Recently, a list of the 25 Douchiest Bars in D.C. was posted, countered
by a list of the 25 Least Douchey Bars in D.C. To that end, I'd like to
offer my opinion of the 10 (because I'm too lazy to come up with 25)
best bars to spend a Summer's Eve. The kind of places you can find a
strong, cheap cocktail, maybe a smile, and perhaps have that talk you've
been meaning to have with your mom about that not so fresh feeling.
10. Queen Vic
This bar had me at "fundraiser for City Dogs
Rescue." Seriously. Have a fundraiser for animals (or maybe a cat
fashion pageant) and you are already on my radar. Combine that with the
soccer memorabilia on the walls, quick bartenders, and awesome food -
and, well, I'm a blubbering Renee Zellweger mess.
9. 930 Club downstairs (I'm sure this has a name, but I'm not a real blogger and I'm too lazy to research it)
I
only recently discovered this gem after the Garbage concert a few
months ago. Picture it - there I am - kickin' it with Shirley Manson*
and I look around me and realize that I'm in this basement bar that
has a total feel like you are with the band. Which I was. But in
addition, it felt like a bit of an oasis from the craziness upstairs.
The last time I went to 930, I checked it out again before the show and it was just
as awesome.
* I have never met Shirley Manson.
8. Harry's
There
are a lot of places in Metro Center where you can find yourself up
douche creek in your douche canoe with no douche paddle. Harry's is the opposite of that - a
no-frills place where I've never had a problem getting outdoor seating
on even the most beautiful of days (which is a big commodity). The
downside is that it is mostly frequented by tourists and the service can
go a little towards the slower side. However, by ordering beer by the
pitcher, you can get around that (the more you know - shooting star
behind me).
7. Larry's Lounge
Larry's is another place
where you will not find a lot of frills (or Shirley Manson). That said,
again, you can usually get patio seating (which is dog friendly), the
bartenders are always friendly, and you can gaze upon the masses waiting for Lauriol Plaza and judge them (or envy them -
damn you, swirl margarita).
6. Chief Ike's
I love this place because it is in Adams
Morgan, but doesn't have the typical Adams Morgan bar feel to it. They
play great music, are very welcoming to everyone, and it overall has a
very fun atmosphere. In addition to the patio, you can bring your dog into the bar -
everything from a chihuahua (what's up, Cody?) to a 160 lb pit/mastiff
mix (holler, Romo!).
5. Iron Horse Tap Room
If I'm in Chinatown, this tends to be
my go-to. The bartenders are cool and so is the decor. There was a time
when my friend was asked to leave because he tried to pee on a car in
front of the bar, but I'm assuming that was just a misunderstanding on
the bouncer's part and wouldn't happen again.
4. Duffy's
A favorite for pre-gaming before 930 Club shows, this place is
also great for watching Nats and Redskins games. And I'm pretty sure
that any place that serves nacho tots should rank in the top 5 of any
list, anywhere (ESAD, Zagat).
3. Rasika
I'm not really clear on whether the clientele or staff is douchey at
Rasika. Wanna know why? Two words: Magic Spinach. One bite and you will
instantly forget where you are. And possibly who you are. I once ate a
whole bowl of magic spinach and woke up in a ditch in Tijuana clutching a
hula hoop in one hand and a garden gnome in the other. And you know
what I woke up thinking? "Damn, I want some more magic spinach."
2. Hooters
Always good for the steamed crab legs and beer, as well as its festive environment, there is even more fun to be had this summer. Stop in and try one of two election year specials: the 99%er - 20 wings and a pitcher of Budweiser; or, if you want to live like the other half, treat yourself to the 1%er - 20 wings and a warm bottle of champagne. Insider tip: bring your own utensils and someone who knows how to open a bottle of champagne. And maybe your own napkins. Still a 5 star for service.
1. Fox and Hounds Lounge
This hidden gem is nestled in the foothills of 17th Street. Serving what Fodor's refers to as a "ladies pour," I have had many a good time with non-douchey patrons and staff of this bar. Reservations encouraged.
