City: Washington, DC

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (202) 333-9180

Address: 3236 M Street NW

Description: Here’s a D.C. institution that was smart enough to bring its success to the suburbs. Although all of the locations inside and outside the Beltway have proven to be a hit, none have quite the charm of this street-front saloon in the very crux of trendy Georgetown. Serving lunch and dinner daily, and Sunday brunch, it’s a raucous, lively place—a little bit meat market, a little bit family fun center—all housed in nooks and alcoves that feature touches of stained glass, extravagant art, and, often, wall-to-wall people. Beyond the irresistible bar area, Clyde’s beckons with its own brand of award-winning chili, steaks, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. Clyde’s makes a special effort to buy its produce from local farmers, so the veggie dishes can be among the freshest in town. The food’s not always perfect—and almost never exceptional—but the place is a blast, and its appeal is broad. Patrons include college students, families, and business types.