The good old days for the Washington elite: lunch with Nancy at the Jockey Club, dinner with Ben and Sally at Katherine Graham’s, bowls of navy bean soup in the Senate cafeteria with Senator Rockefeller.

The good old days for the rest of us: Stoney’s.

Long a favorite of Post staffers, Lawyer’s Alley expats, politicos, and, of course, regular joes, Stoney’s is one of the best spots in town for burgers and beer. At least until January 14, when the doors to the Washington institution will close for good. After that, it’s sayonara to cheap brews, tasty snacks, and, of course, the $10 Thanksgiving feast every year — and buh-bye to a rare, uncorrupted, accessible gem in a sea of high-powered offices and fancy schmancy restaurants.

But the faithful need not worry. The sister spot on Capitol Hill, Tunnicliff’s Tavern, will still serve up drafts on tap and reliable burgers. In the meantime, drink a cup of kindness at Stoney’s and stop by the farwell party on January 13th (from 5 p.m. ‘til they kick you out).

Just to make sure this old acquaintance won’t ever be forgot.

Stoney’s Bar and Grill, 1307 L Street NW, between 13th and 14th Streets (202-347-9163).