We visited Allegory primarily because it was within walking distance of our hotel. Several other nearby bars looked appealing but were quite crowded, so this felt like the right choice. Upon arrival, we joined the waitlist via QR code. We were quoted about a 20-minute wait, but in reality, it was closer to 10 minutes. The wait itself was comfortable, with a lounge-style seating area available, and they even offer a menu to order from while you wait (though we didn't take advantage of that). Once inside, we were seated at a cozy corner table, which set the tone for a great experience. The menu deserves special mention--it's presented as a beautifully curated coffee table book. The level of thought, creativity, and storytelling behind it is genuinely impressive. The cocktail descriptions are detailed and well-written, giving you a clear sense of what to expect while still leaving room for surprise. I'm fairly familiar with inventive cocktail programs and have visited many well-known bars across the country and internationally, but this menu genuinely stood out. Some of the ingredient combinations are unexpected to the point of being almost puzzling--in a good way. It's rare to come across a menu that feels this original. Of course, the real question is whether the drinks live up to the concept--and they absolutely do. * All That She Carried: Think of it as a creative twist on an Old Fashioned--balanced, nuanced, and elevated by a subtle frozen s'more element that works surprisingly well. * Leaving Babylon: Their take on a martini, and easily my favorite of the night. Every note described on the menu comes through, yet the drink remains incredibly smooth and cohesive. * 1962: Slightly sweeter than my usual preference (and they do warn you), but beautifully executed. The soursop stands out and you'll get the note, while it was hard to understand how / what ackee's contribution was. Visually, it's also a stunning cocktail. The atmosphere matches the creativity of the drinks, with an "Alice in Wonderland"-inspired theme and a thoughtfully curated music selection that enhances the overall vibe. It feels lively and immersive without being overwhelming. Service was attentive and polished without ever feeling rushed. Overall, highly recommended--especially if you enjoy innovative cocktails and a unique, story-driven bar experience. read more

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I stopped by Allegory for a nightcap and, as always, it did not disappoint. I ordered the 1962, and it was both visually stunning and delicious--the soursop paired beautifully with the gold and teal presentation. Every detail felt intentional, from the drink itself to the overall aesthetic of the space. What makes this place truly special for me, though, is the people. My dear friend Kapri is one of the head bartenders here--a world-class talent and a Netflix bartending competition winner. We worked together over 10 years ago, and even then I knew she was something special. It's been incredible to watch her grow into the bartender she is today. I love bringing friends and loved ones here not just for the drinks, but for the experience she creates. During this visit, Kapri walked us through the story behind the bar. It adds such a meaningful layer to an already exceptional space. The inspiration behind Allegory draws from the story of Ruby Bridges, reimagined through the lens of Alice in Wonderland. As the first Black child to integrate an American school, Ruby's legacy is honored throughout the space--from the murals to the storybook menu and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, many of which also nod to banned literature. It's truly the most powerful part of the speakeasy experience. If you can, hear the story as told by the staff. Allegory is more than a bar--it's an experience rooted in storytelling, artistry, and incredible hospitality. 10/10, every time. read more

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Finally made it here! Cool vibe, good drinks. Not cheap and the drinks aren't super big. Also they were out of one I wanted to try. But overall a nice experience and I would go back. On a chilly Wednesday evening, my friend and I got in right away easily with no wait, at about 7:15pm. My favorite was the Mardi Gras, which had a nice balance of flavors. The 1962 was good but very sweet, kind of like an elevated dole whip drink. I loved the taste of my friend's "all that she carried" and the Saturday morning cartoons was super strong and def did not taste like children's food or cereal lol. read more

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A must-visit. A perfect place for drinks. A date. An evening out. Whatever you make it. I visited with a group of 6 for drinks while in town for a conference. Staff was great, really friendly and informed. Great balanced drinks. Quality ingredients. Well presented. Fun glasses. Great ice, in shapes and stays cold. Great garnishes that are all edible. Chocolates/fruit leather/cereal. Overall a great experience, we didn't have food, our 90minute visit was perfect as a stop before a dinner reservation. read more

