The Old Ebbitt Grill: 7 Shocking Secrets Behind Washington D.C.'s Oldest, Most Powerful Saloon

Step inside the Old Ebbitt Grill, and you are immediately enveloped in a history that is deeper and more scandalous than any D.C. guidebook suggests. This is not merely a restaurant; it is Washington D.C.'s oldest saloon, a stone's throw from the White House, and a silent witness to nearly two centuries of American political drama. As of December 15, 2025, the institution continues to thrive, maintaining its historic charm while introducing fresh culinary updates that keep it at the forefront of the capital's dining scene.

The establishment, which officially traces its roots back to 1856, has served almost every American president since its founding. From its famed raw bar to its opulent Gilded Age decor, the Old Ebbitt Grill remains an essential stop for tourists, lobbyists, and lawmakers alike. Its enduring popularity and strategic location make it a perpetual newsmaker in the hyper-competitive D.C. restaurant landscape.

The Storied History and Key Figures of the Old Ebbitt Grill

The narrative of the Old Ebbitt Grill is a fascinating tale of constant relocation and ownership changes, yet its spirit as Washington’s premier gathering spot has remained intact. The establishment is a cornerstone of American history and a beloved institution of classic American cuisine.

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• Founder: William E. Ebbitt. In 1856, Ebbitt, an innkeeper, is credited with purchasing a boarding house near what is now Chinatown. This property eventually evolved into the Ebbitt House Hotel, which housed the original, unnamed restaurant that became the Old Ebbitt.
• Original Location: The first iteration was located near the edge of what is now Chinatown. Over the years, the bar moved to multiple locations before settling into its current, high-profile spot near the White House and the Treasury Department.
• Current Ownership: The restaurant is currently owned and operated by the Clyde's Restaurant Group, which acquired and revitalized the historic brand, cementing its status as a D.C. landmark.
• Recent Leadership: The establishment has recently seen leadership updates, with figures like Yousef Khatib guiding the landmark restaurant into its next era, ensuring the historic standards are maintained while embracing modern dining trends.

The establishment's history is peppered with famous patrons. President-elect William McKinley once took up residence at the Ebbitt House, and figures like Samuel Gompers were also known to frequent the premises, underscoring its deep ties to American politics and labor history.

The Old Ebbitt’s Hidden Political and Architectural Secrets

The true allure of the Old Ebbitt Grill lies in its seamless blend of history and power. Many elements of the bar and dining room are not just decorative; they are relics with shocking, untold stories.

1. The Presidents' Secret Bar Tab

Legend has it that the bar was a favorite haunt of numerous U.S. Presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, and Theodore Roosevelt. The original Ebbitt House was essentially their private dining room, a place where deals were struck away from the public eye. The tradition of presidential patronage continues, though today’s visits are often more discreet, cementing its reputation as the ultimate power lunch spot in the city.

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2. The Controversial 'Oldest Bar' Claim

While the Old Ebbitt Grill proudly markets itself as Washington’s oldest saloon, established in 1856, there's a subtle, ongoing debate. Some historians argue that the Round Robin Bar in the Willard Hotel, dating back to 1847, technically holds the title of the oldest operating bar. However, the Old Ebbitt Grill's continuous operation and the Ebbitt House’s founding date give it the widely accepted claim to the "oldest saloon" title in D.C.

3. The Million-Dollar Art Collection

The interior is a museum disguised as a restaurant. The elaborate collection of animal heads adorning the walls were allegedly bagged by President Theodore Roosevelt. Furthermore, the bar’s stunning collection of late 19th and early 20th-century paintings and bronzes, including pieces by renowned artists, is a testament to the wealth and history of its various owners and is worth a considerable sum. The famous oyster bar is also surrounded by intricate architectural details, including the Beaux-Arts chandeliers and the mahogany paneling, creating a historic ambiance that is unmatched.

Must-Try Menu Highlights and 2025 Culinary Updates

The Old Ebbitt Grill is famed for its classic American cuisine, but it is the Raw Bar and its seasonal offerings that consistently draw the largest crowds. The menu is constantly updated with seasonal produce and locally sourced seafood, ensuring a fresh experience even for repeat visitors.

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4. The Legendary Raw Bar Happy Hour

The Raw Bar is arguably the restaurant's most famous feature. It offers a daily happy hour that is considered one of D.C.'s best-kept secrets. Patrons can enjoy a diverse selection of fresh, locally sourced oysters from the mid-Atlantic and beyond at discounted prices. This focus on high-quality, fresh seafood is a major driver of its topical authority in the D.C. dining scene.

• Oyster Selection: The selection changes daily, featuring dozens of regional and national varieties.
• Must-Try Cocktails: The Bloody Maryland is a signature drink, a twist on the classic Bloody Mary, garnished with Old Bay seasoning and a jumbo shrimp, a true taste of the Chesapeake region.

5. The Signature Breakfast and Brunch Items

While known for dinner, the breakfast and brunch menus are equally iconic. The Eggs Chesapeake is a standout dish, featuring jumbo lump crab cakes, two poached eggs, an English muffin, and a decadent Old Bay hollandaise sauce, served with home fries. This dish is a perfect example of the restaurant's commitment to regional flavor.

6. The Unwavering Commitment to Premium Steaks

For those seeking a classic steakhouse experience, the Old Ebbitt Grill delivers. The menu features premium cuts, including the Filet Mignon and Boneless Ribeye sourced from Linz Heritage Angus, and a New York Strip Steak from Cedar River Farms. This commitment to high-quality, traceable beef ensures a fine dining experience alongside the historic pub atmosphere.

7. The Perpetual High-Volume Powerhouse

A final, often-overlooked secret is the sheer volume of business. The Old Ebbitt Grill is consistently ranked as one of the highest-grossing independent restaurants in the entire United States. This financial success is a testament to its operational excellence, its prime location, and its enduring appeal as a gathering place for everyone from tourists to the most powerful figures in the nation. Its ability to handle such high volume while maintaining a high standard of service and food quality is a marvel of the restaurant industry.

The Old Ebbitt Grill is more than just a place to eat; it is a vital piece of the nation's capital. Its history, its secrets, and its constantly updated, high-quality menu ensure that it will remain a powerful entity in Washington D.C. for decades to come.