So I went here for my birthday last week and I was very impressed. The ambiance, food, service, and entertainment were great. I was a little early for my reservation so the hostess took me to the bar where I was able to order a drink and wait for the rest of my party. The hostess was very friendly, kind, and very personable. The bar tender was very nice, and very attentive and soft on the eyes for sure. Him and I were chatting it up the entire time which was cool. Because of him my friend and I decided to just sit at the bar instead of getting a table. He made really good drinks and ensured that our food orders were correct and came out quickly. For drinks I ordered the Freedom Ride, which was Hennessy, with Honey and Lemon. It was absolutely delicious. It had the perfect balance of sweetness from the honey and the sour from the lemon. He also made mocktails for my friend which she enjoyed. For food we ordered their famous bread, BBQ wings, and salmon with sweet potatoes. The bread was so soft and the butter they gave was delicious. The BBQ wings had good flavoring and seasoning and fell off the bone. The salmon was cooked to perfection. It came with a light salad which was decent and sweet potatoes which could have been sweeter but still good. We also decided to go to the cigar lounge. The cigar lounge had great ventilation. The bar tender was able to help us pick out a good cigar that wasn't too strong. She was very knowledgeable which I appreciated. Overall, it was a great time and great vibe. Check it out if you are in the area. Cheers! read more

See all

So me and my boo came here on a Sunday after the first spot was a bust. When we walked in the music was playing I believe it was a live band which I loved! Live band spots are grown folks and I love that type of vibe first off. Now, I was a little nervous because it was really crowded so we didn't know if we would be seated anytime soon. But we were seated within 5 minutes of us talking to the hostess. Now this is a cigar and hookah spot so keep that in mind. Now...the prices not cheap so make sure your coins are up! lol We were both hungry so I ended up getting half dozen oysters which were fire...I should of have gotten a dozen! I then ordered the bone in ribeye (which didn't even have a bone in it...lol), spinach, and macaroni and cheese. He got strip steak, asparagus, and mashed sweet potato. When I tell you that steak was big as hell and fire! No need for any steak sauce or anything extra. I did add blue crab on top and wished it was more of a creamy topping...but still great. Our drinks were really great as well. I can only give them 4 stars only because the prices were a little on the higher side for the food even though everything was cooked really well. read more

See all

If I could no stars I would went to Sunday brunch - service was the worst - paper napkins I had to retrieve myself from the bar Most food items needed to be replenished Server too busy entertaining certain guests and by the way you must pay before being served - horrible for $189 for 2 people read more

Last time I was here was yearsssssss ago and it was still Carolina's Kitchen. Was looking for a new brunch spot for my friend and I I reached out via email because I couldn't find any information online. David responded to my email right away and asked for a number to call me and answer questions. He was extremely professional and helpful. He explained to me all the different brunch options for the weekend as well as the cost. I was able to make a reservation easily via Open Table. I arrived 15min early for my reservation and they were still setting up. The hostess was so pleasant and we made small talk while I waited for my friend. She gave me a quick tour of the venue which was very nice. Definitely had an upscale, grown and sexy vibe to it. We were able to choose between regular table seating or bar seating and opted for the bar seating. We were taken care of by Ron one of the managers and he was great! He kept the mimosas flowing and kept us up to date on the food items being stocked for the buffet. You are able to order waffles, omeletes and crab legs directly from the server and then get the other items from the buffet. They had a great spread. They had a dj come on around 1pm who had a great set and added to the vibes. We learned about the multiple other events they also have throughout the week. Overall had a great experience. The only area for improvement is the food at the buffet wasn't all out until closer to 12pm whene we had a 11:15 reservation. But the food, service and atmosphere were great! read more

See all

The food is delicious and the drinks are pretty good too. The ambiance is vibrant and fun. If you come on the weekend there is a live go-go band. The service can be hit or miss, beyond that it's a solid spot for date night or a group of friends. They serve hookah and there is a cigar bar in the back. I recommend making a reservation, though you still may have to wait a few minutes it's better than not having one. I've visited twice, once with one and once without. Parking: there's a lot behind the restaurant or you may luck up with street parking but the shopping center is very busy so it's rare. Overall a decent spot. read more

