When in a historical city, I like to experience old establishments and businesses. Martin's came up on my exploration and decided to check it out. It was a longer walk than I anticipated but worth it. I was in Georgetown over a decade ago and went to an old bar but I cannot remember which one it was. Martin's resembled what I was looking for. We walk in and we're immediately overwhelmed by how much scenery there is to take in. No one was at the door to greet us so we took it upon ourselves to sit at a booth next to the bar. We sat there for a good 10 minutes before we decided to get up and order from the bartender. I started with the Black Walnut Manhattan and hubs started with a beer. There were different cocktail menus I found in different places. There was one I referred to on Yelp, another that was posted outside, and another on the table. I think my favorite aspect of Martin's is the ambiance. We went at a great time because they were all decked out with Christmas decorations and they did an amazing job. I mean seriously, there were so many details put into the decorations! We closed out near closing time, to whIch our tab was expensive for 6 drinks. The bartender was really cool and told us about further decorating that was taking place. We had intentions visiting again before Christmas but did not get the opportunity. I would love to visit again during Christmas time again! read more

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Okay, definitely get a reservation since this place is packed on Saturday for brunch. It's a pretty small restaurant but has a very homey feel to it. Our server was super nice, and helped me decide to get the dish called 'a lil bit of chicken fried'. Basically a fried chicken meal with biscuit, fried egg, and sausage gravy. Not gonna lie, it was exactly what I needed. Tasty chicken though not particularly juicy, but the gravy and egg helped with that. Love the biscuit with the honey on it. Very filling meal and is gonna have you in a food coma in no time. Happy to have eaten here. read more

Martin's Tavern - A little bit of chicken fried - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Never came here before but wow will I come back. What a historical place. With a great atmosphere and phenomenal food. I had the prime rib w mashed potatoes and broccoli and it was so good. Flavorful and plentiful. Def an expensive place at well, but great for a date night. read more

Martin's Tavern is my favorite place to dine in D.C.. I have been brunching here with friends for years, have ordered just about everything on the brunch menu, and would give it more than 5 stars if I could. Rich with history and located in the heart of Georgetown, it is great place for both locals and tourists to dine. The "proposal booth"- a booth inside the restaurant- is where JFK proposed to Jackie Kennedy, and numerous other celebrities and political figures have dined there as well. The interior is festively decorated year round and has a very lively and homey feel. The staff are very professional and are good at anticipating customers' needs. Everything I have ordered has been deliciously rich in flavor and quality, and portion sizes are great as well. So if you're looking for a nice restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or just to go out for a nice brunch/dinner, this is it! read more

Martin's Tavern - Eggs Florentine - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I would make another trip here for the historical environment (I sat at the booth where JFK wrote his inaugural speech), but I wasn't especially wowed by the food. Though this establishment is popular, service is attentive and friendly and I didn't have trouble walking in for Thursday evening dinner or Saturday brunch without a reservation. For dinner, they offer mediocre complimentary bread and butter, and I ordered the sea scallops. I cleaned my plate- the flavoring was great and scallops juicy and tender. Portion size is not big, but it's enough if you aren't too hungry. The brunch is pretty good but unremarkable. I ordered Martin's Chesapeake Benedict and my friend tried the Early Riser. The Early Riser is generic; I preferred the crab cake hollandaise for something a bit more unique and flavorful. I barely tasted any crab though. read more

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You need to make a trip to Martin's Tavern during Christmas time. This historic restaurant is gorgeously decorated and has an all around festive atmosphere. We were a bit hesitant to sit outside but it was worth it with the heat lamps. This was a memorable experience and I would go back in a heartbeat. The food was also very good. The French onion soup (not pictured) was the best dish of the night. The Smokey cheese taste on top of the soaked bread within the soup was remarkable. The taste is so delicate yet leaves a lasting impression. The chocolate awesome came close with my second favorite thing at Martins. The pastry chef worked in Italy and the delicacy of the preparation and rich chocolate ganache taste was incredible. The chicken Milanese was delicious. The pasta was a bit on the colder side but the way the chicken was fried and flavorful made up for it. The crab cake was soft, seasoned perfectly and paired well with the baked potato. The calamari was wonderful and I loved the aioli garlic mayo pairing with it. Overall-- I would definitely recommend this restaurant for its ambiance and delicious food. read more

