It is safe to say you are going to be staring at your clock at working waiting for 5 p.m. to strike. At the very least, you should have some plans in store for when you head out the door.
1. Nooshi
If you do not want to run into anyone you know, this is not the place for you. An institution for locals, nothing beats Nooshi’s “crazy hour” specials. Who doesn’t love sake and a couple of rolls of spicy tuna? Crazy hours run from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m..
(1120 19th St NW)
2. The 51st State Tavern
Not quite a dive, kind of a dive. 51st has a great outdoor seating area, which contrasts with the dingy indoor bar complete with a jukebox and cigarette vending machine. They have a special place in my heart, and I am sure it is mutual, because I graced them with my presence on my 21st. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m..
(2512 L St NW)
3. Bodega
Time to get your Spanish on…Bodega is the sangria hot spot. A pitcher of red is a mere $18 dollars, and they don’t skimp on the substance. If you are feeling really fancy, be sure to order some tapas. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday through Friday.
(3116 M St NW)
4. Sign of the Whale
In case you were unaware, you can go to Sign before 11 p.m. and when your friends do not have happy hours. It may not be your first choice, but they do run a pretty solid menu from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. (including bar snacks, and who doesn’t love bar snacks?).
(1825 M St NW)
5. District Commons
Keep it classy, my friends. District Commons may be fine dining, but they know how to keep the drinks flowing. You can also pair a spectacular brunch with Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s on the weekends. Their drink specials run weekdays 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. - close, Saturdays 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.-close.
(2200 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
6. Biergarten Haus
Their motto is, “It’s Oktoberfest year-around at Biergarten Haus!” so there really should not be any questions as to why it is on this list. The best part about the place is you get to sit outside, so say goodbye to the sweaty sticky bar and say hello to the sweaty D.C. summer air. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m..
(1355 H St. NE)
7. Cava Mezze
My roommate has come back many a Sunday and promptly returned to bed after brunch at Cava. She attributes her great mornings to the tapas that keep her from eating too much and the grapefruit, orange, and apple cider mimosas “that are all really good.” Get there before 3 p.m. on weekends and try them all.
(587 8th St. SE)
8. Tonic
On GW’s campus, Tonic provides an easy atmosphere and some solid HH drinks. If you are feeling the college vibe, head on over and order some nachos and Totchos to go along with your drinks. You have your pick of an indoor or garden bar. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Friday.
(2036 G St. NW)
9. Penn Social
Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m., but there is always excitement at Penn Social. From trivia to corn hole to beer pong tournaments, there is no reason not to go to Penn Social…unless you are antisocial. Check out local bands and DJ’s while you sip on your $2-off beer and play a game of GIANT JENGA.
(801 E St. NW)
10. Mellow Mushroom
It is just so good I almost can’t. But I can. And so should you. They have the absolute best pizza and calzones, vegan and gluten-free options, and all sorts of delicious drinks. Mellow Mushroom is in the heart of Adams Morgan, adding to its amazing atmosphere. Check them out for happy hour specials from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. - close.
(2436 18th St. NW)