The ambiance was so warm and cigar lounge like. The food was great. The beef short ribs was the star of the show. The flavor was THERE!Our server Tiana J was very accommodating and attentive. I will be returning. read more

See all

I've compared restaurants to love before. Love, it's important to be faithful, committed and all in! With that said, I should have written this review a LONG time ago! I've neglected 1865, forgive me! I really love the location! This is super close to the crib. Happy Hour is good, so you'll know where to find me at least one day out of the week. Came here a hand full of times now, four times for Happy Hour, once for brunch and twice for Dinner! Happy Hour is cool, definitely get there early, bar gets packed! Brunch is amazing, but crab legs take forever EVER to come out. They definitely need to work on that. Is it a deal breaker, no they just opened hopefully they hire a person just to steam crabs on brunch days. Come on y'all, you have all you can eat crabs in the DMV? Keep them coming! For dinner, you should make a reservation on Open Table! You'll need it on the weekend. The cigar side, it's small and intimate. I know the cigar aficionados are loving this addition, it stays packed! They are going to have to make a rule to continue to buy drinks or do something to ensure people don't just sit for hours. I can see that being a problem. Let's get into it! Everything is GOOD! Really Good! I really love the pasta. There hasn't been anything I've ordered that I didn't like! Order it all! read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Cheers! Crashed guys night out! - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I went here with friends to have some drinks and listen to the Plug In band. The bartender asked me what I wanted and it was too loud to have a long conversation about my order so I just said to her I'll have a red wine. She bought me a red wine. We ended up getting a table and so I closed out my tab at the bar. And this was the receipt that I received for my one glass of non-descriptive, non-specific, not specially requested red wine. I was disgusted. And I will never go back. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Receipt for me requesting "a glass of red wine". $23. Outrageous!! - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Valentine's Day at 1865 was everything I didn't know I needed. Forget being with a man or even having a Valentine--my real date was a stuffed branzino, and let me tell you... it did NOT disappoint. The branzino was stuffed with crab, perfectly cooked, juicy, and full of flavor. Absolutely delicious. The crab balls were to die for, especially paired with that rich, flavorful remoulade sauce--chef's kiss. The bartender also made me a fruity tequila-based drink (no idea what it was called), but I do know one thing: I was definitely hammered by the time I left, so consider that a success. Now if you love egg rolls, let's talk about the soul rolls. Crab, shrimp, cabbage, and straight-up love wrapped into one--crispy, flavorful, and unforgettable. The newly renovated space is beautiful. The décor is stunning, the vibe is warm and inviting, and the complimentary flowers were such a thoughtful touch that really elevated the experience. Overall, amazing food, great drinks, beautiful ambiance, and excellent service. I truly enjoyed myself and will definitely be back to revisit. read more

See all

My new favorite spot! I've seen 1865 slowly begin to open after moving into the space formally occupied by Carolina Kitchen and what an upgrade! 1865 is like no other place I've seen in DC over my 15 years and it's such a needed addition to the neighborhood. First, I cannot say enough about the welcoming staff. Whether there to eat, drink, groove to great music or lounge, 1865 has it all. The staff did a great job making you feel like a regular, welcoming you, and guiding you to the place that matches what you are looking for. The main entrance opens to a dimly lit and modern lounge with a large bar, TVs tuned to the games, and live music most nights. Follow them on instagram as they seem to have regular jazz, r&b, and live band karaoke almost every evening. I've heard great things about their brunch and hope to check it out soon. It opens at 11am most days providing a comfortable home away from home and even a quiet alternative space for a change of scene if you work from home. They've got great food at decent prices. The filet mignon, Cajun Mac and cheese, and brussel sprouts were delicious. They've got a great selection of cocktails, whiskeys, and bourbons. The back is more of a laid back lounge with a cigar bar (not overly smokey), numerous big screen TVs turned to the games, tables and booths for hanging out or ordering food. It was a fantastic place to watch the game with everyone hanging out, and enjoying their meal, drink, cigar of choice. 1865 has something for everyone and is well worth a regular visit! read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Table overlooking the intentionally and artfully designed lounge with a view of some of the many TVs. - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Have you tried 1865 ALL YOU CAN EAT SEAFOOD BRUNCH? Check out this BLACK-OWNED Steakhouse & Cigar Lounge in the heart of Washington DC. AMBIANCE: 5 spacious venue & clean with a Cigar Lounge attached. The DJ played a variety of genres: R&B, HIP-HOP, REGGAE & AFROBEATS SERVICE: 5 They treated us like ROYALTY FOOD & DRINKS: 5 everything was in abundance. We didn't lack in ANYTHING. Mimosas galore, huge crab legs, all types of southern brunch items. Want more authentic and honest reviews? Check out my social media pages: CocoasJoy. read more