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Excellent food and service and they couldn't do enough to please us. Honestly, they bend over backwards to be amazing. The food was so tasty, including my fried green tomato appetizer. Everything is prepared to your liking and it's done with care. You absolutely cannot beat the ambience of a beautiful old restaurant such as this. Get to know the history and you will be entranced! Many well-known dignitaries and luminaries have dined here! read more

An incredibly cool and historic restaurant! There's so many awesome stories and pieces of history here but one of the most notable is probably the proposal booth where JFK proposed to Jackie! We sat in the Nixon booth and had an amazing experience. There was a long wait but you can walk around Georgetown and shop so we didn't mind at all. We had the French Onion Soup, Martin's House Salad and the Chicken Milanese and all were delicious. It's a busy place but it didn't take long for our food to arrive. I'm definitely looking forward to going back. read more

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We stopped in here for lunch on a weekday, sat at the bar. The bartender was nice, we ordered a couple of drinks, a bowl of soup and 2 entree salads. The service was prompt. Food was OK. The issue is a 5% "operational fee" that was just added to our check, for what I'm not sure. Not a fan of junk fees being added arbitrarily to our bill. read more

It was the last day of D.C.'s Restaurant Week, so I went to Martin's Tavern to take advantage of their specials. I got the Fried Green Tomatoes, Beef Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Peach Cobbler. Not only was the food delicious, it was probably some of the best customer service I've ever experienced at a restaurant. When I chose Martin's Tavern, I didn't know the historical significance of this place. I sat in the booth where President John F. Kennedy drafted his inaugural speech...wow!! read more

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Good food and service. Nothing too creative. Bit pricey but that's the neighborhood. Worth going once, not sure if I need to go back.

Outstanding food! I was expecting a whole lot less but the menu is chock full of variety from meat, fish, and fowl, including standard "tavern" favorites like fish and chips, pot roast, and Shepherds Pie. I opted for the flank steak because the special was a ribeye upwards of $70! Cheaper option for me! And it was really tasty and tender. It comes with a side of mashers and spinach, but I wanted some Mac 'n cheese and it was so worth it. If ever in DC, trek it to Georgetown to sample some really incredible food. Highly recommend. read more

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You have to love "The Tavern!" Wonderful atmosphere, friendly staff and terrific menu with all your favorites. You will always come across a familiar face at The Tavern. Historic with a rich tradition! Honestly, I could dine here every night, it's just that type of place! read more

Very historical restaurant, absolutely love the ambiance and the service!!!! A must see. But if we're talking about the food... really mediocre at best. I wish I could say it's worthwhile but honestly this place is for getting a drink and enjoying the vibes and that's it. The food is nothing to write home about, but hey! That's Georgetown for ya! And u pay a hefty penny for it! read more

Very disappointing experience with food and service. My husband and I were excited to come to this historic place. The appetizer of rarebit and clam chowder were really great and we'd highly recommend. But the main dishes were bland, overcooked, and significantly overpriced. And our waiter seemed to think it was more interesting to watch tv than wait on us. He literally talked at us while watching the tv. For a bill of almost $300, we had higher expectations. read more

Great options and ambiance. Only negative is that I ordered a medium rare London Broil and it came out well done. After receiving my remake, it came back rare... my third remake was spot on and delicious. Unfortunately, I was not comped anything after waiting an hour to receive the correct temperature. Disappointing on their end... read more

Great oyster stew, very rich though so not something for a light bite. Others ordered the Caesar salad and enjoyed but weren't wowed. Fried green tomatoes were excellent though. read more

Martin's Tavern - Oyster Stew - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Every time I stop here I receive service like a king and lovingly prepared. All of this despite always being under dressed in athletic shorts and a T-shirt. read more

Martin's Tavern - Meatloaf. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Historic place that has been there for years and years. Booths named after US politicians including President Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Harry and Bess Truman, and I heard there's a dugout section with tables of Yogi Berra, and Ty Cobb, and many more. Food is very good with fresh made pasta and great seafood and meats. Food and service are good too! read more

