Over the last 10 years, DC has transformed itself from a one trick pony to an area with a vibrant technology sector.
Still, DC is a government town. Partisanship is in the water and, in many cases, in the beer. I can remember friends who were not political dreading a trip to a local bar for fear of being enveloped into one of the inevitable political conversations or games of "Who do you work for?"
Despite all that, you can still enjoy a cocktail in the city without being ensnared in a political conversation. Here are the best of the best, with a focus on places of interest close to the wedding/hotel.
Starfocker
It's only a matter of time before I am told to take down that heading, but these are the places where you'll go rub shoulders with the politically rich and famous.
Off the Record: Located on Layfette SQ and across the street from the White House, this is the bar where Alison and I toasted our engagements before sharing it with her entire family. The is nice and cozy, with big high-backed chairs in the basement of the Hay-Adams Hotel. Not cheap, but a worth the price.
Hotel Washington: Long a favorite for a romantic cocktail, the rooftop bar at the hotel offers views of the White House and the National Mall. You cannot beat the rooftop here.
Capital Grille: Located down the street from the Capitol on Pennsylvania Avenue, you can read the private wine cases of superlobbyists and congressman. Don't forget to order the Stoli Doli. Drink 2 and you should call a cab.
Don't forget your black (including dark black, regular black, and german black)
You'll need to leave your light colored outfits at home for a drink in these establishments.
18th Street Lounge: This is home to the gentlemen who bring you the Thievery Corporation, it's a dance spot + lounge that will test your hipness. Clearly I ain't hip since I never stepped a foot in the joint in over 4 years.
Heaven and Hell: Ha, ha--gotcha, Caleb! Don't even think of going here unless you're 21 and love red bull and vodka. Oh, and you're wearing a striped shirt. (No url supplied to prevent you from going).
Reef: I am sure some will argue with this choice, but I love this bar--great rooftop, fun interior with exotic fish tanks, and good, solid beer choices.
Rub shoulders with Blelvis
These are the places where you'll rub shoulders with DC's Everyman and you might even get to talk to the best Elvis impersonator ever.
The Raven: This place went from totally dive, to totally hip, and back to totally dive again (10 pts for the movie quote here--i don't say totally that often). I think Alison and I had one of our first or second "dates" at this place. No beer on tap, strong drinks, and, if you're not careful, an all-night party.
Brickskeller: Home to DC's biggest beer selection, this subterranean mecca of all things malt, barley, and hops is about 1/2 block from the Palomar. I'll be there.
Dan's Cafe: Be afraid. Be very afraid.
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