While in university, I interned on Capitol Hill for a semester. A really pivotal experience in my life. During that semester I was able to get a decent grasp of some good bars/pub spots near Capitol Hill DC. I am not really a bar/pub person but while on the Hill it’s practically blasphemy not to network or socialize at a local bar/pub.
Tortilla Coast
400 First St SE, Washington, DC 20003
This is my absolute favorite spot. Located on a lively neighborhood near the House offices. They have the best Tex-Mex and margaritas. Pick between inside bar seating, booth seats, and even an outdoor patio!
Fun fact: Former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan was a server here.
Capitol Lounge
229 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003
The bar that quotes famous American founding fathers, is smothered with political art, and campaign stickers. If this lounge doesn’t say Capitol Hill for you then I don’t know what does.
Hawk ‘n’ Dove
329 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003
This two-floor upscale pub located near the House offices has a delicious selection of food and drinks. My personal favorite are their burgers!
Union Pub
201 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
A nice sports bar with some great bites and craft beer, located on the Senate side of Capitol Hill. Has a spacious patio location for a nice weekend brunch spot.
BullFeathers
410 First St SE, Washington, DC 20003
A popular after-work spot for Hill staffers and lobbyist as its located just down the street from the House office buildings.
Barrel
613 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003
This rustic bar doubles as a great brunch spot. Popular for its whiskey selection you can also find a tasty Southern-inspired menu.
Bars on Capitol Hill DC are filled with interns, young professionals, lobbyists, Hill staffers, etc. a great place to network and meet new people. The atmosphere and ambiance is just different in Washington DC. Venture out, try something you don’t normally do, and you never know what may happen.
Let me know which bars you are going to check out the next time you are in the Capitol Hill area. Also, check out other City Guides from us!
Such a great list with amazing spots to hang out! Thanks for some great ideas.
Nice list. I’m also not a bar person but these bars look stylish and cool.
This brought me right back to my DC days! Tortilla Coast was my first happy hour location when I lived there. Thanks for the memories!
Those fries and BullFeathers look great I always look at the food in addition to the drinks when picking a bar.
Such a great guide. Thanks for thinking of all the details . These places must be great to socialize.
Great information. Have visited DC briefly and this is very helpful for anyone living there or traveling. Thanks for sharing
I can imagine the conversations that can be heard at these bars on Capitol Hill. What a great way to make contacts if you’re an intern.
Definitely Bull Feathers because of those fries! I can almost taste them just looking at them!
It’s great to have a review of the bars, so handy for travellers!
I bet this is a great place to network!