By Victor Block
President Lyndon Johnson and Speaker of the House of Representatives Sam Rayburn used to frequent a booth in the busy restaurant, sharing food and discussing political tactics. Harry and Bess Truman along with their daughter, Margaret, dined in another cubicle. Nearby is Booth Three, where John F. Kennedy proposed marriage to Jacqueline Bouvier.
These scenes provide flashbacks in time at one history-rich restaurant in Washington, D.C. Residents of and visitors to the nation's capital and other cities and towns may dine with history, as well. The internet and local tourism bureaus are good source of information about such establishments.
Martin's Tavern is where the likes of Kennedy, Johnson and the Trumans gathered to share food, fun and in some cases, discussion of politics and world events. The fact that it has remained in the same family since it was established in 1933 adds to the appeal. So do the cozy bar, stained-glass light fixtures and vintage paintings of Washington that adorn the walls.
Kennedy and Richard Nixon were political luminaries who once entered the doors of The Monocle, located a stone's throw from the U.S. Capitol. Since it opened in 1960, fully half of the members of Congress have come there for food or drink. The walls are covered with photographs of presidents and members of Congress, past and present, and the second-floor dining room is a favorite with Cabinet officials.
The original Old Ebbitt Grill was founded in 1856 as a boarding house whose guest list included several future presidents. Regular patrons include politicians, entertainers and others seeking to enjoy the history and decor. The setting mimics that of the restaurant in the 1960s. Animal trophies said to have been shot by President Theodore Roosevelt look down upon those seated at the bar, and ceiling murals, oil paintings and carved waterfowl decoys add to the atmosphere.
The Tabard Inn occupies three Victorian-era row houses, as it has since 1922, and its 35 low-frills rooms serve as throwbacks to its founding. The lack of an elevator and TV sets in guest rooms add to its quaint appeal. Meals are enjoyed in the intimate dining rooms and covered patio, and light fare and beverages are available in the cozy fireplace lounge.
The 1789 restaurant is named for the year when the building that houses it was erected. Since 1960, a basement bistro called The Tombs has been a popular watering hole. The upstairs evolved into an elegant restaurant that serves classic French cuisine. The ambience includes American antique furniture, early American relics, a fireplace and gas chandelier. A "Parliament Clock" dates back to Colonial days, when the English legislature enacted a tax on watches.
The atmosphere is different, but no less nostalgic, at The Iron Gate Inn, named for its decorative entrance gateway. The edifice was constructed in 1875, and the builder's wife planted the wisteria vines that still shade the garden patio. The dining room occupies a former horse stable which was built in 1898.
Over the decades the location has been a tearoom, wedding reception hall and hangout for the writer Tom Wolfe. Some guests have claimed they heard or saw ghosts on the premises. One such apparition is reported to have emptied a bottle of whiskey, knocked over a chair and left a stain on the carpet.
The list goes on to include other places to eat that have intriguing stories to tell. Annie's Paramount Steak House has been family owned and operated since it was opened as the Paramount Steak House in 1948 by a Greek immigrant named George Katinas and his five sisters. Later George added Annie to the name to honor that sister's devoted service to her customers.
Early on Annie's became known as offering a welcoming environment to all, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. It has received a James Beard Foundation "America's Classics Award" for its "timeless appeal ... and quality of food that reflects the character of its community." Patrons approaching the restaurant are greeted by a colorful revolving mini-carousel in the front window that was designed and built by Paul, George's son and current owner. Paul's daughter, Georgia, who serves as manager, explains that "Paul likes to incorporate fun and whimsy into the place."
Annie's has no internet service for customers and no TV sets over the bar. That way, a waiter explained to me, "People spend their time here speaking with each other."
No story about venerable places to sup and sip in Washington would be complete without reference to Ben's Chili Bowl. That unassuming eat in-carryout spot has been serving down-home fare, including "half-smokes," hot dogs, sweet potato pie and, of course, chili since 1958.
It quickly became a favorite among jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole. Bon Appetit magazine has recognized Ben's as one of the country's "best chili spots," and the James Beard Foundation honored it among "eateries that have carved out a special place on the American culinary landscape."
WHEN YOU GO
www.martinstaverndc.com
www.themonocle.com
www.ebbitt.com
www.tabardinn.com/dining
www.1789restaurant.com
www.irongaterestaurantdc.com
www.anniesparamountdc.com
www.benschilibowl.com
Victor Block is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
The Iron Gate Inn in Washington, D.C., features a cozy bar that is good for conversation. Photo courtesy of the Neighborhood Restaurant Group.
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