The Majestic
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Mon-Thu 5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Fri-Sat 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.
Sun 1:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. - Price Range: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
- Parking: Street
- Attire: Casual
- Good for Groups: Yes
- Good for Kids: No
- Takes Reservations: Yes
- Delivers: No
- Waiter Service: Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Alcohol: Full Bar
28 Reviews for The Majestic
Came here for the Royal Pick lunch ($12 on any one item on the lunch menu - plus a soda / ice tea). Bar only.
I had the fried soft-shelled crab sandwich!!! TO DIE FOR!!! This is the first time I had soft-shelled crab on a sandwich. It was so tasty I wish I can eat a second one!!!
People thought this was:
Useful (7)
Funny (3)
Cool (6)
3.75 stars. Although I certainly enjoy Restaurant Eve more than the Majestic, I have to remand my clearly unconscionable statements that the food here is not on the same level. Quite simply, I was ordering wrong. If you go, skip out on the soft shell crab sandwich. It's easily the weakest chink in the Majestic armor. Instead, enjoy the Chesapeake seafood stew or the lovely ahi tuna. Recently, I enjoyed a nice fried mussel Caesar salad here (not the BS type of Caesar, but the real Caesar salad, replete with red wine-anchovy reduction flavoring local greens and heavy influences of fresh parm... the mussels were a nice addition). This is a "regulars" spot, but usually, the service is friendly. It's certainly less stuffy than most high-end restaurants.
People thought this was:
Useful (4)
Funny (1)
Cool (4)
Lots of hype on this place did not help the fact that they reversed our orders and tried to tell me I was WRONG about THAT. Pardon? I got to cut into my steak to prove it to them. Food was pretty good - had the steak with their signature butter, some succotash on the side. Service was funky from the get go - ending with no refill offered on the meal-ending coffee. PASS on this one....there are better choices at this price.
Today, the Majestic served me up the best ol' lunch I've ever had in Old Town (with the exception of Five Guys, but that's more grab-and-go). I wouldn't want to spend that kind of money ($18) on lunch every day, but I truly felt like I got a big, brat-wursty bang for my buck!
I ordered the "Big Brat;" my interest was piqued by the house-made bratwurst and creamy potato salad. Let me just say that the bread, baked at Restaurant Eve each morning, was glorious. Brochen-esque, yet soft, super-fresh--somehow just being the perfect mix of tough and feathery and tasty. I'm not a big carb freak, I can skip bread no problem (sweets, well that's another story). To be dazzled by bread is unlike me.
The brat was yummy (deliciously balanced, perfect hint of caraway) and cooked crispy (I like my dogs and wursts incinerated) enough for me. And it was HUGE. I immediately boxed half to nosh on for tomorrow's lunch. I then cut my half in half and left STUFFED. For $13.95 it was a generous portion. The brat comes with a trio of fixings: sweet relish (way too sweet), sauerkraut (just right) and mustard (darn hot).
The creamy potato salad was delicious, too. I'm not into mayo, but will tolerate it in some salads and slaws. This had creaminess, but I'm not 100% sure it was mayo. Maybe creme fraiche? And oodles of grainy mustard, fresh herbs and redskin pots. Two forks up!
The Majestic loses a star for minor hiccups--a stubborn mixologist who won't alter the cocktails (although I admire that "my way or the highway" thinking--I can totally relate) and a server who could have stepped it up a bit.
The food was great, though, so I'll definitely be back for dinner sometime (and lunch again, too)!
People thought this was:
Useful (5)
Cool (3)
Fantastico! From the minute we sat down... the biscuits had us, like crack cocaine grabs a junkee. MMMMMMMM...
Service was perfect. Ambience nice and mellow. Very cool surroundings. I had the Caesar salad prepared tableside... one of the best I've had in years! Followed that with the lamb/pork/beef meatloaf... out of this world!
Loved this place. Will definitely hit it up again...
