Stories and photos by Roxie LaFever (unless otherwise indicated)
Finding food in DC is easy and good food can be found at any price …. but some unique offerings are international flavor, historical perspectives, or rooms with a view. Whether seeking a snack while sightseeing or looking for a place for a leisurely evening meal, these are a few of the many options to consider.
Union Station
When facing the capitol end of the mall, take the 45-degree angled street to the left and end up at Union Station. Yes – it is an Amtrak train station first built in 1907 – but it also has a full food court on the lower level and many great restaurants and pubs to choose from on the main and upper floors, depending on your time and monetary options. Pizza, sandwiches, donuts, and coffee shops galore. There is also a pharmacy, or you can do a bit of shopping for souvenirs and clothes in the boutiques. For more information see https://www.unionstationdc.com/.
Food Trucks along the Mall
One of the easiest places to grab a quick bite while seeing the sites along the mall is at one of the many food trucks offering Mexican, Thai, Chinese or anything else you might be craving. Ice cream, bottled water and soft drinks also abound. Then choose a shady spot under one of the trees to enjoy a mini picnic. All we ask is that you make sure to place any trash or leftovers in the bins provided.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A restaurant, a saloon, and a favorite of mine for 20+ years. Old Ebbitt started out as a boarding house and history says it was “home” to President McKinley. When the saloon was added, it became a favorite watering hole for Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt and Warren Harding. At its current location on 15th Street, and within easy walking distance of the White House, it still attracts many well-known celebrity and political types for dinner and drinks.
There are four bar areas to choose from with dining rooms in between. Each bar has its own personality, from Victorian era for the Main Bar and a Chesapeake theme for the Oyster Bar. A Federal-style room similar to a downtown club is the Corner Bar, and in back we have Grant’s Bar, with oil paintings from the early 1900s depicted on the walls and ceiling. The food is excellent with extensive offerings of oysters when in season. Check out their diverse menu at https://www.ebbitt.com/. Valet parking is available simply by pulling up out front. Make sure to wander over to see the White House while there, or stop at the American Store (same block) for great souvenirs.
POV Terrace at the W Hotel
Locals remember this as Hotel Washington, now under new ownership, and newly remodeled. Just across 15th Street from the White House, there is nothing better than spending a few hours away from the typical tourists by having a nice lunch, dinner or drinks on the top floor…known as POV Terrace.
POV Terrace serves American cuisine like Maryland Crab Cakes, fresh seafood, juicy burgers, and an amazing selection of cocktails, too. No one admitted under the age of 21 after 7 pm. Dress code is described as “Casual Sophistication,” so do not show up in your sightseeing attire. More information about the W Hotel, POV and their other amenities available at https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/waswh-w-washington-dc/.
Café Milano in Georgetown
On a side street just up from the center of Georgetown awaits a small piece of Italy, including a sidewalk café during the warm months. The Washington Post calls it “The Ultimate Place to See and Be Seen,” and most would concur.
Opened in 1992, the owner Franco Nuschese created a place reminiscent of home in Milan, Italy. From fresh seafood and pasta to pizzas and monthly specialties, the taste buds will be sated. Try the Carpaccio, homemade ravioli, and Tiramisu or gelato for dessert. Call in advance, information available at https://www.cafemilano.com/.
Visit the Village at Shirlington
Looking for an easy area to hang out for the afternoon or evening? The Village at Shirlington offers diverse restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating and both an American and an international flair.
Some shops specialize in cheese or wine, while others include bookstores and other products. You can hang out at the movies, enjoy a small local theatre, or even browse through the local library or grocery store. The area is easy to walk around as well as to find parking. See the map and list of shops/events at https://villageatshirlington.com/.
Alexandria Waterfront
At the bottom of King Street, at the water’s end of the Potomac River, visitors and locals love to walk along the boardwalk. They can step into the Torpedo Factory and see the artist’s stalls, shop for souvenirs and trinkets, or have a relaxing drink or dinner watching the boats float by.
The Chart House is a personal favorite, offering both indoor and outdoor seating, fresh seafood, and a wide selection of appetizers to entrees. Beyond the Chart House pictured here, stroll along a park and view the row houses, or turn back up King Street for additional shops and bars. The Waterfront area has much to offer and details can be found at https://www.visitalexandriava.com/restaurants/waterfront-dining/.
Gadsby’s Tavern
Step back into history at Gadsby’s Tavern, which was built circa 1785 and expanded in 1792. Today, it is a restaurant as well as a museum, serving both period and modern food. The museum offers daily tours and exhibits expanding on life in Alexandria and around Virginia, back in the time when our nation started. To find out what’s happening today, see https://www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com/.