Martin's Tavern - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We went for a snack on a Saturday afternoon at 3pm - was able to quickly get a seat. Drinks and appetizers were AMAZING. Highly recommend the tenders, onion strings, crab cakes and calimari! Our teenager drank several cokes because they kept refilling him! Thank you Martins! We will be back! read more

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This is a very classy speakeasy that takes on some extra personality when you enter the far corner old school sports memorabilia dining area. It's a small space and old furniture in that room but that adds to the effect and you feel like you're in the 1940's. Customer service was great! Staff was very friendly and most importantly the Sheppard's pie was by far the best I've ever had. I believe it's actually the first time I've tried it with lamb so it was a new experience all throughout. We will return soon to try out some other gems on this menu like their French onion soup read more

Martin's Tavern - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a nice tavern. Founded in 1933, to the best of my memory. Nice bar, the atmosphere of a British pub. I haven't had a chance to try any food there, but I liked it overall. A bit pricy I would say, but this is Georgetown. read more

Martin's Tavern - Bar - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Stopped by at 4:00 on a Friday and seated immediately. Outside seating is a cool people watching spot on a busy corner. This restaurant popped up on our self guided walking tour and really glad we went for drinks and appetizers. We ordered the potato skins, mussels, tuna w/wasabi. Service was excellent. Outside is dog friendly. Fun fact: JFK proposed to Jackie here!! read more

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The food and service are outstanding! Especially our favorite bartender Jorge! He is one of the best bartenders in DC! You can't go wrong with anything on the menu! read more

Best Eggs Benedict I have ever had! We had made reservations for 1:30 and arrived at 1:10 but they were able to seat us right away! The place was hopping but our server was there immediately and never failed to accommodate our needs. Highly recommend! read more

Huge menu, good food and service. About $20 per person plus drinks. Burger is good, prime rib sandwich better, French onion soup was good. Highly recommended. read more

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Great old place in Georgetown. Always busy. Good food and service. We always eat there when visiting.

Extremely quaint, historic and fantastical place to stumble into. We were on our way to have dinner somewhere my daughter had been to. I saw the beautiful lead sparkly windows and wanted a photo just because the outside looks so cozy and beautiful. I couldn't help it I opened the door and the place was packed. This was Christmas time and it showed me locals know where to eat. we were so very lucky and the host got us into the last table. We sat across from the proposal table where JFK proposed to Jackie. There was the Nixon table next to us as well as a small corner half table that JFK wrote his inaugural speech. Martin is a family owned business has been since the beginning, has amazing history stories, there are things everywhere to look at, you cannot eat without making friends with the table that maybe just inches to feet away. Everyone seems in awe and filled with happiness. The wait staff was wonderful and you can tell they truly enjoy working here as well as management. There is a full bar with signature cocktails people laughing talking it is a one-of-a-kind gem The food was absolutely gourmet top notch mouthwatering ask for more. We each had something different and the bread on the table prior was fresh crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Our favorite was the walnut cranberry sourdough which our waiter brought us more and we did get to bring a couple slices home for breakfast. I would say more about Martin's, the family is related to Billy Martin with him I have fond memories growing up and watching baseball. This place is a must for locals those outside of the DC area and travelers. Completely impressed and we will definitely be back read more

Martin's Tavern - cozy! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

It was our first time there. Food was excellent! We each had the chicken Parmesan. The place is small and gets crowded. However, the noise level was reasonable and the atmosphere felt cozy. Waiter was great! Prices are kinda high but it was worth it. I would definitely return. read more

Hot summer day of 07/02, there were no indoor sitting for lunch around 1:30pm. There were outdoor seating, literally on the sidewalk, right next to street with cars...loud, noisy cars with exhaust fume. It wasn't the best feeling sitting there. Felt like I'm going to get runover by a car. The restroom is inside, upstairs, pass the bar and dining tables. The stairs are narrow, super narrow, you have to have a good balance, or you will fall. We ordered 1 coke, 1 diet coke, 1 non-sweet tea, 1 beer, 2 chicken club sandwiches, 1 small salad, grand total about $90. Wow, maybe I'm just too poor for DC. I was a little surprised with an operation fee, never seen that before. I don't know about the club sandwiches, but my small salad was pretty good, still not sure about the grand total and the overall experience. read more

