Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Old Ebbitt Grill: Historic Washington Dining

Just a hop-skip from the White House, the historic Old Ebbitt Grill is the go-to spot for politicos and other capital city denizens. This is old-school D.C. at its best, with mahogany and velvet booths, gas-lit brass lamps, beveled glass, and a long bar suitable for mingling and sharing political secrets. The huge space has different dining sections to accommodate almost any mood, from elegant, to romantic, to casual. The menu is wide ranging, too, with everything from sandwiches to full-on entrees. The Old Ebbitt Grill aims to use local, sustainably raised meats and produce. Some diners think their burgers are the best on the eastern seaboard. Old Ebbitt is open every day for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch.

675 15th Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 347-4800
 

Gadsby’s Tavern: Drink With History

Gadsby's Tavern has been in business since 1770, so they must be doing something right. With attentive service and an authentic old-school atmosphere, you can depend on Gadsby's to serve you hearty food without too much fuss. Be sure to make a reservation, as the space only holds a maximum of nine tables. Start out with some fried oysters or the hot Smithfield Ham biscuits with Mascarpone cheese and a lush raspberry puree spread. Customers swear by the perfectly prepared prime rib with whipped potatoes. The whiskey chicken with red beans is a testament to poultry perfection.

Gadsby's Tavern
138 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 548-1288

Ketchup: Classic American Food With a Twist

This is an unusual chain restaurant—it has three branches, one in Los Angeles, one in Oxon Hill, and one in . . . Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—there really couldn't be three more different places. The mission of Ketchup is to serve up classic American foods with a gourmet 21st-century twist. This kind of modern comfort food has become a major trend in the American restaurant scene, and judging from the crowds that pack into Ketchup every night they’re doing it right. If you’ve ever wanted a martini mixed with Kool-Aid or Yoo-Hoo, this is the place for you. Check out the Barking Dogs—a pair of luxe Kobe beef hot dogs, slathered in chili and melted cheese. Of course, the place makes its own ketchup in-house, in a variety of flavors. Some diners complain that the place is a little overpriced for what you’re getting, but that’s to be expected at a a trendy, hot spot.

Ketchup
152 Waterfront Street
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
(301) 749-7099 ‎
www.dolcegroup.com