When you’re trying to decide where to go to eat, drink or watch a game, many of us ask our friends what they like. That can work, to a point. If your buddy doesn’t know a Pinot from a Pop Tart, the odds of a good wine bar recommendation are slim. But, what if you had access to hundreds of friends giving you their top choices across multiple categories? Welcome to On Tap’s 2012 Readers’ Choice guide. During the month of December, we asked our readers and contributors to tell us their top picks for fun. The response was amazing, (well, we did bribe them with gift card giveaways…) and we are truly appreciative of all of those who took time to explain why they chose a particular location. Following is a compilation of all the top choices (those with the most recommendations) in each category, as well as quotes from our readers about all their other picks. This isn’t a “best of,” there was no voting involved, just some friendly advice from those who live and dine in DC. Please note, lots of places that got mentions did not have a quote. For a full list of all of them, visit our website. Have fun exploring and cheers!
Hard Times
Bar Food: Hard Times
Hard Times is consistently listed in America’s Top Ten places to get a bowl of chili but there is more to the story. Many feel that any discussion of bar food must begin with wings, which is fine because Hard Times’ Original Texas, Chili Lime, Honey BBQ, Old Bay, and Teriyaki wings are legendary and come in traditional or boneless. Jalapeno poppers, onion rings, burgers, fried pickles, nachos, chili-macs (can’t totally get away from chili), fries, frito pies, tator tots, sliders, chicken sandwiches and hot dogs, make for a plethora of great tasting, diet wrecking options. Yes, there are healthy choices too, but with a cold beer and a game on, this is the stuff that hits the spot.
Hard Times Cafe (multiple locations): www.hardtimes.com
Other top choices: Duffy’s, First Down, Ray’s Hellburger, Crystal City Sports Pub
Buffalo Billiards
Bar Games: Buffalo Billiards
While this subterranean Dupont Circle spot has grown into a great place to watch a game, as the name implies, it’s also a great place to play a game. Over ten pool tables, four shuffleboard tables, skeeball, and multiple dart boards are placed strategically throughout the bar, and a number of leagues meet here for organized competition. Good happy hour deals draw social sports groups and neighborhood workers, and weekends pull sports fans to watch games or UFC fights on numerous flat screen TVs.
Buffalo Billiards: 1330 19th St. NW, DC; 202-331-7665; www.buffalobilliards.com
Other top choices: Continental, H Street Country Club, Iron Horse, Spider Kelly’s
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
BBQ: Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
John Snedden has been serving up award winning barbeque for 21 years at his DC area locations. The food is all house-made and includes savory pulled pork or chicken, drenched ribs and all the homey sides you’d expect, plus a few more (their mac and cheese is to die for), and their honey jalapeño cornbread tops the down-south meal nicely. Signature sauces include their Original, Global Warming and Citrus. If you’re looking for an adventure, the “wall of fire” stocks over 90 different sauces ranging from mild to three-alarm. The Arlington location boasts a large patio and a great selection of unusual beers and a Bourbon club.
Rocklands (Washington, DC, Arlington, Alexandria and Rockville locations): www.rocklands.com
Other top choices: Capital Q, Famous Dave’s, Hill Country, Old Glory
R.F.D.
Beer Bar: R.F.D.
With a prime Chinatown location, Regional Food and Drink, aka RFD, is a favorite before and after Verizon Center events, and a destination for beer geeks across the region. Literally hundreds of options are on the beer menu, and include not just American craft brews, but a huge selection of imported beers as well. Flags, signs and other beer paraphernalia decorate the walls of this casual bar/restaurant and the menu items are designed to complement the beers. Beer dinners and visits from out of town brewers are frequently on the calendar and the beer menu is ever-changing. Sports are shown on multiple TVs, but make no mistake, it’s all about the beer.
RFD: 810 7th St. NW, DC; 202-289-2030; www.lovethebeer.com
Other top choices: ChurchKey, Dogfish Head, Iron Horse, Rustico
Whitlow
Brunch: Whitlow’s
Friday and Saturday nights are hopping at Whitlow’s and come morning, the crowd rolls right back for brunch. Lines around the corner are not unheard. Brunch starts at 9 a.m. on both days for a-la-carte items, and the brunch buffet starts at 10. Both conclude at 3 p.m. Ever popular items include the Crab Cake Benedict, a range of omelettes and biscuits and gravy. Add a bloody mary from the bar, watch a game on TV and you’re all set.
Whitlow’s on Wilson: 2845 N. Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; 703-276-9693; www.whitlows.com
Other top choices: Carlyle Grand, Georgia Brown’s, Perry’s, Tabard Inn
Cocktails: The Gibson
A secret bar that is no longer such a secret, thanks to the fame of their cocktails. The Gibson incorporates all that is good and true in a speakeasy style establishment – hidden entrance, lounge atmosphere and a repertoire of classy cocktails. Many of the mixers are made in-house, and the bartenders happily create drinks on request. Name your poison and they are up to the challenge. Don’t spend time checking the website, it’s for reaching out about party information only, just plan to head on over or follow them on social media.
The Gibson: 2009 14th St. NW, DC; 202-232-2156; thegibsondc.com
Other top choices: Arlington Rooftop, Lounge 201, PS7, Spider Kelly’s
Riot Act
Date Night: Riot Act
With multiple bars, mellow lighting and cheap ticket deals, Riot Act makes a great place for a first date or night out with your significant other. A newcomer to the DC entertainment scene, local and bigger name comedians headline the sleek Penn Quarter space. A full bar offers beer, wine and mixed drinks and the menu features a mix of appetizers, paninis and desserts. Trivia and open mic nights are held weekly. Can’t get up the nerve to ask someone out? Sign up for one of their comedy classes and learn how to deliver some new lines.
Riot Act: 801 E St. NW, DC; 202-697-4900; www.riotactcomedy.com
Other top choices: 9:30 Club, Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse, DC Improv
Dive Bar: Jay’s Saloon
A last bastion of “old Arlington” remains in the ever-so-hip Clarendon area. Jay’s has been family operated since 1993 and frankly, not much has changed. The building looks like an old house, with a patio out front encased in lattice work that sports white plastic tables and chairs. The menu has true dive-bar fare like tater tots and cheese fries, but also offers reasonably priced entrees, pastas and salads. Music on Friday and every other Saturday night is of the classic rock and oldies variety. Answer trivia questions correctly on Friday night and your beer is a quarter. TVs for sports and a pool table keep the regulars coming in.
Jay’s Saloon: 3114 N. 10th St. Arlington, VA; 703-527-3093; www.jayssaloon.com
Other top choices: Galaxy Hut, Jimmy Valentine’s, Red Derby, Tune Inn
Happy Hour: Clyde’s
A happy hour so famous, it become the inspiration for Starland Vocal Band’s hit “Afternoon Delight.” And you thought they were talking about something else! Happy hour times vary slightly across locations but the Afternoon Delights menu is a constant, a selection of at-the-bar favorites at prices ranging from $5 to $8 that includes burgers, crab cake sandwiches and wings. Each location also offers their own take on happy hour, with half-price bottle of wine nights at several and a second round of late night happy hours.
Clyde’s: (multiple locations) www.clydes.com
Other top choices: Bottom Line, Hunan Number One, Liberty Tavern, Tara Temple
Ri Ra
Irish Bar: Ri Ra
Sections of historic buildings shipped in from Dublin set the tone in these Irish pubs. The Irish-owned company may have locations in cities across the country, but the differing interiors and friendly staff lend each one a unique feel. Live music, trivia nights, sports and of course, a mean pint of Guinness are constants in Arlington and Bethesda. The menu marries traditional Irish dishes with American favorites. Standouts include the oysters, Jameson chicken and Irish potato cakes.
Ri Ra: (Bethesda and Arlington) www.rira.com
Other top choices: Fado, Four Courts, Irish Times, Murphy’s
Bob and Edith's
Late Night/Early Morning: Bob and Edith’s
In 1969 Bob and Edith bought Gray’s Donut Dinette on Columbia Pike, changed the name to Bob and Edith’s Diner and launched an institution which is enjoyed 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. This is as real as a diner can get… breakfast at any time of the day or night, ham and cheese omelettes, fried chicken, country fresh eggs, home fries, pork chops, bagels, cheeseburgers, onion rings, grits, chili dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, bread pudding, meat loaf, patty melts, root-beer floats, a jukebox, and now even wi-fi. Slide into a booth or snag a spot at the counter and head back in time.
Bob and Edith’s Diner: 2310 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA; 703-920-6103; www.bobandediths.com
Other top choices: Ben’s Chili Bowl, Goody’s, Julia’s Empanadas, The Diner
Linganore Winecellars
Barrel Oak Winery
Local Winery: Linganore & Barrel Oak
One in Maryland (Linganore) and the other in Virginia (Barrel Oak), what the two have in common is a robust roster of events in addition to a wide selection of wine. Linganore is host to multiple festivals throughout the summer and fall, including their ever popular Reggae Fests in July and October. Barrel Oak, or BOW as it is affectionately known to patrons, has live music weekly, is super dog and kid friendly and regularly sponsors fundraisers. Like many of our area wineries, both also happen to be stunningly beautiful.
Linganore Winecellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mount Airy, MD; 410-795-6432; www.linganore-wine.com
Barrel Oak Winery: 3623 Grove Ln. Delaplane, VA; 540-364-6402; www.barreloak.com
Other top choices: Breaux Vineyards, Chrysalis, Paradise
Outdoor Dining/Rooftop: Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill
In just a year, Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill has established itself as a destination spot in the busy Clarendon corridor of Arlington. The wide-open space has a good mix of both open standing room and tables and chairs. The bar offers a variety of beers, with a heavy mix of crafts in rotation. The wine list features a range of new world options as well as a red and a white from Virginia winery Barboursville. The menu tends toward American fare, the lunch menu has sandwiches for just $5 and brunch is offered on the weekend. When the weather doesn’t lend itself to being outdoors, head in to watch a game, or grab a bite in the classy restaurant.
Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill: 2424 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; 703-528-4360; www.arlingtonrooftopbarandgrill.com
Other top choices: Lauriol Plaza, The Reef, Whitlow’s
Pizza: Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza
Don’t let the name mislead, Pete’s Apizza is a DC based restaurant group that takes its moniker from family ties to the New Haven area. The menu features pre-made pies, as well as dozens of crust, sauce and meat and cheese toppings to choose from if you wish to create your own. The group sources a large number of their ingredients locally, including Rappahannock River clams for their signature New Haven clam pie and pasta, salads and desserts are available as well. Beer and wine include a large selection of craft brews, and there are gluten free options too. Pete’s has locations in Columbia Heights, Clarendon and Friendship Heights. All three locations offer dine-in and delivery seven days a week.
Pete’s Apizza: www.petesapizza.com for location information.
Other top choices: 2 Amy’s, Italian Store, Matchbox, Pizza Paradiso, We, the Pizza
Seafood: The Oceanaire Seafood Room
The Oceanaire Seafood Room, located in the Penn Quarter district of DC, boasts a menu chock full of the freshest seafood from around the world. Having a menu based upon market availability allows the selections to change daily, but such items as an assortment of fresh fish, cold water lobster thermidor, oysters Rockefeller and center cut filet mignon all grace the menu. The Oceanaire has an array of wines to choose from to complement each meal.
Oceanaire: 1201 F St. NW, Washington, DC; 202-347-2277; theoceanaire.com
Other top choices: Clyde’s, Fish Market, Hank’s Oyster Bar, Legal Seafood
Sports Bar: Crystal City Sports Pub
Crystal City’s favorite neighborhood sports bar and restaurant for almost 20 years, CCSP started as a one floor location that gave the weekend athlete a place to ice their knees and the 9 to 5 adult a place to relax. As their relationship with the community and college alumni groups grew, so did the size of the bar. In 2007 a third floor was completed, increasing the footprint to three huge bars with room on the walls for over 100 TV’s. If you’re not watching a game, you can get in on some competition with fellow sports fans on one of the pool tables, dart-boards or foosball tables, or try your hand at arcade games or off-track betting. The pub hosts numerous special events, including their annual Sports Pub Challenge and bus trips to sporting events. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 365 days a year.
Crystal City Sports Pub: 529 23rd St. South, Arlington, VA; 703-521-8215; www.ccsportspub.com
Other top choices: Buffalo Billiards, Hard Times, Nellie’s, Public Bar
Trendy Eats: Jaleo
Tapas isn’t a new concept, but Jose Andres’ Jaleo restaurants re-defined the experience for DC diners and have been a success ever since. The Spanish influenced menu offers surprisingly tasty Endibias con queso de cabra y naranjas (endives, goat cheese, oranges and almonds), tart and creamy Pimientos del piquillo rellenos de queso (seared Piquillo peppers filled with goat cheese) or the more filling –and cooked to perfection – lomo de bey (grilled hanger steak with peppers). The menu is extensive and designed for sharing and includes lunch, brunch, dinner and theatre options. Creative cocktails and sangria are served, but the wine list is the real star.
Jaleo: (Washington, DC, Arlington, Bethesda); www.jaleo.com
Other top choices: Café Asia, District Taco, Lobstertruck, La Tasca
Vegan/Vegetarian: Sticky Fingers
Sticky Fingers is the food-child of Doron Petersan, DC resident and self-proclaimed “junk-foodie genius.” Not just a bakery, Sticky Fingers is 100% Vegan, dairy, lactose and egg-free. Go on in and try the TLT (a tempeh, lettuce and tomato sandwich), their tofu egg bagel-wich or for something sweet, build your own eggless cake. Veggies and non-veggies agree, this is good tasting and good-for-you food. Numerous awards and a win on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars back it up. In February, Doron will release a Sticky Fingers cookbook, and you can now find their products at several area retailers.
Sticky Fingers: 1370 Park Rd. NW, DC; 202-299-9700; stickyfingersbakery.com
Other top choices: Science Club, Sunflower, Juice Joint, Java Green
Wine Bar: Vinoteca
What makes a great wine list? Traditionally many would have said the presence of some rare offerings – those often prohibitively expensive vintages that assure diners they are in the presence of a wine expert. At Vinoteca, it’s a range of 60 wines offered by the glass, wine classes and daily happy hours that offer 20 wines by the glass for $5. Approachable excellence if you will. The menu utilizes direct-from-the-farm ingredients, and each item has a suggested pairing. Wine isn’t the only thing on the menu; the outdoor patio features a bocce court, host to league-play from DC Bocce and amateurs alike.
Vinoteca: 1940 11th St. NW, DC; 202-332-9463; www.vinotecadc.com
Other top choices: Proof, Screwtop, Twisted Vines, Willow
What Reader’s Said:
Place for Bar Food (Burgers, Wings, etc.)
“Bar Louie – great happy hour, lots of TVs and very spacious.”
“Best Buffalo wings in the Washington Metro Area: Jimmy’s in Herndon, best burger: Good Stuff Eatery.”
“For beers AND bar food… I love to go to District Chophouse. The nut brown is so excellent and the happy hour prices are actually pretty great!”
