The DC “Happy Hour” has become a staple for those who live and/or work in the District. Why not use that time to unwind and expand your business network at the same time? Here are a few places to mingle and connect with professionals your age/level.
The Ground Floor:
Just because you’re on the bottom of the totem pole doesn’t mean you can’t show some happy hour savvy.
THUNDER BURGER AND BAR: 3056 M Street, NW - Washington, DC 20007 (Georgetown)
Thunder Burger and Bar describes itself as, “an edgy, rock & roll dining experience right in the heart of Georgetown.” Known for their mouth wateringly juicy signature burgers and casual atmosphere, they also offer a large selection of American craft micro-brew beers and fine whiskeys. $5 Happy Hour bites; $5 or less for all 23 drafts from 4pm-7pm, Monday-Friday.
NOOSHI: 1120 19th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20036 (Dupont Circle) and 524 8th Street, SE - Washington, DC 20003 (Capitol Hill)
With two locations in DC (the newest on Barracks row), all drinks at Nooshi are half-off between 3 and 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. Although there aren't any food specials, the sushi prices are very inexpensive to begin with (and it just feels so good to pay $3.50 for a Dogfish Head after a day on the Hill).
Climbing Higher:
When you’ve decided to graduate- literally and figuratively- from “that place we used to go junior year”, these options might appeal to a more mature crowd.
POSTE MODERNE BRASSERIE: 555 8th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20004 (Penn Quarter)
Located inside the Hotel Monaco, it touts itself as, “A traditional brasserie fare with a modern touch - all in the historic setting of the 1841 General Post Office building.” The expansive courtyard garden is a favorite destination among young professionals for outdoor happy hours. Enjoy happy hour specials daily from 4-7pm.
PEARL DIVE OYSTER PALACE: 1612 14th Street, NW – Washington, DC 20009 (Logan Circle)
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace welcomes guests with a rustic décor and pledges a commitment to sourcing the freshest seafood. It has the widest variety of high quality oysters in the District, and all local oysters are “2 for 1” Monday-Friday, 4pm-7pm. During this time, draft beer is half price and wines by the glass are $5.
Cloud Nine:
When happy hour isn’t about saving money as much as it is looking like you’re made of it.
THE PARK AT FOURTEENTH: 920 14th Street NW - Washington, DC 20005 (McPherson Square)
Thursday and Friday nights are networking nights at The Park at 14th. Doors open and happy hour specials start at 5 p.m. Enjoy $3 select beers, $5 wines and bar bites and $6 specialty liquor. With wood-paneled walls, hand-blown chandeliers and a magnificent dinner menu, The Park at 14th is a sophisticated spot to hand out your business card or chat up new connections.
CENTRAL MICHEL RICHARD: 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW - Washington, DC 20004 (Federal Triangle)
Relax on one of the velvet couches in the lounge of Central Michel Richard from 5pm-6:30pm Monday - Friday, 5pm-6:30pm for daily specials.The cuisine combines well-known American favorites (fried chicken, short ribs and banana splits) with French influences, making for a delightful dining experience. $3 sliders and $9 cocktails
