Top 10 Hotel Bars and Lounges in Washington, D.C. for an Unforgettable Night Out

Washington, D.C. boasts numerous hotels with elegant bars and lounges, perfect for enjoying a variety of spirits while unwinding before or after dinner. Here’s a guide to some of the best hotel bars in Washington, D.C., detailing what makes each spot a must-visit in the nation’s capital.

Off the Record at The Hay-Adams

The Hay-Adams is a historic hotel located near the White House. It features the cozy bar and lounge known as Off the Record, popular with both locals and visitors. This venue serves classic cocktails and upscale bar food, making it a prime spot for relaxation with its red leather booths and caricatures of famous politicians.

Bar Rouge at the Kimpton Rouge Hotel

Bar Rouge at the Kimpton Rouge Hotel is a modern lounge situated near Dupont Circle, serving breakfast, dinner, and late-night cocktails. This venue is a popular spot for happy hour, with enticing drink and appetizer specials available Monday through Friday. The menu includes delicious options like cornmeal crusted calamari and bacon burgers.

Bar and Lounge at the Tabard Inn

Located near Dupont Circle, the historic Tabard Inn offers a cozy bar and lounge adorned with antique furnishings and a warm, wood-burning fireplace. Live jazz music is featured on select nights, and guests can enjoy a menu filled with classic cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine selection.

EDGAR at The Mayflower Hotel

EDGAR is an upscale American restaurant with a sophisticated bar offering inventive takes on classic cocktails alongside local craft beers and carefully selected wines. Its central location near K Street caters to the power-dining crowd in Washington, D.C.

Dirty Habit at Hotel Monaco

Dirty Habit is a contemporary restaurant and bar located in the Penn Quarter neighborhood, near the bustling Capital One Arena. With its atrium lounge and outdoor courtyard, this hotspot is perfect for social gatherings. The menu includes a variety of globally inspired seasonal dishes, suitable for a range of dining experiences.

POV at the W Hotel

The Point of View (POV) is a rooftop bar and terrace at the W Hotel, renowned for its stunning views of the nation’s capital. Overlooking the White House and the National Mall, it serves a variety of spirits and light fare, making it an ideal destination for impressing visitors.

Round Robin & Scotch Bar at the Willard InterContinental

Located just off the lobby of the historic Willard InterContinental, the Round Robin & Scotch Bar has been a frequent meeting place for Washington’s elite since Lincoln’s time. The bar’s sophisticated ambiance makes it perfect for enjoying classic cocktails and extensive people-watching opportunities.

The Quill at The Jefferson

The Quill is an upscale bar located at The Jefferson, adorned with portraits of former presidents and historic maps. The bar offers a menu that includes both classic and signature cocktails, along with a dynamic selection of wines.

The Alex at The Graham Georgetown

The Alex is an inviting lounge and dining area located within The Graham Georgetown. Paying homage to Alexander Graham Bell, this cocktail lounge combines a modern twist on early 20th-century design with craft cocktails, fine spirits, and exceptional wines.

Lounge at Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel

Located in Georgetown, Bourbon Steak is a contemporary steakhouse that presents a casual bar featuring luxurious decor and seasonal ingredients in its contemporary American cuisine. The atmosphere reflects elegance, enhancing the overall dining experience.