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Despite being overpriced, I love The Majestic Cafe. We've gotten so used to eating garbage these days that when my husband and I first sat down to start on the gratis bread, my husband stopped and asked me what they put in the butter. I looked at him and simply told him that what he was eating was real butter--not margarine or Land 'O Lakes--I'm talking real European butter. This small, seemingly inconsequential experience sets the tone for the rest of your meal. The menu is small, but well done on every point. For example, their Steak Salad, which is on their dinner menu (but I request for lunch all the time), starts off with fresh rocket arugula, sliced radishes and shaved parmesan cheese gently tossed in vinaigrette under sliced steak done to order. It may sound unimpressive, but the execution of such simple ingredients is unparalleled. God, I'm starting to salivate... Other worthwhile menu items: their BLT showcasing house-cured bacon and the Big Brat, home-made bratwurst served with a plethora of condiments.
People thought this was:
Useful (3)
Cool (3)
Going on all the postive review here on Yelp, I sought out this restaurant. I was disappointed. I liked the interior dining space and the wait staff was competent...the food...well that was another story. I had the Majestic chicken for $21. The presentation of the food was very good, however, the chicken was way over seasoned...salty! The roasted potatoes were oozing oil upon impact with my fork-which was gross...and the little salad on the side was very vinegary. Oh, and the serving size was very small...I wouldn't have cared about the small portion that much if the taste had been better...I wonder if the chef is a smoker, which sometimes explains overseasoning of food because smokers palates can be dulled somewhat...Whatever it was, I contemplated sending my food back...I hate doing this though and so I picked at my food and left without finishing it all. The saltiness of the chicken stayed with me as my mouth felt chapped from the salt...I found relieve with an iced coffee. I will not be returning to this restaurant.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
I was at Restaurant Eve for their lunch special the other day when I saw that they were promoting a lunch special at The Majestic. It's called The Royal Pick menu - it's $12, in the bar only and available Tues-Fri 11:30-2:30. You can order anything off their regular lunch menu for only $12 and it includes a soda or unsweetened ice tea.
I ordered a fresh lemonade and it was so good. The bartender muddled fresh lemons and added sugar, juices and club soda and threw it in a shaker. It doesn't take much to entertain me. I didn't expect it to be included but he didn't charge me. That was really nice because the deal only covers a soda or iced tea.
I ordered the Chesapeake Bay-Style Seafood Stew. It was excellent. The broth was tomato-based with other assorted veggies and potatoes. The seafood was ample - oysters, clams, scallops, mussels, jumbo shrimp, fish, and squid. I could have done without the large dollop of Old Bay aioli. It was almost too much since the seafood is already in a stew and there was enough flavor. And once the aioli got mixed into the stew, it was floating around in chunks. It was still very good but I would ask they hold the aioli next time.
The bartender was very friendly and attentive. I love the atmosphere here - upscale but casual. I want to return for Nana's Sunday Dinner. It's $78 for 4 people and the menu changes monthly. May's sunday dinner is Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Mac 'n Cheese, Corn on the Cob, Creamy Cole Slaw, and Dessert: Strawberry Shortcake. June's is Chesapeake Seafood Bake with Mussels, Clams, Crabs, Oysters, Shrimp, House Made Sausage, Potatoes, Corn on the Cob, Dessert: Seasonal Pie. I have found my new favorite place in Old Town.
People thought this was:
Useful (4)
Cool (2)
The service is very attentive but not overly so, The menu inventive, sometimes too when it comes to sauces. All in all, a good but pricey place to eat lunch. Since the change of ownership, the noise volume is much lower, the bar is an excellent place to have an inexpensive but good lunch. My table had the special beet ravioli (*****), fried green tomatoes (****), chicken salad sandwich (the herb mentioned is tarragon (****), the BLT (like the chicken sandwich, messy to eat -- keep the waxed paper on (****), and the antipasto (***) - a sauce with it was sweet. The individual glasses of wine are at least $7.50 each. I will return and recommend to friends but will warn of prices.
