In July 1925, The Washington Post reported that Gumpert was constructing a new 10-story, 125-room Ebbitt House hotel at 10th and H Streets NW. Humphrey and his attorney told the FBI about the contact immediately, and Humphrey agreed to act as a double agent. Our server, Mattie, was personable and professional, making our experience even better. [34][35] Over the next two years, Burch and Gibbs completely refurnished all the rooms, adding new furniture and Belgian carpets, re-papered or added painted frescoes to the ceilings, and installed new furniture in the hallways. [125] The restaurant was also criticized by the newspaper for being too noisy for conversation,[126] and providing bland hamburgers, salads, and breakfast. This is our 2nd time at Old Ebbitt Grill and we tried some new items on the menu. ", Chen, Aimee and Mendelson, Will. [91] The architectural firm of Andrews & Chatelain designed the interior. Anything goes at the Ebbitt. Hugh expectations going in but they were more than met. ", Sietsema, Tom. [72][73] Clyde's and Old Ebbitt Grill shared the same menus, which lowered costs and led to improved training for kitchen staff. The prices were right. ", "Ebbitt House Auction Draws Curious Crowd. Please call Megan Kilby at 202.552.5000. Waitress rushed us out because her shift was ending and she wanted her tip- charged an additional service fee because of restaurant had expenses??? Benjamin Ogle was the maternal grandfather of. Phone +1 202-347-4800. "Comfortable Perches Along Pennsylvania Avenue Are Much in Demand. Peychaud's Bitters.14.99 SAGAMORE OLD EBBITT GRILL BARREL SELECT 15.99 STRAWBERRY FIELDS 14.99 Musaragno 'Babbo' Prosecco, Italicus Rosolio Bergamotto, Strawberry-Basil Syrup Popular hang-out - specialising in fresh pasta, pizza, and salads in a beautiful, laid back restaurant. Additional private and semi-private space may be reserved in our Atrium dining room or rooftop patio. You may bring your own wine for a $25 corkage fee per 750ml bottle (maximum two 750ml bottles per reservation). Background Bars American (Traditional) Full Bar Classy Casual Takes Reservations Offers Takeout Good For Kids Good For Groups Good for Dinner Add your own word. "Small Space, Big Vision. "[103], In the late 1980s, Old Ebbitt Grill became a popular hangout for actors and crew from the nearby National Theatre and Warner Theatre. I am very grateful and very appreciative they still honored our reservation. [85] No legislation was enacted, however. "Scientists Use a Warm Bath to Get Oysters in the Mood. That's over $2 million more than the previous year. Served with your choice french fries, applesauce, or fresh fruit. WashingtonPost.com. [99] Instead, the basement contained a large private dining room. National health campaigns against high cholesterol had reduced demand for foods heavy in eggs. "High-Level Iran Cover-Up Shown in Testimony, Documents. The restaurant said it would lease 13,492 square feet (1,253.4m2) of space on two levels, with the bar, main restaurant, and oyster bar on the main level. Food was amazing and the service was excellent! He also praised the Breakfast Club, a deep-fried ham, French toast, and bacon breakfast sandwich. "A Q&A With John Laytham, CEO of Clyde's Restaurant Group. Menus; About About; Hours & Location; Employee Assistance Fund; Press; Oysters The old hotel continued to stand, and rumors said the building would be turned into a department store or a movie theater. [52], It was not clear if a new Ebbitt House hotel would be built. So, it is whatever you would like. We do not have elevator access to the room; it is accessible via stairs only. We do not have published calorie information as our menus change daily, weekly, and monthly. They got a lot of history and myth for their money. "Can Rhodes Tavern Be Resolved? [4][18] The hotel had 300 rooms, canopied windows, and an elevator. [13] Given the numerous newspapers with offices along 14th Street between E and F Streets, the area was nicknamed "Newspaper Row," a name it would hold into the 1930s. ", du Lac, J. I like their lack of dress code allowing you to turn up in simply shorts and t-shirt if you wish. Can't wait to go back! It retained that name after its ownership changes in 1961 and 1970. ", "Reality Check: US Restaurateurs Say Cons Sent Mostly Static. Would definitely come back to this restaurant. Price $$$$$. Web Visit