Inauguration Day in Washington, D.C., is a historic event, and whether you're celebrating the new administration or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere, the city offers a wide array of food and drink specials to mark the occasion. From presidential tasting menus to late-night parties and budget-friendly deals, there's something for everyone. This guide will help you navigate the best Inauguration Day food and drink experiences the capital has to offer.
Presidential Dining Experiences:
For those seeking a more refined celebration, several D.C. restaurants are offering special menus inspired by past inaugurations and presidential favorites:
- Métier (Shaw): Indulge in a "Dine Like a President" tasting menu ($145) featuring dishes inspired by historical Inauguration Day meals. This unique culinary journey includes dishes like corned beef tongue (George Washington), broiled Maine lobster tail (John F. Kennedy), and fried apple pie (Barack Obama). This special menu is typically available for a limited time around the inauguration.
- New Heights Restaurant (Woodley Park): Enjoy a "Presidential Feast: Flavors from Inaugural History," a $75 three-course prix fixe menu. This menu features dishes inspired by official Congressional lunch menus, such as Bill Clinton’s cream of pepper soup, George W. Bush’s beef tenderloin with red wine sauce, and Dwight D. Eisenhower’s strawberry shortcake. This special is usually available for an extended period surrounding the inauguration.
Parties and Late-Night Fun:
If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and late-night celebrations, these spots are the place to be:
- Mission (Navy Yard & Dupont Circle): This popular Mexican restaurant and bar extends its hours for Inauguration Day. The Navy Yard location usually stays open until 4 AM from the Friday before through Inauguration Day, while the Dupont location typically extends hours on Sunday and Monday. Expect DJs, late-night snacks, and a festive atmosphere.
- Royal Sands Social Club (Navy Yard): This "tropical oasis" in Navy Yard typically features DJs and stays open late (usually until 4 AM) on the Sunday and Monday of Inauguration weekend.
Deals and Specials:
For budget-conscious celebrators, there are plenty of great deals and specials:
- Ambar (Shaw, Capitol Hill, Clarendon): This Balkan restaurant extends its all-you-can-eat brunch (starting at $36.99 per person) to Inauguration Day. They also typically offer all-day happy hour drink specials, such as discounted old fashioneds and sangria.
- Carmine’s (Penn Quarter): This Italian restaurant usually opens early on Inauguration Day, offering a breakfast buffet ($29.95 per person) and grab-and-go options. The bar typically opens early as well, and the inauguration is usually streamed on their televisions.
- Little Blackbird (Cleveland Park): This wine and cocktail bar usually offers a discount on martinis, Manhattans, and sparkling wines on Inauguration Day.
- Scarlet Oak (Navy Yard): This restaurant and bar usually offers half-priced Detroit-style pizzas and discounted martinis while showing the inauguration on TV.
- Union Pub (Capitol Hill): This Capitol Hill favorite usually opens early on Inauguration Day and streams coverage on its TVs. They also typically offer specials like discounted hot cocktails and a platter deal with beer, sliders, and fries.
Unique Experience:
- The Next Whisky Bar (Watergate Hotel): This bar usually offers a special inspired by the outgoing president's preferences, such as a themed burger, fries, and drinks. They also typically offer a "Presidential Bites Flight" with upscale options.
Planning Your Inauguration Day:
With so many options, planning your Inauguration Day experience in D.C. is easy. Whether you’re looking for a formal dining experience, a lively party, or budget-friendly deals, this guide will help you find the perfect way to celebrate this historic event. Remember to make reservations where necessary, as these popular spots tend to fill up quickly.