My wife and I ventured over the river last night to go out to dinner with friends in Old Towne. We constantly talk about spending more time in the area but always go for our stand-bys in DC when thinking about dining options. Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed The Majestic. From the decor to the service and food, everything was geared toward making you feel comfortable and at home. We each ordered a mix of starters and entrees and all were delicious. I ordered the meatloaf even though I'm not much of a meatloaf fan. Well I am now. This wasn't your typical heavy, ketchup covered slab of hamburger meat. While certainly not light, it was very approachable and I wasn't in a food coma after dinner. It had a wonderful mushroom gravy over top and chive mashed potatoes and carrots on the side. All of it said "Moms home cooking"...except much better (no offense Mom). This now goes on my list of stand-bys whenever I want some good, down home, comfort food in a relaxing and pleasant environment.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
Sorry, I think this place is overrated? Maybe my experiences here have been bad. I ordered the vaunted meatloaf once (the number 2 version), and it was overcharred and dry. Blah. For 10 bucks you can go to Whole Foods and get a prepared whole meatloaf (you cook yourself) that is 3 times better.
The second time I ordered a scallops dish and I was also unimpressed. Ray's the Steaks continues to hold the record for best preparation of scallops for me. The Chesapeake stew was good, but not rave-worthy.
Their mussels are quite good, though they did serve them with bacon when we asked for them without. The bread is tasty, but man cannot live on bread alone.
Since this is basic, simple, unexperimental food, there's no excuse for it to not taste exceptional -- especially with the markup in price. For me, the food does not justify the cost, sorry.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
I never tried the food, but their cocktails are Spectacular!
Best bartenders around know how to mix their drinks and make a truly authentic Mint Julip. You would think you were in the Kentucky Derby the way they carefully shave the ice in front of you, and serve it up in a real stainless steel tumbler. Delicious!
It's a bit pricey, running you about $10-$12 per cocktail, but it's definitely worth it. Because that cocktail isn't only paying for the ambience, but also a really great drink!
People thought this was:
Useful (7)
Cool (1)
Chef Cathal Armstrong is not all about Eve or the Chipper -- The Majestic might be my favorite in Old Town.
Service is attentive and very friendly -- there may not be a lot of cooks in the kitchen (it is TINY) -- but there are a lot of staff that do their best to ensure you are well taken care of.....ambience -- a little hip, a little funk -- some history and lots of character make for a great space.
The food is wonderful -- fried green tomatoes were delicious (if a slight twist on what you might expect), succatash was outstanding, gnocchi were very good. Entrees -- the scallops in oyster sauce were cooked and seasoned to perfection -- the sauce included actual oysters that were perfectly cooked as well. Rockfish was outstanding.
Cocktails shine. Wine list is decent -- extra mark for having a Pink wine on the list -- and another mark for selecting BDV Vin Gris as the leader of the Pink wine world.
Will return.
May 2008 Update
Went for Nanna's dinner. Fried chicken, mac & cheese, cole slaw and corn on the cob -- and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Again, a great value at $78 for 4 -- and a really nice format to share a nice meal with friends. The fried chicken was delicious -- everything was delicious for that matter -- probably the best meal to date at the Majestic. Selection of wines by the glass seems to get worse with each visit.
March 2008 Update
I have returned a number of times, twice for Nanna's dinner on Sunday nights -- really a lot of fun. This month it is leg of lamb with a salad, two sides and dessert -- $78 for 4 -- a great deal and a wonderful meal.
Their wine list is ok by the bottle -- though I really have a hard time with prices at some restaurants -- Torbreck Woodcutters for over $50? I pay about $15 retail. Also, their wines by the glass is dominated by Chile and Argentina -- some great wines coming out of Argentina, but how about some more interesting and higher quality choices......VA bubbles for how much a glass?
But those are minor details, overall a really charming place that I really enjoy.