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Amazing drinks!!! Absolutely loved the Mardi Gras, especially as someone with a sweet tooth. Would recommend going early to get seated quickly (we arrived at 7:45 and left close to 11:30PM). Snack bites are fantastic, loved the short rib tots. Besttttt bar for dates!!! read more

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Allegory is located inside of the EatonDC hotel. Arrive early, as there was always a wait. The storybook cocktails were very creative and connected to their theme and speakeasy vibe. I think it's an "experience" type of bar. The bartenders were great. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I was in town for NYE/NY, and on my last night I finally made it to Allegory. Located inside Eaton DC, the space is beautifully designed. The waiting area cozy, upscale, and modern all at once. The inside is low light, but not as dark as one would think and the music was lively. Seating is first come, first serve, so there may be a wait, but it's worth it. We took advantage of the rooftop while waiting, which was a great bonus. I loved the book-themed menu concept, where each drink is tied to a story. It made the experience feel intentional and fun. We ordered the Saturday Morning Cartoons, a take on the Old Fashioned, and it did not disappoint, especially with the oversized cornflake on top. Absolutely delicious. read more

Allegory - Menu and Saturday Morning Cartoons - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

A friend and I stopped by late on a Friday night and there was a 30 minute wait. They don't accept reservations so it's first come, first serve. Be prepared for a wait. You scan the QR code and get your name on the list, then they will send you a text when your table is ready. Since it was late the kitchen was closed. We were seated at the bar which was ok but not the comfiest. We were handed a story book "Banned in DC" which is essentially their menu told through stories. The bartender greeted us and said, "this is the story of Ruby Bridges." Each cocktail is curated around a story or a theme. I ended up picking the "no place like home" cocktail which was tequila based and it was just ok. I honestly didn't taste any alcohol in this drink and for the price, not worth it. Speakeasies are meant to be unique and at least I checked this off my bucket list. Check them out for yourself. read more

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Want amazing craft cocktails? Allegory. Looking for a quick, tasty (but not heavy) bite? Allegory (prices are a bit high). From the moment I walked in, it felt like stepping into another world. The atmosphere is unmatched, and the drinks? Absolutely on point. Shoutout to the bartender--super patient and welcoming while I filmed, which speaks volumes about the service. Heads up: It's tucked inside a hotel, so don't be thrown off when you arrive. Check out my video below to catch the full vibe! read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a highly acclaimed bar that has earned a spot in the Top 50 Best Bars North America. I went here on a Saturday around 6pm and it was fairly busy, but I got seated in a few minutes after they cleaned the table. It is fairly hidden, giving some kind of speakeasy vibes. The cocktail menu they featured is Alice in Wonderland themed, with the feature "Banned in DC". I got the Leaving Babylon and Bluest Eye. Both drinks were fairly strong. Leaving Babylon had slightly more unique ingredients like the Peruvian Groundcherry and Uruapan and is prepared like a martini. The Bluest Eye is more aesthetic and fun with a fruit roll up and gin, so it was also fairly easier to drink. Service is okay - placing the order took a while and the server is hard to find, yet they charge a 20% mandatory gratuity, so docking 1 star off solely on this. read more

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I love the concept and how it's a speak easy. It's the perfect place for pictures and content as there are so many places you can walk around and stand in for pics!! However, it's entirely so loud there and the food is okay, not my favorite. The menu book is beautiful, and it explains the concept for the speakeasy and their choices for food and drinks. I'm a big foodie and I love trying out restaurant that are aesthetically pleasing while also providing great food and this wasn't it for me. Maybe it was because it was a little late in the night but not an excuse for hard rice, and cold food. The previous menu we had was called down the rabbit hole for Alice adventures and wonderland, but now they have a whole new menu and drinks, so it could be worth checking out again. HOWEVER the service was great, and super attentive so that's always appreciated. read more

