Yikes, don’t tell: As locals are aware, Washington, D.C. is quickly becoming known for its bustling nightlife scene as much as its political maneuvering. Along with bringing a massive influx of people and ideas, the last several years have caused a wave of new bars and restaurants to spring up, and nouveau eating and dining trends to surge through the nation’s capital. But outside of token Top 100 lists and Best of [Insert Neighborhood Here] round-ups, it’s often hard to pinpoint some of the city’s best drinking spots for those looking to keep things more low-key, and enjoy a more casual round of drinks or dinner on any given night. Luckily, our team of intrepid editors is here to help – here, you’ll find a closer look at 10 top spots where you can find fun and excitement waiting without having to break the bank anytime the mood for a little adventure strikes.
Dacha Beer Garden Dirty Habit Lost & Found American Ice Company
| Name | Location | Description |
| Dacha Beer Garden | 1600 7th St NW | You can enjoy unique craft beers of the Belgian, German and American variety in this outdoor beer garden, a popular watering hole for twenty- and thirty-somethings alike. It’s particularly enjoyable during warmer months, when crowds flock to it by the dozen for a chance to take in fresh air, meet like-minded young professionals, and sample an expansive menu of cocktails, beers, ciders, and meads. The large mural of a young Elizabeth Taylor that overlooks the garden only adds to its ambience. |
| Rebellion | 1836 18th St NW | A fitting addition to the bar scene in D.C., this veteran-owned establishment serves up beers, wines and superior whiskey on-demand. While the downstairs bar often gets more hype, a solid rooftop drinking area also makes this a relaxing spot to decompress on a Friday. The indoor décor melds modern with rustic, and the staff’s equal parts polite and straight shooting – you’ll find it a fun spot to begin the night at, and (pro tip if you’re planning a date night) located in spitting distance of the equally charming Bar Charley. |
| Dirty Habit | 555 8th St NW | Housed in a post office from the 1800s, and Hotel Monaco, Dirty Habit offers an almost poetic setting from which to sip drinks by dimmed lights while contemplating your existence. Depending on when you drop by, you might find the bartender sporting a handlebar mustache, setting the perfect mood for the evening. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink with some friends or just post up at the bar and watch some sports, this venue will suit your needs. And for contrast check out the Atrium Bar for a more open feel. |
| Satellite Room | 2047 9th St NW | If you’re catching a show at 9:30 Club (one of the city’s most iconic concert venues), slap yourself if you don’t make a point to stop by the Satellite Room located right behind it, either before or after the performance, as well. A neo-punk-rock take ‘50s diner, its surprisingly sophisticated yet rebellious vibe – and delicious range of boozy milkshakes – makes it the perfect before or after-party. |
| Atlas Arcade | 1236 H St NE | Picture combining classic bar drinks with the soundtrack to your wayward youth, and you’ll get a good idea of the retro ‘80s-themed fun available at classic video game spot Atlas Arcade. This old-school gaming bar allows you to dive into legendary digital diversions such as Pac-Man and Frogger, or throw down with friends on Double Dragon and Mortal Kombat over brews. With movie posters adorning the walls and other games like darts and foosball available to play, it’s a great place to chill and swap stories. Pro tip: Start the evening off beforehand with a trip to H Street Country Club for indoor mini-golf and a snack break at Dangerously Delicious Pies, and you’ve got a readymade date night. |
| Lost and Found | 1240 9th St NW | An appropriate word to describe colorful, upbeat bar Lost and Found – typically populated by twenty- and thirty-somethings who travel in large packs – is “vintage.” Here, you’ll find license plates adorning the walls, and classic furniture and vinyl records complementing the décor. It’s a great bar to kick back at with a beer or glass of hard liquor, especially if you’re waiting for a cocktail upstairs at The Columbia Room or a table (and some of the city’s best dining) a few doors over at The Dabney. |
| Madam’s Organ | 2461 18th St NW | All about live music and quirky atmosphere, this neighborhood stalwart – a blues bar where performers hit the stage every night in a dark and cozy setting – is quite the character – and delivers fun in spades. Move upstairs from the show floor, and you’ll find a pool table and DJ waiting above, plus a rooftop with another bar to help keep yourself “hydrated.” Regular “drunkaoke” karaoke nights promise even more entertaining. |
| Mari Vanna | 1141 Connecticut Ave NW | Looking for an occasional club-style dance floor with disco balls, random weekday trivia nights, or heaty ethnic food served to taste? Check out this uniquely-appointed Russian bar, which offers 20 different varieties of infused vodka using ingredients including pineapple, watermelon, and apricot (there’s even one made with beets), plus a deliciously-extensive menu of dishes from beef stroganoff to chicken Kiev to explore. Plenty of different spaces throughout the venue can cater to your mood or temperament, including dining areas, tea rooms and a lounge, making it a welcome standby for nearly any occasion. |
| Sauf Haus Bier Hall | 1216 18th St NW | Quietly tucked away in Dupont Circle, this best-kept neighborhood secret – featuring three bars and a fantastic selection of German draft beers and an equally well-appointed food selection from kielbasa to bratwurst – won’t disappoint. Want to impress your friends with your ability to carbo-load? Intrepid souls can even dive into a two-pound pretzel: Seconds, anyone? |
| American Ice Company | 917 V St NW | With an open layout inside and a popular outdoor patio with picnic tables to enjoy, it’s no wonder this U St. corridor staple remains a hit with the twenty- and thirty-something crowd. Featuring a wide range of beers and whiskeys, a visit during spring or summer months will quickly illustrate the venue’s appeal. Added bonus: With the 9:30 Club just steps away, it makes a great spot from which to pre-game before catching your favorite indie bands. |
CHEAT SHEET
Washingtonian – The 24 Best Bars in Washington DC
Eater – These Are DC’s Essential Bars
Thrillist – Best Bars in DC
Washingtonian – The Best First Date Bars in DC
Associate Editor Nick Gambino is originally from New York City. With a strong background in the entertainment and tech fields, he writes engaging reviews and think pieces for numerous websites and online publications. A life-long movie fiend, he hosts popular movie-centric show Get 2 the Podcast - check it out at www.get2thepodcast.com
| M | T | W | T | F | S | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Leave a Reply