Are you in need of a luxurious night out? Washington, D.C., has a wonderful range of the best cocktail bars in the area, and if you’re staying at the centrally located Arlo Hotel then you’re in for an experience like no other. The city’s top cocktail bars are within easy reach, from intimate, hidden speakeasies to creative cocktail labs, the city has everything. We’ve put together a DC cocktail guide so you can easily find the finest places to enjoy signature cocktails.
Barmini by José Andrés
A cocktail lab? Now that sounds really interesting. Barmini is more than just a bar, it is a cocktail lab by renowned chef José Andrés. Guests are invited to try out signature cocktails from its list of over 100 combinations. The cocktails are constantly changing and an emphasis is placed on innovative techniques and bold flavors. If you want to venture into something a bit more creative, Barmini at 501 9th St NW is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel. The bar is closed on Sundays and Mondays, but for the rest of the week, this spot is perfect for anyone who appreciates the art and science behind a truly great drink, making it one of the top cocktail bars in Washington DC.
The Mirror
For a touch of mystery, head to The Mirror, located at 1314 9th St NW. This speakeasy-style bar, accessible through a hidden door behind a mirror, is a quick 8-minute drive from the Arlo Hotel. With its dim lighting and intimate vibe, The Mirror is a warm, relaxing space to enjoy perfectly mixed signature cocktails in a gorgeous setting. If you’re looking for something more secretive and exclusive, this is one of the best bars for a luxurious night out in Washington, D.C.
Service Bar
Service Bar at 926 U St NW is just under a mile from the Arlo Hotel, a quick 18-minute walk, and is a relaxed, laid-back place. This unassuming bar focuses on making cocktails with pride at reasonable prices. From inventive concoctions to classics, Service Bar consistently impresses both locals and visitors alike. The welcoming vibe, combined with creative fun, and fancy drinks like their famous fried chicken-infused cocktail, makes this a great spot for a fun night out without the pretense. This bar is closed on Mondays.
The Dabney Cellar
The Dabney Cellar at 122 Blagden Alley NW is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel and has a more laid-back environment with a strong focus on quality drinks. Also, a great choice for bar-hoppers! While primarily known for its wine list, The Dabney Cellar serves excellent cocktails as well. It’s a welcoming, casual spot just under a mile from the hotel and is only closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Its ideal for those seeking a refined yet approachable bar experience as part of the city’s luxurious night out.
Denson Liquor Bar
Denson Liquor Bar, located 5 minutes away from Arlo Hotel is a chilled-out bar that serves old-school cocktails. With the modernization of everything these days, it’s great to find a place that’s sticking to the old-school classics. If you’re one to appreciate a bit of history with your drinks then Denson Liquor Bar will be the ideal stop for you. This bar is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
A Night to Remember in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., really has no shortage of some of the best cocktail bars. If you want to enjoy a luxurious night out then bars like The Mirror with its mystery to Barmini with its creative mixology are perfect for you. All of these incredible bars, situated near Arlo Hotel, will make your night out an amazing one.
The great thing about staying nearby is that you’ll be able to enjoy your drinks without worrying too much about how far you will have to travel. We all know that traveling too far might even hinder the work of the cocktails and we simply can’t have that. So, it’s best to book at a hotel like the Arlo, which is perfectly situated for your night out.
Book your stay at the Arlo Hotel to enjoy both comfort and proximity to the top cocktail bars in Washington DC, and make your evening unforgettable.