WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Martin’s Tavern, the city’s oldest family-run restaurant, is celebrating 90 consecutive years of serving patrons in Georgetown. This unique family-run establishment, situated on the prominent corner of Wisconsin and N St, N.W., has remained a favorite destination for influencers from politics, sports, media, and culture. Washington, D.C.’s Mayor Muriel Bowser presided over the anniversary kickoff event with Billy Martin on September 12 to celebrate the iconic tavern with over 600 guests. The Mayor roused the crowd with her support for small business and presentation to Billy Martin of a letter of declaration from the City honoring the restaurant’s 90 years of service in the community.
The Mayor stated, “Martin’s Tavern is a place that, no matter where you go, people know about it. There’s only one DC, and we are proud to have places like Martin’s Tavern in our city. For 90 years, the Martin family has served our community, bringing DC and American history to life within the tavern’s walls.”
Councilmember Brooke Pinto also joined the festivities and commended Martin’s Tavern for its contributions to Ward 2 and its importance as a draw for tourism in the District. “We are so proud that Ward 2 is home to Martin’s Tavern, one of the most storied establishments in DC. Martin's Tavern, and the community that keeps it thriving, represent the strength and love so integral to the hospitality industry. Cheers to 90 more years!”
Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO of Destination D.C. also commented on Martin’s Tavern as an asset for drawing travelers to the city, “Martins Tavern is one of those rare places that is steeped in DC culture and offers a rich cultural and historical experience to visitors from around the world. The restaurant is a national treasure and we're glad it calls Washington, DC home.”
Martin’s Tavern was founded by great-grandfather William Solomon Martin, and grandfather, former Major League Baseball player, William Gloyd “Billy” Martin, and opened in 1933 as Prohibition ended. Reflecting on the good wishes he received from so many during this 90th year Billy Martin commented, “We are so very honored to have the outpouring of support from the community, which, combined with our committed and loyal staff has truly made Martin’s what it is today.”
It was at Martin’s Tavern that John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier in 1953, in the couple’s regular booth, which is aptly referred to as the Proposal Booth. This remains the most requested spot in the tavern for popping the question. In addition to the Kennedys, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was also a regular. Among her many conversations with owner Billy Martin, she confided that Martin’s Tavern was an extension of her living room. Every U.S. president, from Harry S. Truman to George W. Bush, has visited the restaurant to discuss important matters or relax with colleagues, family, and friends. Martin’s Tavern was also the meeting spot for Supreme Court Justices following deliberations of the Brown v. Board of Education decision.
From October 2-5th, Martin’s Tavern is rolling back the prices on selected dishes to their original prices from the restaurant’s 1933 menu. These specials will be offered exclusively during lunch service. Choices include a Cup of Clam Chowder for $.20, and Sandwich choices of Ham and Egg, Ham and Cheese, Bacon and Egg, or Corn Beef, all priced at $.20. Chicken Ala King will also be offered at $.85, and 3 Fried Oysters, Coleslaw and French Fries for $.35.
Come toast to a community cause! Through October, Martin’s Tavern will feature three 90th-anniversary cocktails, which will be a proprietary reset of 1933 drinks with 2023 sensibilities: French 75, Sidecar, and The Last Word. These cocktails at Martin’s Tavern are priced from $13 to $17, and 100 percent of the proceeds raised from their sale will benefit the Georgetown Ministry Center. “Martin's Tavern is a community institution,” states Kelly Andreae, Executive Director of Georgetown Ministry Center. “The Georgetown Ministry Center is honored to celebrate their commitment to the Georgetown community.”
Image resources including party photos (Credit: Arteaga Productions) are available here, and general Martin’s Tavern photos are available here
About Martin’s Tavern
In an era of constant change, some things remain great, and Martin’s Tavern is rich in history. The attentive service, authentic ambiance, and savory upscale American cuisine at Martin’s Tavern have remained a Georgetown favorite for nearly a century. Serving brunch daily until 4 p.m., this locally owned family-run restaurant is the oldest in town and remains a long-standing beloved landmark at 1264 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W. To reserve a table, call 202-333-7370 or visit https://www.martinstavern.com/
