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In DC These Days, Fast Casual Dining Equals Big Business And Is Here To Stay

In 2015, CNN Money reported that Americans were working roughly 47 hours a week, which when given that the average work week is expected to be 40 hours, means that there’s a lot of overtime happening. The push towards overtime means that there’s less time for many things, cooking at home included in that list. Thus, if you’re wondering why cities like Washington, DC appear to be over-run with fast casual dining options offering everything from salads to rice bowls to noodle soups, burritos and more, that’s why. However, how big of a business DC’s ability to ever-so-briefly stop working and eat an impressive diversity of meals is becoming is what’s truly amazing.

Sweetgreen’s farm-to-table salads are delicious enough for the company to have existed for nearly a decade, raise $95 million in venture capital funding and spawn a seven-year old music festival. As well, not too far behind is five-year old Cava Grill, which, as an offshoot of the Cava Mezze restaurant has just followed Sweetgreen into New York City and has $60 million in VC funding to spend. As well, established fast-casual industry leader Chipotle launched Shophouse, a Southeast-Asian inspired sister concept, in the area three years ago.

Even iconic and veteran DC chef Jose Andres is in on the fun, his all-vegetarian Beefsteak entry now entering it’s second year in the fast-casual sweepstakes and already having national locations. Andres’ acclaim has attracted pop-star power to his brand as his funders include the likes of actress Gwyneth Paltrow. Upstarts like Philadelphia hoagie-inspired Taylor Gourmet, urban-chic “Chipotle for Pizza” & Pizza and sushi-as-burrito operation Buredo are making swift and impressive moves as well.

DC’s downtown park system turning into a lunch-time smorgasbord should be added to this mix as well. There’s now 240-plus food trucks in operation in the Nation’s Capital, offering everything from lobster roll sandwiches to barbecue items, grilled Halal-style meats and much more. Food trucks with brick-and-mortar locations like District Taco are notable, too. When the San Francisco Business Journal reveals that food-truck entrepreneurs are making a half-million dollars a year in earnings, there’s an impressive movement happening.

Zagat.com
Zagat.com

Fast casual is even interrupting DC’s traditional sit-down and not-so-fast restaurant boom. In Asia, ramen shops are the ultimate in fast dining, as the shops do an impressive level of in-and-out dining by business people needing incredibly swift dining options during weeks of work that oftentimes expand far past the new American 47 hour-per-week expectation. Now, especially in DC of late, traditionally fast ramen is becoming the height of experience-driven fast-casual eating. There’s roughly a dozen ramen-specific restaurants now in the DC Metropolitan area, a number that’s certain to grow.

When well-regarded publications like Zagat’s food guide says that “perhaps more than any [American] market, Washingtonians can’t get enough of fast-casual” and Eater notes that both “home-grown” and “enthusiastic entrants from elsewhere” are highlighting DC’s “nicer than fast-food, but not quite full-service” offerings, and can name over a dozen eateries not noted in this article, fast-casual has not just arrived in Washington, DC, moreover, it’s likely here to stay.

Hidden Gems: Amazing DC Restaurants You Should Know About

Did you know there are nearly 12,000 places to grab food and drinks in DC? Because we just found out. And if you are a perpetually indecisive diner (not unlike ourselves), that makes life so much more complicated. We’ve gone ahead and done you a huge favor and listed the best of DC’s hidden gems. The 1 in a million 12,000 kind of establishment worth going a little out of your way for.

 

Fast Gourmet

gem-fastog

Where: 1400 W St NW
Why: The phrase “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover” comes to mind. This little gas station (yes: gas station) has an insane menu consisting of everything from classic sandwiches and plates (chili dogs, burgers) to latin-infused meals (plantains, empanadas). Crawling out of the bar at closing time with a craving for fries and fish tacos? Fear not! These champions are open until 5:30am on the weekends.
How much: $5-$17 depending on how hungry you are and what you feel like eating.

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Lupo Verde

gem-lupo

Where: 1401 T St NW
Why: Their charcuterie and antipasto apps are unmatched. Located in the fabulously hip 14th Street corridor, Lupo Verde offers great brunch, dinner, and dessert menus in addition to extensive meat and cheese plate options. Definitely go if you’re into authentic Italian, but want a more casual atmosphere.
How much: Could be upwards of $30-$40 a person depending on what you order (and how much), but it’s completely worth it. And if you have any questions, their staff is supremely knowledgeable and will help you make any food and drink decisions.

