One of D.C.’s most classic eateries still stands the test of time.
By Katie Test
This city is full of them – places familiar with motorcades, full of legends of politicians solving world crises over a plate of lobster, shaking hands with constituents, and moving on to the next big thing. Occidental Restaurant is certainly one of those places with a huge amount of history, most of it plastering the walls. You can peer into the restaurant’s heavy history through the black and white framed photographs of famous people (or at least famous-for-their-time people) that surround guests while they dine on classic American cuisine.
It doesn’t get more D.C. than this. Occidental‘s patio stretches out onto Pennsylvania Avenue, perfect for summertime. The dining room is split-level, with cozy booths to hide away in, and tables to be seen at. It’s the type of place that knows what the diner wants before they know themselves.
Chef Rodney Scruggs has prepared a menu that will satisfy all diners from simple fish to corn-fed American beef. I recommend the swordfish over white asparagus – a light but fulfilling meal. The desserts are playful; a perfect meal is finished by another American classic: the root beer float.
Visit Occidental at 1475 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, call (202) 737-4147 for reservations.