“Best spot for wings is Buffalo Wild Wings! They have over 15 sauces and rubs to choose from so it caters to any taste. Plus, you can always take a chance with the Blazin Challenge and see if you can eat some of their hottest wings in six minutes. I’m a big fan of their Tuesday wing special!”
“BGR the Burger Joint – best burgers in the area at very fair prices!”
“Bungalow Billiards in Shirlington has some of the best wings around. Coming from a Buffalo girl, that’s a pretty high compliment. Their burgers are good too. But, Carlyle Grand in Shirlington’s burgers are phenomenal.”
“Burgers – Old Ebbitt Grill. You get a ton of food for your buck and it’s centrally located to downtown. It’s pretty darn tasty too!”
“Wings – Town Tavern. Did a wing crawl and went ordered wings at several places… The wings are great and their NFL Sunday special is $10 for a pitcher of beer and a dozen wings! Can’t beat that.”
“Carpool! They have definitely stepped up their food!”
“Clarendon Grill – upscale bar food, creative menu, twist on usually bar menu items. A bit pricey but better than soggy fries at the typical sports bars. Classy place w/ laid back atmosphere. Live local bands every weekend!”
“Cleveland Park Bar and Grill. Bar food at the next level. Try their Parma sandwich – prosciutto, marinated tomatoes, and mozzarella with olive oil. Yum!”
“Clyde’s during Happy Hour, but Black Fox anytime (for the crab cake and mac & cheese).”
“Continental. Half off burgers on Wed., they are EXCELLENT!”
“Crystal City Sports Pub! Great burgers. Lots of TVs for watching sports!”
“Duffy’s has great wings and bar food (quesadilla, loaded tater tots).”
“Fireworks Pizza because they used to have a good deal during happy hour – pizzas for cheap – they currently don’t do it but I hope they bring back the pizzas to the happy hour menu.”
“First Down for wings, good happy hours, watching sports and good prices.”
“Georgetown Wings is the jam.”
“Ray’s Hell Burger for the best burger.”
“Hard Times Cafe in Rockville, MD. It’s a smaller location and the staff is excellent. If you can imagine it, they’ll make it for you. The chili and wings are excellent.”
“Old Glory BBQ has the best wings.”
“Queen Makeda’s has the best Buffalo wings and cozy atmosphere.”
“Sign Of The Whale – great burgers.”
“The Big Hunt (you can find ANYTHING there!!).”
“Trusty’s for burgers / Capitol Lounge for wings.”
“Whitlow’s on Wilson. Tasty stuff. Also IOTA.”
“Wing Hub – The best wings in the area, period. Great and fun atmosphere. Friendly owner and great deals which include all-you-can-eat and drink specials.”
“Wings–Hooter’s!”
Where to go for Bar Fun
“I seem to end up at the Bungalow in Shirlington, a lot. They have darts, foosball, pool (don’t play pool but they have it there).”
“Atomic Billiards. They have pool tables AND board games.”
“Bailey’s or Union Jack’s because they always have good trivia or contests.”
“Blackjack is a fun new place that opened on 14th Street, they have bocce ball in the back of the bar which can be a nice change of pace.”
“Clarendon Grill for Trivia on Wednesday night.”
“I don’t really play any bar games. I do play pinball every time I go to Black Cat though.”
“Games: Rocket Bar – They have all the staples of bar games and a large space to accommodate all your friends and then some. Karaoke: Spaghetti Garden – Karaoke Thurs- Sun even when it’s busy? That’s dedication to terrible singing. Trivia: Madam’s Organ – 2-for-1 drinks and confidence points based on the category. Also, the winner gets to pick the music for next week’s trivia.”
“H Street Country Club – Putt-putt anyone?”
“Hard Times Clarendon (massive trivia night).”
“Ireland’s Four Courts for karaoke.”
“Fado’s trivia is solid.”
“Hill Country BBQ- They have harikaraoke on Wednesdays.”
“Irish Channel or 18th Amendment for karaoke…..Irish Channel for trivia.”
“Karaoke Idol in Falls Church for great Karaoke!”
“Nellie’s Sports Bar- tons of different activities every night and weekend.”
“Ri Ra & Four Courts – Irish bars with friendly staff, good food, and great trivia.”
“Rock Bottom’s trivia is the most fun! But I also like the games at Carpool (a LOT of options) and at Spider Kelly’s!”
“Rocket Bar – what other bar has as much to do as rocket bar?? Skeeball and air hockey are my favorites!”
“SoBe Bar and Bistro in Arlington is fun for karaoke. It’s never all that crowded, and the bartenders are nice.”
“Ugly Mug for trivia, PourHouse for skeeball.”
Beer Bar
“American Tap Room in Clarendon because of the variety and proximity.”
“Paradiso Basement bar in Georgetown, then RFD and Big Hunt.”
“Bier Baron – largest local selection.”
“Birch & Barley is a bar for beer people. They have all the best and hard to find microbrews and serve each beer at the correct temperature as well.”
“ChurchKey is the obvious choice here. While it can get pretty crowded, their beer selection is second to none.”
