Lydia from Washington DC
Bar Charley Washington DC
Craft cocktails cool vibe
Look at the reviews for Bar Charley and everyone mentions the cocktails. That's because the list at Bar Charley is creative, portions are generous and prices are decent -- and because this place has soul. Set in a speakeasy type ground floor space with exposed brick, comfy banquette seating and low lighting, there's a small bar and dining room inside with a spacious outdoor patio. Sit outside under the string lights if you've a crowd, and pick your poison: the bartender mixes some creative one-offs as well as old standbys from a deep list of craft liquors.
The 11-page drinks menu features multiple versions of Manhattans and Martinis (10 each!). Conversely, the food offerings occupy a half page. But this doesn't mean eats are an afterthought: there's something for everything, and the small menu ensures all are done right. The Charley burger was perfectly pink, with just the right amount of fries, the steak just a little crisp outside, but also cooked to our liking. Appetizers include charcuterie, wings and crispy Brussels sprouts, and if you're off the red meat, there are fish entrees, as well as duck. Bar Charley is a cocktail destination with the heart of a neighborhood bar: the natives are friendly and children are welcome. Masks required as per DC law.
About this spot
Our Washington DC City Guide
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Join as a Spotter?
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Washington DC
Miracle Theatre
Oldest theater in the city
"Miracle Theatre" in Washington DC is the oldest (second-run) movie theater in the city. They also host private events - I once performed theater there...
by
JR
Denson
National Building Museum
Good gift shop
I love going to the gift shop of the "National Building Museum" - very reasonably priced items, Also, I like what they do on Saturday mornings...
by
JR
Denson
Sticky Rice
The best sushi
"Sticky Rice" is honestly one of my top five favorite places to eat in DC. My go-to dish is the Drawn and Buttered sushi roll... Impossible not to like!
by
JR
Denson
Surfside
Late night Tex-Mex
I always stop at "Surfside" whenever I go out dancing or hanging out in the Dupont Circle area for a late-night taco, enchilada or quesadilla...
by
JR
Denson
The Brig
Chill outdoor beer garden
"The Brig" is arguably the flagship beer garden of Eastern Market and Navy Yard in Washington DC. I love how I never have to wait for a table!
by
JR
Denson
Public Bar
Wednesday salsa night
"Public Bar" in DC turns into a real salsa club every Wednesday night. If you're serious about wanting to partner dance on a random Wednesday, it's for you.
by
JR
Denson
Izakaya Seki
Big taste & small plates
"Izakaya Seki" in Washington DC is the restaurant I go to when I want authentic but unfamiliar Japanese food, a place for somewhat adventurous diners!
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
LeTena
Modern, fast, casual Ethiopian
"LeTena" Washington DC takes a slightly different approach with Ethiopian food, somewhere between being a restaurant & a casual place. I love the prices.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
The Coffee Bar
Charm and personality
"The Coffee Bar" is a wonderful coffee spot in Washington DC, in a somewhat quiet area. I love their outside patio to enjoy my coffee with some sun.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Donburi
Japanese restaurant
"Donburi" in Washington DC is a Japanese restaurant that makes my mouth water before I've even had a taste of the food! It's my comfort food in DC...
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Heading to Washington DC?
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 101 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Washington DC
Get to know our other Spotters from Washington DC
As featured on:
