Old Ebbitt Grill
American restaurant · Downtown ·
Iconic tavern offering American meals, raw bar specials, and historic charm
![Old Ebbitt Grill by Old Ebbitt Grill [official photo]](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62482296/orcaplatter.0.0.jpg "Old Ebbitt Grill by Old Ebbitt Grill [official photo]")
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68694744/2005_ebbitt_inauguration__2_.0.jpg "Old Ebbitt Grill by Doug Mills/For Old Ebbitt Grill")
Iconic tavern offering American meals, raw bar specials, and historic charm
"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 and Presidents Grant, Johnson, Cleveland, and Roosevelt have all stopped in, basically making it the Studio 54 of 19th- and 20th-century Washington. Go for classic American fare like sirloin steaks, New England clam chowder, and chicken and waffles." - Team Infatuation
"This is one of those quintessentially classic restaurants — and it’s the oldest on the list. Old Ebbitt Grill opened in 1856, when Franklin Pierce occupied the White House (which is right around the corner). The restaurant is home to a famed raw bar happy hour and is known for events like its annual Oyster Riot." - Tierney Plumb
"At Old Ebbitt Grill I found an undeniable D.C. institution — a place that once hosted presidents such as Ulysses S. Grant and Grover Cleveland, which opened in 1856 and, despite changing locations, remains the longest‑running saloon in the capital and a buzzing mix of tourist standby and beloved local spot where business deals and family reunions happen (I spent an evening at the Oyster Bar soaking it all in)." - Eater Staff
"Families making the rounds downtown can show off this iconic D.C. restaurant to the whole family. A kids’ menu that comes with crayons includes the usual suspects (chicken fingers, cheeseburgers, pizza), and occasionally more interesting fare like fish and snack plates. Reserve a seat online." - Emily Venezky
"D.C.’s oldest restaurant is a tourist favorite and is family-friendly to boot. But locals know the best time to visit is during the raw bar happy hour." - Tierney Plumb