Seemor
Duke's GroceryB+Worth Trying
1513 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
· Pub, Bar, British restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1841 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Dupont gastropub best known for its Proper Burger, solid brunch, and friendly service, with occasional service inconsistencies and policy rigidity; good value for the neighborhood.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Duke's Grocery delivers solid neighborhood gastropub dining anchored by a celebrated Proper Burger and friendly, attentive service. Inconsistent execution—occasional underseasoned fish, variable burger quality, and scattered service lapses—prevents a higher grade, while the compact, sometimes cramped space limits its appeal as a destination. Worth visiting for the burger and lively Dupont vibe, though expect occasional uneven experiences.
Restaurant Summary
This Dupont pub-restaurant buzzes with warm neighborhood energy: a compact room, friendly staff, and a patio that regulars love. Many call the Proper Burger a must, while others find it rich; one diner summed it up as big on taste even if a little messy. Service trends positive, though a few visits ran into slow moments or policy rigidity. The cooking leans elevated comfort with global accents: British pub staples share space with tandoori salmon, shakshuka, and a banh mi. It is not fussy, just thoughtful and hearty. The Proper Burger anchors the menu, truffle mac and fries get cheers, and cocktails like the pickle martini add playful flair. If you love a lively gastropub with serious burgers, this lane is yours. Families do fine here thanks to comfort classics—burgers, fries, fish and chips, and simple brunch plates. There is no explicit kids menu, but the food is accessible. For picky eaters, stick to the familiar items; dishes like chicken and waffles use savory flavors that some kids (and adults) do not expect.
At a Glance
- Proper Burger frequently praised and a DC favorite for many
- Friendly, fast service most visits with cozy vibe and patio
- Policy rigidity around bottomless; some service lapses
- Inconsistent seasoning on fish and chips; occasional greasy burger takes
- Small space can be loud and cramped at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- proper_burger_reputation
- british_leaning_brunch
- creative_pub_menu
- strong_photo_engagement
What People Love
- That juicy, messy Proper Burger moment
- Attentive, upbeat servers and bartenders
- Comforting truffle mac and crispy fries
- Cozy interior with a welcoming neighborhood feel
Points of Concern
- Bottomless mimosa policy enforced strictly; mixed groups may be split
- Some find the burger greasy or overhyped versus price
- Fish and chips seasoning inconsistent; a few cold or missing-item incidents
- Small, loud space with occasional seating compromises
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For conservative palates: Proper Burger or Fish and Chips with a side of crispy fries
- For vegetarians: Truffle mac, Corn Elote, Avocado Toast, or Impossible patty swap
- For lighter brunch: Oeufs Norwegian or salads with added protein
Perfect For
- Casual burger night with friends
- Brunch before Dupont errands
- Solo bite at the bar between crowds
- Happy hour with a fun cocktail list
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Dupont Circle corridor with bars, cafes, and late-night foot traffic; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, busy, and well-lit; occasional street interactions typical of nightlife districts.
Nearby: Near LGBTQ+ nightlife, offices, and residential blocks; convenient for bar-hopping and casual dining.
Dupont CircleThe neighborhood features a mix of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and trendy bars, attracting a diverse crowd that enjoys a cosmopolitan and energetic atmosphere. It is popular for both dining and nightlife, with a strong emphasis on socializing and cultural events.
West Dupont CircleThis sub-area is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and a slightly quieter, more residential feel while still maintaining access to the vibrant dining and nightlife scene of Dupont Circle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–00:00
Saturday12:30–01:00, 10:00–01:30
Sunday10:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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