People thought this was:
Useful (3)
Cool (1)
I think the food has gotten even better since the switch. The menu has something for everyone. I enjoyed a great New York steak that was prepared perfectly and accompanied with some delightful fresh greens and classic whipped potatoes. The rest of my party enjoyed their dishes. The squash filled ravioli was a hit too.
I would advise you to make reservations for dinner. We were walk-ins and they did accommodate us but it felt as if we were putting them through the greatest inconvenience. The bartender is also very slow and it took a long time for our drinks to arrive. Dirty martini was good; sidecars are very popular here. The wait staff is very knowledgable and the menu changes with the seasons. This place is also known for giant cake slices and ice cream sundaes. I can not wait to go back.
People thought this was:
Useful (5)
Funny (1)
Cool (2)
Outstanding restaurant. Great food with very fresh ingredients. Service was friendly and attentive. We had mussels as appetizer, scallops and Chesapeake stew as entrees, while the vegetarian in our party had an assortment of side dishes, all of which exceeded our expectations. Portions were pretty big too so we had no room for desserts. We definitely felt the meticulous attention to detail as the bread served was warm and crunchy and the coffee that rounded out our meal was freshly brewed. Keep it up!
I can't call this place vegetarian friendly, but I went there a while back with my father & a friend of his. After scanning the menu for vegetarian options and seeing none, I asked my waiter if there was any way to fashion a vegetarian salad or something. He politely offered one of the fish entrees, which I declined because -- ahem -- fish is not a vegetable.
When our orders came out, I was brought a fabulous plate of vegetarian sides and bruschetta. It was beautiful. There were all sorts of fresh side-like salads: shaved fennel salad, there was some kind of beet salad...I think I remember something with peas. Maybe something with potatoes? A green salad. Everything tasted fabulous and I didn't leave disappointed as anticipated. I even left a note for the chef with our waiter. I told him that he/she should definitely consider having a vegetarian entree because he/she obviously knew how to please a vegetarian!
The reason it's 4/5 and not 5/5 is because they took the grilled broccoli and almond napoleon off the menu when it came under new management. I'll give them that last star when I can have my grilled broccoli and almond napoleon back.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
I never went to Majestic before the owner switch/renovation or whatever happened, so I cannot compare the new to the old. But the new is good. I dug pretty much everything about it.
Their food was above average. The calamari was tasty, but too heavy on the cornmeal and spices, which hid the squid flavor inside. The french fries were average. But the gnocchi was good, and their pate was off the chizzle (I am sure I'm not the first person to describe great pate that way, right?). For entrees, my meatloaf was great, as were the rockfish and the scallops. Everything else was more than good.
Their beer selection was nice, offering some Dogfish, some Victory, some light, some dark. All fairly priced.
And the service was great. Our guy really put himself into it and earned his tip. Very friendly, engaging, open but not pushy. Really added positively to the meal. Friday at 8:30 and he took his time to make sure we were having a great experience, which we did.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
I was wondering if anyone else found changes in the food since Chef Joe left (as well as Susan)? Thankfully I didn't!
I remember my first visit here last year-- I was confused by the movie marquee and immediately thought of that Jim Carrey movie "The Majestic." I wondered if another theater had been restored like the one down the street, but then I double checked the address and realized that--yes- this was the place.
I describe the Majestic as upscale home style. The butternut squash soup is amazing-- but vegetarians need to be aware that they use pork in it. I continued with the pork theme by having the chops for an entree- they're huge-- over an inch think and very moist, covered in a cracker crumb crust.
Some nights it is really crowded, and others there is no wait. So, if you're pressed for time its best to make a reservation.
People thought this was:
Useful (6)
Cool (5)
I'll admit it. I wasn't expecting much from this restaurant when I first heard about it; and my expectations fell even lower when I saw the huge diner-like neon signs of its name hanging outside.(I have since learned that the Majestic's exterior is a homage to its history.) My initial reservations were for naught, though. This place was AMAZING. I only wish I had discovered it sooner.
