Best Historic Restaurants in McLean

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

District of ColumbiaMaryland - DC SuburbsVirginia - DC Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Adams MorganArlingtonBethesdaCapitol HillColumbia HeightsDowntown

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

61 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Old Ebbitt Grill

4.8

Exceptional(30165)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown

Booked 272 times today

Founded in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington, DC's oldest saloon and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated in the heart of the city, just steps from The White House, this historic landmark offers a timeless blend of classic American cuisine and unparalleled hospitality. Old Ebbitt Grill promises a memorable visit filled with a warm ambiance and a seasonal menu spanning from freshly shucked oysters to house-made pastas and perfectly prepared steaks & chops. From the Rooftop Terrace to the Atrium or Cabinet Room, Ebbitt's private dining spaces are ideal for celebrations ranging from small and intimate to grand and stylish.

2. Tabard Inn

4.7

Exceptional(3911)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Dupont Circle

Booked 59 times today

Since our early days as a tea room, we’ve been a respite for locals and visitors alike, offering a haven for conversation and memorable cuisine. The tradition continues as our culinary team has curated an inventive and elevated menu through New American cuisine while paying homage to the beloved dishes that have been served at the Tabard Inn for years. Join us for a meal on our covered patio or one of our intimate dining rooms. Or enjoy drinks and light fare in our historic fireplace lounge, where you can enjoy our creative cocktails! A DC institution since 1922, we look forward to offering our guests all the comforts of a home away from home.

3. The Hamilton

4.7

Exceptional(12089)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown

Booked 148 times today

The Hamilton, located in downtown Washington, DC, is a vibrant restaurant known for its diverse American cuisine and lively atmosphere. Showcasing an expansive menu that includes fresh seafood, savory steaks, and inventive sushi, it caters to a wide range of tastes. The Hamilton also features an impressive bar with handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. With its spacious dining areas and a music venue hosting live music performances, The Hamilton offers a unique dining experience that blends culinary excellence with entertainment. Across the street from the Treasury building, the W Hotel, and the Willard Hotel.

4. The Dabney

4.8

Exceptional(338)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• American • Shaw

Booked 11 times today

Located in historic Blagden Alley in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood since 2015, The Dabney continues to pay tribute to the wonderful farmers, watermen, and purveyors of the mid-Atlantic region whom provide some of the best and most unique products in the country. We celebrate these ingredients by preparing them in a large wood burning hearth which is the centerpiece of our open kitchen. The current dining room experience is an 8-course tasting menu honoring the Mid-Atlantic's bounty. We offer an additional 3-course experience at our bar and bar area tables. Walk-in guests are welcome to enjoy the bar area as well.The Dabney has been awarded one Michelin star every year since 2017, James Beard Foundation Best Chef Mid-Atlantic for Chef Jeremiah Langhorne in 2018, and Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At this time we are unable to accommodate severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets.

5. Amazonia

4.7

Exceptional(223)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Peruvian • Mount Vernon Square

Booked 27 times today

Venture into the relaxed ambiance of Amazonia, our inviting upstairs bar, dining room and rooftop hideaway. As one of the first Amazonian restaurants in the U.S., discover the exotic flavors and ingredients from Peru's rainforest, as well as favorite Peruvian staples. Here you can explore a thoughtfully curated selection of pisco and imaginative cocktails. The dishes you'll enjoy in Amazonia are meant for sharing, and are expertly prepared by the very same skilled kitchen team from Causa downstairs.

6. Chez Billy Sud

4.8

Exceptional(3050)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• French • Georgetown

Booked 61 times today

Welcome to Chez Billy Sud, your classic neighborhood French bistro in the heart of historic Georgetown! We accept reservations for dinner on a rolling 30 day basis. Reservations can be made for parties up to 6 guests for bistro dining. Our private dining room can be reserved for large parties (7-16 guests) by contacting our event coordinator at events@chezbillysud.com. For general inquiries, please contact us at info@chezbillysud.com.Depending on the weather, our patio is available on a first-come basis. Please check with your host upon arrival for patio seating.Our Bar à Vin (located right next door) is open for dinner and drinks 7 days a week and requires no reservations. Please visit our website ChezBillySud.com or check us out on Instagram @ChezBillySud.We look to hosting you!

