Best Bars in Washington, D.C.

Allegory

A narrative-driven speakeasy hidden behind an unmarked door in the Eaton hotel's library, ranked among North America's 50 Best Bars. A striking mural honoring civil-rights pioneer Ruby Bridges anchors the room, and the cocktails are tied to themes of history and social justice. Practical note: closed Sundays; reservations help, and the entrance is intentionally discreet, so look for the library.

Bars

ChurchKey

A beer lover's mecca above its sister restaurant Birch & Barley on 14th Street, with 555 curated labels including dozens of rotating drafts and rare cask ales. Go for the depth of selection and knowledgeable staff who'll steer you to something new, plus elevated bar bites. Practical note: it's a relaxed counterpoint to the city's cocktail dens and a good early-evening or group spot in the Logan Circle nightlife stretch.

Bars

Copycat Co.

A two-level H Street spot pairing classic, well-made cocktails downstairs with Chinese street food, and a livelier scene upstairs. It's a longtime neighborhood favorite that captures H Street's mix of dive energy and craft drinks. Practical note: closed Tuesdays and open late; it's a fun anchor for bar-hopping the H Street corridor.

Bars

Death & Co

The acclaimed New York cocktail brand's D.C. outpost, tucked into the brick-lined charm of Blagden Alley. Expect a moody, multi-level room, polished service, and an enormous menu of spirit-forward and inventive drinks. Practical note: reservations are smart, but walk-ins can usually find a seat at the bar; there's also a seasonal garden patio.

Bars

Jack Rose Dining Saloon

A three-story Adams Morgan institution boasting one of the world's largest whiskey collections, with 2,700-plus bottles displayed on towering wall-of-whiskey shelves. Go for the dramatic cellar, classic cocktails, and a glass-enclosed rooftop terrace that's great in any season. Practical note: it's also a full restaurant, so it's an easy spot to combine dinner and drinks.

Bars

Off the Record

A clubby, red-leather speakeasy beneath the Hay-Adams hotel, long a haunt of journalists and political insiders. The walls are lined with caricatures of D.C. power players, and the bar's collectible coasters feature the same cartoons. Practical note: it's steps from Lafayette Square and the White House; expect an intimate, civilized vibe rather than a rowdy night out.

Bars

Round Robin Bar

A circular, oak-paneled bar inside the historic Willard InterContinental that has drawn presidents and power brokers since the 1800s. Order the mint julep, which legend says was popularized in Washington right here. Practical note: it's a refined, jacket-friendly room a block from the White House, best for classic cocktails done with restraint.

Bars

Service Bar

A laid-back, quirky U Street favorite that pairs seriously crafted cocktails with crave-worthy fried chicken. It's the highest-ranked D.C. bar on North America's 50 Best Bars, yet stays unpretentious and fun. Practical note: it's closed Mondays and stays open late on weekends, making it a solid nightcap stop.

Bars

Silver Lyan

The U.S. debut of celebrated London bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr Lyan), set in a sleek lower-level space beneath the Riggs hotel. The menu is a globe-trotting, history-minded affair built on unexpected ingredients and techniques. Practical note: closed Mondays; it's an ideal pre- or post-dinner spot when exploring the Penn Quarter museums.

Bars

The Green Zone

An award-winning Adams Morgan cocktail bar celebrating Middle Eastern flavors, with drinks inspired by Palestine, Lebanon, and Iraq alongside house beats and small plates. Go for distinctive cocktails like the Arak Margarita that you won't find elsewhere. Practical note: closed Mondays and small, so it can fill up fast on weekends.