website. On the left of the foyer and up the five marble stairs is the Corner Bar. ", Kessler, Pamela. See: Kelly, John. Join Our Newsletter. He did not proceed at the time, but the threat of demolition was a catalyst to a committee of citizens known as the "Landmarks Committee" recommending in 1970 that the city enact legislation protecting the two structures and Old Ebbitt Grill. ", "Visitors to the Mall Have Plenty of Dining Options While Sightseeing. The Corner Bar is decorated with paintings by Claiborne D. Gregory, Jr., and carved waterfowl decoys by numerous artists. [63], The restaurant had little reputation by 1969, and was primarily known for its pork chops, seafood, and steaks, and as one of the few D.C. restaurants to serve dinner until 12:30 A.M.[65] In July 1969, Old Ebbitt Grill was one of 171 firms in the city cited for non-payment of taxes. The choice of accommodation near Old Ebbitt Grill greatly varies from luxurious hotels to affordable guesthouses. Old Ebbitt Grill Questions & Answers 12,965 Reviews Ranked #12 of 3,480 Restaurants in Washington DC Here's what previous visitors have asked, with answers from representatives of Old Ebbitt Grill and other visitors 28 questions sorted by: Answered | Most Recent | Fewest Answers English first English first Avise S Indianapolis, Indiana Today, Clyde's Restaurant Group has grown to include 13 properties. [26] Future president William McKinley and his wife lived there from 1877 to 1890, during his entire congressional career. [146], Old Ebbitt Grill is mentioned in the novels Path of the Assassin by Brad Thor,[147] The Outlaws by W.E.B. The Omelet Room did not make the transition to the new location. 675 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 202.347.4800. [105], President George H. W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush met the singer and actor Sting at Old Ebbitt Grill in September 1989 after his Washington debut in the title role in Three Penny Opera. The crab Benedict was delicious, the coffee was hot and the restaurant was beautiful. This is a beloved restaurant by both tourists and locals. Yes, we offer select gluten-free items and can modify others upon request. "A Bash to Call Its Own. [119] Over the next two weeks, the restaurant lost half its business, which normally ran 2,000 customers a day, most of them politicians and businesspeople. Old Ebbitt Grill, ranked #5, brings in the most annual sales in DC: more than $32 million. The Old Ebbitt brigade consists of 300 employees, over 100 of who work in the kitchen directly under Chef Joseph Allen's guidance. Main content starts here, tab to start navigating. I called to let them know. Henry, Kate Kearney. It has also been the site of parties hosted by famous actors and singers. The large Howard Chandler Christy painting, "Three Bathers", hangs near the rear of the Main Dining Room. Old Ebbitt Grill was demolished in 1983 during redevelopment of the site. Saw a few nice t-shirts, and a few suits and dresses. MonFri 8:00 am2:00 am A new head chef and assistant chefs had already been hired. Washington DC. In 1994, Clydes Restaurant Group commissioned Nantucket artist James Harrington a self-taught, impressionist painter to capture unofficial Washington. In July 1992, the Washington Business Journal said the 390-seat Old Ebbitt Grill grossed more money than any other restaurant in the D.C. metropolitan area. The. As a boarding house, the Ebbitt guest list read like a Who's Who of American History. [143] To help the Shell Recycling Alliance, Old Ebbitt Grill introduced a new element to its Oyster Riot, a Saturday afternoon event known as "Matinee Riot." Smith. [2][3] The four parcels lay west-to-east along 14th Street. Guests dined at tables set with tablecloths imported from Scotland, using Haviland & Co. Limoges porcelain china, silver-handled knives and forks manufactured by Reed & Barton, and Bohemian glassware. The menu served buffet-style included Blue Point oysters, green sea turtle, Kennebec River salmon, mutton, chicken, hominy fritters, stewed diamondback terrapin, canvasback duck, English pheasant, and a variety of vegetables, fruits, cheese, crackers, nuts, pies, and puddings. Reserve Now. The restaurant was forced to close for two days when streets near the White House were closed. [61] His son, Anders R. Lofstrand, Jr., invented a machine to wash drinking glasses at Old Ebbitt Grill. The Atrium Dining Room contains a large marble fountain, and is open to the atrium in the center of Metropolitan Square. Between the moves and its history, the Old Ebbitt has amassed a priceless collection of antiques and memorabilia. A fire broke out in the kitchen on August 12, 1913, doing extensive damage. Great service. Old Ebbitt Grill DC Parking 0 Results Sort by Distance [82] It was one of the few dining places in the city to stay open until 1:00 A.M.