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Panda Gourmet

gem-panda

Where: 2700 New York Ave NE
Why: This unassuming Szechuan restaurant has repeatedly been named the best in the district by Instagram foodies and Zagat raters alike. Don’t be fooled by its location or lack of official website, this gem is hailed as the most authentic Szechuan cuisine the city has to offer. Try the lamb with cumin or the double cooked pork: you will not be disappointed. In fact, you will probably definitely be hooked.
How much: The same as any run-of-the-mill Chinese take-out restaurant, but this one is the best and is amazing. Totally worth it.

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Barcode

Barcode Restaurant DC

Where: 1101 17th St NW
Why: This little lounge packs a big punch: not only does it host great late-night parties, but its constantly-changing menu with fresh, daily prepared ingredients will keep any foodie happy. “But do they have drinks?” you ask. Why yes, they do! Their drink menu is larger than their food menu: it consists of 12 beers on tap, 25+ beers in a bottle or can, a seasonal rotating cocktail menu, and a list of over 50 wines available by the bottle or glass.
How much: Relatively inexpensive for a restaurant of this caliber. Definitely call ahead and reserve a table, they fill up fast for dinner.

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Filomena

gem-filo

Where: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW
Why: If the rolled-in-front-of-you pastas aren’t enough, then go because the founder is a sweet woman who wants you to enjoy some great food at “a place where dinner [is] more than just a meal and a trip home.” The menu is full of old favorites and creative new dishes and the place is decorated with a heartwarming, homey flair.
How much: Pretty pricey, but you can taste the 33 years of tradition and experience in every bite.

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Perry’s Restaurant

gem-perry

Where: 1811 Columbia Rd NW
Why: Rooftop happy hour sushi. End of argument.
How much: About what you’d expect of any Japanese restaurant, but you can get really good deals on drinks and sushi during their happy hours. We suggest you go while the weather allows you to fully appreciate the chic rooftop atmosphere they’ve cultivated.

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Sixth Engine

gem-six

Where:438 Massachusetts Ave NW
Why: It’s great food with awesome specials and a cool history. Engine Company No. 6 is one of only 11 buildings left in DC that were built in the late 19th century. According to their website, “The kind of fires we’re putting out have changed a bit, but the original helmet still hangs above our door.”
How much: Freshly purchased and prepared appetizers, sandwiches, and cocktails are around $7-$15, bigger plates and meals are $19-$27. Bonus: they have happy hours with even better deals if you go on the right day.

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Georgia Brown’s

gem-gb

Where:950 15th St NW
Why: It’s classic southern comfort with an upscale twist. Georgia Brown’s has homemade ice cream, fried chicken that “will compete with your grandma’s”, the best peach cobbler you may ever taste, and a Kentucky Lemonade that is dangerously delicious.
How much: This one will cost you (upwards of $40 per person), but if you are down to splurge a bit then go for it.

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The Carving Room

gem-cr

Where:300 Massachusetts Ave NW
Why: If the name isn’t enough of a hint as to why this place is amazing, let us enlighten you: not only do they hand carve all their meats for sandwiches and plates fresh everyday, but they also make their own pickled in-season veggies, their own sauces, rotating side options, and offer an insane brunch menu that includes outdoor curbside cornhole (if you choose to play).
How much: $6-$15.

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Thai X-ing

gem-thai

Where: 515 Florida Ave (no alcohol) | 2020 9th St (bar or BYOWine with a $5 corkage fee)
Why: If you aren’t normally someone who tries new things (but want to be) and aren’t sure what the best items to try are, this is the place for you. Thai X-ing takes the guess work out of ordering adventurous food with a pre-fixed chef-selected menu every night consisting of 5-7 “home-style Thai” courses including dessert.
How much: Generally around $30 per person, but prices vary with the menu so call ahead to be sure. If you plan on going with a bigger group, you should note that usually the price goes up per person to accommodate.

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Sakuramen

gem-sak

Where: 2441 18th St SW
Why: The best ramen in the city, hands down. Right in the middle of Adams Morgan’s biggest collection of other amazing bars and restaurants, it’s situated in the basement of a shop under a catwalk with a small sign, so it’s easy to walk past. Those who know about it and have been there can attest to their delicious options, great appetizers, and “fireball” bowls. Our advice? Get there before or after the dinner rush, it’s a small place and it fills up fast.
How much: Ramen bowls are $11-$15, appetizers are $7-$8.