“Dogfish Head Ale House has so much to choose from it’s hard not to find something everyone will love. Punkin Ale is my seasonal fave!”
“Eventide – great selection of local beers, season selection. Was impressed with the domestic bottles (a lot from VA) w/ great variety & great taste.”
“Clarendon Grill and Mister Days have great happy hour beer specials during the week, but Rock Bottom has an AWESOME selection!”
“Iron Horse, –great selection of drafts…selection tends to be hot and cold though.”
“Meridian Pint – They have an eclectic array of beers that aren’t overly priced. So I’d give the Pint the edge. They even have cask beers and in October switched all their taps to pumpkin beers.”
“QBall Springfield (one of the few places you can still smoke, drink beer, and play pool.”
“Quarry House in Silver Spring. Amazing selection and fun atmosphere.”
“Rustico has a great selection of beers or Galaxy Hut in Courthouse – both have great atmospheres.”
“Standard on 14th Street – Fun beer garden style, outdoor seating.”
“The Black Squirrel (is there a beer they don’t have?).”
“The Saloon. Delicious Belgian beer.”
“Vintage 50 Restaurant & Brew Lounge. They are the best for trying a variety of in-house-brewed beer and the happy hour pints are $3!!!!”
“Westover Beer Garden – Great selection of rotating craft beers on tap plus you can drink outside around fire pits and watch TV’s.”
Brunch
“Carlyle Grand. Their reservation and call ahead policies are draconian, but there’s no better place for a delicious brunch. Food is filling and reasonably priced, which means you’re good for hours without having to shell out serious money. Order the BBC French toast and you’ll be in heaven noshing on the best French toast in the metro D.C. area and so full you won’t eat again until dinner.”
“Cava. Have you HAD their French toast?”
“First Watch (Fairfax)…best breakfast/lunch food. Easy food done really well.”
“Georgia Brown’s – still the best value in town, tons of great food and amazing jazz!
“Hands down- Masa 14… All you can eat and drink for $35!!!!!
“Harry’s or Boulevard Woodgrill – Would say Harry’s….great, great food w/ excellent service at a reasonable price. However since they are currently closed for a bit I’d say B. wood grill has some great Sunday brunch items. Very tasty – great for outdoor seating in spring/summer.”
“I love the brunch at Chesapeake Room on 8th St SE. They incorporate their own seafood twist on a number of standard brunch items. Great bloody marys too.”
“Kennedy Center for all you can eat and amazing views; Peacock Cafe for their amazing juice bar.”
“Been to Kramerbooks so many times lost count; NEVER had a bad experience.”
“Market Street Bar & Grill – Reston, VA Champagne/mimosas included!”
“Old Ebbitt Grill. I love the Eggs Chesapeake.”
“Ping Pong- all you can eat dim sum and all you can drink mimosas where they bring you your own bottle of champagne and 3 different juices so you make them yourself.”
“Sunday brunch at the Beacon Hotel. The food is excellent and 40 dollars is not bad for all you can drink mimosas and champagne.
“The Cajun Experience in Adams Morgan for a great Louisiana Brunch!
“Thunder Burger has one of the best brunch menus in DC without getting the sticker shock you get at some other places. I love their corned beef hash.
Great Date Night
“9:30 Club concert with dinner/drinks beforehand at new places nearby: Chix, American Ice Co., Dickson.”
“Anything on U Street.”
“Anywhere in Old Town Alexandria, VA.”
“Arlington Cinema Drafthouse – love, love, love this place. Always a lot of fun. Get some really great comedians here. Shows are inexpensive (under $25), food and drink service during all shows, and the venue is very small so no matter what you have a great view of the stage.”
“Cheesetique..not for everyone, but great ambiance and good choices of foods/drinks to share and talk about.”
“Comedy: DC Improv – They get big name people and it’s not over-priced. Plus, it’s close to other places to go after the show. Music: Rock ‘n Roll Hotel – Bigger fan of the smaller venues. Get up close and personal to the stage. Theatre: Kennedy Center – Opposite of my music taste, I like big venues for theatre. Most productions are designed for large audiences so they should be seen in the fashion they were meant to be.”
“Dancing at Cafe Citron. Great music, two floors, and good drinks.”
“Dinner at Elizabeth’s Gone Raw followed or preceded by drinks at the Columbia Room.”
“H Street Country Club. Seriously…. skeeball and mini golf? If you can’t close the deal with that…”
“IOTA. Good local entertainment.”
“Lauriol Plaza has the best food, great atmosphere and great for friends.”
“Lost Society- music not too loud, lots of places to sit and still talk, but a bit of a more mature crowd!”
“Pre-theatre dinner – Marcel’s, anything at the Kennedy Center.”
“Skating on the National Mall then drinks at POV.”
“The Birchmere – Great atmosphere, casual, seating & food!”
“The Fillmore Silver Spring – A cleaner, more modern version of the 9:30 Club.”
“The State Theater in Falls Church has great music acts!”
“Washington Improv Theater. Yes, I’m partial, but it’s totally true. I bring my own dates here!
“Whitlow’s On Wilson has live music and is a lot of fun without being overpriced.”
