Dining

Washington D.C. has places where you can shop, be entertained, and eat to your heart’s content. For this version of “The Bests,” we bring you to the capital’s drinking joints. From old school watering holes to stylish cocktail lounges, we bring you the 7 best bars in D.C.

A&D
1314 9th St NW

Hailed as one of the best neighborhood bars in D.C., A&D offers a variety of well-crafted cocktails and elevated pub grub – all of which you can enjoy thanks to the bar’s friendly staff and the laidback atmosphere. One of the best things about A&D, however, is that most of their cocktails are crafted using the best local spirits available, such as Catoctin Creek rye and Green Hat Gin.

Brookland’s Finest Bar and Kitchen
3126 12th St NE

Most bars aren’t considered family-friendly, but Brookland’s Finest is an exception. Serving classic American comfort food and stiff cocktails, this bar and kitchen in the Northeast part of the capital hits all the right spots, regardless of your age group. Think of it this way – you can get hammered heer, and get food after to beat the hangover. Convenient!

All Souls Bar
725 T St NW

Located in Shaw, All Souls Bar is the watering hole you need to visit if you’re after a no-nonsense style of drinking. The place is moderately decorated, the cocktail prices low, and the Negroni the best in the city. It’s unapologetically straightforward, without gimmicks, just great drinks. No wonder this place is frequently packed.

Brixton
901 U St NW

Reminiscent of a British restaurant and pub, Brixton serves delicious menu offerings that transcend continental divides and different cultures. Come up the second floor and be transported into a very British-style bar, complete with dark wood paneling and leather stools. Aside from the atmosphere, college kids love its draft beer.

The Argonaut
1433 H St NE

Aside from its name, The Argonaut is easily remembered thanks to its New American coastal dishes and ship-inspired décor. People flock to the bar for its themed nights and its selection of 12 draft beers ready on tap. Its location is rather unfriendly if you regularly take the Metro, but it’s also one of the reasons why it’s less packed than other bars in the area.

Boundary Stone
116 Rhode Island Ave NW

Hidden in Shaw, this Irish-style neighborhood pub comes complete with vintage furnishings and satisfying late-night bar grub. The real star, however, is Boundary Stone’s impressive whiskey selection. Because of this, the bar has amassed a loyal fan base. For this, we can ensure its continued existence despite the number of bars that have popped up along the strip. Nothing beats a classic.

Bluejacket
300 Tingey St SE

We’ve saved the best for last. The home of some of the best craft beer in the city, Bluejacket is housed in an old factory. Take your pick among its selection of drafts and cask ales. Partner it with something from Bluejacket’s upscale comfort food. The stainless steel, the rustic warm wood, and the brewery equipment present throughout the establishment elevates the Bluejacket experience to another level.

For the best new food in the metro area, check out this link.

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Filed under: Area Information, Blog, Dining, Things to Do by Andrew Pariser
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One might say it is both a blessing and curse to live in a city that’s home to a thriving and equally exciting culinary scene. Planning a lunch or dinner date in the Metro D.C. area can get confusing — we have so many choices on where to take our friends, family, or significant other to enjoy some good grub!

Thankfully, here’s a list to help guide you to all the hotspots where DC foodies are gathering. Enjoy and bon appétit!

1. All Purpose

All Purpose is the premier destination right now for artisanal pizzas, wine, and antipasti — all served in a trendy and rustic space. You can find this Italian-American joint at 1250 9th St NW.

2. Alta Strada

Another Italian destination, this one found in 465 K St NW, Alta Strada is known to serve up an array of pizza and pastas created by Michael Schlow of The Riggsby and Tico fame. For drinks, head to Conosci, which is located next door.

3. Whaley’s

If you’re in the mood for classic seafood and cocktails, the best place to be right now is Whaley’s at 301 Water St SE Suite 115. Absolutely scrumptious, this establishment is also a certified sustainable raw bar.

4. Ashlar Restaurant and Bar

Located in Alexandria, VA, Ashlar serves up regional American cuisine in a fancy, upscale setting. You’ll love the interiors as much as you’ll love the menu, which consists of shared plates and steaks.

5. The BBQ Joint

For good old comfort food, head to 2005 14th St NW and sample Andrew Evans’ ribs and barbecue. Aside from this classic staple, foodies are also flocking to The BBQ Joint for its late night frito pie window.

6. Buttercream Bakeshop

For your sweeth tooth, Buttercream Bakeshop will satisfy all your cravings. Helmed by pastry chef Tiffany MacIsaac, Buttercream is home to beloved baked goods and celebration cakes.

7. Pineapple and Pearls

Located at 715 8th St SE, Pineapple and Pearls is the current favorite among foodies for coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. You can expect great things from this restaurant.

8. Espita Mezcaleria

Fancy some mezcal cuisine in Washington, D.C.? Head over to Espita Mezcaleria at 1250 9th St NW. Aside from its fantastic menu, the restaurant’s bright decor entices diners to come in.

9. Kyirisan

Asian flavors meet French flair at Kyirisan, located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Shaw, specifically at 1924 8th St NW. Great, original plates have been known to come out of its kitchen.

10. Kapnos Kouzina

Located in Bethesda, foodies flock to Kapnos Kouzina for its flatbreads, spicy fried chicken, meze, souvlaki, and a nice selection of Mediterranean regional wines and cocktails.

Looking for more suggestions? Check out this article by Zagat.

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Filed under: Area Information, Blog, Dining by Andrew Pariser
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