Hidden Gems

James Beard Award-winning cocktail bar with a tasting room, punch garden, and spirits library.

Intimate record bar and music venue with live performances and an impressive vinyl collection.

Speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden in Capitol Hill with inventive seasonal drinks and intimate vibe.

Underground beer hall with 500+ beers from around the world and cozy basement atmosphere.

Cozy Ethiopian-owned jazz club on U Street serving injera alongside live jazz nightly.

Neighborhood gem in Petworth with local craft beers, comfort food, and a welcoming vibe.

Underground political lounge at the Hay-Adams Hotel — spot politicians and power brokers over cocktails.

Historic underground jazz club on U Street that hosted Duke Ellington and continues the legacy.

Private karaoke rooms with an extensive song catalog, cocktails, and Japanese-inspired bites.

Craft beer bar and smokehouse with an extensive local tap list and house-smoked meats.

Divey Capitol Hill institution with cheap beer, free popcorn, and a beloved jukebox.

Casual bar with 35+ board games, cheap drinks, and a welcoming crowd — perfect for groups.

Petworth neighborhood bar with cheap drinks, great jukebox, and a loyal local following.

Adams Morgan LGBTQ+ sports bar with cheap pitchers, trivia, and a friendly neighborhood feel.

Legendary ESL — intimate multi-room lounge in a historic townhouse with world music and vinyl DJs.