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Not sure about you, but we’re going to break for lunch now.

Manor

manordc-2
Manor, Washington DC
  • Venue Type: Restaurant/Lounge
  • Amenities: Full menu, full bar, private events, Sunday brunch, happy hour, DJs, specialty drinks
  • Hours
    • Restaurant Hours:
      Monday thru Friday: 3pm – 12am
      Saturday: 5pm – 12am
      Sunday: CLOSED
      Sunday Brunch Coming Soon

      Happy Hour, Dinner & Late Bites until 12am

    • Lounge Hours:
      Monday: 10pm – 2am
      Tuesday: 10pm – 2am
      Wednesday: 10pm – 2am
      Thursday: 10pm – 2am
      Friday: 10pm – 3am
      Saturday: 10pm – 3am
      Sunday: CLOSED
  • Dress Code: Dressy Casual
  • Location: Dupont Circle
  • Address: 1327 Connecticut Ave NW
  • Contact: 202.506.7776
  • Website: http://www.themanordc.com/

 

 

Overview

Manor, Washington DC

The Manor DC, located in the heart of Dupont Circle brings glitz, glamour and the most talented DJ’s to cozy up with in your very own loft hideaway.

A Restaurant and Lounge by day that transforms to a modern, sleek nightclub by night.  The Manor is the newest D.C. spot to enjoy lunch, delicious happy-hour specials and dinner later accompanied by your favorite beats and cocktails created by one of DC’s top Mixologists.” (from themanordc.com)

Manor has everything you could ask for in a lounge: Delicious menu, great drinks, cool atmosphere, and a great location (not to mention the awesome view of Connecticut Ave out the 2nd story floor-to-ceiling windows).

Photos

manordc-5

manordc-4

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All images courtesy of themanordc.com.

Five Dining Options on 14th Street NW

As with any city in the midst of an economic boom period, big business comes to town in a major way and completely changes the landscape. For Washington, DC, this has affected two major areas, food and entertainment. Insofar as entertainment, new options are popping up all over town, and in the suburbs, too. However, as far as food, there may be no finer area at-present than traveling down Northwest DC’s 14th Street strip. If preparing for a night on the town anywhere in DC, 14th Street is a great central location to consider taking a date or friends, and enjoying an incredible meal before an exciting evening in the Nation’s Capital. Unsure of where to head? Well, here’s a list of five of 14th Street’s best options.

original
Photo courtesy cityeats.com

Ghibellina

1610 14th St. NW
202-803-2389

An Italian Gastro pub, Ghibellina features Tuscan-style cuisine, which basically amounts to classy Italian takes on pizza, pasta, vegetable dishes and desserts. If looking for &Pizza or Olive Garden, this is a clear step above. Upon entering the restaurant, you’re greeted by the bar and a bar-style seating area facing directly out onto 14th Street. That, alongside the exposed brick and beams, plus the candlelit atmosphere gives the space a warm, inviting ambience. Food is best ordered here to be shared by the entire table (like pizza) or in a manner similar to tapas, meaning that smaller plates that can be conveniently shared, too.

Worth ordering: Quattro Formaggi – A pizza featuring buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, grana padano and pecorino romano cheese, as well as pickled hot peppers, garlic, basil, oregano.

 

elcentrodc
Photo courtesy dc.thedrinknation.com

 

El Centro, D.F.

1819 14th St. NW
(202) 328-3131

Let’s say it’s your roommate’s birthday, and instead of having a DC nightlife evening of heading to a bar and requesting her favorite song over and over again (and the DJ not even appearing to pay attention), you want something more. Let me suggest the Tequileria at El Centro as an idea. In the restaurant’s underground space, mixologists craft Latin cocktails and can pour from 200 tequilas and mezcals in doing so. While tasting rare alcoholic beverages, also enjoy a dining menu including traditional fare like tacos and enchiladas, but also a native Mexican menu that is wide a deep, with both vegetarian and meat-based dishes.

Worth ordering: Jalisco Shrimp & Crab Enchiladas – Outside of the obvious, the enchiladas come topped with oaxaca cheese, corn and crema fresca, plus are served with fresh plantains and cilantro rice.

