Washington DC may be best known for politics and power suits, but the bar scene here tells a different kind of story. From speakeasy-style hideaways to world-renowned cocktail laboratories, the District is brimming with creativity, character, and craft. 

Whether you’re after a perfectly stirred martini, a whiskey list that reads like a novel or a party with Peruvian chicken, this list of the best bars in Washington DC offers something for everyone.

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Best Cocktail Bars In DC

Death & Co

A recent addition to the city’s cocktail scene, Death & Co brings its cult following from New York and LA straight to the nation’s capital. With dim lighting, impeccable service, and a menu of meticulously crafted drinks, this is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts.

Death & Co is top of my list for the best cocktail bars DC has due to its inventive, spirit-forward creations alongside elevated takes on the classics. My favourites were the Circa 1960 and Matcha Po, which came topped with matcha cream. Don’t miss happy hour on Monday to Thursday from 5pm to 6pm. There’s even an outdoor rooftop area for those warmer weekends.

📍: 124 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001

Jane Jane

A neighborhood hideaway with retro charm, Jane Jane feels like your stylish friend’s living room… if your friend also happens to be a phenomenal bartender. Located on the buzzing 14th Street, this lively spot is hard to miss.

The drinks are thoughtful and accessible, with house-made syrups, creative garnishes. My Afternoon Snooze was a punchy mix of tequila, mezcal, pineapple, honey, lime and tabasco. With a cool crowd and laid-back energy, this is one of the most inclusive spots in the city.

📍: 1705 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Manifest

Tucked away inside a converted row house in Adam’s Morgan, Manifest is equal parts barbershop, boutique, and cocktail bar. It’s a stylish space where craft and creativity shine, whether you’re sipping a seasonal cocktail or browsing the curated clothing racks.

Think coffee and cute by day, then wine and cocktails at by night as Out of Hours (the bar) comes alive. The drinks are modern and the interior design is clean, making it a go-to for dates or nights out with friends.

📍: 1807 Florida Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009

Service Bar

If you’re wondering “where should I drink in DC?” then I’ve got the place for you. Service Bar hits that sweet spot between big energy and seriously good cocktails. It’s loud, lively, and unpretentious. But don’t let the party atmosphere fool you.

Service Bar is the highest rated DC venue on North America’s 50 Best Bars (currently ranked #23) and it’s easy to see why. The bartenders are masters of their craft; known for bold drinks, inventive infusions, and an ever-evolving menu that never gets boring. You might need to join the line outside until a table becomes available, but it will be worth the wait.

📍: 926-928 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Barmini

Part cocktail bar, part culinary laboratory, barmini is the whimsical sibling of José Andrés’ minibar. The drink menu reads like an art installation, with more than 100 cocktails that lean into molecular gastronomy, theatrical presentations, and surprising flavor pairings.

Make sure to book ahead as it gets busy here. You can pay a deposit for a la carte ($40) which goes towards your final balance, or the cocktail flight ($115) which includes a variety of technique-driven cocktails. It’s a splurge-worthy experience for anyone who loves innovation in a glass.

📍: 501 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Silver Lyan

Located beneath the Riggs Hotel, Silver Lyan is the brainchild of acclaimed London bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana (aka Mr. Lyan). As a Londoner, I couldn’t visit DC without heading over to the sister site of my favourite spot Lyaness.

Everybody’s favorite bar in DC? Any time we asked a bartender where they recommend, this place was on their list. The interior is sleek and sexy; the vibe is lively yet slick. As for the menu; it’s a love letter to global flavors and history, using unexpected ingredients and techniques.

📍: 900 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

Chicken + Whiskey

Yes, you read that right… this place pairs slow-roasted Peruvian chicken with a hidden whiskey bar in the back. The front is all fast-casual rotisserie goodness, but behind the freezer door? A whiskey-lover’s dream.

Expect cocktails and a party bar vibe set to the soundtrack of a live DJ blasting everything from One Direction to Lil Wayne. This is easily among the best dive bars in DC.

📍: 1738 14th Street NW Washington, DC 20009

The Green Zone

For a bar experience rooted in Middle Eastern flavors and culture, The Green Zone is a breath of fresh air. Head to the Adams Morgan neighbourhood for Arab-inspired cocktails like the Arak Margarita or Saz’iraq.

After the best bars in DC for young adults? With a generous happy hour (Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm to 8pm, and all day Sunday) mixed with far-flung flavours such as Arak and Arabian Bitters, this The Green Zone is doing things differently.

📍: 2226 18th Street NW, Washington DC, DC 20009 

Best Rooftop Bars In DC

Art

Art is one of the highest rated rooftop bars DC has to offer. Located atop the Arlo Washington Hotel, the venue blends modern Japanese–Pan-Asian food by Chef Pepe Moncayo with elevated cocktails like the sesame‑espresso martini or Kitsune’s Elixir.

With rooftop and indoor seating, plus rotating events and reverse happy hours, this hotel favorite offers both skyline views and a buzzing vibe.

📍: 333 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Jack Rose Dining Saloon

Whiskey lovers, this one’s for you. With more than 2,700 bottles on display, Jack Rose boasts one of the most impressive whiskey collections in the country. Think happy hours, DJs and late-night food.

The vibe is warm and masculine, with leather seating, wood-paneled walls, and multiple levels; including an indoor/outdoor rooftop terrace that is perfect for summer sipping.

📍: 2007 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

Vue

Formerly known as POV, VUE Rooftop perches just blocks from the White House with sweeping views of the National Mall and Monument. The kitchen serves crab roll sliders, crispy fingerlings and smoked short rib, with menus taking you from brunch to dinner.

Drinks are centred on luxury drinks crafted by Tracy Javier (who has behind the cocktail program since the building was formerly the W Hotel). Make sure you check out the calendar for events spanning morning yoga and DJ nights on Fridays and Saturdays.

📍: 515 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004