Seemor
Old Ebbitt GrillA-Worth Trying
675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
· American restaurant, Bar, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (19620 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Iconic DC institution with lively vibes, strong seafood and steaks, great for oysters and brunch; book ahead and request main rooms to avoid atrium overflow.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Old Ebbitt Grill delivers strong food quality anchored by exceptional oysters and steaks, paired with outstanding historic setting appeal steps from the White House. However, inconsistent execution—particularly in overflow seating and during crowded service—prevents grade A territory. This institutional favorite excels when conditions align, making it a worthwhile destination for those who request main dining rooms and plan accordingly.
Restaurant Summary
Humming dining rooms, vintage woodwork, and a swirl of locals and visitors set the stage for a classic DC night. Service skews warm and efficient, and one diner said, "The filet was spectacular and the oysters shined." Request the main rooms—atrium overflow feels less special—then settle in for historic brasserie energy with lively bar buzz steps from the White House. The cooking favors polished comfort over theatrics. The culinary approach leans classic American brasserie with seafood and steaks: think fresh oysters, well-seared steaks, and signature crab cakes, with a few modern salads and bowls. Hits are frequent, though a dry burger or off-temp steak pops up on slammed nights; order accordingly and you will eat well in this institutional favorite. Families fit right in. There is a real kids menu (tenders, pasta, mini pizza, burger) and plenty that cautious eaters will actually want. Brunch brings waffles and pancakes, while dinner offers mac and cheese and fries for easy sides. If bringing little ones, aim for earlier seatings and request the main rooms; the atrium can feel less charming and gets quite busy.
At a Glance
- Excellent oysters, steaks, and classic desserts
- Historic ambiance and central location near the White House
- Atrium overflow seating lacks the iconic vibe of main rooms
- Can be noisy and crowded; waits are long without reservations
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- historic_interior_art
- oyster_program
- central_white_house_location
- broad_menu_spanning_brunch_to_steaks
What People Love
- The sense of DC history in the main rooms
- Super-fresh oysters with helpful guidance
- Well-executed steaks and crab cakes
- Warm service that keeps the pace despite crowds
Points of Concern
- Overflow seating in the atrium feels generic and undermines the historic ambiance (request main rooms when booking).
- Crowded and noisy at peak; long waits common without reservations.
- Occasional inconsistency: burgers can be dry; sporadic steak temp misses.
- Pricing is premium downtown; a few diners felt portions were light for cost.
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$52-$72 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood path: Oysters Rockefeller → Scallops ($38.99) → Key Lime Pie ($11.99).
- Steak path: Steak Frites ($34.99) with Bearnaise ($1.99) → Potatoes au Gratin ($9.99).
- Brunch path: Eggs Chesapeake ($30.99) → Grapefruit Brulee ($7.99).
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-sightseeing lunch near the White House
- Business dinners with classic American fare
- Oyster happy hour with cocktails
- Large-family brunch with kid-friendly options
Location Insights
Area: Monument-adjacent, high foot traffic, mix of tourists, politicos, and business diners.
Safety: Well-patrolled federal core; busy and well-lit though crowding common.
Nearby: Steps from the White House, near hotels, offices, and the National Mall museums.
Mount Vernon TriangleMount Vernon Triangle is a rapidly developing neighborhood known for its modern residential buildings, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking contemporary urban experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–02:00
Tuesday08:00–02:00
Wednesday08:00–02:00
Thursday08:00–02:00
Friday08:00–02:00
Saturday09:00–02:00
Sunday09:00–02:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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