See all

Came for their new brunch. And I want to start by saying the food is really good!! Now the service was good yet slow and needs improvement to give a better "glow/experience). Upon being seated we waited probably 15 mins before our server came over. Then we were advised that you prepay the $75/pp plus gratuity. Came out to $198 after tax and all. Then the buffer comes with unlimited mimosas. We didn't receive our mimosas probably until 30-40 mins in. Our waiter said her was waiting for fresh orange juice. He was very nice and all but just busy running around because how the brunch is set up. There's no condiments on the table or buffet. Not even syrup, hot sauce etc. so you are at the mercy of your waiter to eat anything that requires a condiment. The silverware wasn't readily available so we had to wait for him to bring us silverware. You also have to request the crab legs with your waiter, which is a good way to control portions. Lol I don't want this to be a negative review because I really did enjoy the brunch but there are some minor things that need to improve to make the experience better. Also the restroom has a very off putting smell. I think it is coming from the pipes or something. All that being said I would definitely return. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Its conveniently located at Rhode Island Ave station (red line). The location was once Carolina Kitchen, you can still see slight remnants of their history there inside. But - its not the same. The walls are dark and the lay out flows. I have not had any full entrees yet but the price doesn't match the location in my humble opinion. What I do enjoy are the events - karaoke and live bands from the area. I plan to visit for their brunch on Sunday, I hear its really well priced and the options are vast. If you haven't visit - I say DO IT! read more

I wasn't to sure about 1865's new location because I love the structure from Georgia Avenue but this night was an unexpected good time with the ladies. Honestly I don't have one complaint about this night . The hospitality was pleasant and pleasing. We enjoyed our food . The hookah team was considerate and accommodating but hunnie, that Saturday night live music band was I needed a good " Gogo" fix . I definitely would recommend and I must say, that although this is not the Georgia Ave location, 1865 brings the vibe no matter where they are !!! read more

This New Black-Owned Restaurant Is Huge, Beautifully Decorated, & Full Of Culture. From The Moment You Walk In, You Feel The Energy. The Wall Paintings & Music References Honoring Black Artists & Culture Were Everything. It's Not Just A Restaurant It's An Experience. The Entire Space Is Well-Kept, Clean, & Truly Admiring. Even The Bathrooms Were So Pretty, Definitely Thoughtfully Designed. Parking Is Nearby With Plenty Of Storefront Options Around The Area, So It Was Easy To Find A Spot. BRUNCH BUFFET (Served Until 5 PM) We Came For Lunch On A Saturday Afternoon & Enjoyed The Brunch Buffet & When I Say Huge Selection, I Mean Huge. Buffet Items Included: Baked Mac & Cheese, Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Whiting Fish, Shrimp, Pancakes, Waffles, Rice, Wings, French Toast, Potatoes, & So Much More. But That's Not Even The Best Part.... They Also Bring Out Endless (Upon Request): Crab Legs, Salmon Cakes, Mussels, Fresh Fruit, & Made-To-Order Omelettes. On Top Of That, You Get Unlimited Fountain Drinks, Mimosas, & Juices. It's Between $75-$100 Per Person With Unlimited Seafood, Made-To-Order Options, & Drinks (Excluding Cocktails/Shots), It Felt So Worth It. There's Also A Service Fee Added So Don't Be Surprised, Honestly That Fee Is Starting To Seem Standard In DC Restaurants. The Food Was Delicious With So Much Variety. Everything Felt Fresh & Well-Seasoned. You Definitely Get Your Money's Worth. **There's A 90-Minute Seating Limit, Which Was More Than Enough Time To Eat Comfortably And Enjoy The Ambience. There Was A Live Band Playing, An Area To Dance, Multiple Bars, & Plenty Of Seating. The Music Was Loud In A Good Way A Whole Vibe. We Were Seated In A Section That Was Less Crowded, Which Was Perfect For Me. There's Also An Upstairs Area I'll Have To Check Out Next Time. Our Waiters Were Amazing & Pleasant. Even With The Place Being Busy, They Checked On Us Consistently. I Loved How They Kept Bringing Us Crablegs As We Requested. :)) A Special Shoutout To Khave', The Owner/Chef's Son. He Personally Came To Our Table, Introduced Himself, & Made Sure We Were Good. He Accommodated Us Gracefully & Was So Pleasant To Talk To. That Personal Touch Made The Experience Even More Memorable. I Truly Appreciate His Convo & For Going Above & Beyond For Us. This New Spot Is More Than Just A Restaurant, It's A Celebration Of Culture, Food, & Community. Beautiful Space, Delicious Food, Live Music, Amazing Service. Definitely Highly Recommended To Come Out & Support. We Will Absolutely Be Back Soon. read more