[77]. That was hugely disappointing but not the fault of Ebbitts. In the 1920s, when the Ebbitt moved to a converted haberdashery at 1427 F Street NW, they were combined into a single Old Ebbitt Grill. He decided to devote the whole 14th Street side to the restaurant, as well as to renovate the kitchen. By the early 20th Century, the Ebbitt had relocated to what is now the National Press Building at 14th and F Streets NW. Although originally a four-hour, all-you-can eat and drink event held on one day, by 2011 Oyster Riot had expanded to a three-day event held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Attentive but not overbearing. The bar and restaurant in the. For example, after the repeal of Prohibition in the United States, Ebbitt Grill sought a liquor license in May 1934. It is Washington's oldest bar and restaurant, and is owned by Clyde's Restaurant Group. A replica was crafted instead. In 1800, Crawford built two four-story Federal-style houses on the two easternmost parcels of this property. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Consistently great food and service. [22], Ebbitt House and its restaurant were razed in 1926 to make way for the National Press Club building. Old Ebbitt Grill did not close its doors at 1427 F Street until September 12, 1983. [113], In 1995, business dropped after Pennsylvania Avenue NW was closed to street traffic and curbside parking was eliminated in front of the restaurant on 15th Street NW for security reasons following the bombing by an American domestic terrorist of the Oklahoma Federal Building. Clyde's Political T-Shirt. "The New Workplace Motto: Let's Not Do Lunch. In 1976, Vladimir I. Alekseyev, a reporter for the Soviet Union's news agency, TASS, contacted United States Information Agency employee Ronald L. Humphreywho was already acting as a spy for the North Vietnamese government. Located just two blocks from the White House, this historic venue sits right in the middle of all of the history and character Washington, D.C. has to offer. The restaurant, called "cheerful and sunny" by the Washington Post, fronted onto 14th Street NW, was lit with crystal chandeliers, and could seat up to 225 people. [125], By 2008, however, Old Ebbitt Grill's reviews had improved. "Ebbitt Hotel, Gone, Had Its Beginning in Boarding House. [120] After First Lady Laura Bush began patronizing the restaurant,[121] business soon returned to normal. We had crab/artichoke dip & meatballs starters, salmon entree, Parmesan fish entree, and bread pudding dessert. Old Ebbitt Grill 675 15th St NW, Washington DC, DC 20005-5702 (National Mall) +1 202-347-4800 Website E-mail Improve this listing Get food delivered Order online Ranked #9 of 3,485 Restaurants in Washington DC 13,049 Reviews Certificate of Excellence Price range: $10 - $40 Cuisines: American, Seafood More restaurant details Becky D But when auction proceeds fell short of the lien on the property, bidding began again, but this time on the entire contents. ", Dickey, Christopher. 1226 36th Street, NW Washington, DC 20007. "Three Bars With Ties to D.C.'s Prohibition Past. The Home of Handmade Fresh Pasta. The Iran-Contra affair was exposed by the press on November 3, 1986, and on November 13, President Reagan publicly admitted that an arms-for-hostages deal existed. The restaurant was incorporated by Anders Lofstrand, Sr., as a stand-alone business. A jury could not reach agreement on the charges in December 1913,[47] but the charges were not dismissed until September 1914. "Court Told Humphrey Reported Soviet Spy Offer. Great food and great people! [60] He and his wife, Elizabeth, later purchased Southlawn Farm, which is now a part of the city of Rockville, Maryland, in 1944, and in 1946 built a factory on it. Reynolds smuggled the document out of North's office and took it to a luncheon meeting at Old Ebbitt with Attorney General Edwin Meese. His revival of Sweet Charity, which he choreographed, had just debuted at the National Theatre. The long bar still sported mounted game animal trophies overhead, the fixtures were of marble or brass, and the curtains of lace. I see a lot of tourists wearing T-shirts and sandals during summer (but I don't really see anyone with tank tops, flip-flops, or swear pants). The food was delicious. Please call Jordan Hammes at 202.552.5000, 675 15th St NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20005. The back waiter system was created so that waiters continued to wait on tables rather than spending time in the kitchen waiting for orders to be filled.