Every town has those “it” spots. Right now, Shaw is DC’s current “it” spot. It’s still developing but restaurateurs, chefs and retailers alike are flocking to the area. I love to wander this eclectic neighborhood and always make time to stop by 9th and P Streets. This corner houses one of my favorite hybrids: craft cocktails and ramen. Chaplins, aptly named after Charlie Chaplin has an early 1930’s Hollywood feel with a side of flair.
Get to this restaurant as close to 17:00 as possible, it fills up fast. When you make your way inside the restaurant, take a left and head toward the upstairs bar. At the top of the stairs, stop and grab a bag a popcorn to snack on while you decide what your pleasure is that night.
After grabbing a seat at the bar, begin to peruse the long list of happy hour specialty cocktails which are half off. I’m a sucker for a Rye Old Fashioned so A Day’s Pleasure is my go-to, but people can’t resist the smoky rosemary in The Cure. It’s now time for ramen. As a vegetarian, ramen is difficult but the Veggie Tan Tan Men is the best I’ve had. If you’re not in the mood for ramen, grab some some fried wontons and a plethora of dumplings.
If you are visiting in the summer, another great option is sitting on the large patio, just don’t forget the popcorn.
