Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in DC
Washington, DC has a rich history of secret speakeasies and hidden bars dating back to the Prohibition era. Today, many of these clandestine watering holes are still thriving, offering a unique and intimate experience for those in the know. From unmarked doors and hidden staircases to secret passages and retro-inspired themes, these speakeasies and hidden bars in DC are a must-visit for anyone looking for a night out with a touch of mystery and adventure.
Roja Lounge
DLeña Roja is a hidden gem located beneath the bustling streets of Washington D.C, it is the perfect complement to the already established DLeña, a Mexican restaurant that uses wood-burning techniques to create authentic flavors.
Its dimly lit interior and cozy atmosphere offer a perfect escape from the outside world. The bar is renowned for its extensive selection of tequila, featuring rare and unique bottles that are sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseurs.
Address: 476 K Street NW, Suite D, Washington, DC 20001
Open hours:
- Sunday – Tuesday from 5 pm to 10 pm
- Wednesday – Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm
Out of Office at Manifest
This hidden gem is part of a new hybrid concept space in Washington DC that also features a coffee shop and a hair salon. Visitors can get a fresh haircut or indulge in a cup of coffee before heading up Manifest’s glowing staircase to Out of Office, a cozy 30-seat bar that provides a playful spin on classic cocktails.
Whether you are looking for a post-work drink, a night out with friends, or a date spot, the ambiance here is perfect to unwind and savor your drinks in a moody, speakeasy-like setting.
Address: 1807 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
Open Hours:
- Sunday and Thursdays: 6 pm- 11 pm
- Fridays and Saturdays: 6 pm – 12 am
The Mirror
Here, you can relive the excitement of discovering a hidden bar and exploring a secret passageway to reach a destination where you can unwind and escape the chaos of daily life.
Once you reach the bar, you will be greeted by skilled mixologists who specialize in crafting creative and delicious cocktails that feature top-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Whether you are a fan of classic drinks or prefer something more experimental, The Mirror has something for everyone.
Address: 1413 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005
Open hours:
- Sunday – Thursday 5 pm to 2 am
- Friday – Saturday from 5 pm to 3 am
Backroom at Capo Deli
Nestled in the back of an Italian deli in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington D.C. lies Capo’s Backroom Bar and Lounge, a hidden gem that can only be accessed through a large freezer door at the rear of the deli.
Capo’s Backroom Bar and Lounge is a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts. The bar features an extensive list of classic and modern cocktails that are expertly crafted by skilled mixologists.
Address: 715 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
Open hours:
- Monday to Thursday from 5 pm to 12 am.
- Friday to Saturday from 5 pm to 2 am.
- Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm.
Never Looked Better
Never Looked Better is a tribute to the late twentieth century’s infamous party spots where you would walk down an alley, make your way toward a loading dock, and enter the party through the kitchen. The space is designed to be playful and vibrant, featuring colorful lights, retro decor, and funky music that will transport you back to the ’80s and ’90s.
At Never Looked Better, they strive to bring back the nostalgic vibes of that era while also infusing it with modern elements, offering a unique and exciting experience that takes you back in time but also feels fresh and contemporary.
Address: 130 Blagden Alley, NW Washington, DC 20001
Open hours:
- Monday-Thursday and Sunday 5 pm to 1 am
- Friday-Saturday 5 pm to 2 am
O.K.P.B.
A 900-square-foot speakeasy cocktail bar that offers a unique and intimate experience. The bar features a daily rotating cocktail menu, ensuring that patrons always have something new and exciting to try.
At O.K.P.B., they take their cocktails seriously. Their nattily attired mixologists, who were trained at The Sheppard, put their skills to work to create delicious and inventive cocktails.
Address: 3165 Mount Pleasant Street Northwest, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20010
Open hours:
- Sunday and Thursdays: 5 pm- 12 am
- Fridays and Saturdays: 5 pm – 2 am
Doi Moi Downstairs
If you’re looking for a romantic and fun night spot in Washington D.C., head to the popular 14th Street Vietnamese restaurant and keep an eye out for the pink light. Once it’s on, head downstairs to discover a hidden gem, a speakeasy-style bar that offers a unique and exciting experience.
Doi Moi Downstairs features upbeat soul music from the ’50s and ’60s, creating a lively and energetic ambiance. The tropical cocktail program is a highlight, with a variety of delicious and refreshing drinks
Address: 1800 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Open hours:
- Wednesdays and Thursdays: 6 pm- 12 am
- Fridays and Saturdays: 6 pm – 2 am
The Gibson
If you’re walking down bustling 14th street in Washington D.C., keep an eye out for a plain unmarked door, it may just lead you to one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Once you step inside, you’ll find yourself in The Gibson, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that has been charming patrons since 2008.
The Gibson offers an extensive cocktail menu that caters to every taste and preference. From classic cocktails to inventive concoctions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The cozy and intimate atmosphere adds to the charm of the space, making it a perfect spot for a date or a night out with friends.
Address: 2009 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009.
Open hours:
- Monday through Saturday from 6:00 pm.
Tkyo Speak
Head to Kaiju Ramen and keep an eye out for the sake door. Hidden behind it is TKYO Speaks, an exciting and avant-garde bar that captures the frenetic energy and neon-lit atmosphere of Tokyo nightlife.
The bar’s avant-garde stylings are sure to impress, and the neon lighting creates an electric atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in the heart of Tokyo. With a diverse drink menu and an intimate setting, TKYO Speaks is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or to enjoy a night out with friends.
Address: 525 8th St SE STE 2, Washington, DC 20003.
Open hours:
- Tuesday – Friday: 5 pm – 10 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 11:30 am – 10 pm
Denson Liquor bar
Escape the chaos of Chinatown and step into Denson Liquor Bar for a sophisticated evening of delicious drinks and small bites in a stylish setting, Denson Liquor Bar with its art deco-style ambiance, this speakeasy-style bar is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a creative twist on classic cocktails.
The menu features unexpected twists on traditional cocktails, and if you’re feeling peckish, you can snack on a variety of small plates, from roasted nuts to cheese and charcuterie.
Address: 600 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Open hours:
- Tuesday – Thursday 4:30 pm – 1 am
- Friday and Saturday: 4:30 pm – 2 am
Left Door
A hidden gem, accessible through an unmarked door to the left of the building’s entryway. This intimate speakeasy is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, with its rotating selection of classic and contemporary cocktails.
Step inside Left Door and you’ll be transported to a cozy and intimate atmosphere, where skilled bartenders mix up delicious libations using only the finest ingredients. Sip on a classic Old Fashioned or try something new with one of their creative house cocktails.
Address: 1345 S St NW (at 14th St NW) Washington, D.C. 20009
Open hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday from 5 pm to 2 am
- Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 3 am
Tilt Side Bar
This neon-lit bar is located in the back of Black Jack, behind an unmarked door, which evokes a nostalgic vibe from the ‘80s. As you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an ‘80s-themed pinball machine, while sipping on shareable cocktails from the Tilt Tiki menu.
With its funky and colorful décor, this speakeasy-style bar offers a tropical and fruity drink selection. Tilt Side Bar is a perfect spot for a night out with friends.
Address: Black Jack, 1612 14th Street NW, Washington DC 20009
Open hour:
- Wednesday and Thursday: 6 pm – 12:30 am
- Friday and Saturday: 5 pm – 1:30 am
We hope you’ve enjoyed the list of speakeasies and hidden bars in DC!
