Old Ebbitt Grill

Old Ebbitt Grill is a huge tourist draw thanks to its status as the oldest restaurant in the city. That doesn’t mean locals should ignore it—especially when it comes to fresh oysters and a cold beer. The iconic back bar is a great place to hang out during happy hour, when oysters are $12 for six and $24 for a dozen. There are plenty to choose from, along with other specials from the raw bar. But the best part is that the deal runs seven days a week from 3 to 5 pm and then again late-night from 11 pm to 1 am.

Whether you’re a tourist or local, Old Ebbitt Grill calls your name for its reliable service, oyster happy hour, and Chesapeake seafood dishes like Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and seasonal Soft Shell Crab Sandwiches. Securing the spot as Washington's oldest saloon, it was founded in 1856. While no one can pinpoint the original location, Old Ebbitt Grill’s current spot just outside the White House has transformed into an around-the-clock buzzy bar and restaurant, where the bartenders can and will quiz you on presidential history. Take in the beauty of this Beaux-Arts building that was once the old B. F. Keith's Theater, and time your visit accordingly to align with oyster happy hour. A dozen oysters on the half-shell are just $24 from 4 to 5 pm daily, perfect for capping off a day exploring the National Mall.

Located right across from DC’s most famous address is one of the most iconic restaurants in The District. Old Ebbitt Grill is an institution known best for oysters and other raw bar favorites, which also recently reopened its atrium and has ample dining space for larger parties. You simply can’t beat the happy hour specials. A dozen oysters on the half-shell and a half-dozen are $12 are $24 from 4 to 5 pm daily, perfect for capping off a day exploring the National Mall. The oysters come from up and down the East Coast, including Moondance oysters from Maine, Blish Point oysters from Massachusetts, and Standish Shore oysters from New York. Beyond the old-school restaurant’s raw bar offerings, you’ll find burgers, jumbo lump crab cakes, and other classic American dishes that can be enjoyed in the sprawling dining room or saddled up to the bar.