Old Ebbitt Grill, DC's oldest saloon (founded 1856), sits steps from the White House with mahogany bars, brass, and a famous raw bar. Touristy but genuinely historic; the twice-daily oyster happy hour is the local hack. Open early to 2am daily.
Key facts
| Hours | Mon 8:00am-2:00am Tue 8:00am-2:00am Wed 8:00am-2:00am Thu 8:00am-2:00am Fri 8:00am-2:00am Sat 9:00am-2:00am Sun 9:00am-2:00am |
|---|---|
| Price | $$$ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Metro Center or McPherson Square (Blue/Orange/Silver/Red), ~5 min walk |
| Time needed | 1-2 hours |
| Best time to go | Oyster happy hour 3-5pm or 11pm-1am for value; avoid the weekday lunch tourist rush |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.6/10- Value7.3
- iconic7.5
- Freshness9.2
- excellence8.0
- Crowd level5.5
- Authenticity7.5
- Accessibility8.7
Frequently asked questions
- What should I order?
- Oysters and the raw bar are the signature, along with classic American dishes and a proper cocktail at one of the historic bars. Come for the seafood and the room. The trout is a longtime favorite too.
- How old is Old Ebbitt Grill?
- It traces its roots to 1856, making it DC's oldest saloon, though it has moved locations over the years. Presidents and political figures have frequented it. The current 15th Street space leans into that historic, clubby atmosphere.
- How late is it open?
- It's open until 2am daily, with the kitchen running late, making it a rare grand-old-restaurant that also works for a late-night bite near downtown. The late oyster happy hour is a hidden gem for night owls.
- Do I need a reservation?
- For dinner, especially weekends and around events, reservations via OpenTable are wise. The bar and raw bar take walk-ins, and happy hour is first-come. Big groups should book ahead.
- Is it good for a special occasion?
- Yes, the historic setting, dark wood, and gas-lamp atmosphere make it feel like an occasion, and it handles celebrations well. It's more classic-Americana grand than trendy. Ask for a booth for the full effect.
- What's the oyster happy hour deal?
- Old Ebbitt runs an oyster happy hour twice daily, roughly 3-5pm and again late night around 11pm-1am, with discounted oysters and raw-bar specials. It's the single best value here and the local's move. Confirm current pricing on arrival.
- Where is it relative to the White House?
- It's about a block from the White House and the Treasury, at 675 15th Street NW, very close to Metro Center. That central location makes it an easy add-on to a monuments-and-museums day. Transit access is excellent.
- Is Old Ebbitt Grill touristy?
- Yes, its location near the White House makes it a tourist staple, and midday can feel like it. But it's a genuinely historic institution that locals still use, especially at happy hour. Go off-peak and it shines.
Nearby in Ask Washington DC
- The White HouseAttraction0.27 km · 3 min walk
- Immigrant FoodRestaurant0.59 km · 7 min walk
- National Museum of African American History and CultureMuseum0.74 km · 9 min walk
- National Museum of American HistoryMuseum0.77 km · 10 min walk
- Minibar by José AndrésRestaurant0.86 km · 11 min walk
Where to stay near Old Ebbitt Grill
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