 

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Photo courtesy zagat.com

Ted’s Bulletin

1818 14th St NW
(202) 265-8337

So, you’re a little bit older, and your parents are in town, but your friends are still are coming out with you for the evening. Yes, 14th Street even has options for you, too. Ted’s Bulletin blends art-deco décor with a menu that is equal parts delicious and ridiculous. Traditional American with a twist is the key here, with beer-battered fish, steaks, breakfast all day, and yes, homemade pop tarts as well. If looking for a quality meal that is tasty and top-notch without the bells and whistles of other 14th Street locations, Ted’s is ideal.

Worth ordering: “The Walk of Shame Breakfast Burrito” – Sirloin steak, scrambled eggs, hash browns, cheddar cheese and green chile sauce, served with hash browns.

 

Le-Diplomate_Dito
Photo courtesy borderstan.com

Le Diplomate

1601 14th St NW
(202) 332-3333

Possibly one of the most physically attractive restaurants along 14th Street, French dining option Le Diplomate features an extraordinarily simple, yet well-delivered take on French cuisine. Appetizers include roasted sweetbreads, onion soup au gratin, steak tartare and and escargots, while entrees include steak frites, trout amandine, beef bourguignon and duck leg and breast confit. With multiple specialty cocktails featured on the menu as well, this is quite possibly one of the few locales in the area that has Euro-centric cuisine delivered without too much innovation.

Worth ordering: Steak Frites – Pan roasted hanger steak served with maître d’ butter and a side of pommes frites.

 

rice
Photo courtesy borderstan.com

Rice

1608 14th St NW
(202) 234-2400

For as many newly opened restaurants continue to reach the 14th Street area, “fine Thai” cuisine space Rice continues to deliver quality food, excellent indoor and outdoor atmosphere and a diverse menu that offers a unique dining experience. Pumpkin empanadas at a “Thai” restaurant? Absolutely, and they’re crisp, moist and unforgettable. The menu is separated into “Rice specialties, (aka newly invented Thai fusion cuisine)” as well as “Authentic Thai” and “Healthy Green.” If headed out with a crew with diverse tastes, dietary restrictions or just adventurous eaters, this is a quality choice.

Worth ordering: Spicy duck, stir-fried with Thai herbs and crispy wild ginger

Toro Toro

Dining Area
Main Dining Area
  • Venue type: Restaurant/ lounge
  • Amenities: Happy hour, Sunday brunch, Full menu, Happy hour menu, Full bar, Private events, Bottle service.
  • Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11pm- 2 am Friday- Saturday: 10 pm- 3 am
  • Cover charge: None
  • Dress code: Fashionable
  • Age requirement:  21+ on the weekend
  • Location: McPherson Square
  • Address: 1300 I street NW Washington DC 20005
  • Contact: 202-682-9500
  • Website: www.richardsandoval.com/torotorodc/

 

Overview:

Richard Sandoval’s newest DC hotspot is an upscale Latin restaurant serving authentic cuisine during the day, with full bars in both the dining and downstairs lounge areas. Everything in Toro Toro is perfectly Latin themed, from the furnishings to the Day of the Dead bottled beers. Boasting burning amber onyx walls, lush black leather couches, a lit-up bar, glowing orange countertops, and state-of-the art lighting system, Toro Toro creates an ambience of pure elegance.

On the main floor, you can enjoy the quiet, classy atmosphere at the bar, or candle-lit table to unwind from a long day. The happy hour includes reasonably priced and tasty appetizers and cocktails, featuring Latin-inspired dishes such as their chipotle hummus and smoked guacamole.

Located on the bottom level, the 5,000 sqft late night lounge provides an intimate and vibrant setting for guests to dance and converse.VIP tables are placed conveniently by the dance floor with comfy and chic couches for guests. Candles are lit next to plush booths to enhance the intimate ambience. Another notable aspect of this floor is the state-of-the art lighting system, with its beautiful array of bright colors and patterns. The flashing lights are perfectly timed to create a high-energy and sensual vibe on the dancefloor. The beautiful upscale interior is complimented with tasty, Latin-inspired drinks, exceptional service, and uplifting house music.

I would recommend Toro Toro for private events and celebrations. Tables provide an intimate setting for guests to enjoy delicious drinks and for you to have a great time with friends. They also come with excellent service. The VIP hostesses were very attentive and made sure to keep our table stocked throughout the night.

