New and Upcoming Bars to Check Out This Fall in DC
With the changing seasons comes a new wave of restaurants and bars ready to make their mark on DC’s ever-evolving food and drink scene. This fall, be sure to check out these newly opened spots as well as some restaurants and bars coming soon.
Recently Opened
DC’s first restaurant/bar dedicated to Basque food opened earlier this summer. In addition to introducing the district to pinxtos (Basque-style tapas like Marinated Mussels, Shrimp Croquettes and Cider-Poached Octopus), it also operates as an on-site cidery with over 100 bottled options featuring Basque cider. (300 Florida Ave. NW; 202-986-3795)
Operating as a fully functioning distillery on the main floor, and restaurant and bar on the upper level, District Distilling Co. offers vodka, gin, and whiskey products in addition to a seasonal food menu to pair your spirits with. The extensive drink menu features Signature Cocktails (definitely try the boozy Cinder, made with rum, mezcal, Curacao, pineapple and Tagine spice), Classic Cocktails (with the usual suspects Old Fashioned, Gin & Tonic, Negroni and more), and punches meant to be shared with friends. (1414 U St. NW; 202-629-3787)
From the team behind Daikaya and Bantam King comes Haikan, a new ramen shop serving up Sapporo-style noodles. In addition to ramen, the newly opened Shaw restaurant also offers unique bites like Japanese “Deviled Eggs”, Mapo Tofu Poutine and a Caprese Salad made with burrata, strawberries, yuzu vinaigrette, basil, and tomato-dashi gelee. The drink selection (sake, beer and cocktails) is more wide and varied compared to the first two ramen shops making it a great place to grab a drink in addition to slurping down a bowl of noodles. (805 V St. NW; 202-299-1000)
The Barrack’s Row beer garden opened in late June with 40 taps and seating for over 200 people in a relaxed setting. Located between Eastern Market and Navy Yard, offering a mix of German and local draft selections, it’s a great spot for pre-Nationals game beers and evening happy hours (Monday through Friday, 3 PM - 7 PM). (1007 8th St. SE; 202-675-1000)
The beloved Shaw cocktail bar has made its return. After closing over a year ago, The Passenger is back with all of the same charm that gained the first location such a loyal following. You’ll find a chill vibe and a no-fuss chalkboard menu featuring creative cocktails. Come for their "Hangover Brunch" with dishes including Skirt Steak Chilaquile, Cornbread Waffles and Biscuits with Chorizo Gravy. (1539 7th St. NW; 202-853-3588)
Coming Soon
After opening its first location in Sterling earlier this summer, Washingtonians are awaiting the opening of the second Colada Shop in Logan Circle. In addition to its signature espresso drink, the Cafe Cubano (coffee shot with whipped sugar), the Cuban cafe serves up refreshing granitas, cocktails including a Cuba Libre, Negroni and their take on the Mule. They also have an all-day food menu. The bar is set to open in late fall. (1405 T St. NW)
The highly anticipated rum distillery has delayed its debut, but when the doors open, expect to find a tasting room and bar serving up a rotating menu of draft cocktails of the brand’s own spiced and white rum. It's projected to open in late September. (1330 5th St. NE)
Poste’s replacement is set to open in a few weeks. The restaurant will feature an edgy design, a large patio and outdoor space in addition to the main dining area. Guests can expect a social-plates style menu and craft cocktails from head bartender Sarah Ruiz. Offerings will include “Seeing Spots” (Amontillado, Fino, Bianco Vermouth, Nocino, Strega Rinse, Walnut Bitters, Oil); “Matcha Picchu” (Pisco, Guava, Falernum, Matcha, Citrus); and “Smoke Signals” (Rye, Oloroso, Lapsang Souchong, Maple, Nutty Bitters). It's projected to open in late September. (555 8th St. NW)
From the restaurant group that brought us Founding Farmers and Farmers, Fishers, Bakers comes Farmers & Distillers, a restaurant that will house its own on-site distillery. It will pay homage to founding father George Washington and his forward-thinking farming techniques and will feature house-made spirits and Virginia-brewed beers. The food menu will touch on the various influences that can be found throughout DC, from hand-pulled noodles and farmers-style dumplings, to pork schnitzel and bouillabaisse. It's projected to open in November. (600 Massachusetts Ave. NW)
Photos via Farrah Skeiky
