Unique Bars in DC
There are TONS of bars throughout the city, 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.
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’ll continue to update this post as I explore DC!
Get all the Google Map Pins here.
Hidden Bars and Speakeasy Vibes
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 Betsy
The Betsy is hidden away in Eastern Market. I’ve visited on a chilly evening and my mom and I went up the stairs to the coziest little spot. I bet its amazing in the summer too!
Code Red
Code Red is a fun speakeasy in Adam’s Morgan. It is a perfect spot for a girls night or date night in DC. The menu is written in a fun prohibition era Newspaper. Be sure to make a reservation a week or two in advance to secure a spot.
Allegory
Inside the Eaton Hotel, Allegory is a hidden bar located behind the library. The vibe is cool and mysterious while the coctails are super unique. I got one with flames coming out of it!
The Golden Age
My sister had her birthday drinks at The Golden Age and loved it.
Silver Lyan
Although I haven’t been to Silver Lyan, Wilhelm went and said the drinks were sooo unique and interesting. Although they are pricey, if you’re looking to impress, then this is a great idea as the menu has unique combos. Drinks are around $20 but an go up to $50 (for an espresso martini?, omg, please someone report back if it’s worth it).
Iconic DC Spots for a Drink
Library of Congress Thursday Happy Hour
The The Library of Congress hosts “Live! at the Library” every Thursday from 5pm. Drinks and snacks are available for sale and it’s definitely the most unique “bar” in DC. Wine and bubbles are available as well as tea and coffee. I love to dress up a bit to match the vibe of the library. The upper room exhibition halls are open during this time and there is usually a DJ. If you haven’t been, then you’re seriously missing out on a classic DC experience.
The night vibes as you head out are great, too.
You must book tickets in advance (they are free). Book the tickets here.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Old Ebbitt Grill opened in 1856 and is the city’s saloon, just steps from The White House. The space retains the “saloon” vibe and it’s a unique place so grab a drink With over 19,000 Google Maps reviews, the place is still popular after all this time. I suggest just grabbing a drink and some oysters before continuing on if it’s busy (food still comes out quickly when it’s packed though). Old Ebbitt Grill will always have a place in my heart because it’s where my grandparents had their first date in DC when they were interns in the 50’s!
Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate is a quintessential DC restaurant on 14th St visited by locals, presidents, dignitaries, and celebrities. The French inspired restaurant is great for drinks and sharing an appetizer or two with friends. Mains are around $40 but the food is lives up to the hyper so I recommend visiting for a celebration or special night out.
VUE Rooftop
For views of the White House, rain or shine, come to VUE Rooftop inside Hotel Washington. The drinks are good and view is cool. I went with friends on a chilly Saturday afternoon in February but we had a great time.
Drinks and Great Food
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 delish!
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.
Tasting Rooms and Distilleries
Cotton & Reed
Come for cocktails and buy a bottle to take home at Cotton & Reed around Union Market.
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. They are open on Saturdays from 2pm-7pm and you should make a reservation to ensure a spot.
Fun and Colorful
Gypsy Kitchen
Gypsy Kitchen on 14th St has great happy hour drinks, friendly service, and great food. My mom, sister, and two of my besties (Jenny and Chelsea) have had a wonderful time here catching up. I’ve also come for brunch and enjoyed the food.
La Cosecha
La Cosecha (a Latin marketplace in Union Market) has a little bit of everything and is perfect for a unique bar in DC. Go for cocktails, wine or beer at one of the several stalls inside. We had our going away party here when we left DC for Kigali!
Colada Shop
14th Street has so many bars but I like Colada Shop because it’s off the main street and has acute, 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.
metrobar
I can’t believe I haven’t gone yet, but metrobar is a unique bar in DC with a literal metro theme. Plan to go early to get the indoor, metro seating.
River Views
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.
The Salt Line
The Salt Line in Navy Yard became my go-to spot for drinks and seafood when we moved back to DC in 2025. in good weather, you can sit outside to people-watch by the Anacostia River.
Salt Line in different seasons, hehe
After Work Drink Spots
Peep, I’ve mostly worked around Dupont so that’s what this section focuses on… Easy access to vino within a 10 minute walk from work.
Pisco and Nazca
If you want to impress your date by knowing where to get great drinks and a meal downtown after work then I suggest you head to Pisco and Nazca for the best Pisco Sours and ceviche combo I’ve had. Although the location isn’t very sexy (it’s actually just next door to my real job’s office building), the food is so good.
Reynold’s Bar
Reynold’s Bar is a cocktail bar in Dupont which has daily happy hour deals from 4-6PM. It is a cozy upscale bar with dim lighting. Make sure to make reservations because it is difficult to get a spot when just walking in.
Heurich House Museum
Heurich House Museum has a beer garden just off of Dupont Circle. I didn’t realize it existed for years as it’s hidden away. The vibe is perfect for a summer evening but also cozy enough to handle a chilly night.
Want more DC dining? Check out the most unique restaurants in DC!