For bottle service specials and rates, call 202.682.9500. Toro Toro is also available for private events.

Written by Roma Moradian and Sana Alloo

 

Toro Toro Bar

VIP Seating

Toro Toro


 

 

What do YOU think?

How was your experience? Share your feedback below!

We’re not looking for trolls and we’re not looking for cheerleaders. We’re looking for honest feedback. Thanks!

Mari Vanna

Upstairs Cocktail Lounge
Mari Vanna

 

  • Venue Type: Restaurant/Lounge
  • Amenities: Full menu, full bar, house-infused vodka, DJ, bottle service, private events, brunch, happy hour
  • Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30am – 1:30am, Saturday: 12:00pm – 2:00am, Sunday: 11:30am – 1:00am
  • Dress Code: Casual
  • Age Requirement: 21+ after 9:00pm
  • Location: Farragut North/Dupont Circle
  • Address: 1141 Connecticut Ave NW
  • Contact: 202-783-7777
  • Website: www.marivanna.ru/washington
Venue Overview:

Located close to the Farragut North metro and just outside of Dupont Circle, Mari Vanna is an essential stop for anyone in the DC area. Serving up delicious authentic Russian homestyle cuisine during the day and supplying D.C. with an impressive selection of over 70 house-infused vodka’s by night, Mari Vanna boasts an ambient atmosphere that gives its patrons an eclectic “tea party-meets-grandma’s-house” vibe. The D.C. location is its biggest one yet, and for good reason – this place has a lot to offer.

If you like dancing, good music, great food, and vodka that you don’t need a chaser for, then I would say Mari Vanna is the place for you. The cocktail lounge upstairs is perfect for a night out with friends. It’s got an intimate atmosphere but you’ll never feel like you’re being overcrowded. The crowd stays pretty steady all night, usually a mix of DC natives, tourists, and people from all around the world. Bottle service is available upon request. I would definitely recommend ordering some of their house-infused vodka if you have a group of people with you. Another perk of Mari Vanna is the keys. You can ask the bartender upstairs for a key, which you’ll need on most Monday nights to get in (or be with someone who has one). Bottom line: whether you decide to start or end your night here, going to Mari Vanna is always a good idea.

View their menu here.

Photo Tour:
Store Front
Store Front
First Floor
First Floor
Mezzanine Level
Mezzanine Level
Top Floor Cocktail Lounge
Top Floor Cocktail Lounge
Antonovka Cocktail
Signature Antonovka Cocktail: Russian standard apple liqueur, pear puree and lemon juice, garnished with a slice of granny smith apple
Salo Plate
Salo Plate: A traditional assortment of salt cured pork fatback with onion, garlic, rye toast and Russian mustard
Blinis
Blinis: Homemade Russian style crepes served with salmon caviar or sour cream

 *All images courtesy of Travis Vaughn and Mari Vanna.

Barcode DC: Restaurant, Bar, Lounge and Chameleon?

Barcode Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, Chameleon
Barcode

It’s no secret that Barcode has been a smash-hit since its opening, but what remains a mystery is how this versatile chameleon can seamlessly change between a  Restaurant, Bar, and Lounge and still flourish and thrive without mushing together.

Being right in the middle of DC’s Golden Triangle, it is surrounded by offices and foot traffic in a vibrant, pedestrian heavy neighborhood.  But location alone isn’t enough to attract a crowd in the corporate paradise.  It takes a little bit more finesse and substance, which Barcode has in spades, and as one Yelper put it “The decor is sleek and modern, but without a pretentious air”.

Lunch

Veggie Panini at Barcode Lunch DC
Lunchbreak: The veggie panini at Barcode

During the afternoon, it’s a prime lunch spot.  It’s bright, warm, clean, and professional.  It’s a place people feel comfortable bringing their coworkers, friends, and even their bosses without giving it a second thought.  The service is quick and responsive, the menu has something for everyone, and it all comes out of the kitchen in a hurry.

DC Restaurants, DC Patios, DC Lounges, BARCODE DC
Much of Barcode’s facade is made of glass doors which open to a street-level patio

Sandwiches, Small Plates, Burgers, Pizzas, Pastas, and Full-Fledged Entrees.  You can actually get a complete real lunch for under $15.  There’s even freshly brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino, latte, tea, and Red Bull to give your day a boost.