What a rip of is this place !!! Oysters ( me and my friend didn't ask the Market price, because everywhere in DC oysters don't cost more then $25 to $40 ) and a 2 cocktails cost as $120 and a waiter was trying to give education on prices in DC and that we are in Georgetown. I'm sorry I own a house in this city don't give me education on how much anything costs here . I haven't felt so stupid in my life . We could of gone to 4 seasons down the street where the service and quality never disappoints . Also patio was full with tiny bugs that started eating my legs moment we sat down . read more

Visiting the Georgetown area for a graduation, we walked over to Martin's in what became a downpour of rain. Absolutely drenched, we were happily greeted, soaking wet raincoats graciously hung up, and 2 seats were put together at the bar for us to sit. Bartender could have been friendlier, and the food was delicious. Loved the lively atmosphere inside ...all ages.. enjoying being out of the rain and in the warm and happy feeling pub. Will for sure, make a point of going again next visit! read more

This is a great spot for brunch or some classic pub food. When it's nice outside this place has outdoor seating that is constantly packed. And in the winter time the inside is decorated with ornaments and other holiday cheer that makes it quite homey. They have a large selection of options for typical American fare, so you really can't go wrong! Also, JFK proposed to Jackie Kennedy at Martin's Tavern, so you get to mull over that while you enjoy your meal. Come here for a decent American meal with a cool ambience! read more

Martin's Tavern - Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I loved this place. Perfect historic, classic tavern ambience. Booths even have a little placard with a fun fact for what presidents say where when they dined. Food was great we had breakfast and it was such a good experience. Service was good too. read more

Martin's Tavern - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Martin's is a historical tavern restaurant located in Georgetown. Every president from Truman to George W Bush has come here. In one booth JFK proposed to Jackie O. in booth number 3. In between the booth where JFK proposed and where he wrote his inauguration speech is the Nixon booth; appropriate. After mass at Holy Trinity--up the street and where President Biden now goes to mass--JFK would sit in booth number 1. The Tavern is the oldest family run restaurant in the District; since 1933. The fifth generation of the family still runs it. The place is packed with history. Of personal interest is the story that Wild Bill Donovan leader of the OSS precursor to the CIA and later the Company's leader held court here in the dugout. We ordered a French onion soup and split the tavern burger. The food is average tavern comfort food. But here is where they get an extra star: Covid policy. Each server wore gloves and a mask. They require guests to wear a mask when speaking to staff; awesome. And here is the best: they asked for my name and number for contact tracing! The first time someone has done this and I applaud it. If your in the area you owe it to yourself to just come in and breath the history. You won't be disappointed. read more

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I tried the pasta primavera and was extremely underwhelmed. The service was good and we had managers of the restaurant come speak to us about the history. However, I was not impressed whatsoever with the dish or the price. Additionally, this restaurant is not vegetarian or vegan friendly. There were basically two items (besides requesting no meat on a salad) that could be made without meat. The primavera has absolutely no flavor to speak of. I was expecting maybe a light sauce on it, or garlic, or perhaps some type of seasoning. There was not anything I could taste. The vegetables and texture of the pasta were fine, but the actual dish basically had no flavor. I would give it to stars for the quality of dish with accompanying price, but the service was very good at this restaurant. read more

Martin's Tavern - Historical views? - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We always pass by Martin's when we are walking through Wisconsin, FINALLY we made it. Sitting outdoor on a 80 degree Friday night gave me and my wife real European vibes. For a second, we felt like we were in another country. We just stopped by for a few drinks and some apps. I had a dirty Paloma which was basically a Paloma with mezcal which tasted exactly as I expected, so good and smokey, I got two! Drinks are strong also! The angry mussels were perfection, the sauce is a tomato base and the garlic bread was an excellent combination to dip at the end. The mussels were also very meaty! I didn't have a chance to try any of their soups but they are award winning so I will be returning again. Our server was great, never felt rushed and was always checking in on us. I see why Martin's is such a long lasting restaurant in the community. read more

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A must in DC. History. Enjoy a cocktail where presidents used to hang. Amazing staff, lots of love from locals, delicious food.

Pancakes and coffee and sausage - oh my! Loved the pancakes... hit the spot. The chicken biscuit was pretty amazing as well. read more

Martin's Tavern - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Second time here. Very historical. Very authentic ambiance . Food top notch, top shelf bar.