TIP: HIDDEN RESTAURANTS, BARS & SPEAKEASIES, DC

www.barpx.com

Speakeasies were a place for the illegal sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks during Prohibition. During that time bars were hidden above, behind or below storefronts or had secret entrances. After Prohibition ended in 1933, the term Speakeasy is now used to describe nostalgic secret bars. Here are some of our favorite hidden restaurants, bars & speakeasies throughout the city. 

Columbia Room

124 Blagden Alley NW

A cocktail den above The Dabney in Shaw’s Blagden Alley. Columbia Room is an intimate cocktail bar created by Derek Brown, where the ingredients, techniques and lore of cocktails merge together to create what we hope is a memorable experience. There are only 14 seats available.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Columbia Room accepts reservations online

Denson Liquor Bar

600 F St NW

Denson Liquor Bar is the lower level of 600 F St NW. You’ll find the stairs down to the entrance on 6th St NW, across the street from the fire station.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Reservations available.

Dram & Grain

2007 18th St NW

Hidden in the basement of Jack Rose on the border of U Street and Adams Morgan. 2 hour max seating, 2 drink minimum.

Hint for the Average Socialite: For weekend seatings, make reservations via text to 202-607-1572 in advance. Weekdays walk-ins begin at 7.

Harold Black

212 7th St SE

A 1920s-style speakeasy above Acqua Al 2 behind an unmarked wooden panel door.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Reservations available

PX

728 King St, Alexandria, VA

A social lounge, dedicated to the rebirth of a golden age, where cocktails are handcrafted with care the atmosphere… civilized. 

Hint for the Average Socialite: The bar has 8 seats that are first-come, first-serve. Otherwise, patrons must make an advance, online reservation for one of 22 seats at a table. Bar recommends Wednesday night reservations.

The Gibson

2009 14th St NW

Located next to the Marvin with hand painted writing on the brick wall (look for the 2009) to identify it.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Reservations available

The Shepherd

1337 Connecticut Ave NW

Hidden second-floor speakeasy with bordellolike decor, craft cocktails & bar bites. The unmarked door is to the left of The Gryphon (look for the green light). No photos allowed.

Hint for the Average Socialite: The bar does not take reservations except for parties of 6+. Call 202-744-4253 to reserve a table.

2 Birds 1 Stone

1800 14th St NW

Sophisticated subterranean lounge (just below Doi Moi) serving its drinks in a stark, stylish space with plush seating.

Hint for the Average Socialite: Enter from S Street. Look for the sign with a bird on it.