"George Washington dined here. Now, there’s wifi. Open since 1762, Fraunces Tavern was pouring pints of ale long before any of us were born, and we’re willing to bet this Financial District institution will still have its taps flowing centuries after we’re gone. They also make reliable pub food, and can accommodate big groups in a labyrinth of dining rooms. Among other Revolutionary War bona fides, this was the place where Washington held a farewell celebration for his officers after the British were defeated in 1783. The different spaces within Fraunces Tavern—which even operates its own museum on the second floor—reflect that legacy to different degrees. The Dingle Whiskey Bar, with Edison bulbs, leather chairs, and exposed pipes, is cozy, but feels more 20th century than 18th. If you’d prefer a more colonial ambience, ask to be seated in the dining room to the right when you enter. The wooden pews and long tables in there feel like they could have plausibly hosted a few Founding Fathers in their time. photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick The food here is unexceptional, and expensive for what it is, but Fraunces Tavern nevertheless draws a pretty good crowd even in the dead of afternoon on a weekday. You might see international tourists, locals taking lunch, and maybe even a newly married couple who’ve drifted over from their morning elopement at the City Clerk’s Office. It’s also a good place to take parents when they visit, especially when it’s festively decorated during the holidays. Food Rundown Slow-Roasted Chicken Pot Pie The puffy, buttery crust is the best part, so it’s a shame it doesn’t appear on the sides or the bottom of this enormous ramekin, only on top. We also wish the filling in this pot pie—which Fraunces Tavern suggests was Washington’s favorite dish—wasn’t quite so thin, but it’d still be a nice choice on a cold day. photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick Tavern Burger The bun is a little dry, then turns to mush when it absorbs all the liquid from the juicy burger. But the huge, craggy sweet potato fries at Fraunces Tavern are delicious—crisp and caramelized on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick Lobster Mac & Cheese Somewhat bland, but far from unpleasant. The lobster is sweet, the top is nicely browned and bubbly, and a satisfying cheese pull awaits you." - Molly Fitzpatrick
