OUR HISTORY

Since the turn of the Century, 1610 U Street has had an interesting history! Prior to the Prohibition, it was a popular saloon called "McCarthy's". During the Prohibition, it is said to have been a famous speakeasy. During renovations in the early 60's, bottles were found in the basement with "1610 U Street" labels affixed. Urban legend has it that an old bootleg still is buried under the cement of the outdoor patio.

During the glory days of U Street, it was the famous "Alfred's Steak House". Many clubs and restaurans stretched from 1610 to the Howard Theater at 7th and U Street. Visitors to "Alfred's" in those days included: Duke Ellington, Pearl Bailey, Nat King Cole, Count Basle, Sarah Vaughn and countless others. Following 'Alfred's Steak House", 1610 once again changed hands and became "Mr.J's". The riots that followed the death of Martin Luther King turned this once vibrant area into a "No Man's Land" and "Mr J's" went out of business in the mid-70s.

Stetson's was born in 1980 by a retired police officer and was the first Tex-Mex saloon in DC. It quickly became a popular neighborhood stop with many a celebrity and politician dropping by for a nip and a bite.

This tradition continues today as Stetson's moves forward. While still embracing and celebrating it's rich history as the "Original Neighborhood Bar".

Thanks for Dropping By and We Hope to See You Again!

Here is a Copy of One of the Original Labels:

1610 U St. NW - Washington, DC - Copyright 1914!