See all

Decorative nonsense. Be cautious. The audacity of clearly lacking awareness of hospitality or business operations is disheartening. My two friends left because their drink took 40 minutes. I didn't sign up for food to be 1.5 hours late to eat in plastic. I arrived at 9:30 p.m., and I didn't sign up for that. Please operate your business in an optimal manner. I didn't even take my food. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The spot itself, very well laid out. The vibes are nice, the highlight of everything is absolutely the band that performed the night we were there. I enjoy that the cigar lounge is segregated off, so that you dont have to smell of cigar unless you decide to stay in that room. Food was ok, but im intending to come try for happy hour. Service and Billing ‍ here things went off the railings. It was 3 of us. I ordered the soup of the day ($12) and they tried to charge me 5 extra. When questioned, i was told the "dish" is a premium dish thus cldnt possibly be 12 dollars. After getting my bill adjusted, turns out they tried to charge me 10 dollars more than the total bill after gratuity. Currently disputing with my CC. My two friends bills: they tried to charge for bday cake they offered and just put a note that said Happy Birthday on the bill Also never took the brussels off. And the third bill tried to charge her for a full bottle of wine instead of a glass. Id recommend just honoring prices on the menu and not trying to overcharge for everything. They get 1 more try for being new and we'll see if they can do better. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

I'm a huge fan of restaurants that allow you to smoke a cigar. To date, Atlanta in my book has the best combo restaurants with the best filtration systems that I've ever experienced. The DMV has a couple combo restaurants, Shelly's Backroom and TG Cigar, but the inside are a bit dated and their filtration systems are nothing to write home about. Atlanta's are modern and frankly a destination. Well, well , well, here comes the new and improved1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars. They have taken over the space that was previously held by Carolina Kitchen, which I've always thought was too nice for a soul food restaurant. The structure is DOPE. If you've been to "Fellaship" in ATL, then that's what 1865 reminds me of. The Atlanta combo restaurants don't give you an option, you smoke and eat where you sit, while 1865 has split the restaurant into a smoking and non-smoking side. The full menu is served on both. This concept is brilliant, because some folks, especially the ladies, ain't with the cigar smoke. Both sides are beautifully designed and decorated, while the non-smoking side also has an upstairs dining area to add to the charm. The food is really good. I've visited twice, the first time for happy hour and the second time for the Sunday unlimited brunch. The crab dip is unmatched.. get this!! The crab topped charbroiled oysters are good but not 4 for $21 good. I'll get the oysters Rockefeller next time 6 for $18. Moving on to the unlimited Sunday brunch which includes bottomless mimosas. The buffet is pretty good and has the regular breakfast items, but they also have steamed shrimp, mussels and crab legs. Unfortunately, you have to place your crab leg order with your server and man does it take forever before your modest amount of crab legs come out. It takes so long you may forget if you placed the order.. I'm just saying..lol! I'm still not completely sure how much the brunch is, because the register ran out of paper and for whatever reason, I didn't ask what the final bill was. I do know tips are included but if you don't ask, you may tip double! The main reason I'm giving them 4 and not 5 stars, is the lack of a filtration system on the smoking side. For the owners to have had an opportunity to address the obvious when renovating this new venue, and didn't spend the extra money for their patrons not to smell like the cigar they just smoked was a huge fumble. At least add a few ceiling fans and turn them on in reverse to lift the smoke to the ceiling. Other than that, 1865 is a flat out hit and I will be a regular for damn sure, I just have to leave my coat in the car and wear clothes I don't mind getting smoked out because that's what's GOING TO HAPPEN!! read more

