Martin’s Tavern

Martin's Tavern opened on Wisconsin Avenue in Georgetown in 1933 and has been run by the same family for four generations; the current owner, Billy Martin Jr., represents the fourth. It calls itself the oldest family-run restaurant in town, and it feels like it, with a traditional tavern interior and a mix of regulars and visitors at the bar and in the booths.

The tavern's history is closely tied to Washington politics. It has served every president from Harry S. Truman to George W. Bush, and it was here, on 24 June 1953, that the young senator John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier.

The food is upscale American tavern cooking. Brunch is served every day until 4pm, which is unusual and very handy, with dishes such as steak and eggs and seafood, plus soups, salads and house specialities. Separate menus cover dinner, wines and beers, cocktails, desserts and Champagne. Prices are moderate for Georgetown, and the portions suit a hungry walker after a day on the streets.

Reservations can be made through Resy, and booking is a good idea for weekend brunch and for dinner. The restaurant also hosts early-morning breakfasts and private events, which can be arranged through its contact page, and it runs a monthly wine club for locals.

Martin's Tavern suits families, history lovers and anyone who wants a comfortable meal rather than a culinary event. It is a good stop after visiting Georgetown's shops, or before walking down to the waterfront. Allow about an hour for brunch or lunch. Because brunch runs until 4pm every day, it is a reliable choice for a late breakfast at any point in the week, not only at weekends. Gift cards and merchandise are sold online if you want a souvenir of a visit.

The tavern is on Wisconsin Avenue NW in the heart of Georgetown, a short walk from M Street. Georgetown has no Metro station, so most people arrive by bus, taxi or ride share. The Georgetown Waterfront and Fiola Mare are a short walk downhill, and the neighbourhood's shops and side streets are good for a walk after lunch. It appeared on the television show Man v. Food in 2020.