Dining with the Founding Fathers: Fraunces Tavern
Nina RossielloFood, Booze, & Body ArtEditor, Co-Founder 
Did you know that New York City was originally the capital of the United States? Why not choose the greatest city in the world? (Hope you sang this to the tune of Hamilton like I did writing it). It happened when the US Constitution was first ratified in 1788. This seemed like an ideal location at the time, as New York City was a major city even before it was officially deemed ‘capital.’ It was an ideal trading location and a focal point during the American Revolution. With that being said, there are places that are still standing today with great historical significance that trace back to the colonial time period. You can actually eat in the same restaurants as George Washington and other founding fathers did. *fangirl shriek* Where can you find these historical landmarks? Primarily in Downtown Manhattan. Manhattan was much smaller back in the day and you’ll notice most historical landmarks are scattered around Downtown.
Fraunces Tavern History
One of those historical landmarks is Fraunces Tavern, which is located at 54 Pearl Street. This gem quickly has become one of my favorite spots, not only because it has absolutely delicious food and drinks, but because of the rich history that comes along with it. It was at the Fraunces Tavern where George Washington gathered his troops and gave his farewell address in December 1783 after Evacuation Day. According to the Fraunce Tavern Museum archives, Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge wrote about the farewell in his memoir years later, stating that Washington addressed his men with the following speech:
“With a heart full of love and gratitude I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable.”
After Washington addressed his soldiers regarding his departure, the room was filled with teary-eyed military generals who he embraced and thanked one-by-one before leaving for Mount Vernon, Virginia. You can read more about the end of the American Revolution, Evacuation Day, and Washington’s Farewell lunch here: Fraunces Tavern Museum Archives
Fraunces Tavern Museum
Before or after your delicious meal at Fraunces Tavern, take a trip upstairs to see the museum that houses a collection of different artifacts from the colonial period. The upstairs room is home to The Long Room, which is actually where George Washington gave his farewell speech. The room is now set to replicate how the room looked back when this momentous event occurred. A few other items you can see throughout the museum include: -Busts of General Washington-A lock of Washington’s Hair-Letters and Communications-Furniture-A tooth from the colonial period, which is rumored to be Washington’s! (not creepy at all, right?!) 
It costs $7 for general admission for adults and $4 for seniors, children under 18, and students. The Fraunces Tavern Museum is open Wednesday - Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Dining at the Fraunces Tavern
The menu offered at the tavern will have you drooling and wanting to order everything! Let’s start with the drinks. Fraunces Tavern is home to the Dingle Whiskey Bar, and they offer a few different whiskey flights, so you can enjoy a whiskey tasting if you can’t decide on which one to order (since there are over 400 types to choose from.)If whiskey isn’t your thing, give a try to any of their signature or classic cocktails. If you want to stick with the historical theme here, you can order yourself a ‘Presidential Punch’ in honor of General Washington. Their margaritas are perfectly made every single time, but my personal favorite beverage was their sangria! Is that a wine or a cocktail? I don’t know.. But that helps my next point! Fraunces Tavern also has a nice selection of wine and beer in addition to their whiskey and cocktails. Now let’s chat about food. You HAVE to start with a charcuterie board. I don’t think I have ever seen it done better than they do it at Fraunces Tavern. Everything is fresh and full of flavor, the presentation is Instagram perfect, and they really give you a packed out board. 
For dinner, Fraunce Tavern offers an ample selection of classic pub meals such as reubens (my personal recommendation), burgers, steak sandwiches, wings, etc. If you’re trying to eat a bit on the healthier side, order yourself Jefferson’s Cobb salad, because why not eat a salad named after Thomas Jefferson while drinking your Presidential Punch?! Whatever you do choose, I promise you won’t be disappointed. If you are partaking in some outdoor dining, you might even hear some music while you eat! Fraunces Tavern hosts talented performers who will serenade you while you enjoy your drinks and food. Who doesn’t love a little live music?SO.. next time you’re downtown, don’t forget to take a visit to the Fraunces Tavern for an unforgettable, educational, and delicious time! Like what you read? Subscribe to our mailing list by clicking here to never miss any articles!
