Old Ebbitt Grill
A storied saloon-style institution steps from the White House, famous for its oyster bar and old-Washington atmosphere.
The call
Worth it if you're traveling as a couple and you're traveling solo.
Short answer
Is Old Ebbitt Grill worth it?
Old Ebbitt Grill deserves a place on most first itineraries. Go early or reserve ahead. Crowds are part of the cost.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
Dark wood, brass, and gaslit nostalgia — it leans hard into being the place lobbyists and tourists have shared for generations.
- 02
More about the room and the raw bar than culinary fireworks.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Old Ebbitt Grill is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Old Ebbitt Grill is an easy yes.
History and culture matter to you
Old Ebbitt Grill rewards a trip built around history & culture.
Think twice if
You're watching the budget
Old Ebbitt Grill can strain a tight budget. Go only when it is a priority.
You only have one day
Keep Old Ebbitt Grill only when it outranks a half-day elsewhere.
You're traveling with kids
With kids, Old Ebbitt Grill needs the right timing and tolerance.
You prefer local life to spectacle
Old Ebbitt Grill offers some local authenticity, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
The plates that decide it
- Oysters at the raw bar — the genuine signature, especially during oyster specials
- Crab cakes — a reliable Mid-Atlantic standby here
- Trendy specials — stick to the classics — the kitchen is at its best on tradition
Plan it well
- Cost
- Moderate per head
- Allow
- 1–1.5 hours
Sources and method (1)
- Established 1856, billed as DC's oldest saloon, steps from the White House at 675 15th St NW; owned by Clyde's Restaurant Group since a 1970 auction purchase. ebbitt.com ↗