DC's Best Bars of 2009

Kate Michael
Dive, pub, lounge... BAR. It's where you feel comfortable. Where you get what you want. The best bars are the ones you love to be in. And we know you'll love these.

Our picks for the top five bars in Washington, DC:

Wisdom
This Capitol Hill gem specializes in masterful cocktails - and "mocktails" - making everyone feel welcome to have a wonderful evening. Pears of Wisdom, the pear and elderflower combination is particularly refreshing, and the Saketini will keep you cool as the cucumber with which it is crafted. But Wisdom is perhaps best known for its largest authentic collection of absinthe in the area...and its lively, fun vibe, and hip, fresh music.

The Reserve
Coming on the scene in late 2009, this new hot spot quickly established itself as a relaxed, yet refined wine bar/lounge. As expected with a name like Reserve, the wine selection is particularly impressive, with more than a hundred labels in addition to cocktails and signature swanky small dining plates. Intimate in décor, infallible for a great night out.

Palace of Wonders
The only place in the Nation's Capitol to see eye-popping oddities, a burlesque sideshow, magic acts, dancing girls, contortionists, flame throwers and sword swallowers all while frequenting a full bar every day of the week. Not only does the vaudeville stage up the ante... you can get married by Elvis or other impersonators here, too!

The Gibson
Arguably the year's most talked about libation lounge in DC, The Gibson is renowned for its crafted cocktails. Finding the unmarked entrance is only the first challenge presented by this sophisticated speakeasy - getting past the wait list is a strong second. But the creative concoctions within are well worth the effort. When you're in, you're in. It's an experience not to be missed.

Rhino Bar
This notorious rendezvous is the perfect place to shake your booty, grab a pool stick and enjoy 25¢ wings. A sports bar, that's not a sports bar, three 110' HD projection screens (and 30 other TVs throughout the bar) make it the perfect fan meet-up to cheer for your favorite team. Beers are cheap and the DJ spins great dance hits. And did we mention Guitar Hero contests on Thursday nights?

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The Contributor has no connection to nor was paid by the brand or product described in this content.

Published by Kate Michael

Kate Michael is a 27 year old Washington, DC resident, and Miss DC 2006. She is a freelance writer for local publications, posts on area events, and maintains an online magazine, kstreetkate.net and online t...  View profile

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