I’m never quite sure where to go when I want to eat a nice dinner out after work without straying too far off my path home. There are a ton of lunch places around, but many of those places don’t translate to dinner or aren’t even open. So when looking for one the other day for me and Julia, I went for one based on reputation, age and proximity – Old Ebbitt Grill – and so too did everyone else and their mothers. And coworkers, and buddies and business meeters. Let’s just say this place was packed. It has a huge sprawling set-up, and yet was still as loud, full and bustling as any place I’ve been to in DC – especially since it was a weeknight. It was a good thing we made a reservation.

Located just across the street from the Treasury building, the place is in prime real estate, and the restaurant encompasses a large bar, several large dining rooms, as well as spills into the atrium of the adjacent building. The latter is where we sat, and thankfully, because this was the quieter more romantic area of the restaurant.

The “main” draw to Ebbitt was “Maine”. Maine lobster, that is. With an interesting menu not too dissimilar from its operating restaurant, Clyde’s, Ebbitt’s was topped off with the monthly special of a 1.25-pound steamed Maine lobster dinner for $19. Seemed to be hitting the spot for most, as looking around the room, you might have thought it to be the nicest Red Lobster you’ve ever seen, considering all the suits that were being covered with lobster bibs. Maybe this is lobster season and Ebbitt has other draws, like its old-fashioned decor, raw bar or prime location near the White House, but if I were running the place, I’d sure as heck try to keep THAT special around as long as possible.

[Dishes Reviewed Individually Below]

To be honest, there was little to say bad about “old” Ebbitt. Maybe I’ll just look for something that is a little more “new” next time. And yes, there definitely will be a next time. Especially if they keep the lobster special going.

The quintessential DC food establishment. Dark lighting, long rail bar, and plenty of food items. Great happy hours, twice daily. Only in DC will you find your average happy hour and then another one after 10:30pm.

Old school D.C. place that is worth a visit. Sunday brunch is good.