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Yesterday was my second time frequenting Allegory and they never disappoint. It took us about 50 min to get in but it was totally worth. We walked in and immediately appreciated the wall art of Alice in the wonderland through the eyes of Ruby Bridges. This month's theme was Banned in DC. It was especially nice to se black characters highlighted. Next, we were greeted by our bartender. She was extremely friendly , knowledgeable and provided wonderful customer service. My friend didn't like two of his drinks and she easily and willingly accommodated him and brought him a drink she thought he would like. We ordered No Place Like Home, and Black Dove. All of their specialist cocktails tell a story all while being incredibly delicious. I 100% recommend. Allegory offers a chill bar where you can both socialize and relax. If you are staying at the Eaton Hotel or are in the area I strongly suggest you check it out. read more

Allegory - No place like home - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I'm a huge fan of cool concepts and Allegory is for sure one of the most unique spots in DC. Although it's not much of a hidden speakeasy it is a cute date night bar. Nestled behind the library of the Eaton Hotel this bar probably seats about 30-40 people at a time with the bar having probably 10 seats which the bar is my favorite spot in the space. You get to watch the bartenders make magic as they create these whimsical drinks. Which I forgot to mention at the beginning their cool concept is a take on Alice in Wonderland but the Ruby Bridges version. And the last time I went they did a futuristic style one where the character was in DC. Super creative! Now I'm not a fan of most of their cocktails. They're either too strong or interesting tastes that aren't my vibe. But if you're down to try something new definitely recommend. The food is also ok. Small bites for a decent amount and it's nothing that will blow you away. The music is always good though. Last time I was there they played "I'm a thug by Trick daddy" -- haven't heard that song in a minute. Check it out and let me know what are some of your favorite items read more

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Great drink menu. Loved the story book menu format and the historic narrative created with/for the drinks. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Fun little speakeasy with a theme based on Ruby Bridges with an Alice in Wonderland twist. I love that the menu is a storybook and how each of the cocktails ties into the story. We were there too late to try the food, but the drinks were great and all so creative! The servers were super friendly and checked on us just the perfect amount. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Allegory offers expertly crafted cocktails and delicious bites! Some of my favorite drinks include the Black Broadway, 1962, and Bartender's Choice, which for me was a peach daiquiri topped with coco butter oat milk foam crafted by Capri-- unreal. For bites, I highly recommend the Happy Meal, featuring a Wagyu burger I haven't stopped thinking about, and the chicken sandwich, which is hands down one of the best I've had in a while. Great service, playlist, the ambiance was perfect. Highly recommend you check them out for cocktails and bites. read more

Allegory - Artwork - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I was excited to go since it was named 23rd best bar in North America and it lived up to the hype for me!! We stopped by right at 5pm and were able to get seats at the bar right away. It's hidden away inside the Eaton hotel with no obvious signage besides one small sign next to the wooden door. It has no windows and serious speakeasy vibes with whimsical Alice in Wonderland-esque murals on walls. The cocktails were phenomenal and well worth the $19 price tag for each one (there are a lot of cocktails for a smaller price). They were beautifully crafted and so well balanced. We limited ourselves to two each since we had dinner reservations at 6pm. We were able to get two drinks each and pay by 5:45pm. read more

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I went to Allegory on a Saturday night with my two best friends and we had a great time. The ambiance and decor are beautiful, stylish, intimate, and perfect for a night out. The cocktails were well crafted and delicious, which says a lot since one of my friends is a bartender and pretty particular about drinks. Service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Overall, it was a really enjoyable experience and a spot I would definitely come back to for another night out. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My second time at Allegory was definitely a success! My first time, the bar was super crowded, but this second visit, we came on a Tuesday late afternoon and we had the place mostly to ourselves. I absolutely love the vibes. It's very storybook, with Ruby Bridges playing the role of Alice in Wonderland, which is educational and inspiring. I absolutely love the fantasticness of the artwork. I got the Eden, which came in a glass bottle and the bartender shoots bubbles from a bubble machine at you, which was super fun. We tried to get the CaviBacks, which is a shot of vodka chased with potato chips and caviar, but they were out of caviar, so they brought us the shots on the house with a chip as a chaser. It was definitely not the same, but was a fun adventure nonetheless. read more

