Seemor
The Monocle RestaurantA-Worth Trying
Parking lot, 107 D St NE, Washington, DC 20002
· American restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (739 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A classic Capitol Hill steakhouse with polished old-school service, solid steaks and seafood, and a political time-capsule vibe; value is fair for D.C., but service can be uneven at busy times.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
The Monocle delivers strong food quality anchored by reliably excellent steaks and crab cakes, supported by polished service and distinctive old Washington character. Solid consistency across repeat visits and gracious owner presence elevate the experience, though occasional service lapses during rush and modest bar comfort prevent grade A territory. A respected Capitol Hill institution that delivers dependable steakhouse excellence.
Restaurant Summary
Step inside this Capitol Hill stalwart and the room hums with old Washington charm: dark wood, walls of political headshots, and jacketed staff who move with unhurried confidence. One diner summed it up: "They paced cocktails, appetizers, dinner, and dessert perfectly," while another loved the gracious owner presence at the door. Expect a crowd of suits at lunch and an intimate, classic steakhouse feel at dinner. The cooking leans elevated traditional rather than flashy: properly seared steaks, rich crab cakes, and well-sauced seafood. The culinary approach leans classic and ingredient-focused: reliable technique over theatrics. Most praise centers on the filet, ribeye, and salmon, with occasional quibbles about seasoning or temperature when the room is slammed. Value is solid for the neighborhood, particularly if you stick to core steak and seafood. Families can make it work here thanks to familiar staples like steak, salmon, and a vegetarian pasta, though the formal vibe is more celebration than weeknight. There is no explicit kids menu, so order simple preparations and sides like potato gratin or creamed spinach if bringing younger diners.
At a Glance
- Polished old-school service with owner presence
- Steaks and crab cakes consistently praised
- Historic political ambiance is distinctive
- Service can lag at rush and bar
- Premium pricing typical of D.C. steakhouses
What Sets It Apart
- historic_political_photo_walls
- owner_on_floor_hospitality
- classic_dc_power_dining
What People Love
- Feeling welcomed by the owner or manager
- Perfectly cooked filet and rich crab cakes
- A sense of D.C. history on the walls
- Relaxed pacing ideal for conversation
- Attentive servers who split shared plates
Points of Concern
- Bar service can feel curt during busy periods and refills may lag late in the meal
- Occasional misses on steak doneness or food temperature
- Prices are high; align expectations with classic steakhouse costs
- Dietary accommodations can be limited beyond basic requests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$65-85 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For a classic experience: filet ($44) + gratin ($6) + crème brûlée (if available)
- Seafood path: crab cake ($38) + arugula salad ($12) + salmon ($29)
Perfect For
- Power lunch near the Capitol
- Classic date night with steaks and wine
- Celebration dinner for traditionalists
- Solo bite at the bar before a Hill event
Location Insights
Area: Institutional Capitol Hill corridor frequented by lawmakers, staffers, lobbyists, and visitors; classic power-dining ambiance.
Safety: Generally well-patrolled and busy during business hours; quieter at night but typically safe along main routes.
Nearby: Steps from the Senate, near Union Station and congressional offices; heavy daytime foot traffic and business dining.
Capitol HillCapitol Hill is a historic and vibrant neighborhood known for its row houses, local markets, and a growing dining scene that ranges from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area attracts a diverse crowd including local workers, tourists visiting the Capitol, and residents enjoying a community-oriented atmosphere with accessible dining options.
Near Eastern MarketThis micro-neighborhood centers around the Eastern Market, a historic public market offering fresh food and artisanal goods. It has a lively dining environment with a mix of casual and trendy restaurants, attracting both neighborhood residents and visitors seeking authentic local flavors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–00:00
Tuesday11:45–00:00
Wednesday11:45–00:00
Thursday11:45–00:00
Friday11:45–00:00
Saturday17:00–00:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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