Place for Great Drinks
“Arlington Rooftop Bar has great specials and cool cocktails.”
“Clyde’s in Alexandria for drinks!”
“It’s a chain but Ruth’s Chris Steak House has an amazing pear martini that I’ve recently become addicted to. I am not a martini drinker, nor much of a liquor drinker, but I’ll go there especially to have that.”
“Liberty Tavern – awesome atmosphere. Professional, upscale without the upscale prices. Nice lounge area downstairs… Great for Happy hour after work (can get crowded though) or for a date night/early drinks. Really nice spot. Great pizza too! ($10-12).”
“Little Miss Whiskeys. Awesome selection.”
“Lounge 201 – Capitol Hill. Great atmosphere.”
“Love to meet friends at Tara Temple! Spider Kelly’s is great, too!”
“Lychee martini at Shiki Sushi in the Ballston Mall.”
“PS 7… Great drinks, and the new cupcakes with alcohol (cuptails) are awesome .”
“PX in Old Town Alexandria — so fancy!”
“Quill in the Jefferson Hotel for the Founding Fathers Eggnog, or Gibson.”
“Science Club – great drinks.”
“The Columbia Room – Derek Brown, ‘nuff said.”
“The Passenger – a little pricey but their mixologists are top notch.”
Dive Bar
“Chief Ike’s Mambo Room – good vibe, fun.”
“Cue Club in Annandale. Not so much dive-y as neighborhood-y. Gino and Lily are the best bartenders and will remember your name and drink when you come back.”
“Duffy’s in DC. Great drinks, music, and food.”
“Galaxy Hut is one of the best dive bars I’ve ever been to. They have an awesome beer menu with a lot of high quality brews. I also enjoy the Pac-Man arcade games that they have turned into tables.”
“Harry’s – a true dive bar. Cheap beers on tap and free popcorn. Indoor and outdoor seating draws a diverse crowd.
“Jimmy Valentine’s. Enough. Said.”
“More of a ‘corner bar’, The Boathouse.”
“My Brother’s Place in DC is so much fun. They have a ‘come as you are’ attitude and it shows. You can go in there and just have a great time.”
“Rocket Bar in Chinatown- Great place to go after a Caps game. The bar has a surprising amount of space.”
“The Vienna Inn. The chili dogs are to die for! Especially if you’re hung over.”
“Town Tavern – Not sure if it’s classified as a dive bar, but I do enjoy TT. Probably because I’m there every Sunday since it’s a 49ers bar!”
Festival/Outdoor Event
“Adams Morgan Day and the H Street festival.”
“Anything at the National Harbor is great for outdoor events.”
“Beer, Bourbon & Barbeque Festival – I think the title says it all.”
“Cherry Blossom Festival – Good food and great scenery with the cherry blossoms.”
“Courthouse Farmer’s Market – fresh local VA food. Fresh crabs. Amazing apple and pomegranate cider during the holidays. And LOTS of free samples.”
“Herndon’s Friday Night Live. A BLAST. If you’ve never been… you’re missing out on big fun in the summer.”
“I love festivals. I went to the beer festival in Bull Run Park (NoVa Brewfest) this fall, it was fantastic.”
“Rustico’s Oktobeerfest is a fun family-friendly event in Alexandria. They have all kinds of food and drinks, and even a moon bounce for the kids.”
“Shirlington Oktoberfest is awesome!”
“I love the Wine Festival at Bull Run (Vintage Virginia)! Clarendon Day is good too, wish it had a little more substance though!”
“Taste of DC, -Georgetown, -Arlington… All great food and fun beer gardens!”
“Virgin Fest. It’s a fun place to roam around with a beer and dance with friends.”
“Wolf Trap – you can bring your own food and drinks and picnic.”
Happy Hour
“Bar-Code has some of the best DC area happy hour specials. Plus it is so close to so many of the large office buildings downtown and few other restaurants or bars are in this area to compete with it.”
“Cafe Asia – $1.25 sushi pieces and $2.00 beers. They also have sake specials which makes for cheap Sake Bombs.”
“Carpool – All around a great place to gather for a few drinks.”
“Hunan Number One in Clarendon- This is the only place in the area where happy hour is every day from 11-9. The beers are huge, the food is good and the service is friendly.”
“Jaleo…yummy sangria.”
“Justin’s Cafe in SE. Progressive beer prices with decent beers on tap.”
“Mango Mike’s in Alexandria has great happy hour food and drink specials!”
“McCormick & Schmick’s – Actually have happy hour specials!”
“Number Nine- 2-for-1 up until nine, and they make great martinis.”
“Pearl Dive for 1/2 price variety of oysters.”
“Rock Bottom has a great happy hour on Wednesdays – college bar though but good bar food and cheap beers – great for a friends gathering.”
“Tuesday – Union Jack’s ($2 beers til 9pm….lots of room for a big group of friends to sit at the bar and watch the Caps), Wednesday – Rock Bottom (crowded w/ 20 somethings but all Rock Bottom-brewed beer), Thursday – Whitlow’s ($2 beers all night long…what could be better than unlimited Blue Moons at $2 a pop?!).”
