This guide covers 8 cocktail bar options in Washington. Guests rate them 4.5 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Downtown, Mount Vernon Triangle, Northeast Washington, so those are the areas to start with.
All Cocktail bar in Washington
Tortino Italian Restaurant
Tortino Restaurant is an Italian restaurant located in Washington, DC, offering authentic Italian cuisine inspired by the flavors of Northern Italy. The restaurant features a comfortable, relaxed setting, with a menu that includes thoughtfully prepared pastas, risottos, soups, steak, and seafood, perfect for everyday dining or special moments. Tortino Restaurant is a place where guests can feel at ease and enjoy great food, with no formal dress required. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including handcrafted pastas, seasonal risottos, fresh soups, and vibrant salads inspired by Northern Italy. Signature entrées include premium steaks, lamb, pork, duck, and fresh salmon prepared with traditional Italian techniques. Tortino Restaurant also offers a curated wine selection, classic cocktails, and house-made desserts. The restaurant is available for catering and private events, making it a great choice for business lunches, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. Tortino Restaurant is a welcoming and intimate dining space, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The restaurant is LGBTQ+ friendly and has a transgender safespace, making it a great choice for diverse groups. The menu includes vegan options, hard liquor, coffee, comfort food, and happy hour drinks, making it a great choice for a variety of tastes and preferences. With a focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation, Tortino Restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.
- 1228 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Downtown
- (771) 232-9619
- tortinorestaurantwashington-dc.com
- Today: 5–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday5–10 PM
- Tuesday5–10 PM
- Wednesday5–10 PM
- Thursday5–10 PM
- Friday11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5–10:30 PM
- Saturday11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM
- Sunday12–2:30 PM, 5–10 PM
San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is a premier Italian restaurant in Washington, DC, specializing in exquisite tasting menus perfect for large groups, weddings, and private dining experiences. The restaurant offers a unique and intimate setting, where guests can indulge in exceptional cuisine and curated wine events that elevate any gathering. The restaurant is led by Chef Massimo Fabbri, who brings the warmth, flavors, and hospitality of his native Tuscany to the dining room. With 30 years of experience, Chef Massimo has crafted a menu that features handmade pasta, steak, and seasonal fish, all cooked to perfection. The restaurant's wine list is also carefully curated, featuring a selection of Italian wines and classic cocktails. San Lorenzo is an ideal destination for special occasions, including weddings, corporate dinners, and private events. The restaurant's beautifully appointed space can accommodate up to 20 guests, and the chef's tasting menu is designed to suit any group's needs. With its exceptional cuisine, curated wine events, and intimate setting, San Lorenzo is the perfect choice for any gathering, whether it's a romantic dinner, a corporate event, or a celebration with friends.
- 1316 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Downtown
- (202) 588-8954
- sanlorenzodc.com
- Today: 5:30–9:30 PM
Opening hours
- Monday5:30–9:30 PM
- Tuesday5:30–9:30 PM
- Wednesday5:30–9:30 PM
- Thursday5:30–9:30 PM
- Friday5–10:30 PM
- Saturday5–10:30 PM
- Sunday5–9 PM
Osteria Morini
Osteria Morini is a restaurant that brings the soulful cuisine and convivial spirit of northern Italy to the historic Navy Yards in Washington, D.C. It was first introduced to Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood in 2010 and now explores a broader range of northern Italian flavors, offering inventive takes on classic dishes from regions north of Rome. The restaurant honors its roots in Emilia-Romagna while introducing new and creative options. The restaurant's menu includes a new "cicchetti" section with shareable small plates, innovative pasta dishes, and reimagined northern Italian entrées that highlight both tradition and creativity. Guests can indulge in options like ricotta gnudi with brown butter and sage, or ravioli filled with braised veal shank and saffron butter. The open kitchen provides a dynamic dining experience, bringing the artistry of Italian cooking to life. True to the Italian tradition of hospitality, Osteria Morini invites guests to choose their own culinary adventure, whether through a curated pasta tasting menu or by sampling a variety of thoughtfully crafted bites. The restaurant offers a wine list featuring selections native to northern Italy, and its commitment to delivering delicious and approachable cuisine makes it a beloved destination in a city full of Italian dining options.
- 301 Water St SE Suite 109, Washington, DC 20003
- Southeast Washington
- (202) 484-0660
- osteriamorini.com
- Today: 5–9 PM
Opening hours
- Monday5–9 PM
- Tuesday5–9 PM
- Wednesday5–9 PM
- Thursday5–9 PM
- Friday5–9:30 PM
- Saturday11 AM–3 PM, 4–9:30 PM
- Sunday11 AM–3 PM, 4–9 PM
El Presidente
El Presidente is a Mexican restaurant in Washington, DC that offers a festive, neo-retro dining experience. It is a celebration of contemporary Mexico, bringing bold flavors, colorful surroundings, and warm hospitality to the city. The restaurant's menu features modern Mexican specialties, including house-made guacamoles and tacos, as well as shareable dishes designed for the table. El Presidente's menu highlights regional flavors with a modern twist, featuring dishes like Oaxacan tlayudas, guacamole with king crab, and snapper chicharrón. The restaurant also offers a variety of agave spirits, including bold and playful margaritas. The menu is designed to be shareable, with a focus on vibrant, colorful dishes that are perfect for lingering lunches, happy hours, and celebratory dinners. El Presidente is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the flavors and hospitality of Mexico in a lively and festive atmosphere. With its dynamic dining rooms and expansive outdoor patio, the restaurant is ideal for dates, gatherings, or celebrations. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or something else, El Presidente's menu offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference.
