1789 Restaurant & Bar

Great Eats Award Winner

Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, 1789 Restaurant & Bar offers a quintessential Washington, D.C. fine dining experience. Housed in a renovated Federal-style townhouse, the restaurant exudes charm and elegance with its antique-filled dining rooms and intimate ambiance. Known for its elevated American cuisine, 1789 showcases seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Story behind 1789 Restaurant & bar.

Established in 1962 by Georgetown University alumnus Richard J. McCooey, 1789 Restaurant was named to honor the year Georgetown University was founded, the U.S. Constitution was adopted, and the village of Georgetown was incorporated. McCooey transformed a 19th-century Federal townhouse into a dining establishment that reflects the rich history of the area. The restaurant’s six dining rooms are adorned with antiques, early maps, and artwork from the 1800s, many from McCooey’s personal collection.

What should you Try?

The menu at 1789 Restaurant & Bar features a variety of dishes that highlight seasonal and regional ingredients:

  • Dover Sole Grenobloise: Served with carnival cauliflower, brown butter, and capers.

  • Wild Black Sea Bass: Accompanied by Bangs Island mussels, farro, and saffron emulsion.

  • Scottish Sea Trout: Paired with olive oil-chive potatoes, charred scallion vinaigrette, and yuzu beurre blanc.

  • Brioche-Crusted Alaskan Halibut: Presented with artichoke à la barigoule and morel mushrooms.

  • Cremini Mushroom & Lentil Pithivier: A vegetarian option featuring puff pastry, spinach, and pomegranate molasses.

These selections, among others, showcase the restaurant’s dedication to refined, seasonal American fare.

Location and Contact Information

  • Address: 1226 36th Street NW, Washington, DC 20007

  • Phone: (202) 965-1789

  • Website: 1789restaurant.com

  • Hours of Operation: Open daily from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM

  • Valet Parking: Available at $20 per car

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking an exceptional dining experience, 1789 Restaurant & Bar offers a blend of historical charm and culinary excellence that captures the essence of Georgetown.

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