from up and down the coast. We say mix and match—one day you might sample crisp, briny Pink Moon oysters from the Chesapeake and subtly sweet ones from Martha’s Vineyard. They’re all incredibly fresh and reliably delicious. Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes Baltimore takes the crown for crab cakes, but Old Ebbitt Grill gives it a run for its money. The jumbo lump crab cakes here have earned their place as a menu favorite: tender, well-seasoned, and served with a zesty coleslaw and a rich, creamy tartar sauce. photo credit: Old Ebbitt Grill Steak Frites You’re in for a solid 8-oz. NY strip steak served with fries and a handful of bitter watercress—which, let’s be honest, we could probably do without, but someone in the kitchen must’ve decided the plate needed a touch of green to keep things from looking too gluttonous. Crab & Asparagus Dip This is the kind of classic appetizer that hits the spot every time: a creamy asparagus dip topped with delicately minced crab. It’s served with lightly toasted baguette slices and a squeeze of fresh lemon." - Omnia Saed
