Unique Bars in DC
There are TONS of bars throughout DC, but if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, then check out some of these unique bars in DC. I recommend these places again and again to friends and visitors for good drinks and cool vibes. I hope some of these places take you to areas of DC you haven’t been to before—woohoo!
The cocktail price in the city is insane. Be prepared to spend a little on your drinks at these unique bars in DC because I freak out every time I look at the cost. Drinks can be as high as $23. At many places, a nice cocktail is around $18. I think it’s sad that after COVID, it seems the happy hour culture of the city has died down a bit so a drink under $10 is a rarity.
I’ll continue to update this post as I explore DC!
The Dabney Cellar
The Dabney is a classy American-style restaurant. I went there asking for a drink once and was suggested to go to their cellar bar around the corner. I LOVED it. This unique bar in DC seems a little hidden. The Cellar is a brick-walled bar that serves great drinks and light snacks. There are a couple of tables inside and it has a dark, romantic vibe to it.
The Green Zone
The Green Zone is a Middle Eastern-style cocktail bar with light nibs options. The cocktails are STRONG (for me, maybe I’m weak). They have drinks names that will make you want to take a picture of the menu… like the F*ck Trump punch. The space is intimate and lively. There are outdoor patio seats that are lovely almost year-round because they have heaters. The upstairs area is fun too and the food deslih!
Green Zone is perfect for after-work drinks but it really gets lively later in the night. The bar consistently reaches capacity so there may be a line outside to get in.
Cotton & Reed
Come for cocktails and buy a bottle to take home at Cotton & Reed around Union Market. The bar area is small, but they expanded into the curb (during COVID outdoor dining) and it’s so cute.
Don Ciccio & Figli
Located in Ivy City (one of my favorite neighborhoods), Don Ciccio & Figli is an Italian-style distillery with liquor tasting and several cocktails. Their indoor seating gives me ocean vibes with the blue walls. There is also outdoor table seating. You can also buy bottles here if you fall in love.
Serenata
La Cosecha (a Latin marketplace near Union Market) has a little bit of everything and is perfect for a unique bar in DC. Go for drinks at Serenata. This cocktail bar has indoor and outdoor seating in a high-end market atmosphere. Get a snack from Serenata or any of the other small merchants around.
City Winery
City Winery is one of the coolest buildings in the city. The side of this building is a painting of grapes and wine. It’s also HUGE there are like 5 (?) stories of events space and outdoor seating. There are also plenty of events that take place here throughout the year. I went for The Moth’s Story Slam once. Go just for the wine and views or get lunch.
Colada Shop
14th Street has so many bars but I like Colada Shop because it’s off the main street and has a cute, colorful vibe. For a small spot, they have a big menu. The drinks are floral and flavorful. I like the quick pastelitos and empanadas to snack on. You can sit on the patio, inside, or on the rooftop.
Copycat Co.
Copycat Co. on H Street serves Chinese street food and drinks. The bar has a dark bar vibe with cool drinks and fast service.
Cortez DC
Head for rooftop drinks and tacos at Cortez in Shaw. It’s fun and super colorful!
Whiskey Charlie
Whiskey Charlie has beautiful views over the Anacostia River on the Wharf. Head there for a fancy evening drink and take a walk.
Pisco and Nazca
If you want to impress your date by knowing where to get a great meal downtown, then I suggest you head to Pisco and Nazca for the best Pisco Sours and ceviche combo I’ve had.
Want more DC dining? Check out the most unique restaurants in DC!