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Drinks were delicious, and the Alice in Wonderland theme was really fun and creative! Loved the unique book-menu concept--it was definitely different and added to the experience. The service was extremely slow, which was a bit frustrating, but overall the vibe made up for it. This was more of an impromptu speakeasy visit for me, and I'd definitely go back to try some of their bites next time. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The cocktails push the boundaries of your palate and senses with a playful yet sophisticated twist. One standout from the new menu is the Black Broadway cocktail, which masterfully balances flavors with a creative foam topping that offers a nutty finish from the cocoa butter. As you take a sip, the luscious foam leaves behind an unforgettable Got Milk milkstache--making it both a delicious and Instagram-worthy moment. The cocktail itself is a seamless blend of the nutty notes of Sochu and the rich, boozy caramel kick of cognac, creating a flavor profile that's as memorable as the experience. Another highlight is the Saturday Morning Cartoons, an aperitif-style cocktail that instantly taps into childhood nostalgia. Served with a large rock and an espresso spoon, it brings to mind a bowl of cereal, and the taste is just as fun--like a boozy version of Tony's Frosted Flakes that can't help but put a smile on your face. Equally impressive is All That She Carried, a campfire-styled cocktail served in a warming, fireside-handled camping mug and topped with a freeze-dried marshmallow. The mix of liquid ingredients captures that cozy, fireside vibe and is best enjoyed in the back two-seater nooks of the speakeasy for the full experience. Notably, the presentation goes beyond just taste--it's a full sensory adventure. Each drink is a visual masterpiece with splashes of bold colors and innovative techniques that draw you in before the first sip. The new menu design also makes a powerful statement, using children's toys to retell the story of Ruby Bridges with fresh writing and visual creativity that truly stamps a new season for Allegory. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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It's on the first floor of the Eaton hotel. I've come here just a handful of times- last time being on a Friday night. It was pretty empty for 7pm but was definitely ramping up as we walked out around 9:30pm. The drinks are great and the bartenders are artists, so don't be afraid to ask for some recommendations. The dark atmosphere is perfect for when you're looking a bit too tired lol. read more

Allegory - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We love speakeasies and so we make it a point to go to one in all our travels. This one is rated as one of the top speakeasies so we had to stop by. There aren't reservations available so recommend coming around opening to be able to get seats, especially if coming with a larger group. The inside is like an Alice in Wonderland theme which was so fun and unique. Drinks were delicious. They also made us a couple "surprise" drinks when we told them what our usual drinks are. So fun and a good experience! Recommend. read more

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Fantastic atmosphere - very plush. The theme is so mind bending and the menu involves a narrative. Great drinks and nosh. The staff was super nice and knowledgeable about Ruby Bridges. read more

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I went to Allegory because I was in the mood for a speakeasy vibe on a Monday night. I had actually been there years ago for a first date, so I thought it'd be a nice touch to rekindle that memory with someone special. That night, they had a guest mixologist in from Orlando showcasing his signature drinks. And yes, I ordered every single one off the menu (no regrets lol). One of the highlights was that the mixologist came over personally to share the inspiration behind each cocktail, which made the experience feel even more intentional and creative. The food, however, was just okay. I wasn't thrilled with the pernil. It was basically pork rinds, which wasn't what I expected. But I didn't go there for the food. They don't take reservations, but luckily the wait wasn't bad at all, maybe 30 minutes max. The vibe was intimate, laid-back, and chill. Exactly what I wanted. I already can't wait to go back a third... and fourth time. read more

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I've been here multiple times and it's always a mostly stellar experience. I wish it were a little quieter and more intimate. But that's a personal preference. When you walk into Eaton DC, you'll keep straight past the front desk and veer to your right to get to Allegory. Each time I've been, there's been an incredibly rude young lady at the door who doesn't really seem like a hostess so you may not know you need to speak to her about a table before getting inside the bar. Don't call it a speak easy, she'll snap at you. Scan the sign on the hostess stand with your phone. If you don't, she will tap it aggressively until you do. Currently, they'll on their second menu, Banned in DC. It's a beautiful offering of deliciously crafted beverages. The small bites are a perfect compliment and you won't be disappointed. read more

