A Taste of History: The Old Ebbitt Grill

Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the White House, the Old Ebbitt Grill stands as a culinary beacon in the heart of Washington, D.C. Like the great monuments and museums that grace the capital, this historic establishment is a chapter in the city’s story, a place where the rich tapestry of American history is woven into every dish served and every glass raised.

Stepping inside the Old Ebbitt Grill is like stepping back in time. The walls, adorned with photographs and vintage memorabilia, pay homage to the past—a past dotted with presidents, senators, and dignitaries who have dined within.

Founded in 1856, the Ebbitt started as a humble watering hole before evolving into a social hub for DC’s elite. Over the years, it has transformed and expanded but has never lost its character.

As one settles into a cozy booth, the bustle of the grill surrounding becomes a comforting soundtrack. It’s a delightful chaos—the clink of silverware, the chatter of conversation, the laughter of friends gathered, all melding into a symphony that invites you to partake in its time-honored tradition. The waitstaff, clad in classic uniforms, move gracefully between tables, each interaction steeped in courtesy and the knowledge of the rich legacy they serve.

Gazing over the menu, an array of offerings unfolds like a well-worn book. The Old Ebbitt Grill is renowned for its seafood, particularly its oysters—each freshly shucked. While they’re not for me, as you look across the restaurant, you’ll see a significant amount of them on tables and across the bar.  

Yet, it's not just the oysters that capture the heart; the menu brims with time-honored dishes that appeal to all tastes. The crab cakes—a scrumptious blend of succulent crab meat and spices. Perhaps it’s the seafood tower that will get everyone talking. Lobster, crab, shrimp, and fixings to join. If you want to have a taste of it all, this is the way I’d recommend.

But beyond its culinary delights, Old Ebbitt Grill is intrinsic to the very fabric of Washington, D.C. It has hosted countless meetings, proposals, and celebrations of milestones. It’s a gathering space where the political and social elite rub shoulders.

As you gander around the space and see all of the animals and antiques on the walls, you’ll quickly see the place is a living museum, guardian of memories, storyteller of generations.

While the food at dinner and lunchtime are both divine, it’s a great place to stop and enjoy a nighttime coffee and dessert, too. Just jump-up the bar and before you know it, you’ll enjoy a piping hot coffee (and if you pick the right item), a nice warm apple crisp.