Happy Hour

Happy Hour at Barcode Lounge DC
Lots of open seating, conversation-level music, good food, and half price drinks. Win.

After the lunch crowd has retreated back into their offices, the Happy Hour crowd starts trickling in for the half-price drinks weekdays from 3pm – 7pm.  The atmosphere is lively and casual as people put their workday behind them and raise a pint to toast the end of another successful day.

Happy Hour at Barcode Lounge DC
The whole front entrance opened up on a nice night (background)

The large communal booths and ample seating means people don’t have to stand on their feet  all evening, and the music barely chimes above the din of chatter, so you can actually sit, relax, and enjoy a conversation with friends.

When the weather is nice, most of the facade of Barcode opens up like a pavilion to the spacious outdoor patio out front, providing a great space to hang out and enjoy the evening.

Dinner

DC Lounges, DC Bars
A group of young professionals enjoying the  appetizers

As Happy Hour winds down, the dinner crowd picks up as people from all a cross town migrate over to have  dinner.  The vibe is relaxed, the air is casual, the mood is perfect for an exquisite dinner without the pretentiousness of a formal restaurant.  It works well for a date, a group outing, or even a big birthday event.  With the large communal booths and huge tables, they can accept reservations for parties as large as 24 people for dinner.

Cheeseburger at Barcode
Cheeseburger
Nutella Pizza
Nutella Pizza

 

The menu is a great mix of culinary masterpieces and simple hits.  On the fancy side there are things like: Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Filet Mignon, Grilled Calamari and Mussels.

Steak and Fries at Barcode Restaurant
Steak and Fries
Grilled Wings
Grilled Wings

On the traditional side there are things like: the Burger, Margherita Pizza, Blackened Organic Chicken, French Fries, and Mushroom Soup.

Cocktails

Cocktails Wine and Cheese at Barcode Lounge DC
Cocktails, Wine, and Cheese in a refreshing atmosphere

By the time dinner is done, this part of DC is a total ghost town.  The offices are abandoned, the streets are vacant, the stores are dark, and the tumbleweeds blow down Connecticut Avenue across K street and eventually come to rest at the top of the eternally broken escalator at the Dupont Circle Metro.  But it’s at this hour that, revelers from the area start making their way out for a night on the town, and Barcode is the ideal spot for Cocktails, Wine, and Cheese as the night picks up.

Cocktails Wine and Cheese at Barcode Lounge DC
Barcode has a pretty solid wine list too

The lights go down and the music comes up a little as people enjoy refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres  over candlelight in a laid-back setting.  It’s not in-your-face or pretentious, but rather quite chill.  And if there’s a big game going on, you better believe it’ll be on all 10 HDTV screens and the big video projector!  One can even get a bottle of wine and enjoy the ambiance on their heated outdoor patio.

Late Night

Late Night at Barcode Restaurant Bar Lounge DC
Even late at night, much of the open seating remains

Late Night fun starts as the Cocktails crowd makes its way to the next stop on the tour or heads home for the night (depending on their age).  Now it’s time to party like a professional.  Barcode is the serious lounge for people who are in-the-know about DC nightlife.  VIP tables, Bottle Service, DJs, Sports on TV, Mixed Drinks, and even a little Dancing dominate the late night feel of Barcode.

Late Night at Barcode Restaurant Bar Lounge DC
Tables can be reserved with VIP bottle service

DJs Saam, Kidlucky and Kam keep the party going strong into the night alongside special guests.  And yes, the kitchen is open till at least 12am!  So if you’ve got a late-night craving for some damn good food, but don’t want to leave the party, Barcode’s got you covered.

Overall

It’s really an impressive place that progressively steps up its game as the day wears into night.  Like a chameleon, it changes moods and styles to match the changing world around it.  Surprisingly, it’s daily cycle of change was dictated not by management, but rather by the people who came to hang out.

For you see, the owners never set out any rules or guidelines for when Barcode should be what.  They just opened the doors and let the place take on a life of its own.