The drinks are okay but not amazing. I'm leaving this review because one of the staff spilled an entire glass of water on both of my shoes. They apologized but acted like it wasn't a big deal. They did not give a drink for free or bring anything as a nice gesture. Never going back here. read more

Insanely cool speakeasy with awesome cocktails and, honestly, maybe even better food! The atmosphere is super cool. Really quirky but also very classic and cool. A nice ambiance to get dressed up for with friends or a date night. The service is also top tier!! You can tell everyone really loves the place and working there. The bartenders and waiters all know a lot about cocktails and are very high energy and fun. We got cocktails from a special menu for a collab night but the full cocktail menu looks incurable and I can't wait to go back and try everything. For food we got Cheeze-Its, Fried Rice, and the Happy Meal (SUCH a killer burger sorta like a Big Mac. Can't stop thinking about it). Getting in is somewhat difficult as you can't make a reservation so I recommend going earlier in the night and maybe expecting to wait a few minutes to get seated. Well worth it though as it's super fun inside! read more

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Five stars for a bar that has fantastic cocktails, even better vibes, and the opportunity for a server to greet you with a bubble gun. I went to Allegory upon my last visit to DC because it is my friend's favorite spot. I can most definitely see why, as it is absolutely delightful. It gives a bit of speakeasy vibes since it's small and cozy, and then the decor is inspired by Alice and Wonderland which makes a perfect pairing to the imaginative cocktails they have on the menu. I cannot remember what I ordered, but I enjoyed every cocktail I had. Their bar has won several awards, so you expect inventive, well balanced cocktails. Would most definitely return as the service and experience was top notch. While I think a visit to Allegory would be fun any time, it was definitely a vibe late night. read more

Allegory - Negroni - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Skip it. I'm a big fan of speakeasy's and back room places. This is one of the lamest I've been to. Actually scratch that. The lamest. Vibe was desperate to be a "speakeasy" but it was really just a sterile wannabe version of the real thing. After reading their silly stories with their gimmicky drinks, I spoke to the bartender Jill. I asked her to make me a cocktail of her choosing, based on my normal order or brandy and coke. She became very condescending. She made a suggestion of some sweet lame drink. "I think this might be the most comfort table for your pallet" she explained. I thought she was being sincere and had no idea I'm a world traveler who eats fine dining for midnight snacks. So, I let it slide and didn't think much of it. But then later, she started talking to me about my "unsophisticated pallet". She referenced my pallet at least three times. I was embarrassed for her. I just smiled and nodded. There was a friendly crowd of patrons that were happy to converse. So that is one positive thing. It was a social place. It was also election season so there was lots of politic talk but I kept casual and everyone got along great. But, unfortunately, my main takeaway is that this server was really excited to keep pointing out how unsophisticated I was and how I had basic ghetto taste. If her intent was to be playful or funny, she failed. And I'm a sarcastic person who likes a good ribbing. Oh also, speaking of pallet, the cocktails were mediocre at best. Her assumptions about my taste led her to making me these basic sweet drinks that were just goofy. My big sin here was mentioning that I loved Coca Cola and brandy. That one statement really seemed to ruin the vibe and my experience. She completely missed the concept of vanilla, smokiness, caramel, and depth, and instead focused on sugar and flowers, in an oddly condescending way. Like, even if I did want sugar and flowers, that would be perfectly fine and I shouldn't be chastised for it. Not impressed and wouldn't visit again. read more

My visit to Allegory left me with mixed feelings. My interaction with the hostess wasn't the best--in my opinion, she came off a bit rude when we asked to be added to the waitlist. We were told the wait would be about two hours, which felt crazy, so we waited nearby--and to my surprise, we were called in just 10 minutes instead. Once inside, the space was beautifully decorated, blending art, literature, social messaging, and inventive cocktails--with its murals and multi‑chapter menus inspired by Ruby Bridges and Alice in Wonderland. The drinks were definitely creative and unique, though none truly stole my heart. Overall, it's not my top pick in the city, but I'd give it another shot after trying a few other spots. By the way, Allegory is tucked behind a front‑desk bookshelf in the Eaton Hotel's "Progress Library." read more