- 1255 Union St NE, Washington, DC 20002
- Northeast Washington
- (202) 318-4820
- elpresidentedc.com
- Today: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday10:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday10:30 AM–10 PM
Cucina MORINI
Cucina Morini is a restaurant that focuses on the food of southern Italy, especially Sicily. That means lots of fish, vegetables, and more than a hint of heat. The dishes are great and the space is cool. It immediately vaulted to the upper ranks of Italian spots in D.C. and holds its own with outstanding neighbors like Baan Siam and 2fifty. Chef Matt Adler made his mark at Osteria Morini in Navy Yard, then gained great prominence with Caruso’s Grocery where he made Italian-American comfort food fresh without losing the comfort part. With Cucina Morini, he returns to working with parent company of Osteria Morini, expands the repertoire and increases his reputation. In the previews, Adler said he was looking to do something “sharper” which the Post interpreted as spicier and Washingtonian as reflecting the plating. From our perspective it is in the cooking itself that is sharp. Cucina Morini celebrates Southern Italian flavors & handmade pastas in Washington D.C. It offers a delightful array of fresh crudi dishes alongside handmade pasta and signature specialties inspired by the flavors of the region. The restaurant provides a unique and memorable dining experience, perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
- 901 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Mount Vernon Triangle
- (202) 697-6888
- cucinamorini.com
- Today: 5–9:30 PM
Opening hours
- Monday5–9:30 PM
- Tuesday5–9:30 PM
- Wednesday5–9:30 PM
- Thursday5–9:30 PM
- Friday5–10:30 PM
- Saturday5–10:30 PM
- Sunday5–9 PM
Chicatana
Chicatana is a Mexican food restaurant located in Columbia Heights, Washington. It serves fine Mexican cuisine rooted in family tradition and made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're dining in, ordering delivery, picking up takeout, or planning catering for a special event, Chicatana brings real flavor to every bite. Chicatana offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes, including Guacamole con Chips, crispy Tortitas de Papa, cheesy Quesadillas, flavorful Tacos, tender Carnitas, spicy sides, and savory Octopus. Its menu also features rich Enchiladas, hearty Pollo con Mole, and sweet Desserts, all crafted to order. The restaurant caters to a range of tastes and dietary needs, including vegan options and seafood dishes. Chicatana is a welcoming place for families, couples, and food lovers alike, known for its friendly service and traditional Mexican ambiance. The restaurant offers various services, including online ordering, takeout, delivery, and catering, making it easy to get your favorite Mexican dishes from Chicatana, fresh, authentic, and ready when you are.
- 1400 Meridian Pl NW, Washington, DC 20010
- Northwest Washington
- (202) 621-7216
- chicatanadc.com
- Today: 4–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday4–11 PM
- Tuesday4–10 PM
- Wednesday4–10 PM
- Thursday4–10 PM
- Friday4–11 PM
- Saturday11:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday11:30 AM–10 PM
Bar Chinois DC
Bar Chinois is a Chinese kitchen and French-inspired cocktail bar with locations in Washington, DC and National Landing, Arlington, VA. Michelin-recognized and RAMMY winner for Best Bar in DC. The bar blends two exciting and rich traditions, Chinese flavors and French influence, shaping both the kitchen and cocktail program. The Michelin Guide recognizes Bar Chinois, and it has also been featured in the Washington Post Fall Dining Guide, Modern Luxury DC's Best of the City, and named the RAMMY winner for Best Bar in DC. For those drawn to energetic dining, thoughtful food, crafted drinks, and gracious hospitality, Bar Chinois offers a unique experience. From intimate gatherings to full buyouts, Bar Chinois' team designs custom menus, cocktail programs, and experiences for parties of all sizes. The menu evolves seasonally, and the bar program is always available, with a daily happy hour offering $1 dumplings and half-priced cocktails from 5pm to 7pm.
- 455 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Mount Vernon Triangle
- (202) 851-6250
- barchinois.com
- Today: 5 PM–1 AM
Opening hours
- Monday5 PM–1 AM
- Tuesday5 PM–1 AM
- Wednesday5 PM–1 AM
- Thursday5 PM–1 AM
- Friday5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday11 AM–2 AM
- Sunday11 AM–12 AM
Amparo Fondita
Amparo Fondita is a contemporary Mexican restaurant in Washington, D.C. by Chef Christian Irabién. The restaurant celebrates the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Mexico, with a focus on the techniques and ingredients characteristic of coastal regions. It has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand and a place on Washingtonian's 100 Very Best Restaurants. The restaurant's menu is a reflection of the cuisine of contemporary Mexico, with a focus on its coastal regions. It utilizes local, seasonal ingredients and the highest-quality Mexican products, making it a great destination for those looking to experience the authentic flavors of Mexico. The restaurant's commitment to ingredient quality forms the foundation of the dining experience, with a focus on seasonal rhythms and availability of fresh ingredients. Amparo Fondita is a community-driven and Mexico-forward restaurant concept, focusing on the education, showcasing, and evolution of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant empowers its immigrant workers, mainly composed of BIPOC women, while pushing for more sustainable ways of working that create direct positive impact in the current and future generation of restaurant workers. By doing so, Amparo Fondita aims to cultivate experiences, memories, and connections while navigating this restaurant platform as a social enterprise.
- 2002 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036
- Downtown
- (202) 621-8166
- amparofondita.com
- Today: 5–10 PM
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday5–10 PM
- Wednesday5–10 PM
- Thursday5–10 PM
- Friday5–10 PM
- Saturday11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday11 AM–9 PM