Looking for the best places to drink in DC? Whether you're a local looking for a new spot or a visitor wanting to experience the city's vibrant nightlife, Washington, D.C. has a ton to offer when it comes to drinks. From cozy craft breweries to high-end cocktail lounges, there's a spot for every taste and vibe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the top-rated bars, distilleries, and pubs that make the nation’s capital a fun and exciting place to unwind with a drink in hand.

If you're new to the area or just passing through, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of places to drink in DC. Some bars are tucked into quiet corners of historic neighborhoods, while others are buzzing rooftop spots with skyline views. You might be asking yourself, where should I go first? Don’t worry, we've got you covered. We’ll break down the best places by category, so whether you're into whiskey, wine, or something more experimental, there’s a bar out there with your name on it.

Drinking in DC isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about the experience. So many places here go beyond the standard bar setup and offer immersive atmospheres, local flavors, and top-notch service. You’ll find everything from speakeasies with secret entrances to rooftop lounges with live jazz. And the best part? Most of these places are walkable, bikeable, or just a short Uber ride away. So, whether you're celebrating a night out with friends or looking for a chill spot to catch up with a coworker, there’s something in this list for you.

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Table of Contents

• Best Cocktail Bars in DC
• Craft Beer Hotspots
• Wine Bars with Vibes
• Speakeasies and Secret Bars
• Rooftop Bars with Views
• Frequently Asked Questions

Best Cocktail Bars in DC

If you're into craft cocktails and mixology, DC won’t disappoint. The city has a ton of bars that take mixology seriously, using fresh ingredients, house-made syrups, and creative flavor combinations. One standout is Imperial Spirits & Surface to Air, located in Penn Quarter. Their cocktail menu is full of inventive drinks that change seasonally, and the atmosphere is elegant yet cozy. Another favorite is Jack Rose Dining Saloon, known for its extensive whiskey collection and top-notch bartenders who can whip up anything from a classic old fashioned to a custom creation based on your mood.

For a more intimate experience, Tryst Cafe in Adams Morgan offers a unique blend of coffee shop meets cocktail bar. It’s a great place to start your evening with coffee and pastries before transitioning into craft cocktails after sunset. And if you're in the mood for something with a bit of history, Barmini in Penn Quarter is a must-visit. It’s a molecular mixology bar created by the same team behind José Andrés’ famous Minibar, offering a futuristic take on cocktail-making that’s as fun to watch as it is to drink.

Here are a few more cocktail bars to add to your list:

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• Colada Shop – Latin-inspired cocktails with a tropical twist
• Estadio – Spanish-style tapas and sherry cocktails
• Employees Only – Glamorous, upscale bar with live jazz and killer drinks

Craft Beer Hotspots

DC has a thriving craft beer scene, and you’ll find breweries and beer bars scattered across the city. One of the most popular spots is DC Brau Brewing Company, the first production brewery in the city since Prohibition. Their taproom is super laid-back, and you can enjoy fresh pints right where they’re brewed. Another top choice is 3 Stars Brewing Company in Ivy City, known for its bold flavors and fun, artsy vibe.

If you're more of a beer connoisseur and want to sample a wide range of local brews, check out RFD Wharf in the Wharf neighborhood. They have a rotating selection of taps and often host local breweries for special tastings. For a more casual vibe, Meridian Pint in Columbia Heights is a neighborhood staple with over 30 beers on tap and a solid food menu to match.

Don’t miss these other great beer spots:

• Right Proper Brewing Company – A neighborhood favorite with two locations
• Allagash White House – A collaboration between a local brewery and a White House homebrew recipe
• Bluejacket – Located in the Navy Yard, this brewery offers a unique blend of modern brewing techniques and classic beer styles

Wine Bars with Vibes

If wine is more your thing, DC has a number of wine bars that are perfect for sipping and relaxing. City Winery in Union Market is a great option—it’s part winery, part restaurant, part live music venue. You can actually watch the wine being made right in the building. It’s a fun experience and a great spot for a date night or a girls’ night out.

For a more intimate setting, Estadio in U Street is a Spanish-style wine bar with a tapas menu that pairs perfectly with their wine list. They also have a small but cozy outdoor patio, which is perfect during warmer months. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, Bar Dupont in Dupont Circle offers a curated wine list along with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. It’s a great place to unwind after work or impress a date with your refined taste.

Here are a few more wine bars to try:

• Red Wine & Spirits – A cozy spot in Dupont Circle with over 100 wines by the glass
• Veritas Wine Bar – Located in Old Town Alexandria, a short metro ride from DC
• Wine & Spirits Wharf – A newer addition to the Wharf area with great outdoor seating

Speakeasies and Secret Bars

Looking for something a bit more mysterious? DC has a few hidden bars that feel like stepping back in time to the Prohibition era. Little Havana in Dupont Circle might look like a regular Cuban restaurant from the outside, but head downstairs and you’ll find a secret bar with live music and mojitos that hit just right. Another must-try is The Gibson, a swanky cocktail lounge hidden behind an unmarked door in Chinatown. Their drinks are as creative as the atmosphere is cool.

If you're really into the secret bar experience, Perry’s in Capitol Hill is a local favorite. It’s tucked behind a row of bookshelves in a basement, and the vibe is very underground jazz club meets cocktail bar. They have a ton of great drinks, but their Old Fashioned is definitely the star of the show.

Don’t miss these hidden gems:

• Cork – A wine bar hidden behind a fridge door in Union Market
• Jackie – A cozy speakeasy vibe in U Street with creative cocktails and live music
• Chadwicks – A hidden bar in Georgetown with a retro feel and live piano music

Rooftop Bars with Views

There’s something about a rooftop bar that just makes a drink taste better. DC has a growing number of rooftop spots, many with stunning views of the city skyline. Rooftop at The Hamilton Square in Dupont Circle is a classic, offering great drinks and a lively atmosphere. If you're looking for a more upscale vibe, Aluna in the Wharf area has one of the best sunset views in town, and their tropical drinks are just as refreshing as the breeze.

For something a bit more laid-back, The Rooftop at The LINE Hotel in Adams Morgan is a great choice. It’s a bit more casual, with food trucks on site and a chill crowd. And if you're visiting in the summer, don’t miss the rooftop at Marcel in Penn Quarter, where you can enjoy craft cocktails and panoramic views of the city.

Other rooftop bars worth checking out:

• Jack Rose Rooftop – Offers a quieter, more upscale rooftop experience
• The Wharf DC Rooftop – Great for drinks and live music during the warmer months
• Level 42 Rooftop Lounge – Located at the top of the Kimpton Mason & Rook Hotel in the U Street area

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to drink in DC for first-time visitors?

If you're visiting DC for the first time, it's best to hit up a few of the most iconic spots. Try Jack Rose for whiskey lovers, City Winery for wine, and DC Brau for beer. For something fun and unique, swing by The Gibson or Little Havana for a secret bar vibe.

Are there any places to drink in DC that are open late?

A few spots in DC stay open late, especially in areas like U Street and Dupont Circle. Some of the popular late-night bars include Perry’s, The Gibson, and Barmini. Make sure to check their hours before heading out, as some places might close earlier than others.

Where can I find the best cocktail menus in DC?

Some of the best cocktail menus in DC can be found at Barmini, The Gibson, and Employees Only. These spots are known for their creative drinks and skilled bartenders who know how to make a cocktail that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Want to find out more about the latest trends in drinking culture or the best spots to check out next week? Learn more about what's new in DC drinking culture on our site.