We’re Going Down: DC’s Underground Bar Scene

We’re going down and cooling off. YAY! The DMV is brimming with subterranean bars
that live “down under” and the vibe is definitely cooler. Ready to take the plunge with
us? Let’s descend.

600 T
600 T St., NW
An intimate, unmarked basement bar with a fireplace, and live jazz on Thursdays.
Cocktails are named after their primary spirit.

The Backroom (at Capo Deli)
715 Florida Ave., NW
Enter through a freezer door to find this moody, candlelit hideaway serving expertly
crafted cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting.

Denson Liquor Bar
600 F St., NW
A swanky, subterranean Art Deco bar that channels old hotel lounges. Think elevated
cocktails, and a menu with small plates.

Kingfisher
1414 14th St., NW
Down a set of stairs off 14th Street, this casual underground bar pours solid cocktails
and craft beers with a game-night vibe.

The Dabney Cellar
1222 9th St., NW
Tucked beneath The Dabney restaurant, this wine and cocktail bar features exposed
brick, charcuterie & oysters.

Off the Record
800 16th St., NW
Beneath the Hay-Adams Hotel, this legendary bar is decked with political caricatures
and vintage coasters. Also known for its stellar Scotch selection.

OKPB
3068 Mount Pleasant St., NW
Ring the doorbell for entry into this hidden basement bar that features a rotating
handwritten cocktail menus, and half-price classics during weekday happy hour.

Silver Lyan
900 F St., NW
Set in the old vault of the Riggs Hotel, this award-winning bar blends culinary creativity
with cocktail craft in a sleek subterranean space.

The Mirror
1314 K St., NW
Slip through a mirrored door at the base of a stairwell to find this dimly lit bar serving up
vintage cocktails.

The Tombs
1226 36th St., NW, Washington, DC 20007
A Georgetown classic since 1962, this university-adjacent tavern offers