[98]. "[22] The paneled bar[4] was reached by passing through the lobby and down a flight of stairs into the basement. Booked our trip and flights to DC based on this reservation and they ran out of oysters! [49] In 1923, the Willard estate, which had retained ownership since Lucy Willard's death in 1910, decided to sell the hotel. Business was good for many years, but by the end of the 1960s, the Ebbitt was in hock. An air conditioning plant was installed, elevators replaced, sleeping rooms enlarged, and bathrooms added to all sleeping rooms. Location Map CONTACT 675 15th St. NW, Washington D.C. 20005 United States (202) 347-4800 https://www.ebbitt.com/ More To Discover hotels activities restaurants shops Viceroy Washington D.C. Meatloaf was delicious. The cheese sampler is divine as is the eggs Benedict (Chesapeake style with crab cakes!). The owners of Clyde's acquired the Old Ebbitt in 1970. Old Ebbitt Grill Restaurant - Washington, DC | OpenTable Find a table Booked 233 times today Order delivery or takeout (202) 347-4801 Delivery 675 15th Street, NW Washington, DC 20005 Cross street 15th between F and G Neighborhood Downtown Hours of operation Daily 11:00 am-9:00 pm Cuisines American, Steak, Seafood Dining Style Casual Dining [93] Old Ebbitt's famous mahogany bar was not installed in the new location. Shutt's plans had changed somewhat in the intervening nine months. However, the diversion of funds to the Contras was not yet exposed. The restaurant's dcor was saved and the Grill opened as its own entity around the corner at 1427 F Street. Definitely did not disappoint. Grant's Bar, named for American Civil War General Ulysses S. Grant, features a ceiling mural by Carol Loeb. This allows a bottle of wine to remain open for up to two weeks without spoiling. Two saloons coexisted there, a Dutch room and an Old English room. [22] Prohibition began in the District of Columbia on November 1, 1917. Attendance was so large, the party spilled out into the street. ", This page was last edited on 1 January 2023, at 04:04. Impressionist works by James Harrington hang throughout the restaurant. $ 7 CRG. ", Zibart, Eve. Our server was excellent! Copyright 2023 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 700, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved. The restaurant hired Robert McGowan, formerly a chef at Sardi's in New York City.[118]. He would use the excess funds to supply arms and supplies to the Contras. [135], In July 2019, Clyde's Restaurant Group was acquired by Graham Holdings.[136]. [75] By 1977, Washington Post food critic Donald Dresden was praising the restaurants bacon cheeseburgers and innovative menu items: "Imitators are still trying to top Clyde's and the Ebbitt's bacon cheeseburgers and the disc-shaped deep-fried potatoes that come withbut they'll have to keep trying still. Alex Kapranos, lead singer for the Scottish rock band Franz Ferdinand, included an entry on Old Ebbitt Grill in his 2006 book, Sound Bites: Eating on Tour With Franz Ferdinand. We were seated in the atrium, which was significantly more quiet than the inside area of the restaurant (though it still wasnt very quiet). [46] Three months later, city officials accused Shutt of selling liquor in the bar to underage children. The bar remains open until 2 am on weekdays and until 3 am on the weekends. Our waitress was amazing! Wonderful food and experience. "To Tan, a Place in the Sun Not Needed. While you can go to any restaurant in America and be greeted with tacky, store-bought, kitsch . "Zephyr Hopes to Exploit Mystique of Luxury Train Travel.". Although the policy was a 15 minute grace period, they seated us almost immediately after our arrival. Make Restaurant Reservations. Beginning