See all

We had a 7:00 p.m. reservation for four people, and a friend who was celebrating his birthday also had a separate 7:00 p.m. reservation. Everything was going well until our waitress informed us that our two-hour table limit was almost over. This was the first time we had been made aware of the policy. If the two-hour maximum was disclosed during the reservation process, I completely acknowledge that I may have overlooked it. However, I believe it should also be communicated again when guests are seated so there are no surprises later in the evening. Had we been reminded at the beginning of our dining experience, we simply would have made a later reservation because our plan was to stay and enjoy the Sunday night band. My best friend and her date had just received their food when we were informed that our time was almost up. Had we known in advance, they could have either planned to order from the bar instead or booked a separate reservation for later in the evening. We had previously visited in February on Super Bowl Sunday and never experienced this issue, so we were caught completely off guard. After learning we would have to leave our table, we checked online and saw that reservations were still available. We booked a 9:30 p.m. reservation under another person's name, who was already seated at the bar. When she checked in, she was asked by a woman with a short blonde haircut where the rest of her party was. After she pointed to us, she was told that we would not be allowed to be seated again. At that point, I was ready to leave. My party (3 people) had already spent approximately $250, and I had every intention of spending more throughout the evening. Instead, I instructed the two people who came with me not to purchase anything else. Had the restaurant been completely booked, I would have understood the need to enforce the time limit. However, reservations were still available online, and there were two open tables for six that remained empty for the rest of the night. Additionally, there were two tables of two guests with hookahs who had been seated around the same time we were and were allowed to remain without being asked to leave. Policies should be communicated clearly and enforced consistently for all guests--not selectively. The inconsistency in how this situation was handled was unprofessional and left us feeling unwelcome. I do want to commend our waitress, who provided excellent service throughout the evening. My concern is not with her, but with how management handled the situation. The food and drinks were great but not enough to make me want to come back. I hope you will review both your communication of the two-hour seating policy and the consistency with which it is enforced. Unfortunately, what should have been an enjoyable evening celebrating a birthday turned into a disappointing experience that has made me question whether I will return. read more

I will first note that I am a vegan. i was invited to a brunch here and was really looking forward to it because In preparation for my visit, I went to the restaurant's website, which has a menu with vegan options. However, on my visit I learned that brunch is completely separate from the online menu (the website does not show a brunch menu) and you cannot order off the menu during the brunch. The other hiccup...for a restaurant that normally has vegan options, it does not offer any kind for brunch. And no, I was not about to pay $95 for a bowl of fruit. read more

Came for brunch. For and service was top tier. All you can eat crab legs and mimosas. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Came here for Sunday brunch for the first time. the price was $90 per person. It included the buffet, the bottomless mimosas and crab legs, salmon cakes and Mac and cheese. And none of the people in my party were disappointed. I would bring my family members back here for brunch one Sunday. read more

The Food was top tier great experience also looks like a dynamic place to find connections and meet new people.

Came here for a 50th birthday. While the vibe and live music were cool, the volume was so loud we were practically shouting to be heard. For a $600 bill, I certainly expected much faster service; it felt like we were begging for drinks despite it not being a busy night. The food didn't quite live up to the price tag, either. Our ribeye was undercooked (ordered medium-rare, served rare), and the sides were disappointing--the Cajun mac n' cheese lacked flavor and the Brussels sprouts were just a plate of charred leaves. We're willing to give it one more shot, but we'll be sitting at the bar or far from the speakers next time. read more

I love the trendy atmosphere. The food is really good The waiters are phenomenal. Great service. They have selections to satisfy event palate. Great entertainment. It's a one stop shop that includes socializing , food and entertainment. A great addition to DC. . read more