“Mister Day’s. Cheap and lasts till 9 p.m., Mug night at Whitlow’s.”
Irish Pub
“Dubliner…traditional food, drink and music…crowd can be a bit jerky when congress is in session with new staffers.”
“Duffy’s on U Street- I like their selection of cheap, old-timey beers. Best wings in the District.”
“Fado in Chinatown. They have live music on weekends that really provides a great atmosphere.”
“Fado (or anywhere Scythian is performing).”
“Four Courts in Courthouse – feels like I’m in Ireland.”
“Murphy’s of Alexandria is always a great time. Guinness flows and people sing along to Irish songs all night!”
“O’Connell’s in Old Town Alexandria. It doesn’t pretend to be too Irish and sometimes has some good live music (not Irish singers). If you are looking for a great Irish place, Pat Troy’s Ireland’s Own is a good place to go.”
“Sine in Pentagon City! Clean and big enough to move around.”
Late Night/Morning After Eats
“Ben’s Chili Bowl- best burgers and chili dogs ever!”
“Bethesda Bagels – (morning).”
“Bistro du Coin until about 2, ditto for Annie’s Paramount Steak House (on 17th).
“Cap City Diner – H Street Area. Awesome prices. Good food. Family Owned.”
“Fast Gourmet. MUCH shorter line than Ben’s Chili Bowl, and the sandwiches are good whether you are drunk or sober.”
“Goody’s in Clarendon. Small place with great cheese steaks and pizza.”
“Honey Pig – Annandale, VA – there’s nothing like bulgolgi at 4am, and it’s just as good at 4pm too. Gotta love a place where the food is amazing no matter what time of day it is. Plus the loud music and party style vibe makes you feel like the party is still going at 4 a.m.”
“Jackey Cafe on H Street. No matter what time of night the hubby and I go there, they’re always open. They have the best Chinese food in DC. This is our favorite spot. The food is always hot & fresh.”
“Julia’s Empanadas- Perfect cure for the late night drunk munchies.”
“Kabob Palace. There’s a reason why this place always has a line going out the door. The kabobs are to die for, and the rice and chick peas are amazing sides. However, their daily specials are just as tasty, if not tastier, and will get you served faster.”
“The Diner in Adams Morgan has all the heavy comfort food that you crave after a rough night.”
“Wiinkys! Brand new establishment in Ballston. They’re sandwiches are amazing and they are open LATE NIGHT!” “Manhattan Bagel is a great morning-after bagel place!”
Local Winery
“Breaux. They came to the Virginia Wine Festival, and I really enjoyed sampling their wines.”
“Chrysalis Vineyards in Middleburg, VA (Join their VIP club — SO worth it!! Their Norton is awesome).”
“Paradise Springs Winery – you can bring your own picnic, sit inside or outside the building, and they have decent wine. Love that it’s not far either!”
“Grey Ghost continues to blow me away. They have some of the best wines in the country…let alone the region.
“Miracle Valley. It’s smaller and quieter than the “big guys” but nice wines and great if you just want to hang out. Sometimes has music.”
“Potomac Point Vineyards (Stafford, VA) – gorgeous views; great wines, $5-$10/tasting, olive oil flavored tasting bar, absolutely amazing chef cooking at their bistro every day.”
“Tarara Winery in Leesburg – awesome patio and acres of land – gorgeous.”
“Three Fox. Great views, and you can even sit at tables in the vines. Lots of fun events too.”
Outdoor Dining/Rooftop
“Clarendon Ballroom, Whitlows popular but bad view… POV is awesome but pricey.”
“Clyde’s Reston. If you can get an outside table during the summer concert series, it is awesome!”
“Eventide – gorgeous views of all of Clarendon.”
“Guapo’s in Shirlington has a huge outdoor area and is right by the sidewalk which makes for great people watching. And you can bring your dog.”
“Lauriol Plaza in Dupont- The wait can be lengthy but the food, drinks and atmosphere more than make up for it.
“Mexicali Blues has good outdoor seating in Clarendon.”
“Rooftop Bar at the Hotel W – Best view of DC. Super expensive though.”
“Cantina Marina – Summer breeze + sitting on the water = relaxing evening.”
“The Beacon downtown …is a beautiful spot to have a cocktail and some appetizers while taking in the sun.”
“The Reef – nice rooftop vibe.”
“Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande – Great outdoor section.”
Pizza
“Armand’s in Silver Spring. Great deep dish.”
“Big Poppa’s! Just had it the other night and LOVED it! Goody’s is also great late night food!”
“Cafe Pizzaiolo has some great and unusual toppings that the other pizza guys just don’t have available.”
“Comet Ping Pong. Try the Stanley. So good!”
“Fireworks. Been to both locations, always tasty and great beer selection too.”
“Manny and Olgas- NY style pizza!!!!”
“Matchbox–amazing tasting.”
“Pizza Bolis in Adam’s Morgan has the best NY Style, HUGE pizza slices.”
“Pizza Hut – Sorry, love the pan pizza.”
“Pizzeria Paradiso – love their pizza, fresh ingredients and awesome beer menu.”