First off, the interior, although a bit small, was beautiful, modern and classy. Second, the cockails were incredible (the "French Winemaker" and "Sweet Tart" martinis are absolute musts!) and definitely worth their prices (which is more than I can say about the drinks served at some other establishments in the D.C. area).
Third, the food was divine. Not every restaurant can combine down-home southern comfort food with sophistication and international inventiveness, but the Majestic Cafe succeeds...well...majestically. The flavor of a relatively standard baked sweet potato was delicously transformed with the addition of a creamy, citrus-infused orange-hazlenut butter. A perfectly baked macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi (crunchy on the outside, tender and moist on the inside) was accented by shitake cream, baby bok choy and gingered jasmine rice. My personal favorite? A butternut squash filled with a heavenly cornbread stuffing and topped with apple sauce. Yummm. The Majestic chocolate smore tart was an excellent way to end the meal. (Note to the wise: Avoid the coffee nut cake. Its strange lemon-flavored icing was kind of freaky.)
Be warned, however, that the menu at the Majestic changes every few weeks. So these dishes might be rotated out before too long.
People thought this was:
Useful (9)
Funny (2)
Cool (6)
I'd be avoiding going back to the Majestic since it changed hands because I loved the old majestic so much. They always had a creative vegetarian entree and I loved brunch. But I went back to the Majestic on Saturday night and I think I liked it even better! The redone dining room is less noisy. The server we had was perfect. I ordered a sidecar and it was tasty. I ordered the fried green tomatoes and they were perfect. My boyfriend ordered the green salad and it was so hearty and delicious. For my main I ordered the vegetarian pasta which sounded so boring but I actually loved! It was homemade wheat fettuccine, very hearty, with tomatoes and cheese. I also got a class of pinot noir, which was actually one of the best pinots I've ever had. I briefly considered ordering another glass of the pinot and the pasta right then! But I restrained myself. For dessert we shared the icebox cake. It was chocolatey but light. All in all an absolutely perfect meal. In addition, I would be so happy to go back and just eat the vegetarian sides. They looked really good.
People thought this was:
Useful (5)
Cool (1)
Along with the food, I love the sense of history and the ultra cool atmosphere that Majestic has created. I have been here time and time again and I can't get enough of it!
Lunch is highly recommended here if you don't want to spend too much money but still want fabulous food options. I recently had the chicken salad pita with squash salad- it was amazing.
People thought this was:
Useful (6)
Funny (2)
Cool (3)
I absolutely love old town Alexandria, this place fits in so well in the neighborhood. It has a diner feel, but upscale food and kind of unexpected. It has been awhile since i have been, but i remember that the food was very good and that it appeals to all audiences.
I work in Old Town and picked this place to be treated to for lunch by my boss. I knew they had a new chef and wanted to check it out. We went on a Tuesday, and did not have a reservation, and were told they were COMPLETELY BOOKED for lunch! Seriously? In Old Town? On a Tuesday? Yup. So, we sat at the bar and ate there, and I began to see why it is so popular. The menu is tons of fun, and everything on it is house-made. The bartender serving us was great- when I ordered a limeade, I watched in awe as he squeezed limes by hand to make it for me. I ordered the salad of the day, which was mostly watercress- yum- topped with seared scallops and almonds, tossed in an orange vinaigrette. It was delightful- the scallops were huge and cooked perfectly. My boss had a chicken salad sandwich that also looked tempting. It was served with the thinnest, crispiest of homemade potato chips. The bread was also great- a nice chewy baguette still warm from the oven. By mid-way through our meal, the bar too was packed to capacity, so this is definitely not an easy place to land a table without a reservation. But, I really enjoyed my lunch and would like to go back for dinner sometime, and to try the much-hyped icebox cake dessert.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
I went here for the first time on Sunday for "Nana's Sunday Dinner." The Majestic does family style dinners on Sundays. The November dinner was a Thanksgiving-esque feast of turkey, mashed potatos, green bean casserole and other delectibles. We couldn't resist the butternut squash gnocchi on the regular menu and got that as well. I was there with 6 friends and we all loved everything about our meal. It started well with fantastic bread, excellent drinks (including one of the best pinot noirs I've ever had) and our delicious gnocchi. The meal only went uphill from there. Really fantastic food. The only drawback was that our server was a bit slow and out of it. Maybe she was just having a bad night.