in 1984, officials in the Reagan administration sought to sell conventional weapons to Iran via Israel in exchange for Iran using its influence to win the release of American hostages being held by Hezbollah and other terrorist groups in Lebanon, which was then in the throes of a civil war. ", Richman, Phyllis C. "Star Service Up on the Roof. ", Stroup, Sheila. Laytham said the restaurant turned away 800 to 900 customers a day and did $26 million in sales in 2011. When shown the document, Meese allegedly said, "Oh, darn." Location (s) 675 15th St NW. [89] 1427 F Street NW was demolished in early December 1983. The Cabinet room can accommodate events from 5-75 guests. "U.S. Order Shuts Old Ebbitt Grill, Claims Owner Owes $11,000 in Tax. [94] Within a year, the restaurant was mostly being patronized by yuppies, lawyers, and tourists. "Remarks of John B. Larner Before the Society March 10, 1902, in Exhibiting An Old Photograph of the South-East Corner of 14th and F Streets. Post food critic Tom Sietsema continued to laud the friendly service. $ 25 The Tombs. [43] Lucy Parker Willard, widow of Caleb Willard, died on January 12, 1910. ", Singletary, Michelle. In 2010, Old Ebbitt Grill joined the Shell Recycling Alliance, a project of the Oyster Recovery Partnership, anonprofit helping to restore oyster populations in the Chesapeake Bay. Old Ebbitt Grill is just steps from The White House and museums in downtown Washington. "Barricades a Blow to Business. In 1926, after the restaurant became incorporated as a stand-alone business, it was known as both "Ebbitt's Grill" and "Old Ebbitt Grill". [13] Blanchard's daughter, Jane Farnham, inherited the property on June 10, 1850, after his death. "A Shell Game for a Cause. Steps away from the White House, the Old Ebbitt Grill is the perfect location for your next event. The Atrium Dining Room in the rear offers table seating, although fixed, long benches provide some seating. [14] At that time it was not yet part of the hotel; Willard leased the building to the New York Times for use as office space. Old Ebbitt Grill: Old Ebbitt Grill - See 13,051 traveler reviews, 3,062 candid photos, and great deals for Washington DC, DC, at Tripadvisor. Make a reservation or be ready to wait during peak dinner and lunch times. Locally sourced seafood & seasonal produce. $ 25 OEG. View Website. We had a great cappuccino as well, only suggestion would be to get some cappuccino cups instead of serving cappuccino in mugs. Absolutely loved our experience at the famous Old Ebbitt! The United States was barred by the Boland Amendment from supporting the Contras. [13] Next to the one-story buildings was Farnham House. Best meal we had in DC. The service was fantastic. . [88], The time frame for closure proved optimistic. Willard. OLD EBBITT GRILL - 8647 Photos & 9645 Reviews - 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC - Menu - Yelp Restaurants Auto Services Old Ebbitt Grill 9645 reviews Claimed $$ Bars, American (Traditional), Breakfast & Brunch Edit Open 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Next day) Hours updated 2 weeks ago See hours See all 8671 photos Write a review Add photo Save Menu ", Bucklin, Randolph E. "Old Ebbitt to Be Moved Next Door. [35] Willard's estate rented Ebbitt House to George R. Shutt, who had formerly managed the National Hotel at 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. [45], The hotel continued to decline. Great spot!! [27] He dined almost nightly with his wife in the restaurant. ", Dempsey, Mike. Can I bring my own wine? Excellent oysters both raw and Rockefeller. [5] William Crawford installed Richard and Sarah Forrest in his houses, and they inherited them upon his death. of 2 NEXT [89] The walls were paneled in mahogany and the ceilings decorated with murals and stencils. Clyde's Restaurant Group spent $4.4 million constructing and outfitting the interior. At breakfast, the waiters wore brown cutaway jackets, vests, and pants with a gold stripe, while in the evening they changed into black tuxedos. Old Ebbitt Grill is a senior D.C. restaurant. They also have an oyster happy hour, with half-priced oysters every day from 3-6pm and after 11pm. . ", Kramer, Joan. Bechas was successfully prosecuted for failure to pay sales taxes in 1963 and 1966, and was prosecuted again in 1970. Martin, Douglas. The most important step is for