It’s true, men and women cannot live on just booze alone. At some point we all need a little nourishment to keep the party machine's pistons firing. But when you’re out hopping from bar to bar, a big, balanced meal isn’t always in the cards. But with so many DC bars turning out amazing snacks and small plates, finding a tasty nibble or two to tide you over isn’t that difficult. Here are a handful of our favorites.

Oyamel (401 7th Street NW; 202-628-1005)
For something fun, try one of the great tacos at Oyamel — we chose the fish tacos (pictured above) — which recently expanded with a new bar and larger dining room.

Daikaya (705 6th Street NW; 202-589-1600)
Chef Katsuya Fukushima turns out any number of tasting bites that serve as perfect drinking companions, but it’s his grilled avocado that remains the most popular.

Ardeo + Bardeo (3309 Connecticut Ave NW; 202-244-6750)
From crispy cod fritters and Benton’s Country Ham chips to Southern style deviled eggs and an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie, there’s certainly no shortage of tasty dishes to enjoy with drinks at this Cleveland Park destination. Should you find yourself overwhelmed by the many snacky options, just go with the poutine. You will not regret it.

Bier Baron Tavern (1523 22nd Street NW; 202-293-1885)
In just a few small bites, meat eaters can cut a wide swath through the animal kingdom with the Quad Sliders. Each order comes with a tiny duck breast burger, a more traditonal Angus beef paddy, a lamb burger, and a housemade chicken tender slider. All for just $9.

Nopa Kitchen + Bar (800 F Street, NW; 202-347-4667)
Sure the shucked to order oysters, and no doubt the decadent chilled seafood tower are showstoppers at this Penn Quarter spot, but for a quick, light fix try the blue cheese fondue served with fruits and vegetables.

DC Coast (1401 K Street NW; 202-216-5988)
If you’re high rolling, or an expense account is covering the tab, indulge in the raw bar offerings, and don’t skimp on the caviar service.

Acadiana (901 New York Avenue NW; 202-408-8848)
When near Mount Vernon Square or the Convention Center, duck in here and enjoy iced Gulf oysters, but don’t leave without trying the pimento cheese crisps with cheddar cheese and crostini. 

Photos: Greg Powers; Brian Liu; Nopa Kitchen + Bar