On our way out we made a reservation for December's family style meal. And I'd love to go back to try their regular fare as well. This is a great place!
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
This place is always good. I've had fish and pasta. They have some down home type food but also, elegant meals.
The menu changes seasonally so things are fresh and new. Be sure to get a piece of cake- their cakes are fantastic.
You also might see a Washington celeb type here- famous journalist, political pundit, etc.. We have seen a few.
People thought this was:
Useful (3)
Funny (1)
Cool (4)
This is a place that took me a long time to get to (always meant to, just lazy), but it was well worth the wait. I first ate here a couple years ago after meeting Susan (the former head Chef) and Joe (the current head Chef) at a CIRA meeting. I was tempted by their personalities, but I have returned because of the food. First visit was for brunch. May I recommend the deep fried poached eggs with beluga lentils and tarragon-sun dried tomato butter sauce (enjoyed with a bellini of course). Another delish dish is the whole wheat buttermilk waffles with orange-pecan butter (for when you are watching the quality of your carbs). Garlic cheese grits and hushpuppies are a must to round it out (or just to be gluttonous like me). I love, love, love that they serve fresh oj. Second visit, third visit and fourth visit were also for brunch. I'm hooked (even with brunch options MUCH closer to me). The place is so charming and Joe is a darling! Now I must go for lunch and dinner...
People thought this was:
Useful (8)
Funny (1)
Cool (5)
The thing I love most about this place is the Daily Layer Cake special--so save room for dessert!
People thought this was:
Useful (5)
Funny (4)
Cool (4)
I had a wonderful time here last night with my girlfriend and my parents. The waiter was friendly and attentive; the food was excellent (the summer corn chowder appetizer was particularly delicious, the seafood entrees were great--try the soft shell crabs or the sauteed salmon--and the key lime pie for dessert was oh-so-scrumptious). The restaurant has a pleasant, casual decor; a relaxed atmosphere with no sign of pretentiousness; not too fancy yet still looks classy. A quick glance around the dining room reveals the following interactions: people on a first date, a young couple with their baby, or parents meeting their son's girlfriend for the first time... :-) It's also not too loud, so you can carry on a conversation without shouting. The prices are about right for the quality and nice presentation of the food ($17-23 per entree). Tip: request a booth to sit in; they're larger tables than the tables in the center area. You'll probably be feeling really full after dinner (the portions are fairly generous), so if the weather outside is nice, take a long stroll down Duke Street to the waterfront. The restaurant's location is convenient-- close to the Old Town Theater and right in the middle of the shops/bars in the area.
People thought this was:
Useful (5)
Funny (1)
Cool (4)
People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...
Related Lists
-
Let's Do Brunch (or…
My favorite meal of the day - hands-down and a… -
Old Town Bar Crawl
Want to do a night in Old Town with some friends.… -
Old Town Lunch Scene
The best and worst of the lunch stops right along… -
Calling all frugal…
Restaurant Week is only 14 days out of the year.… -
Top Restaurants
Some of my favorite dining destinations in the…
Hot and New
- Amsterdam Falafelshop
123 reviews
Neighborhood: Adams Morgan
- A. Litteri, Inc.
13 reviews
Washington, DC
- Java Green
88 reviews
Washington, DC
- Zola
62 reviews
Neighborhood: Penn Quarter
- El Charrito Caminante
34 reviews
Arlington, VA