We came in and it was a 35-40 min wait. It was pretty crowded as we entered and I was hoping to really envision the Alice in wonderland concept in the eyes told by Ruby Bridges walking in but the music and crowd changed that. But I loved what I saw whilst entering. The first server that sat us was very nice and gave us menus. Never been here before so we assumed maybe we start the story by the chapters. Look we really were trying to get into the concept. The first chapter was looking glass and it was very good, not overly sweet/dry/tart. I had a drink before with yuzu and it was nothing how this was. The ingredients were perfectly paired. My mom had a mock tail with ube milk tea and I wanted to take back because I wasn't sure if she'd like it but she actually did. She said it was pretty sweet so we got her a lemon drop with a hint of no alcohol lol. So they can make drinks that are not on the menu. In the group we had someone that had a mojito and they said it taste pretty darn good. Myself and my cousin stuck with the storyline lol. We had the eyes of flame and I was wondering how it would pair with mezcal, it was definitely Smokey but if I were to continue drinking and enjoying the night before calling it quits before it began we both agreed to take that back and get something else. The other staff member that would come by we did ask as a recommendation for a drink as a first timer coming and I gave what I like; ie fresh drinks. She mentioned everything is good can't go wrong. We got the garden of live flowers. I enjoyed that. We got some chips to take off the previous taste with the Smokey note. But I've had cachaca in Brazil and I saw rhum Agricole as an ingredient so I'm not a mixologist but I was assuming sugarcane based spirit right. But I see where some of the ingredients placed as the snap peas, black pepper... it's more of a grassy note. Again I'm nonprofessional just was so intrigued with the ingredients with these drinks. only issue and reason to not give total stars as as many places I've been out the us and in the us just as the next person. When you are given that " oh everything is good", it questions to me if that individual is the right person to help me. Now you hear that at tourist places or chain places where you don't really care. When you get someone that will literally recommend what they even would like, you know you have a winner and a damn good staff member. But at speakeasy's you rarely have that issue and I love a good true speakeasy as those are the best with recommendations. True everything is good, but working there and given what an individual like maybe nothing overly sweet just fresh not as overpowering you can get a good sense of what you could possibly recommend. I see here it was mentioned, try em and if you don't like we can take back and just try something else. I definitely will revisit here but I will sit at the bar and get recommendations from the bartender. Let's say, if my first drink was fresh and more citrusy, I would recommend something similar and equally as good. I'm use to that experience especially at a speakeasy. As we asked for one check they let us know gratuity was included and that was the end. From what my family was mentioning in DC to steer clear with the use of debit cards some places so they paid with cash. I will definitely revisit but I will go with barstaff and sit at bar. The staff while sitting maybe due to it being a packed house it's a lot and working the room with so many. But half those there from my observation were having one or two drinks and conversing. I know I looked like a first timer so I wanted to know about the place. I'm sure it's a different atmosphere given a diff day. read more

Allegory - Chapter 8: Take the power back - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We absolutely loved the space at Allegory. You walk in to see a massive mural on the wall of Ruby Bridges (yes, based on the real-life icon!!) as if she is Alice in Wonderland. The menu tells the tale of a young Ruby Bridges slaying a dragon with each "chapter" using her direct quotes from her experience integrating her elementary school. Do you get the name of the bar yet? The drinks were unique and inventive. The ones we ordered were playful and interactive Crow from Tobago--they lit it on fire! Take a sip from the lime, then a sip of the drink Unicorn--lick the green pandan on top, then take a sip of the cocktail Fun fact: Ruby Bridges celebrated her 69th birthday here in 2023 read more

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Gorgeous place. I didn't eat here the kitchen was closed by the time we got there. We went for drinks the unicorn is the way to go. Read the menu it's about Ruby Bridges quotes taken directly from here. The walls are painted of black Alice in wonderland it's beautiful. Will definitely go back and try the food. Went to the roof top bar just to see what it looked like stunning view and nice fireplace. read more

