Mouthwatering Venues & Event Spaces in Washington

Sudhouse

★★★★☆ 4.4 (231) • $$

"Sudhouse has a awesome bar like atmosphere with great happy hour prices! Most dishes are between $4-9 and drinks between $4-6!! They also have a few tv's that show mostly sports games... we watched a tennis match! They have jamming modern music and bar type food and drinks! *The drinks we got weren't on the happy hour menu because we like to be extra !* Laura and Bridget were awesome! They were very attentive, made great dish suggestions and kept us and the other customers laughing the entire time. We'll definitely return!!Follow me on doseofdev.com for more food, travel, and adventures!"

STK Steakhouse

★★★★☆ 3.8 (333)

"I get that everyone's experience is different, so I can only speak for myself. I enjoyed it! Will I spend that much money on one meal for myself often? Nahhh lol I thought the server was fantastic. Wish I could remember her name. We celebrated my good brothers birthday and we all enjoyed our food. Drinks were good as well and the DJ had set a nice vibe for the evening. He only gets to play at a bedding music level, so props for still setting the tone. Let me conclude by saying I think the best value at STK comes during happy hour. You get good bites & good drinks at reasonable prices."

Teddy & The Bully Bar

★★★★☆ 3.7 (788) • $$$

"As soon as I walked in the first thing i noticed was how nice the place was. The hostess was really nice and very accommodating as I was the first person in my party to arrive. I was able to sit at the bar and have a couple of mimosas while I waited. The guava mimosa was just ok and the mango was pretty decent. The brunch is $60 to include unlimited mimosas, unlimited mains and starters on the menu, and the omelet and waffle station. That's a pretty great deal. I tried the fish taco(salmon). Nothing special but others loved it. The Brussel sprouts were good, the Mac n cheese was blah. My omelet was really good and I topped It with the lamb that came with the benedict. The DJ was definitely cranking out some bangers which made the brunch even more appealing. Outside of the waiter overcharging us when we split the bill, everything went well and I will be back."

THROW Social

★★★★☆ 3.8 (344) • $$

"I went to Throw Social on a Saturday morning for a birthday brunch. We rented an indoor cabana for about three (3) hours. The atmosphere is very colorful and the venue is huge with outdoor seating. There's a few bar stations and games throughout, live DJ and huge dance floor. The music was really good and the customer service was great. We had a large party and our waiter was very patient and attentive. For these reasons, I would come back. The day vibe was great so I'm curious to see how it is at night. Unfortunately, the food wasn't anything to brag about. Not bad, but not great. I got chicken & waffles and the waffle was very sweet, I didn't finish it. I did like that the chicken served with the dish was wings versus chicken breast. The drinks were really good and the prices overall were great as well. Overall, I'd recommend this spot. I think it's a good time for sure."

Banditos Tacos & Tequila Fairfax

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (96) • $$

"We like to come here every once in a while as a fun not too casual not too fancy place to get a sit down meal. Given it's next to another taco establishment the tacos are a cut below but sometimes you want to eat out and sit comfortably. The service has been fine and plenty of space. There are kids meals. The last time we went on a Wednesday (with free kids meal!) there was musical bingo and it was pretty entertaining.My favorite thing was the jalapeños popper empanadas. Not a fan of the K-pop taco. Nothing else was super memorable. Churros ok and available with chocolate sauce. Perfectly fine place to eat with family and friends."

UltraBar

★★☆☆☆ 2.3 (437) • $$$

"DON'T IGNORE THE REVIEWS. Came on a Thursday night. Don't waste your time and more importantly your money! I went to one bartender and ordered a gin and tonic for $17. She didn't make it with tonic water like I asked so went to fix with the other bartender. She tried to charge me $20! Of course I disputed that. Also, they said you have to buy a 2 drink minimum EVERYTIME you order! I go back to the bar to order another gin tonic & shot of gin. I asked her what was the price of each she told me they were the same $20! How is a shot more than a drink, even so $20 for a shot?! This place is literally suffering and trying to get over On people to pay bills! I will never be back."

Bowlero Arlington

★★★☆☆ 3 (139)

"Love coming here! Come often and just love the motts and bowling. Parking can be a hit or miss. Also look on Groupon when booking"

Dacha Beer Garden Navy Yard

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (205) • $$

"I love the vibes at Dacha. I love the open space and freedom to move around and mingle with friends. Their service was cute and kind. I came during their all day happy hour on Monday. I wish the happy hour food menu was extended for more options. I ordered the steak sandwich i and it was pretty good. For the happy hour $10 price, I think this is a fair sandwich, but I would not pay full price for it."

