13 Washington Longtime Local Favorites That Still Impress After Decades
Washington, D.C. isn’t just about politics and monuments, it’s also home to some incredible restaurants that have been serving up delicious food for decades.
These local favorites have stood the test of time, proving that great food and warm hospitality never go out of style.
Whether you’re craving comfort food, international flavors, or classic American dishes, these longtime spots continue to impress locals and visitors alike.
1. Old Ebbitt Grill
Walking past the velvet booths and mahogany bar at Old Ebbitt Grill feels like stepping into a time machine set to 1856. I remember my first visit here during college—the oyster bar alone made me feel like a sophisticated adult, even though I was surviving on ramen most days.
This place has been serving presidents, celebrities, and regular folks for over 160 years, making it one of D.C.’s oldest saloons.
The menu is massive, featuring everything from fresh seafood to juicy burgers. Their raw bar is legendary, and the clam chowder could warm even the coldest heart. Service is always professional yet friendly, making everyone feel like a VIP.
2. Florida Avenue Grill
Since 1944, this no-frills diner has been dishing out soul food that’ll make your taste buds sing gospel hymns. Tucked away in the Shaw neighborhood, Florida Avenue Grill is the kind of place where the grits are creamy, the bacon is crispy, and the coffee keeps flowing. I once made the mistake of ordering a small portion of their famous fried chicken—rookie error, because I immediately wanted more.
The counter seating gives you front-row seats to the kitchen action. Breakfast is served all day, which is basically a gift to humanity. Don’t expect fancy décor; expect honest, delicious food served with a smile.
3. Ben’s Chili Bowl
Half-smokes are serious business at Ben’s Chili Bowl, and this U Street institution has been proving it since 1958. Presidents, comedians, and everyday Washingtonians have all lined up for their signature chili-smothered sausages.
My friend swears the secret ingredient is pure magic, though I suspect it’s actually just perfectly seasoned chili and decades of perfected recipes.
The walls are covered with photos of famous visitors, creating a mini hall of fame. They stayed open during the 1968 riots, feeding police officers and activists alike. The late-night hours make it perfect for post-concert munchies or curing whatever ails you after midnight.
4. Martin’s Tavern
Georgetown’s Martin’s Tavern has been pouring drinks and serving comfort food since 1933, making it older than your grandparents’ marriage (probably).
Legend has it that JFK proposed to Jackie in booth number three, which you can still sit in today if you’re feeling romantic or just want to soak up some presidential vibes. I tried proposing to my sandwich there once, but it didn’t work out—we had creative differences.
The menu features classic American fare like pot roast and crab cakes. Every president from Truman to Obama is claimed to have eaten here, so you’re in good company. The atmosphere is cozy and historic without being stuffy or pretentious.
5. A. Litteri
Stepping into A. Litteri is like taking a quick trip to Italy without the expensive plane ticket or jet lag. This family-run Italian market and deli has been operating since 1926, filling the neighborhood with the aroma of fresh-baked bread and imported cheeses. I once spent twenty minutes just staring at their sandwich menu because everything sounded so ridiculously good.
Their sandwiches are legendary—piled high with quality meats, cheeses, and toppings on fresh bread. The shelves are stocked with authentic Italian ingredients you won’t find at regular grocery stores. The staff knows their stuff and can recommend the perfect pasta or a drink for any occasion.
6. 1789 Restaurant
Named after the year Georgetown University was founded, 1789 Restaurant has been serving upscale American cuisine in a gorgeous Federal-style townhouse since 1960.
Candlelight flickers off antique furnishings, creating an atmosphere so romantic that even your credit card forgives the splurge. I celebrated a major milestone here once, and the experience made me feel like I’d finally achieved peak adulthood.
The menu changes seasonally, featuring refined dishes with local ingredients. Service is impeccable—attentive without being intrusive. It’s perfect for special occasions when you want to impress someone or just treat yourself like the royalty you are.
