Intro: Why U Street Bars Are the Best Place to Lose Control (and Gain Cool Points)

So, you’ve heard of U Street, right? That chunk of DC where history, jazz, and a bunch of bars with questionable fire exits have been partying since the ‘20s. If you’re not here to “enjoy responsibly,” you’re here to enjoy *responsibly enough to still walk home*. Either way, let’s talk about the bars that make U Street the unofficial capital of liquid courage. (P.S. If you’re looking to make your own beer to bring here, we’ve got strategies.)

The Speakeasy That Time Forgot: Where Prohibition Lived (and Still Does)

Picture this: It’s 1920, you’re a flapper with a cloche hat, and your only escape from the dry, dusty streets is a hidden bar behind a record store. Now imagine that record store still exists. Old Town Bar is the OG of U Street bars, and it’s been serving up cocktails with a side of historical vibes since… well, before this website was a thing. The neon sign? It’s not for show—it’s a signal that you’re about to drink in a place where the bartenders might know your name and your ex’s name too. (If you’re thinking of customizing a beer to match this vibe, we’re your go-to.)

• Pro Tip: Ask for the “Old Town Special”—it’s like a Manhattan, but with a side of sarcasm.
• Bar Hack: Don’t get distracted by the jukebox. It’s a time machine. You’ll trip.

Roofdeck or Die Trying: The Sky-High Bar That’s Cheaper Than Therapy

Okay, we’re moving up in the world. City Winery isn’t just a bar; it’s a place where you can sip wine while pretending you’re in a rom-com scene. The rooftop? It’s got views of the city that’ll make you question why you ever paid for a skyline Instagram photo. Plus, the wine list is basically a love letter to grapes. (And if you’re thinking of scaling your bar game, start here.)

• Wine Wisdom: The pinot noir here tastes like you’ve aged 30 years and suddenly understand life.
• Therapy Alternative: $20 for a glass of wine + skyline therapy. Win-win.

The Bar That’s Basically a Bookstore: For When You Want to Pretend You’re Intellectual

U Street Music Hall & Bar is the bar where you go to feel like a literary genius while drinking craft beer. The shelves? They’re not just for show. Order a beer, grab a book, and act like you’re not there for the free Wi-Fi and the bartender who makes drinks like they’re solving crimes. (Need tips on how to make your next event legendary? We’re here for you.)

• Book Nerd Alert: The nonfiction section has more drama than your ex’s Instagram stories.
• Beer Bonus: Local craft brews that’ll make you question why you ever bought that $12 IPA from the gas station.

The ‘I’m Too Cool for My Own Good’ Bar: Where the Bartender Judges Your Life

Welcome to Chesapeake & Atlantic Wine Bar, where the wine is fancy, the lighting is dim enough to hide your face, and the bartender will judge your life choices in the most subtle way possible. This is where you go when you want to feel like you’re in a movie—specifically the one where the main character solves crimes and drinks wine in Paris. (If you’re into making your own beer, avoid this spot. The wine might be too good for you.)

• Wine Snob Warning: They take “pairing” seriously. Like, your cheese might judge you.
• Life Hack: Order the “Chesapeake” blend—it’s like a wine version of a therapist. It’ll fix everything.

FAQs: Because You’re Too Drunk to Google Right Now

Q: Are U Street bars good for first dates?

A: Only if your date survives the 30-minute wait for a drink and the bartender’s side-eye. Our advice: Bring a custom beer to impress them. It’s less awkward than trying to flirt over a wine menu.

Q: Can I get drunk for free here?

A: No. But you can get drunk for $12.50 at Old Town Bar if you ask nicely. (And by “ask nicely,” we mean flirt with the bartender in a way that makes them feel obligated.)

Q: Is there a bar that’s actually good for networking?

A: City Winery doubles as a place where people who care about their LinkedIn profiles hang out. Just don’t mention the time you tried to karaoke the theme from *Rocky* at U Street Music Hall.

Call to Action: Don’t Just Read About It—Do It

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a friend (or three), a drink (or five), and a sense of adventure (or not). U Street bars aren’t just places—they’re experiences. And if you’re thinking of taking your bar game to the next level, we’re here to help. (And if you want to sell your homemade beer to the world, Dropt.beer is your new best friend.)

Now go forth, drink responsibly (or not), and remember: U Street bars don’t judge. They just serve drinks. (But if you spill a craft beer on the floor of Old Town Bar, they’ll judge you. A lot.)