Virtue Feed & Grain

★★★★☆ 3.9 • $$

"I would say this place was alright. It's a huge place, but they can get busy on weekends. The appetizers were in my opinion better than entrees. The appetizers are shareable with no more than 3 people. Ordered: Crab dip - 9/10 Mac & Cheese - cheesy and delish companion a cast iron 9/10 Calamari - kinda weird with artichokes and olives 7/10 Steak quesadilla- good and huge portion, but very greasy 8/10 Beef short rib - 6/10 Grits - 7/10Shrimp tacos - 7/10 Drinks Peppermint espresso- 7/10Blackberry bourbon smash - 9/10 Hot coco - 7/10 Hot toddy - trash Overall, the experience was pleasant. It was New Year's Day so of course it was a little busy. It's kid/baby friendly and the staff were kind. It's a casual spot, the menu is fairly big."

Station 4

★★★☆☆ 3.4 • $$

"Station 4 has been on my list for awhile & has garnered a big buzz recently. This restaurant is not new on the DC scene but when influencers start raving about it on TikTok, people come to check out the hype. We had a 1:45 rezzie for Saturday Brunch. It was giving festive vibes. I saw a table of ladies dressed in their holiday one piece pjs having the time of their lives & others folks on dates. We were immediately seated & our server Jeff greeted us. I didn't see kids offerings although my 5 year old nephew was dining with us. I ordered the challah French toast (no powdered sugar), eggs over med with cheddar. Didn't realize my eggs came with home fries & toast. It was a lot of food! I also ordered a mango mojito mocktail. Nephew also wanted French toast, eggs, bacon then poured syrup over everything!!! Sis ordered the breakfast burger with fries & bottomless mimosas. The food was seasoned well and service was on point! I enjoyed my first visit!Come here for the vibes. However, don't expect to have deep conversations during brunch. It's loud!! I couldn't hear the people sitting at my table."

SPIN Washington DC

★★★★☆ 4 (154) • $$

"I came here on a freezing winter night for a holiday party and had an absolute BLAST! The bouncers were kind and so was the nice lady working the coat check. The space is MUCH bigger than I thought so there is plenty of space for several private parties to occur at once. And it is beautiful so make sure you look cute. They also have a nice photo booth that costs about $6. The star of the night was Jazz for her amazing service. She made sure that no one had an empty drink. Jazz even remember my non-alcoholic drink and kept them flowing. Spin was a great host and I have already recommended it to several couples for date night."

Il Piatto

★★★★☆ 4 (209) • $$$

"Il Piatto is a gem!I recently went to Il Piatto for a mom-daughter date, and we were absolutely blown away! From start to finish, the experience was impeccable. We started with the risotto balls--crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor. For mains, we shared the oxtail spinach fettuccine and beef short rib ravioli, and I can't even begin to describe how incredible they were. The fettuccine was silky with perfectly braised oxtail that melted in your mouth, while the ravioli was rich and comforting, filled with tender short rib that was simply divine.But the star of the night? The lamb chops. They were perfectly seasoned and cooked to absolute perfection--juicy, flavorful, and paired with sides that complemented the dish beautifully.We couldn't resist ending the meal with tiramisu, and it did not disappoint. Creamy, light, and just the right amount of sweetness.The ambiance was cozy yet refined, and the service was top-notch. Our server was attentive, knowledgeable, and made us feel right at home.Il Piatto is an absolute must for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. Just 2 blocks from the White House. Can't wait to return!"

The Barking Dog

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (222) • $$

"On St. Patrick's Day, my mom wanted green beer, so we went to The Barking Dog. The gastropub was filled with sports fanatics. Since alcoholic drinks weren't permitted in the patio area, we were seated at a booth near the bathroom. My brother had an O'Doul's, my fiancé had a Crooked Crab Haze for Days Pale Ale, my parent shared a New Trails Crisp Lager (dyed green), and I had a Green Tea Cocktail. We shared an order of Pub Pretzels, which was served warm and with a spicy cheese dipping sauce."