7. The Monocle
Politicians have been making deals and enjoying steaks at The Monocle since 1960, just a stone’s throw from the Capitol building. It’s located at 107 D Street NE, where you might spot a senator arguing over the bill (the restaurant one, not legislation) or staffers celebrating a victory.
I felt incredibly important eating there, even though my biggest decision that day was choosing between mashed potatoes and fries.
The menu features classic American steakhouse fare with generous portions. Their crab cakes are a local favorite, perfectly seasoned and not filled with unnecessary bread. The atmosphere is clubby and traditional, with photos of political figures lining the walls like a yearbook of American government.
8. Murry & Paul’s
Comfort food gets a standing ovation at Murry & Paul’s, where the portions are generous and the prices won’t require a second mortgage. This unassuming spot has been feeding hungry Washingtonians home-style meals for decades, though the exact founding year isn’t publicly documented.
My dad still talks about their meatloaf like it’s a long-lost friend he desperately wants to reconnect with on social media. Breakfast and lunch are their specialties, with everything cooked fresh to order.
The pancakes are fluffy enough to double as pillows, though I don’t recommend sleeping on them. Staff treat regulars like family, remembering your usual order and asking about your week.
9. Old Europe
Schnitzel and sausages reign supreme at Old Europe, a German restaurant that’s been serving authentic European cuisine since 1948. The menu reads like a delicious tour through Germany, Austria, and beyond, with dishes that stick to your ribs in the best possible way.
I attempted to pronounce several menu items correctly and failed spectacularly, but the waiter was kind enough not to laugh directly in my face. The atmosphere is cozy and Old World, with dark wood and European touches throughout.
The restaurant is located in Glover Park on Wisconsin Avenue NW, not the U Street area. They do not offer a weekend buffet—but the hearty entrées still guarantee you’ll leave full.
10. Bullfeathers
Congressional staffers and lobbyists have been unwinding at Bullfeathers since 1979, making it the unofficial watering hole of Capitol Hill. The name comes from a Teddy Roosevelt expression, which is a polite way of saying something isn’t quite true (use your imagination).
I overheard more political gossip during one lunch here than I’d heard in a month of watching cable news. The menu offers reliable American pub food—burgers, salads, sandwiches—nothing revolutionary but everything done well.
Happy hour is packed with the after-work crowd looking to decompress. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with TVs showing sports and news to keep everyone informed or distracted.
11. Rasika
Modern Indian cuisine reaches spectacular heights at Rasika, which opened in 2005 and quickly became a D.C. dining institution. Chef Vikram Sunderam’s creations have earned national acclaim, transforming traditional dishes into contemporary masterpieces.
The palak chaat changed my entire understanding of spinach—suddenly the leafy green went from boring side dish to absolute superstar. Reservations are essential because everyone wants a taste of their innovative menu. The crispy spinach appetizer is so popular it should run for office.
Spice levels are customizable, so both timid taste buds and fire-breathing adventurers can find happiness here. The sleek, modern interior matches the elevated cuisine perfectly.
12. Heat Da Spot
Heat Da Spot is a beloved Ethiopian-owned café offering breakfast classics, espresso drinks, and some Ethiopian-influenced dishes. It opened in the mid-2010s and the food that is served here still inspires plenty of happy dances.
The menu features hearty breakfast sandwiches, waffles, pancakes, and occasional Ethiopian-style specials that transport your taste buds in a different, but equally delicious, direction. Portions are generous, and prices are reasonable for the quality.
The casual atmosphere focuses on friendly service and great food rather than fancy décor.
13. Le Diplomate
Parisian bistro vibes come alive at Le Diplomate, which opened in 2013 and immediately became the place to see and be seen. The atmosphere captures that effortlessly chic French café culture where everything feels sophisticated, even if you’re just ordering coffee.
I practiced my terrible French accent here once, and the waiter politely pretended not to notice while taking my order in perfect English. The menu features French classics like steak frites, escargot, and croque monsieur executed beautifully.
Weekend brunch is a neighborhood institution with bottomless coffee and people-watching opportunities. The outdoor patio is perfect for warm weather dining and channeling your inner Parisian, beret optional but encouraged.