We I say we are still on a high from Sunday funday brunch it would be an understatement. A group of about 15 people came here for some good vibes an great food and that is what we got. Also shoutout to the chef and are sever Tee, everyone was amazing all around . TOP SPOT FOR ALL YOU CAN EAT AND DRINK BRUNCH. PS LOOK AT THE CRAB-LEGS. read more

See all

Everything was Amazing! Customer Service, Food, and the atmosphere makes me want to return. The Chef coming to our table to check in read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - We had a nice comfortable table upstairs on an event night! Thank you to the team at 1865 - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

This is the 2nd time I've visited. The first time the 1st bar was full and the 2md one wasn't open yet. No biggie was escorted to the cigar lounge area. It was advertised, cigars, and comfortable. It was all good: ordered a drink and an appetize. The waiter was wonderful, attentive and all that. The appetizer (cauliflower) was well prepared. They had piped in music. While I don't care how explicit music is, I did find it amusing they were willing to air music with lots of words and names that others might find objectionable. Regardless, I ate, drank, ordered something to go (delicious past and seafood). On Saturday evening two of visited. Maybe there was something on their website, maybe not, but before we walked in, we could hear music. Upon entering we encountered a live band, lots of dancing. The music was LOUD. So loud we had to raise our voices to be heard. Thankfully we were there during the band's last set. Our waiter was excellent, like the last one, attentive, informative and everything you'd want a waiter to be. His name started with a "M." Catfish, crab balls, a long island iced tea, and ginger ale made up the order. My guest liked the catfish, but thought it was a bit too salty. The waiter tried to explain that catfish is a naturally salty fish. Where he got information from, I don't know. The crab balls were good, and when i tasted the catfish, it wasn't too salty for my taste. Two major complaints: outside the temp was in the 20's, and inside it felt the same. Not sure what was going on with the heat, we were told it was being worked on. After the and broke down they were replaced by a DJ who appeared to want to rival the band volume wise. Will I return a third time to perhaps balance all this out? No idea. But don't let my review keep you away. read more

North star was 10/10! The flavor was sweet and not too sour. I added G4 Tequila which made the drink stronger :) read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - North star with G4 Tequila. - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Let's get straight to the point... the ambiance is super cool and has a very warm vibe !!! Thing is, they're committing high way robbery with their over priced SUPER weak drinks ( the worst bang for my buck ever !!! ) The bartender service is stale ( well the female bartender at least ! ) lovely looking establishment but I can get a stronger drink out of the soda machine !!! read more

I have been here quite a few times since they opened for happy hour and sometimes dinner. It's on my route home so easy to pop in grab a bite and drink. Parking is easy garage right around the corner $5 for like 4 hours. I always sit at the bar and either Nae or China takes care of me (both awesome). I have tried multiple things on the menu catfish (great) seafood fried rice (like that!) wings ( good) happy hour burger ( add bacon and it's torch) hh shrimp ( like that) oxtail over mashed potatoes (great) sweet potatoe cheese cake( top 5 desserts I've ever had) . Drinks I normally have the hh rum punch and I'm normally good after 2. Hh specials are a really good value. I've stayed way past hh enjoying myself and seen a few of the live bands they have and they never disappoint. Definitely visit if you are in the area. read more

See all

First thing I would like to say is marvelous Job to the staff and to Greg Aka Big G me and three of my buddies went there for happy hour a drink and a smoke. Staff was very attentive. Happy hour. Prices were unbelievable. Drinks were great atmosphere outstanding the attentiveness of everyone to all our needs in a dinner hour rush was unbelievable. I give a five star to the new improved 1865. read more

See all

The fried catfish, fries, Brussels sprouts and cosmopolitan were absolutely delicious! All on the happy hour menu, 4-7pm at such great prices! I will definitely return and tell my friends. read more

