Washington D.C. Restaurant Bars

A stylish Italian restaurant with an upstairs lounge, Washington, D.C.'s Anzu is a bar that serves premium drinks to a well-dressed crowd. On weekends, a DJ spins house music for those inclined to shake it up on the hardwood dance floor. Sofas and hookahs invite you to relax with a glass and a bowl while socializing with other hip young patrons.

Distinctly European with rustic, old-world flavor, this Washington, D.C., bar and restaurant features an Italian-inspired menu that blends local character with international flavor. An extensive drink list that offers Icelandic beer and a wide variety of dessert wines and ports ensures a pleasant discovery for those willing to delve into the unfamiliar. Bar Pilar's menu of small dishes comprises a tasty array of well-priced entrees prepared by Executive Chef Barton Seaver and Chef de Cuisine Joshua Whigham. For a tasty treat, sample the desserts of Pastry Chef Lizzy Evelyn. Conveniently located amid the hustle and bustle of 14th Street, this Washington, D.C., bar is a perfect way to escape the frenzy and unwind with a glass of wine at the bar. Worldly sophistication and romantic ambiance make Bar Pilar a worthwhile visit for D.C. locals and travelers alike.

Let's face it, when something's free these days, chances are, there's a catch. And with venues, a free show usually means the band will sound worse than your grade-school jazz ensemble. But at Columbia Station, you're likely to witness some great music for the whopping price of—you guessed it—free. A great place to catch a live jazz show at no cost and down a couple pints of your favorite brew, this Washington, D.C., bar and restaurant transmits a pleasantly jovial attitude through both its food and atmosphere. Friendly service and menu options like meatloaf, pasta and Cajun-inspired dishes will keep your wallet fat and your belly full. If you find yourself in the Washington, D.C., area with some spare time but without a dime, pop into Columbian Station. A word of caution: if you want to get a good seat, make sure to arrive early—you're not the only one looking for cheap entertainment

Capitol Hill and the Hawk 'n' Dove go hand-in-hand. This restaurant and bar is where staffers—both Democrat and Republican—gather to gripe about their bosses, the bar's proprietors say. But the trash talk is never by name—the etiquette is to refer to "my member," in case others are eavesdropping. The six-room bar provides plenty of options—room for a post-softball gathering, a quick drink or an almost-quiet conversation in front of the hearth. Sandwiches and burgers are available "mercifully late," until 1 a.m. on weeknights and 2 a.m. on weekends.

An eclectic mix of Mediterranean flavors and a colorful atmosphere make Souissi an appealing Washington, D.C., bar and restaurant. Located near the epicenter of the Adams Morgan neighborhood, this uniquely offbeat establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for taking in the sights and sounds of the D.C.-area nightlife. Comfortably furnished and impressively decorated by local artists, diners enjoy the light and distinct flavors of the Mediterranean with dishes like seafood bisque and grilled merquez with mixed greens. At the bar, a variety of mixed drinks are available, along with Belgian beers like Leffe and Hoegaarden. Stop in after work for daily half-price drink specials.

A popular GOP staff hangout located just feet away from the House of Representatives, this Washington, D.C., bar and grill has been serving mouth-watering Tex Mex and frozen margarita pitchers since 1988. Zesty south-of-the-border dining and a full bar make Tortilla Coast a great place to spice up your day. The menu features items from fajitas and tacos to chile con queso, a cheesily delightful dish served on the side of most of the restaurant's entrees. The Coast is also home to a $5.99 "Enchilada Night" on Mondays and a $6.99 "Burrito Night" on Tuesdays. Wash down your meal with one of the Washington, D.C., bar's several special frozen margaritas (topped with sangria, midori or chambord) or enjoy the patriotic "Stars & Stripes" margarita—a standard swirl margarita with a splash of Blue Curacao.