Binge Bar

★★★★☆ 4.4 (48)

"If you are looking for a place that you leave feeling better than you came in then head straight to Binge!Binge Bar is a sober bar serving up delicious mocktails that will make you feel rejuvenated. It is so fun to splurge on mixed drinks without the normal ramifications of a hangover. Binge Bar also has many vegan options!! I tried all of the available vegan items and none of them disappoint. If you were to only try one thing I recommend the Sassy Potatoes. The flavors are strong while also comforting and I could easily eat 2 orders of them solo. Also, the stuffed mushrooms are a hearty entree. If you want something that is more than a snack, I highly recommend them.The Mezze platter is such a great option for sharing with friends. I love that the crackers on the platter are bottomless which is actually pretty rare! That just shows how when you visit Binge Bar you are treated like a guest and not just a customer. What will keep me coming back to Binge is the fantastic owner, Gigi. She is 7 years sober and puts so much love into Binge. How can you not support this hardworking woman with such an honorable goal?Finally special shout-out to the most high end bathroom I have ever visited in DC! The bathrooms are gender neutral and so clean! So drink up all the mocktails because when you break the seal, you will get to sit on a throne of luxury.Thank you Gigi for bringing DC its first sober bar. I look forward to visiting again soon!"

Hook Hall

★★★★☆ 3.5 (247) • $$

"Looks like my dodgeball days at Hook Hall have come to an end.... They can no longer host the games there, so I'll only be going on my own time or for special events. The staff were always friendly and the option to get that all you can drink thing was always there. Their tacos never miss when I want a quick bite, and the food is never slow to come out. It became especially convenient when, during the games, the bar on the event side would actually be staffed -- though the water canister wasn't always filled. But they would fill it if you asked! The layout of the benches and tables made for plenty of customers to come in and hang out if desired. And the turf side stays creative with their decor. I hope to have more opportunities to go to Hook Hall in the near future, they're a great spot!"

The Park at 14th

★★★★☆ 3.7 • $$

"My boy practically runs Park at 14th. Honestly, I thought he was joking but he set it out for the group I brought through. The drinks aren't anything special, but the slightly elevated bar food exceeded expectations. Service was top notch, but we may've received special treatment. Definitely add to your list of Happy Hour or late night places to check out in DC. The Happy Hour Menu is clutch. 3.9 stars."

Karma DC Live Music Venue

★★★☆☆ 2.9 (23)

"Live Music is life and it seems like it's a lot harder to come by now a days so when a night to go clubbing popped up I was like how could I resist!Coming here was interesting in it's own as this venue is tucked away in an industrial complex so it's like really off the beaten path I had to drive around to find it then when I did it became clear as day because they had signs out front pointing you in the right direction so that like totally helped.The only real downside to that is the parking here is really difficult as it's only street parking from what I can tell and that's what I found a few blocks away while this isn't in the best area it wasn't totally the hood either so I just parked on the street and walked over.Once inside I just started to feel the music and get my dance on as it's been a few years since I've gone to the club because of obvious reasons so it felt really good to hear the loud music and the bass.The venue was awesome they have a good lighting set up a few different places to grab a drink and a good sized dance floor for how big the club is as this one isn't huge but it's not super small either.Coming here was all about Metrik one of my favorite DJ's spinning that awesomeness that is EDM making it for a killer night of dancing and just enjoying life the way it should be.Overall this club was awesome I had a really good time here and it just felt amazing to be back in the scene dancing my heart out with all of that said I hope to come back here again at some point as you can't ever really have too many awesome nights dancing at the club!See you on the dance floor or in the circle pit feeling all that music!"

Busboys and Poets - Anacostia

★★★★☆ 4 (296) • $$

"It's been a dreary sleepy week. I even missed a mental day of observation. So, after wk me and shared car pooler stopped by Busboys and Poets. Our server Ms. Sequoia was such a humbled, pleasant soft spoken young lady. Ms.Sequoia helped with suggestions of the happy hour menu that we didn't know existed. We eat there all the time ordering the same favorite.... Catfish, greens and what are now mashed potatoes potato that used to be grits. The experience was pleasant to have someone take their time, listen and deliver with grace. Thank you Ms. Sequoia for a wonderful evening. Also, does anyone know how often the art is changed on the wall? I would love to see a menu of ART presented to guests as we sit and wait. No one can see it all. Just a thought."

Carmine's - Washington DC

★★★★☆ 3.5 • $$$

"Food: 5/5Service: 3.5/5Ambiance: 4.5/5The food here is simply incredible! We had baked clams, spaghetti w shrimp, spaghetti w meatballs, linguine w clams, salad and porterhouse. I can't break down each dish because each one was so delicious. I can tell you that there is a ton of garlic across board though, bring a mint! My favorite dish of the night was the linguine w clams. The clams were tender, the pasta al dente and it was packed with flavor. I think it's the best I've ever had.... Also, it's not easy to find an Italian restaurant that does a steak justice but the porterhouse here was phenomenal! It was juicy and soft like butter. The service could use some work and our table was pretty much interlocking with another table behind us due to how cramped the area was, but still 1000% recommend eating here!"

Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood & Crab

★★★★☆ 4 (437) • $$$$

"We had the pleasure of Veronica serving us this afternoon. Like Really...where did you find Veronica, the epitome of perfect dining service. We were greeted by the manager who was very professional. Veronica was knowledgeable about the menu, wine pairings and just on top of everything. Veronica brought back high level service. The atmosphere is lovely with beautiful chandeliers, dim lighting and large potted dracaena's. I ordered the stone crab which came with 7 medium and a side for around $65. The stone crab was sweet and rich. My partner got the lunch special with wedge salad and chicken stroganoff. He enjoyed it a lot. The Caesar salad is the best you can get. Definitely dont miss this place when you are in Downtown DC and ask for Veronica... you wont be disappointed."

PJ Skidoos Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.7 (391) • $$

"Ambiance: (5/5) plenty of seating. Loved the 90's feel of the decor. Price: (5/5) I was here for restaurant we so those prices were great. $40 for 4 courses. Food: (4/5) I really enjoyed the Tex-Mex rolls. It seemed like a bean salsa wrapped in puff pastry. The calamari was crispy. The salad was good. I probably would've just got a different dressing. I think the avocado dressing was just a bit thick. The main Louisiana pasta that I got was underwhelming. When I think of Louisiana pasta, I'm thinking more creamy and spicy. I like that they had chicken and shrimp and tomatoes, but it was lacking spice. The warm apple tart was incredible.Service: (5/5) staff is great. Food comes out quick."

Royal Sands Social Club

★★★★☆ 4.3 (188) • $$

"Cute concept but not in a hurry to return!!Visited for an alumni mixer last week. Parking in this area is tricky but I found a nearby lot and paid $10 for two hours.It was a very hot day out and inside wasn't any cooler. It just didn't seem like they had the air on. I didn't even see a fan in sight. The drinks were not that great - very tart. I tried the specials from the happy hour menu, and nothing really stood out. Again, I like the theme but not enough to come back."

The Irish Inn

★★★★☆ 3.5 (282) • $$

"Cozy, tucked away in the parking lot near the Glenn Echo Park. I decided to stop in and have a drink. It was a nice autumn night and it begged for a toddy. I walked past the picnic benches and festive party bulbs into the pub side and it has the nice dark wood surrounding the bar. It was smaller than I expected, but there were about 10 seats at the bar, a good half a dozen high tops to sit at. I ordered a Bailey's coffee and it was okay. I enjoyed the 80's music and just chilled. The staff was nice, I don't think I'll pay $12 for coffee and Bailey's again, but I would definitely go back to try the food since I arrived after the kitchen closed ( but got to watch the staff chow down on some food behind the bar)."

Upside on Moore

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (32) • $$

"Once the Assembly Food Hall is a rebranded food hall called Upside On Moore. Above the Rosslyn Metro, they offer free parking after 6 p.m. on weekdays even if you park before 6 p.m. Otherwise, find it through the glass doors right outside of the Rosslyn Metro exit. It's on the second floor with a rooftop terrace, lots of seating, bar seating, free wifi, murals, and outlets. It's a perfect place to work. The food options are superb. There's Lightning Coffee with a Spanish latte made with sweetened condensed milk. There's Ghostburger, Stellina Pizzeria, Laoban Dumplings, and more. It's open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. with happy hour from 3-5 p.m."

Golf Ultra Lounge

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (45) • $$

"To begin, I heard many good things about this place as a lounge and decided to stop in for dinner (we are a family with young children). We went to Golf Ultra Lounge for dinner prior to COVID, so this review is for dine-in service before lounge hours. The only place to sit and eat besides the bar are the booths. We needed to wipe the area prior to settling in. The tables are on the smaller side, so it made eating a little difficult because of how far you needed to reach for your meal and the limited space to spread the dishes (Full disclosure, a child was present). The food was good. We ordered the double portion of Beef Suya, Egusi soup w/ fufu, and Jollof. I usually ask how the dishes are prepared because of the different styles. The waitress had to check in with the chef because apparently the preparation differs depending on who is cooking that day. She also spent most of the time at the bar with the two other customers, so our service wasn't as fast (considering the lounge was near empty). The portions were large and filling. The drinks were canned sodas, rather than drinks on tap. Lowered 2 stars because of cleanliness and customer service."

