In the winter, dark days, and freezing temperatures sometimes make it hard to get out of your guestroom. For some inspiration, we’ve found 3 NEARBY bars to duck into on a cold day and find a warm buzz.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
The upstairs bar of Ri Ra on M street has big, comfy, leather stools against its long wooden bar. Over 300 whiskeys are available to warm up with.
WHAT TO ORDER IF….
YOU’RE NEW TO WHISKEY:
Try a tasting flight like the ‘King of Ireland,’ which comes with three different brands of Irish whiskey for $90. If you’re on a budget, Drink Local’ flight features premiere American bourbon and rye brands at $20.
YOU’RE A WHISKEY CONNOISSEUR:
A shot of the Port Ellen. This rare scotch will set you back $420 per shot! It comes from a distillery in Scotland that closed its doors 30 years ago. With only a limited supply in circulation and a distinctive smoky flavor, the price of a bottle has skyrocketed. Sip it slowly and make sure to savor every drop.
Bier Baron Tavern
WHAT MAKES IT GREAT:
This unassuming hotel in Dupont has a dark, brick-walled, basement bar that looks like a German beer house with low ceilings and vintage wooden tables. Cozy up at one of the tables during the day for some quiet time.
WHAT TO ORDER IF…
YOU’RE NEW TO BEER:
Sir Perry’s Pear Cider. The sweet cider is fruity and tart and not as bitter as some beers. We like English Sir Perry’s because it’s just sweet enough without being overbearing.
YOU’RE A BEER CONNOISSEUR:
The Kasteel Donker. This Belgian Quadrupel is a rich, dark ale has an ABV of 11% so watch out! The beer list is a novel with over 50 beers on tap and hundreds of bottles from all around the world.
WHY WE CHOSE IT:
What better way to escape the cold than to get lost in a board game. This Connecticut Avenue bar has flat screen TVs lining the wall for patrons to catch the day’s biggest games while throwing dice, dealing cards and count spaces.
WHAT GAME TO PLAY IF…
YOU’VE GOT A LARGE GROUP:
Taboo. A game where you have to describe a word without using the ‘taboo’ adjectives. It’s easy to set up and form teams and can get rambunctious.
YOU’VE HAD ONE TOO MANY BEERS:
Don’t Break the Ice. Tap a cube at a time and try not to make the whole platform crumble. It’s pretty straightforward and will help gauge your motor skills after spending a few hours at Boardroom.
image @neatstyle