A little departure from London, but I’m spending the next few weeks back in Washington DC. As I was thinking about the return trip, my mind was swimming about all of the places I wanted to make sure to go and eat (and drink!) while I was in town. The happy hour culture of DC is one of my favorite unique nuances of the city and such a fun way to meet people and explore different areas of town. I compiled my favorite happy hour spots below and thought I’d share with you too!

First time in DC?

• POV at the W Hotel– my favorite spot to take newcomers and frequent travelers alike. This rooftop is in the heart of downtown DC with an amazing “point of view” (POV, get it? 😊). You can see everything from the White House to the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument, all while drinking a spectacular cocktail or glass of prosecco.
• Watergate Hotel Rooftop – another great view of the city! This relatively new hot-spot overlooks the Potomac River with a gorgeous view of historic Georgetown.

Looking for a fancy cocktail?

• Blue Duck Tavern – It may be hard to get a dinner reservation at this Michelin-starred spot in the Park Hyatt on M Street, but that should not stop you from swinging by for a drink! The Bar area is spacious and comfortable. You can sip your seasonal cocktail with a side order of their acclaimed duck fat fries…this might be my most favorite spot in all of town.
• Benjamin Bar within the Trump Hotel- regardless of your political views, this is a top notch place for a special night in DC. The location is  formerly the Old Post Office, so it is perfectly fitting that it takes its name from Benjamin Franklin, the country’s first postmaster general. Its comfortable yet elegant (and a bit expensive!) so it’s the perfect place for a special occasion.
• Fairmont Hotel – recently remodeled and revamped, they have up-ed their game not only in the décor but also in the happy hour menu. Recommend the chicken croquets and tuna tartare apps!
• Bar Dupont– Its my best friend’s go-to cocktail date spot! Conviniently located directly off of Dupont Circle and if you get hungry, Rakuya is just around the corner for sushi.
• Urbana– Picture below, this one is easy to walk by. Its in a basement but once you walk in is open and a perfect place to grab a cocktail.

The Fairmont Hotel Lounge

Feeling a wine night?

• Westend Bistro- a bar inside of the Ritz Carlton might not immediately read as a great happy hour deal, but this is a well-kept secret. Featuring $5 wine selections and truffle fries galore, this is Ritz-level service and quality at a fabulous happy hour price.
• Barcelona Wine Bar– A 14^th street hot-spot that is always a good choice. Feeling a wine and cheese night with some Spanish and French flair?
• Le Diplomat Another 14^th street hot-spot that is always a good choice. This is Steven Star’s DC venture, following the great success of his Philly favorites.

Watch the game?

• Rebellion– My particular favorite for college football filled with the Southern charm I love so much! It has a modern tavern feel, open-air rooftop, wide bourbon and beer selection & southern bites.
• Buffalo Billiards – Great spot to watch everything from college football to boxing. One of my favorite casual spots in Dupont that is extremely good for groups. In addition to plenty of TVs, there is also shuffleboard, skeeball, darts and other games for your less sports-savvy friends.

Stay tuned for more recommendations and pictures!

– MAL