Allegory - Unicorn - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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There is no reservation. You have to come by and just put your name on the list. However, on a Saturday night, there wasn't much of a wait. The bar is themed after Alice in Wonderland but with a twist. It's beautiful inside with all the painted walls. Got the Beat of the Drums. Was told it was sort of like a Margarita which would be easier to drink. It was pretty good from what I remember. I liked that there was a huckleberry popcorn served with it that paired well with the drink as it was sweeter. I don't think I would wait too long for this bar, but the short wait was nice and made it a little more worth it. read more

Allegory - Beat of the Drums - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We walked in on a Saturday afternoon close to opening time and didn't have much of a wait at all. Our group of six was comfortable on the sofas with a table between us. The menu is extensive and you're supposed to spend time exploring the story, which I thought was fun! The drinks were all interesting and different. I liked everything I tried but especially The Bluest Eye. I thought the wait staff would be a little friendlier and have more info on the drinks but they were pretty un-engaged. read more

Allegory - The Bluest Eye - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

True to its name - the name definitely fits the motif! The speakeasy is tucked in the back of Eaton Hotel with a colorful and creative motif on Ruby Bridget's journey fighting racial injustice echoed through the menu's fable of different chapters delineating her journey, vibrant mural, and unique cocktails. The speakeasy is first come first serve and it was packed at 5:15pm, I recommend getting here promptly at 5pm or be prepared to wait! The speakeasy is spacious and can fit ~25 people. The cocktails are spirit-forward, don't expect sweet cocktails here. While the Jaggernacky was fun to try with a spicy kick from drops of sriracha sauce, I preferred the the slightly sweeter rum punch Unicorn with a dollop of Matcha on top. Hubby enjoyed the boozy Eyes of the Flame and Looking Glass cocktails. The cocktails and food weren't too pricey. The Herb Goat Cheese was the perfect finger food snack with crispy crostini garlic bread with a nice cheesy herb dip! The Deviled Eggs with roasted hummus was tasty snack as well. I'm surprised there weren't more finger food options like pretzels, fries, cheese and crackers or charcuterie board style apps. The Eaton Hotel is quite progressive and unique with different sexual terms listed out in the restroom area and tackling racial injustice. The speakeasy is unique and fun to try, but I'm not sure if I'd come back. read more

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Arrived to the building for another event on the roof top and was invited to come in for a cocktail before going up. My co workers and I were welcomed and seated immediately. Several cocktails and spirit options. With chairs, tables, booths and stools, comfortable for sipping or munching. Great place, good vibes. read more

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All of these years of loving me some Allegory, that I'm actually in shock that I've never written a review. Allegory is quite easily one of my favorite places in DC. Not only is the concept rich in history and meaning, but the entire cocktail menu has been curated in the most thoughtful way to creatively align, resulting in a beautiful storytelling experience. I've celebrated birthdays, friends' birthdays, great days, horrible days and uneventful days here just because the folks that work here have created such an amazing environment for customers to enjoy. They're able to find the hard to achieve balance of professionalism as experts in their craft, while also maintaining a fun and laid back vibe. With some speakeasies there is a lack of approachability for the more novice cocktail drinker. But not here. They're passionate, knowledgeable and seem to really enjoy sharing that with customers. Over the past few years, the team has been stacking awards, being recognized as one of the best in the world and it is absolutely well deserved. It's been a pleasure becoming a "regular" here and I will continue to cheer for this amazing team - they deserve all their flowers! read more

I tried to get in here on 2 separate occasions and failed both times due to crowd and wait times. This place has a fantastic story to tell. Who knew that a Ruby Bridges / Alice in Wonderland crossover could work so well?? It's reflected in the decor, and in storybook form throughout their food/drink menu. Each cocktail represents a chapter, and there are some creative ingredients to show off. You will either be seated at the bar, along the wall in a cozy nook, or a more traditional table. And the music was ON POINT. The vibe definitely feels chill, yet the music is lit... but somehow it works. I'm glad I was finally able to make it there and I'm looking forward to returning! read more