The outdoor patio at Barcode is very popular
The outdoor patio at Barcode is very popular
Come hang out and watch the game
Come hang out and watch the game
The large communal booths can fit groups of all sizes
The large communal booths fit groups of all sizes
Wine at Barcode Lounge DC
Enjoy it with a glass of wine

 

Choosing Where to Eat: DC Restaurant Week 2013

restaurant week 2013

7 Days, 3 Courses, 240+ DC Restaurants!

One of the most coveted weeks in American dining, Restaurant Week lets urban-dwellers taste their city’s best for a fraction of the regular price.

From the best and most popular to the up and coming gems, DC’s bi-annual event is every foodie’s dream. There’s no question the DC Restaurant scene is among the best in the nation. Reservations may go fast. Employees may be on overdrive. But the quality of food combined with the unbeatable price makes these week-long eat-a-thons one of the most anticipated times of the year.

We always recommend cross-referencing participating restaurants with The Washingtonian’s list of DC’s best to maximize your experience. Your palate can thank us later.

Grammy Award Winner, international techno icon and DC-native Dubfire mentions (5) of his favorites in this clubglow.com article.

Happy eating!

The Brixton

Brixton DC

  • Venue Type: British Pub, Restaurant and rooftop beer garden
  • Estimated Size: 300
  • Amenities: Rooftop bar
  • Cover Charge: $0
  • Hours: M – Th: 5PM – 2AM F: 5PM – 3AM Sat: 11AM – 3AM Sun: 12PM – Midnight
  • Dress Code: None
  • Age Requirement: 21+
  • Location: U Street
  • Address: 901 U St NW. 202-560-5045
  • Website: brixtondc.com
  • Atmosphere: Located at the east corner of the U-Street Corridor 1 block from the 9:30 Club, Brixton is a comfortable spot where 20 and 30 somethings go to blow off steam. It’s got three floors and solid tunes but the focus is on hanging out with your friends. It’s got a good mix of hipsters, college kids and professionals without any overkill. It’s one of the best ‘normal’ bars we’ve been to in DC.
Venue Overview

Opened in 2012, Brixton is U-Street’s less ‘alternative’ bar venue. Not there’s anything wrong with being alternative, we’re just saying. The line moves quickly enough and the staff are polite, most likely because the crowd is polite as well and not overtly reckless. The first level of Brixton features a bar running down the left and dining tables, booths and bar stool areas on the right. It’s relatively open and features some eclectic antler lighting fixtures above. The wood floor and brick walls add to the pub ambiance.

This is a super small part of the rooftop. It’s got 2 bars and tons of room. Probably enough for 200 people.

A semi-hidden stairwell directly to the left of the entrance leads up to the second-level lodge and third level roof deck. Walking into the lodge makes one feel like they’re in Ron Burgundy’s winter escape in Tahoe. From the fireplace and old-world leather furniture to the Afghan (or Oriental, not sure) rugs and antlers adorning the walls, it’s a comfortable place to relax or sit at the bar and drink. And finally, as the folks at Brixton call it, the ‘rooftop beer garden.’ Brixton’s roof is the sh*t. You can see the Washington Monument, all the way down U street, etc. It’s quite large, has two bars and can get pretty crowded on Friday and Saturday night. It’s a dope spot to hang with your friends and do whatever. There are lots of tables, chairs, places to chill, etc. Two thumbs up for sure.

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The Brixton DC
A pub style DC bar located on U Street!

 

The lodge at Brixton, Washington DC’s pub bar with a rooftop beer garden.

 

rooftop bars washington dc
The rooftop beer garden at Brixton gets packed early. It fits around 200 and has 2 bars and twice as much space as you see here.
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Barcode’s 2 Year Anniversary Event – Saturday November 3

Midtown-K Street Restaurant/Bar/Lounge Celebrates 2 Years!

washington dc barsWhat:
Barcode’s 2 Year Anniversary!!!

Where:
Barcode
1101 17th Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20036

(202) 955-9001

When:
Saturday November 3, 2012
Complimentary Hors d’Oeuvres, Champagne, Beer and Wine starting at 8PM

Barcode is extremely proud to celebrate a 2nd year of business on November 3 with food, drinks and friends. From the very start, Barcode has been defined not by what it is, but what it can be.

From power lunches and happy hours to wine and beer tastings, dance parties, sporting events and more, Barcode has managed to set itself apart with diverse offerings and a menu of classics with a twist.

Barcode has been voted ‘Best Happy Hour’ by the Washington Post and hosted a diverse range of patrons from former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld to 5-time and current #1 DJ in the world Armin van Buuren.