Martin's Tavern

I've lived in DC for over 20 years and this was my first experience. The menu was incredible for brunch, breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The tavern is nostalgic, and the booth JFK proposed to Jackie is prominent in the restaurant. The service was great, as was the food which came right out on a very busy day. It was a nice way to finish after seeing the Nutcracker.

Very nice restaurant to have a meal in a historic place. At first, the hostess did not want to let us in, because they were "changing the menu", although it was almost full inside. She had turned a couple away, but we insisted to be put on a list. A minute later, a manager kindly escorted us to a nice table. We started with potato skins, big and delicious. The breadless burgers and sandwich were very nice. Prices are fair. Excellent table service

We really enjoyed Martin’s. What made it really special was our waiter, Solomon. He went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. He’s been there for decades and is passionate about his work. I requested a booth on our reservation, which was accommodated. It was cozy with all the Christmas decorations and the rain falling outside our booth window. We felt like we were in a movie. The restaurant was absolutely packed for a Tuesday and they were turning away anyone without reservations so I highly recommend making them. The filet and lamb chops were both spectacular. It’s one of those dinners we’ll remember for a long time because everything was so perfect. If we are ever in the area again, we will definitely be coming back!

These two Southerns had an absolutely wonderful experience at Martin’s Tavern. We made a reservation inside and thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance of this historical gem. (Be sure to set this reservation a few days out as it’s a popular venue.) The Christmas decor was perfect, making it feel like a scene from a Hallmark movie! We went all out and ordered appetizers, drinks, entrees, and a desert… and enjoyed every bite! (With four kids, we don’t do this kind of thing a lot! 😁) We started with calamari/shrimp and French onion soup. As they claim, the soup is really great. Then, we enjoyed/shared the NY strip and the Hot Brown. We wrapped things up with bread pudding a la mode (they were out of apple pie.) If you have the opportunity to go, I encourage you to do so; we certainly will!

Very popular restaurant, make sure to book a table, but, if booking for inside the restaurant, know that you will be bumped into, sitting elbow to elbow with other tables and talked over as it’s extremely small. Bathrooms are upstairs via a narrow rickety stairwell. We luckily sat outside since the weather permitted still in early fall, despite the restaurant’s heater towers not working well at all. The food was alright and a bit pricy. We were waited on well and timely despite sitting outside. Portion sizes were normal.