The U.S. Capitol Historical Society Raises a Glass to 50 Years of The Monocle 

Fifty years ago two young Senators, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon, were battling it out for the Presidency.  But when they weren't off on the campaign trails, both frequented the newly-opened Capitol Hill restaurant, The Monocle.

Today this Washington, D.C. institution is still thriving from its original location on D Street just steps away from the Senate Office Buildings.  Connie and Helen Valanos opened The Monocle in October 1960.  Their son and the current owner, John Valanos, who took over the restaurant in 1989, estimates that half of the people who have served in Congress since then have eaten there or have stopped by for a drink.

On December 1st, 2010 the Monocle, in conjunction with the U.S. Capitol Historical Society, celebrated 50 years with an evening of Capitol tales with humorist Mark Russell, current and former Members of Congress, veteran staff and friends.

Congressmen Steny Hoyer (MD) and John Boehner (OH) relax and reminisce during The Monocle's 50th Anniversary celebration.

The crowd enjoys the political satire and songs by Mark Russell, who has been entertaining politicians and locals in DC for over 30 years.

Congressman Norm Dicks (WA) (center) with the Monocle's original owner, Connie Valanos (left) and current owner John Valanos (right).

Read more about The Monocle's 50th Anniversary celebration:

Hill Rag

The Hill

Politico