Old Ebbitt Grill: A Washington, D.C. Dining Icon

Great meal! We visited on a Sunday. We had a reservation for 5 pm but decided to come early to fully enjoy the 3 pm to 5 pm happy hour. The place was busy but we were seated within a few moments. We were so glad we went early-- by the time we left it was absolutely packed with a waiting line blocking the entrance. For appetizers we enjoyed oysters and sardines. For entrees we had delicious burgers and crab cake. For dessert we enjoyed the bourbon bread pudding. Everything was fantastic! Highly recommend

My friend and I decided to go here for an early Sunday brunch before heading out of town. I booked a reservation for 9:30am online and we were all set. When we arrived the place was calm. By the time we left, the place was packed and there was a long wait. I highly recommend going a bit early to beat the rush and recommend you make a reservation in advance. We felt fortunate we did both. Food and service here was wonderful. Our server was very attentive and our food came out quickly. The portion sizes were good and everything was very tasty. I can see why this place is popular. I would recommend checking out Old Ebbitt Grill if you are looking for a good brunch spot while in DC.

Old Ebbitt Grill is a classic D.C. experience — great atmosphere, rich history, and excellent food. The service was friendly and efficient even when busy. The oysters were super fresh and yummy. The overall vibe felt both elegant and welcoming. Perfect spot to relax after exploring the city. I would definitely come back.

It took over a decade of living in the DC area, but I’ve been to Old Ebbitt Grill twice in the past week or so, & it is…really good! I had the filet mignon with herb butter & steak fries last week, & it was spectacular. (Right alongside the Hamilton filet mignon, which tracks, as they’re both Clyde properties.) Tonight, I had the bacon cheeseburger & it was…okay. (At best.) I was honestly expecting it to be stellar—since the steak is!—but it was kinda dry, & the bacon was a bit crunchy/crispy. The restaurant has been absolutely slammed both times I’ve been, but I’ve been able to find seats for myself & my husband in the back bar area, which is quite lovely, & the service has been good. Also, the artwork throughout the entire restaurant is really impressive. I’d skip the burger, but I’d absolutely have the filet mignon again, & I understand why Old Ebbitt Grill is a DC institution. (&, they have matchbooks, which is always a plus!)

If you’re reading this because you haven’t already been convinced to check out this historic establishment by their rating alone, well then let me tell ya… put it on your list! Great vibe and ambiance, and service was top notch. The porkchop, which I don’t frequently order out, was a solid choice! Thick cut with excellent char yet succulent. The scallion added a touch of sweetness and bite, was a nice touch. The Swiss chard was well balanced and not bitter, bacon chunks added nice flavor and a smoky element but an overly one either. And the “grit cake” had a nice cheesy crust, soft sweet and creamy inside. The mussels were great. Broth was bright, sweet and citrusy. One of my favorite things in life is sopping up mussels broth with a nicely charred crusty piece of bread. And this didn’t disappoint! Bread pudding was a great way to end this amazing experience! It was everything you want in a bread pudding, warm, gooey, and chewy. Look forward to returning to try their well renowned oysters.

While visiting DC on a very cold day, we had lunch at the Old Ebbitt Grill. This is a fantastic and classy restaurant. I started off with the Winter Warmer cocktail. It has bourbon, brandy and apple cider. It was very good. For lunch, I had the crab cake with a side of burrata and brussels sprouts. It was outstanding. I love everything about this restaurant and highly recommend eating here.

We came for a day trip around the Mall and had a great lunch in the atrium of the Old Ebbitt Grill. The kids all ate off the kids menu and they all enjoyed their meal. I had a very good crab cake sandwich. The fried chicken sandwich looked amazing and my mom was quite happy with it, it was too large to manage as a sandwich, but very flavorful. My wife was happy with the eggs benedict, but not blown away.

One of the rare dining experiences that you remember for every part. The food, the service, the atmosphere, the history, and the memories made. I could tout this place as one of the those rare places that always meets every need for an amazing price point but I'd go on forever. It really is something you have to experience and I hope everyone does. Shout-out to Gabby for her amazing pin collection and being an even greater server. Cheers.