Harlot DC

★★★☆☆ 2.7 (216) • $$

"Me and my friend came here for a drag buffet brunch for her birthday. We loved it the food was delicious and drag Queens were beautiful and funny very entertained the whole time! We had free shots because the event was sponsored by Tito's and also had breast cancer awareness it was a great experience. The waitress constantly checked in with us making sure we had everything we wanted very attentive. Also the place is very ascetically pleasing perfect Background for pictures."

VUE Rooftop

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (230)

"Great view of Washington monument and the White House! I'd recommend making a reservation, we went on a Monday and made one day of, but can imagine it's busier on weekends and in spring/summer.We got mixed drinks and the ceviche. The ceviche was incredible, would definitely order again!"

A kitchen and Bar

★★★★☆ 4.3 (7)

"The place was planned to be fancy. The interior is stylish and minimalistic. The staff is friendly and welcoming.The food is overpriced and tastes fine. Portions are on a smaller side. Would not be worth this much money thought. Drinks overpriced as well. If you are not caring about your budget, then sure, give it a try."

Lyle's

★★★★☆ 4.1 (209) • $$$

"Back at my favorite brunch spot this weekend! The service wasn't as great as I'm used to but the vibes were still high. There was some confusion with our reservation and we had to wait about 20 minutes before we could be seated. Once seated they told us we had to rush but then no one came over to us for a while. Once we got someone they'd let us know that last call had already passed so we couldn't do the bottomless option and that some of their food options were no longer available. Luckily for us the waiter made an accommodation and was able to bring us espresso martinis that were 10/10 absolutely delicious. I got the burger for the first time and it was pretty good. I still stand by the short rib hash--it's even better.Moral of the story get a reservation for like 12 pm to ensure you have enough time and are not rushed. Brunch ends at 3 pm. I'll be back!"

Alias on 14th

★★★★☆ 3.5 (22)

"Excellent food and drinks! The decor is beautiful! This hip and happening bar recently started karaoke on Wednesdays from 7-10pm and DJ music on the weekends. Latin, hip hop, etc. Amazing drink specials on Wednesdays! $5 house liquor drinks and $5 seltzers! The calamari was on point, and the menu looks so good that I want to try everything! My friend sampled a few dishes and said it was delicious!Bathrooms are clean and there's only a few stairs to get to the bottom where it's located. Staff is super friendly, and I've already returned several times!"

Caboose Brewing Company & Tavern

★★★★☆ 3.8 (658) • $$

"I love stopping here with my friend after a long ride. Food is awesome. Ambience is absolutely amazing the core rocks. It is cyclist, friendly. What's does not to love?Two. Thumbs up, highly recommend."

Hello Betty

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (259) • $$

"The atmosphere is inviting with its open airy feeling. The sun brightened the room which created a warm atmosphere.Miguel was our server. He was attentive and helpful! If the review were just about service it would be 5 stars,The food was overpriced and barely edible. My boyfriend and I ordered the Betty's Breakfast. I ordered mine with crispy bacon and over medium eggs. The bacon arrived not crispy and the eggs were barely cooked; closer to sunnyside up eggs. Overall, the food was bland and without salt & pepper on the table you could not make it better. I will say the coffee was super strong! But the downside was they served Coffee Mate instead of real cream. If I ever stay at the Canopy hotel again, I will most likely skip eating here. (By the way, if you book the "breakfast included" rate, it means a $15 credit toward your meal.)"

Sign of the Whale

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (529) • $$

"Great place to brunch. Attentive staff and great tasting food portions. Will definitely come back here!"

DAR Constitution Hall

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (164) • $$

"Came here to see Colin Jost and Michael Che while they were on tour. It was my first time at the venue. Very cool to be surrounded by so much history, but the seating arrangement is very strange. We were on the side so we basically had to turn our entire bodies to sit sideways on the seat bc Althea seats don't face the stage (they're almost perpendicular). I didn't get a drink or food or anything, but they had a whole area down in the basement for that sort of thing. The bathrooms were pretty nice (there were a lot of them). My biggest complaint was the line to get into the venue. They were making folks put their phones into those lock bags so we couldn't record the show so it took almost an hour to get into the venue. We were lined up around the block and not given a whole lot of communication. Not sure if I'd be in a hurry to go back, but it is kinda cute and quaint"

Big Bear Cafe

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (747) • $$

"Such a hidden gem, or maybe it was just hidden to me? Regardless, the vibes are great and so is the coffee. Much better than going to a chain. Love sitting there with the windows open and the warm summer breeze coming in. Great for a slow morning or an afternoon drink."