1865 Steak Seafood & Cigars - Happy hour menu. Very reasonable and the food was delicious! - Seafood Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I have been there 3 or 4 times since they soft launched recently, a year after they were supposed to open, and each time they took way too long to bring me food. Well the first time to their credit they gave me a discount for their overpriced $75 buffet brunch because I have previously asked online if they had a la cart items for brunch and they said they did but when I got there they said they didn't mean for brunch even though I was asking on a post about brunch. But the other times I went I was very disappointed with the service and the long wait time to get my food. I had the manager of the cigar part tell me I need to extend grace because it's a soft opening and I needed to order bread rather than expect it but as I explained to him I extended beyond grace because it's the soft opening and I ordered bread immediately when I got there and it ended up being given to the table next to me rather than to me. Very disappointed they asked me not to come back because I dared voice my opinion when getting food or service took too long. I obviously will not be back but I'm disappointed I tried really hard to support a Black owned business with my hard earned dollars and this is how they treat me. read more

I tried 1865 Steak, Seafood & Cigars with a friend. The décor is beautiful with African American artwork, and the music from the DJ and live band was a vibe. The wait wasn't bad, and the hostess was friendly. The concept felt unclear with no real dress code. Guests were dressed anywhere from club attire and date-night looks to very casual streetwear. My first blackened salmon was dry and bland. After speaking with two managers, my meal was corrected. Be sure to ask for medium well--who knew you had to order salmon by temperature like a steak. The second plate was better, but it arrived about 30 minutes later, just as my friend was finishing her meal. The margaritas were not great. Prices didn't match the menu, and there is a credit card fee, so bring cash. While the correction was appreciated, there was no compensation or courtesy offered for the mistake. Accountability matters as much as ambiance. Great atmosphere, but food consistency, drinks, service recovery, and billing transparency need improvement. read more

See all

I had two very different experiences at 1865, and I'm glad I gave it another try. A few weeks ago, I visited on a Friday night without a reservation. The wait was understandable, but after being seated we sat for at least 20 minutes without any acknowledgment beyond water service. We gave it a few more minutes and ultimately decided to leave. We let the host know why, and while they did offer to get someone, we declined and headed out. It wasn't the start I had hoped for. Fast-forward to last Saturday night and completely different story. I decided to try again and I'm so glad I did! The service was warm, attentive, and friendly from the moment we were seated. I ordered the fried catfish and it did not disappoint: two perfectly seasoned and crispy and delicious filets. The truffle fries actually tasted like truffle (rare these days!) and my cocktail was excellent. Everything hit! It felt like the experience I'd hoped for the first time. Looking forward to returning soon! When the food and service hit like they did on my second visit, 1865 is worth the trip! read more

My experience at 1865 Restaurant in Washington, DC was mixed and unfortunately disappointing. The atmosphere was nice, and our waiter was very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which I truly appreciated. I ordered the scallops entrée with asparagus. While the asparagus was delicious, the scallops were not cleaned properly. As I was eating, it felt like I had a mouth full of sand, which completely ruined the dish and the experience. This was also a night when they had a live band, Push Play, and the band was great--they really brought the energy. However, the restaurant was wall-to-wall crowded. I felt especially bad for customers seated near the band, as people were dancing and constantly bumping into tables while guests were trying to eat and enjoy their drinks. It felt unsafe and poorly managed. Trying to accommodate dining, dancing, and a live band in such a tight space seemed more about maximizing profit than ensuring customer comfort and safety. This is how accidents and mishaps happen. Sadly, this was my first and last visit. I do not plan on returning. If you want, I can also: Shorten it for Google/Yelp Make it slightly softer or more firm Adjust the tone to sound more constructive for management read more

Food is 10/10. Service was absolutely amazing and the music got the vibes right! This establishment perfectly accommodated our party of 16 with ease. I will definitely be coming back. Brunch is a good time! read more

We're from out of town and came across this restaurant. I was with my kids and my cousin. The GM, Kia, greeted us with warmth. When she found out we just got off the road and were very hungry. She let the staff know. It was over 90 degrees that day. The service was exceptional. The staff was attentive. Asked if we wanted water first. The bartender, Amir, was personable. Then the food came and we loved it! From the service to the food to the ambiance we were so fulfilled! I highly recommend this restaurant. read more

It seems that don't have enough staff anytime your hostess is also the bartender though she had a somewhat rude attitude I understand why especially when you working the room and the bar read more