“Pupatella – REAL Neapolitan pizza on Wilson Blvd. (run by brother and sister from Napoli).”
“The Italian Store – simply the best pizza and worth the wait and fighting the crowded store.”
“The Lost Dog in Arlington has the best pizza, not only in terms of quality but also variety.”
“Tony’s New York Pizza – Fairfax. No better pizza in DC area hands down!!!”
“Valentino’s. Nobody seems to know about this little dive of a pizza place next to Total Wine in the Landmark shopping center. The owners are former NYers who bring a taste of home through authentic NY style pizza and Italian American entrees. When I’m home sick for my NY Italian family, I go there and order up pasta fagiole and a chicken parm sub.”
“We, The Pizza – Tastes great without trying too hard. I feel that great pizza is defined by the crust and not the weird concoctions of toppings. And We The Pizza has the best crust in DC.”
“Zpizza – fresh, organic ingredients.”
Seafood
“Black Salt is tough to get to without a car but is so worth it. The freshest and most delicious seafood in the area is here and they even have a market section to take some home. You must try the oysters!”
“Bonefish Grill or Passion Fish in Reston Town Center. Both great. Passion Fish is a little pricier and more ambiance but food in both places is amazing.”
“Dogwood Tavern in Falls Church. Great raw bar specials on Tuesdays.”
“Haven’t tried too many seafood restaurants but Bistro du Coin has the best mussels.”
“Horace & Dickies – best fish sandwiches.”
“La Cheumiere in Georgetown has the best crab crepes you’ll ever have.”
“Legal Seafood… duhh!”
“Lots of places with good dishes, but just drive out Route 50 to Annapolis for some seafood joints.”
“McCormick’s & Schmick’s has the best colossal shrimp & the lobster is great too!”
“Pesce- cute vibe, delish food.”
“Red Hook Lobster Truck – best lobsta rolls in town.”
“Sequoia for the ambiance and good seafood proportions.”
“The Fish Market in Old Town is great.”
“The Prime Rib (the soft shell crabs are fantastic!).”
Sports Bar
“51st State – caters to NY sports teams.”
“Black Finn on I Street near 16th Street.”
“Carpool – open air sports bars w/ lots of TVs in your face (great for fight night or boxing).”
“Hard Times – Great food and drink specials.”
“I like Iron Horse in Chinatown as a sports bar. They have a ton of TV’s for the games, good beer, and bar games for when you aren’t watching sports.”
“Mister Days in Arlington. Tons of TV’s and good bar food.”
“My friends and I did an NFL bar tour. We went to a different bar for NFL every Sunday. Penn Quarter was the best one. Tons of TVs around the room on the 2nd floor.”
“Price-wise is Town Tavern (remember the wing & pitcher deal?).”
“Nelly’s- fun atmosphere and staff.”
“Public Bar- Their plethora of TV’s make watching football on a weekend easy no matter what team you root for. The menu is good as well.”
“Velocity Five in Courthouse – lots of TVs and good bar food.”
Trendy Eats (Food Trucks, Pho, Sushi, Tapas, etc.)
“Cava Mezze in Clarendon has great tapas and good happy hour as well.”
“Crepes at the Market….sooooooo tasty.”
“District Taco. Simply the best food truck and tacqueria in the beltway. Food is always delicious and fresh.”
“Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant. Such a fun experience to eat with a large group with no utensils. And it’s good.”
“Estadio for tapas, Big Cheese for food trucks.”
“Wonky Dog – Great food (poutine, anyone?) and reasonably priced. I ate at every food truck at Truckeroo. Wonky Dog wins.”
“Pho 14 – They taste great and give more meat than any other pho place I’ve been to in DC.”
“Sushi – Yamazato – Great sushi for great prices. They use to have “jumbo” sized sushi but have since cut back to regular size rolls.”
“Tapas – Does Zaytinya count? Mediterranean dishes in small shareable forms. Always a good combination.
“I still love cupcakes! From Red Velvet.”
“La Tasca – great tapas.”
“Lobstertruck DC is so amazing. Even if I have brought my lunch that day, if I see they are close by on twitter, I am there! I just wish the secret hadn’t gotten out because the lines are always so long! But yes, DC NEEDED the Lobstertruck.”
“Mala Tang in Arlington. Delicious food, great atmosphere.”
…the DC Cheesecake Truck, (blue one) is a deal and is fricking awesome.”
“Ramen from Toki Underground.”
“Sushi Yoshi in Vienna. I dream about the Vegas roll.”
“The Tortuga Truck. Great Latin Fusion!”
“Yogunfruz – I love adding my own toppings and choosing my own amount of yogurt.”
“Ficelle Bros. – because their Italian is AMAZING and they are always nearby!”
“Sauca – The tried and true continues to push out quality food!”
Vegetarian/Vegan Hotspots
“Astor Mediterranean – tasty choices.”
“Founding Farmers – Not a vegetarian but used to date one…so I was vegetarian for a little while.”
“Java Green is the best vegetarian restaurant I have found. So many delicious opions are available and it is in a great downtown location close to so many people on their lunch break.”
“Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant in Falls Church.”
