Old Ebbitt Grill
This oyster bar and restaurant, located right by the National Mall, is iconic for a reason. But you know how to beat the crowds—after a long day at museums, pass right by the hostess stand and take a seat at the bar for happy hour: no wait, no fuss, more discounted oysters, clams on the half shell, and chilled crab claws and lobster tails than you know what to do with. Now that you’re there on stolen time, you can take in the legend of it all, including the letters penned by Buffalo Bill Cody and animal heads that supposedly were bagged by Teddy Roosevelt. That’s the kind of American history you come to D.C. for. And here it comes with a side of mahogany, stained glass, and colossal “Orca Platters” with the works.
PRO TIP: Ask your bartender for the insider scoop on all of the memorabilia—it’s an impressive collection that’s better enjoyed after learning the juicy backstories.
THE DETAILS: Happy hour is seven days a week, 3–6 p.m. and 11 p.m.–1 a.m. (2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). During happy hour, all oysters are 50 percent off.
