"1905" - Not a Dive, Though Barely Alive

C Says...

For weeks my coworker has been raving about 1905 (maybe it’s been months). He touted the ambiance, the food, and the vibe. So for my birthday dinner I decided to check it out with Trusty J by my side. By in large my coworker wasn’t wrong.

1905 is a small space in a converted row house above a convenience store, but they make the most of it. The size lends itself to a nice cozy atmosphere as does the communal table in the center for larger groups. I was of course late (hate) and met J at the bar where he was nursing a cocktail. The bar itself was teeny and could easily feel claustrophobic if filled with people waiting for a table. But, seeing as this was a Tuesday night, it wasn’t an issue.

Foregoing a first course, I chose the crab cake entree. The crab cakes were cooked well and nicely seasoned. They were paired with a scallion mashed potato that while tasty needed some salt. The Manhattan I ordered had a whopping dash of cherry juice for some reason – which made it overly sweet for this bourbon lover.

I’d recommend 1905 for a nice dinner for two on a weeknight (I imagine it would get super noisy and crowded on a weekend night) for some good comfort food and nice atmosphere. Just don’t order a Manhattan.

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J Says...

I had tried once before to go to 1905, so it was quite nice that C chose this place for our February meal. Per usual, I arrived a bit early (just excited to see C I guess) and hung out at the bar. The citron and soda was quite nice and priced competitively for the District.

Disappointed, but not discouraged by C's lack of a first, I went with the Maine lobster meatballs, knowing full well C would partake. Delivered hot and spicy, it was a unique play on an old staple. They were quite delicious, though I'd likely try the butternut squash bisque my next go-around.

For my entree, I went with the pan seared duck breast. Served with a rye-bread pudding (seemed like Thanksgiving stuffing to me) and a rich lingonberry sauce. The duck was fine, though not memorable by any means. The portions are definitely filling. And the service was very attentive (though we were one of only five tables that evening).

I'd recommend 1905 if looking for something more quaint and quiet, particularly since its location is down the street from bustling U street and the restaurant lies within a renovated rowhouse. Not a place to see or be seen, the maitre'd was definitely the standout feature (call me!).


1905 - 1905 9th Street NW, 202.332.1905, www.1905dc.com