Channel your inner Commander-in-Chief with these Oval Office-worthy eateries and bars in the nation's capital.
It’s fitting that presidents dating back to George H.W. Bush have dined at Todd Gray’s Mid-Atlantic inspired restaurant, since it’s located just a few blocks from the White House. Seasonal fare informs all of the eatery’s menus, from lunch to dinner to its Sunday vegan brunch. Get in your epic meal via the chef’s tasting menu or go a la carte all the way.
Established in 1856, the oldest bar in the District was once located in Chinatown, where reportedly numerous Commanders-in-Chief kicked back for a drink. As a former boarding house, the Ebbitt guest list reads like a "Who's Who" of American History. President McKinley is said to have lived there during his tenure in Congress, while Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt and Warren Harding supposedly frequented its stand-around bar. Now a Downtown mainstay, expect classic decor and a menu full of American specialties when you settle in for your own presidential experience.
This award-winning restaurant in DC’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood hosted a birthday celebration for President Obama and an anniversary celebration for the Clintons. Chef Vikram Sunderam is a DC culinary superstar, crafting a menu that takes Indian cuisine to the next level. Rasika West End’s sister restaurant, Rasika, is also highly recommended.
Founded in 1933 by former Major League Baseball player “Billy” Martin this tavern is a beloved gathering place for locals and luminaries alike, and a favorite among presidents. President John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier in Booth #3 (now called The Proposal Booth), President Nixon preferred Martin’s Meatloaf in Booth #2 and in 1954, five Supreme Court justices sat in Booth #3 debating Brown v Board of Education, a landmark decision that ended American school segregation for children.
Located just steps away from the White House inside the Willard InterContinental Hotel, the "Oval Office of Bars" is a historically favored meeting place for politicians, lobbyists and power brokers. The bar has crafted classic cocktails for the city's elite since 1847, including its famous mint julep, which was introduced to DC by Senator Henry Clay in 1850.
One of the city’s most revered restaurants recently received its first Michelin star, and was also where Barack and Michelle Obama celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary. A menu of delicious seasonal fare gives way to an unforgettable apple die dessert at this cozy abode located inside the Park Hyatt Washington.
Teddy & The Bully Bar
Salute one of the most revered presidents at Teddy & The Bully Bar, a tribute to – you guessed it! – Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th Commander-in-Chief. The decor reflects Teddy’s outgoing nature and masculine posture perfectly, as does a menu outfitted with robust meals with ingredients sourced locally. Take a seat at The Bully Bar for a Rough Rider Daiquiri or any number of expertly crafted cocktails.
Serving as a sister restaurant to Teddy & The Bully Bar, LINCOLN is another president-themed masterpiece. Located in the Downtown neighborhood, the distinctive locale features American Pop art, including pieces by Jasper Johns and DC’s own Maggie O’Neill. A seasonal small plate menu means you’re always sure to discover something fresh and exciting while at LINCOLN.
This Chinatown eatery welcomed Michelle Obama and friends for dinner in September of 2016, and for good reason. Owned by celebrity couple Bill and Giuliana Rancic, the hot spot sports a menu outfitted with pastas, seafood classics and slow-roasted meats, to go along with plentiful wine and cocktail offerings. Insider tip: Michelle dined on the lobster caprese.
What, did you really think that a José Andrés restaurant would not show up on this list? The Obamas often dined here for holidays and birthdays, so the Mexican food haven (and Bib Gourmand honoree) is well-equipped to provide a wondrous night out in DC. Try the guacamole, one of its many creative margaritas and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the grasshopper tacos.
Bourbon Steak
This Michael Mina steakhouse calls the chic Four Seasons Hotel its home, making it a very logical destination for Barack and Michelle Obama’s 20th anniversary dinner in 2012. Local farms and the Chesapeake Bay inform the menu at Bourbon Steak, where you can always savor a 22-ounce T-bone steak and wash it down with a pristine glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail.
Voted Washington DC’s signature dish, Ben’s iconic half smoke has attracted presidents, representatives, celebrities, locals and tourists alike for over 66 years. Stop by this iconic spot on U Street to experience a true slice of DC history.
The Monocle
As the closest restaurant to the Senate side of the U.S. Capitol Building, the Valonos family restaurant has hosted senators and staff for 40 years. It’s a hot spot for congressional fundraisers and has been the venue for caucuses by the Senate’s women members. Staffers historically call the Monocle when an important vote is coming up to ensure they'll be prepared for an influx of guests.
For a breathtaking, birds-eye-view of the White House and a panoramic view of the city skyline, make sure a stop to VUE at Hotel Washington is on your presidential to-do list. Whether you visit at the beginning or end of your day, the restaurant and bar is a stately spot to enjoy a quintessential American brunch or late-night cocktails.
Looking for a full itinerary of activities inspired by past and present Commanders-in-Chief? Check out our roundup of only-in-DC presidential experiences.