A photo of The Liberty Tavern restaurant

7. The Liberty Tavern

4.7

Exceptional(4041)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Arlington

Booked 78 times today

We are not just a restaurant, but an institution in Arlington. The first floor of our restored historic property houses an inviting bar and lounge that remains vibrant all hours of the day. Our upstairs dining room offers professional service, a warm ambiance, and a menu featuring rustic, modern American cuisine. We are devoted to in-house production: we bake all of our own bread and pastas, sausages, and desserts. Our beverage program features creative specialty cocktails, a diverse wine list, and a great selection of premium draft and bottled beer. We are known for our unlimited small plates brunch on the weekend and late night dancing Friday through Sunday. Liberty To-Go offers a separate carry-out entrance on Irving Street where wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, fresh salads and other specialties are offered for enjoyment at home.

A photo of Clyde's of Georgetown restaurant

8. Clyde's of Georgetown

4.7

Exceptional(4212)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Georgetown

Booked 88 times today

Clyde's of Georgetown, situated in the historic Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC, is a beloved institution offering classic American cuisine in a charming setting. The menu showcases fresh, seasonal dishes ranging from seafood and steaks to innovative salads and hearty sandwiches. Clyde's also features an impressive bar with handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list, perfect for pairing with any meal. Known for its warm hospitality and timeless ambiance, Clyde's of Georgetown provides a delightful dining experience for both locals and visitors alike. Indoor, Bar, and Outdoor seating available with lunch, dinner, brunch, late night, and raw bar service.

9. 1789 Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(6360)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Georgetown

Booked 17 times today

1789 is a historic fine dining restaurant and bar located in the heart of Georgetown with a charming and elegant atmosphere. Known for its elevated American cuisine, 1789 offers a menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. The restaurant's culinary team is dedicated to creating dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. In addition to an exceptional menu, 1789 also boasts an extensive wine list featuring a wide selection of domestic and international wines. With its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and warm ambiance, 1789 Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable experience in the nation's capital.

10. Succotash PRIME

4.6

Exceptional(4122)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Penn Quarter

Booked 92 times today

Succotash PRIME is a progressive perspective of classic Southern favorites. James Beard Award winner Edward Lee brings his Korean roots and Southern repertoire to a soulful Southern Steakhouse menu.SUCCOTASH is named after the classic dish that has been a longstanding staple of the Southern table. While many know “Succotash” when they see it, the dish has been interpreted, modified, and passed from generation to generation for centuries. Our “Succotash” is special to us and we invite you to experience the South from our point of view.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Asnath
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Everything was excellent. Service was good, everything came timely. From the starter to the dessert, very delicious. The dessert was so good, the buttermilk biscuit was so tasty accompanied by the ice cream. Will definitely go back again.
More info
The DabneyPrice: Very Expensive• American• Shaw
•
4.8
P
patricia
Washington, D.C. Area •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The Hamilton was awesome.., food and service was excellent… we all had a great time
More info
The HamiltonPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
•
4.7
C
ChristineVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •29 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Leisurely lunch with delicious shrimp and grits, crispy pork belly sandwich and salmon salad. Definitely a hidden gem.
More info
Tabard InnPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Dupont Circle
•
4.7
C
CaroleVIP
Greater Boston •31 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Had a delicious meal (again!) at OEG, where great service, great food and great classic ambience intersect.
More info
Old Ebbitt GrillPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
•
4.8
C
Cynthia
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 25, 2025
10/10. The food is perfect, the vibe is impeccable. Will be coming back asap!
More info
AmazoniaPrice: Very Expensive• Peruvian• Mount Vernon Square
•
4.7

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