Due to security restrictions in 2004, Old Ebbitt Grill was nearly prevented from its traditional practice of selling coffee and hot chocolate to spectators watching the inaugural parade, in this case for the landmark election of Barack Obama as President of the United States. That year the Democratic Leadership Council rented the entire restaurant for a private party on Inauguration Day.Nakamura, David and Boschma, Janie. "Comfortable Perches Along Pennsylvania Avenue Are Much in Demand." The Washington Post. January 16, 2009.
