The 25 Best Bars in D.C. Right Now

Where to drink when D.C. chillin'.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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As a city (a District, to be specific), Washington, D.C. loves its liquor. For a moment, ignore our national capital's status as one of the drunkest cities in America and focus more on its abundance of bars. From the uppermost corners of Northwest D.C. all the way down to Southeast, D.C. is populated with lounges, pubs, and dives that service the various residents of the District. 

Whether you're a lifelong resident, a newcomer, or just in town for a quick visit, knowing where to drink is essential to maximizing your boozing experience. Because we want you to immerse yourself to the fullest, we've highlighted some of D.C.'s historic bars, some of the most popular watering holes, and even some places that are off the grid that you might've overlooked.

A year ago, we gave you the 25 douchiest bars in D.C. For the sake of balance—and to give you yet more to debate—we present the 25 best bars in D.C. right now. D.C. Beer Week may be over, but that hasn't stopped the drinks from flowing. 

Written by Julian Kimble (@JRK316)

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25. Penn Social

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24. Nanny O'Briens

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23. Stan's Restaurant

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22. Smoke & Barrel

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21. The P.O.V Rooftop Lounge and Terrace (The W Hotel)

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20. Biergarten Haus

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19. Velvet Lounge/Dodge City

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18. Chez Billy

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17. DC9

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16. The Capitol Lounge

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15. Red Derby

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14. Old Ebbitt Grill

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13. Brixton

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12. Meridian Pint

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11. The Looking Glass Lounge

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10. Cafe Saint-Ex

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9. Wonderland Ballroom

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8. Backbar at the 9:30 Club

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7. The Hamilton

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6. Rock & Roll Hotel

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5. Nellie's Bar

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4. American Ice Company

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3. Boundary Stone

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2. Smith Commons

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1. Marvin

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