the server to be notified at the outstart of the meal about any special needs. April 23, 2010, p. 7. Old Ebbitt Grill is just steps from The White House and museums in downtown Washington. ", Von Eckardt, Wolf "Big Stakes In a New City Game. The media reported on Old Ebbitt Grill only a few times. The service and food were amazing! Additional private and semi-private space may be reserved in our Atrium dining room or rooftop patio. [129], In January 2012, Clyde's Restaurant Group chief executive officer John Laytham claimed that Old Ebbitt Grill was the third or fourth highest grossing restaurant in the country. While you can go to any restaurant in America and be greeted with . Craney. Downstairs from the entry foyer is the Cabinet Room, a dining room available for private events. [30] Rear Admiral John Lee Davis also lived and died there. Held at noon, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Oyster Recovery Partnership. [32] From the late 1860s until the 1910s, it was considered "Army and Navy Headquarters" because of the number of military personnel who lived there and the large number of veterans' meetings held there. [24] It is well-documented that President Ulysses S. Grant and President Andrew Johnson both dined in the restaurant frequently,[25] as did abolitionist clergyman Henry Ward Beecher. [67], Old Ebbitt Grill was purchased on June 16, 1970, at a tax sale by Stuart C. Davidson and John Laytham, co-owners of the restaurant Clyde's of Georgetown. [111] The Washington Post's Phyllis Richman claimed the combination of superb hamburgers with seasonal foods such as fresh Alaskan halibut, corn on the cob in the summer, and locally grown vegetables and berries, was what drew customers. ", "The Removal of Chief Justice Chase's Body. Old Ebbitt Grill is a must when visiting Washington DC! Come here and have delicious draft beer, house wine or bourbon. [94][95] Gas lamps were used in the main bar and booth area. No tour of the restaurant is complete without a glimpse into the handsome private dining room downstairs. It felt pricey, but we splurged on drinks, apps, and dessert. The Old Ebbitt Grill was the first expansion beyond the original Clyde's in Georgetown. ", Zak, Dan. [130] After a slow summer, business at the restaurant had slowed so much that sales were steady compared to 2011. It first opened as an unnamed restaurant in the Ebbitt House Hotel. [68] Clyde's was founded in 1963 by Davidson, then an investment banker, after new legislation made it legal to serve liquor to patrons standing at bars. ", Irwin, Neil and Hedgpeth, Dana. In November 1994, Old Ebbitt Grill reopened its oyster bar to much press attention. "Food & Drink: Changing Needs? The downtown saloon has remained in the [133], Old Ebbitt Grill said in December 2012 that it was already booked for a private event for the second inauguration of Barack Obama. Billy Simpson's House of Seafood and Steaks, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Old_Ebbitt_Grill&oldid=1130825036. - See 12,996 traveler reviews, 2,999 candid photos, and great deals for Washington DC, DC, at Tripadvisor. The food was excellent. Bringing its rich history with it, the "new" Old Ebbitt remains a historic landmark. This place is fabulous! Today the Victorian interior evokes Washington saloons at the turn of the century. What are my transportation options and is parking available nearby? 675 15th St NW Washington D.C., DC 20005 Established in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is the oldest dining saloon in Washington. Paintings of game birds by Robin Hill hang in the Cabinet Room. Skip to main content 675 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 202.347.4800 Demolition would include Old Ebbitt Grill and Rhodes' Tavern. [76] The restaurant featured bare, unpolished wood flooring throughout, with a fern bar on the second floor. The Hotel distinguished itself as the first hotel in Washington to remain open all summer instead of closing when Congress adjourned. and Butterworth IV, William E. Gutheim, Frederick Albert and Lee, Antoinette Josephine. Please call Jordan Hammes at 202.552.5000 Private party contact Feels like home every time we go there. The restaurant donated about 14,000 oysters a week to the alliance in 2010. [131], In 2011, The Washington Post listed Old Ebbitt Grill as one of the top three raw bars in the city.