Really cool space in the back of the Eaton hotel. The drinks were nice but nothing special. The place wasn't too busy when we visited mid week so we were seated quickly and were well attended. read more

Allegory - Beat of the drums and garden of live flowers - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

love this bar, cocktails are always delicious, fun and interesting. Alice themed, nice loung-y vibe or you can sit at the bar, very nice spot to grab a couple rounds read more

This secret bar had a great mix of music, as well as, great cocktails. We had a large party and they were able to accommodate our big party with a little wait. The decor is really swanky and the it's dimly lit. read more

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

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If you're ever in the neighborhood I suggest checking this place out. Located behind a door in the library at the Eaton DC Hotel. A legit Speakeasy. In my younger days, certainly would have been a regular hanging spot. Cool decor with incredible artwork. Was seated at the bar and the bartenders have skills. Can't remember my drink name (pictured), but very strong ginger taste. The mint balanced a little, but ginger can be powerful and this was. While I wish I had more time and grabbed a bite to eat, my short stay impressed. Kicked a long field goal and swung momentum for the rest of the evening. read more

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

Here's the deal. How can anyone not fall in love with this speakeasy spot, hidden behind some regular door in the lobby library of the hip Eaton Hotel? This joint is amazing! As soon as I walked in I was mesmerized by the "Alice in Wonderland" inspired artwork on the walls, telling the story of civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. Thankfully, my friend knew some people and pulled some strings to get us a cozy, corner section for our group in this intimate space. The drinks matched the vibe. Our hostess said the drink menu was split into flavor profiles. All I know is I said wanted some tequila and she came back with a concoction called Mad as a Hatter and I was not mad at all. I had two and was feeling real nice. We ordered at least 3-4 of everything off of the menu to snack on and everything was delicious. This place is so special that I didn't take a single picture, which is odd for me. I'm learning to live in the moment more, and didn't feel necessary to document it for everyone else but I'm thankful I was able to borrow a few pics from my friend for this review. Bring your date here to hang out after dinner. The music wasn't too loud so you're able to speak, cozy up and enjoy all this gem has to offer. read more

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Incredible experience. The Alice in Wonderland inspired story of Ruby Bridges is an imaginative concept that fits perfectly. The murals on the walls and the story based cocktails kept the group engaged our entire time in the "secret" room. The room was very loud, but I could still chat with my party. With a group of 8, we were the max size the room could accommodate and waited a bit for the table. No problem, but I suggest going with a smaller group. Cocktails were delicious and unique! I'd definitely return on another trip to DC. read more

The drinks were top notch! Loved the artwork and story behind the atmosphere. Definitely an immersion experience. Our bar tender Jill made the experience all the more delightful. Would recommend this to anyone! We will definitely return! read more

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

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I stayed in the Eaton on a business trip and was excited to try the Allegory after hearing a lot of hype about the space. Allegory is a speakeasy tucked away in the library of the hotel. We went on a Tuesday evening, so we were seated with minimal waiting. The decor inside is beautiful with lots of dim lighting and Alice in Wonderland themed murals. The menu is themed as a storybook, which I thought was clever. The service here was just okay. It took a really long time for the server to come over and while we ordered bar snacks, they weren't brought out until after we had our drinks. Our server brought us the check and then brought our food. The drinks were good, but for the price, I was expecting a little more substance to go with the style. The ambience was nice, but the seating was a little awkward. As a party of 3, we were seated around a low coffee table that put a lot of distance between us. It gets really, really loud inside, so we couldn't really have much of a conversation. I'm glad I tried Allegory, but I'm not sure I will be back. read more

Vibes on vibes on vibes!! The wife and I came here for date night. The theme is Alice in Wonderland. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves 10 outta 10 highly recommend date night approved read more

I've been wanting to come here for some time and me and a group of my girls finally decided to give it a try. We added our name to the waitlist and went to the rooftop of the Eaton as we waited. After a long while without receiving word, we decided to go downstairs to check on the status. Unfortunately there were some issues with our name/number that were inputed by the host. After resolved we decided to wait nearby. This process was rather long but since we were committed we decided to wait it out. Once your name is called, there is another waiting process beyond the hostess where they serve a limited menu. Once we were finally called, we entered the back room space which was intimately lit. They seemed to be having issues with the temperature because it was incredibly hot. Also some electrical issues were happening which called the lights to flicker off and on the entire time. The drink menu and decor concepts were clever. All of us were happy with our drinks and the service provided by the waiter. I'm hoping that we caught the establishment on an off night and do not want to write them off entirely. I'm open to trying this one again. read more

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

This is a small speakeasy located in a small hotel. It is dimly lit with a lot of murals on the wall of Alice in Wonderland characters and scenes. The cocktails are very good and it's a nice place to visit. I would recommend this venue. read more

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

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Loved the ambiance of this speakeasy. The artwork and the menu tell the story of Alice in Wonderland from the perspective of Ruby Bridges. It was the details for me, down to the water pitcher. The food was light but good, nothing worth raving about. But the drinks were fantastic! The bartender that was a guest on Drink Masters from Netflix was there the night I went. Try the crow from Tobago if want to see your drink on fire haha excellent service! Of course, you should expect this experience to be on the pricier side but it's so worth it! read more

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You have to come here! At the very least for the vibes, atmosphere, and attention to detail they paid when curating this speakeasy. We only grabbed drinks but everyone enjoyed what they ordered. If you have to wait, it's worth checking out the rooftop bar while you wait! read more

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

Superb experience. The vibe is beautiful. The scenes on the wall are so interesting and prompt beautiful conversations. The service was excellent. Our waiter definitely had a triplet walking around bc we never had to look for him. The drinks were not just good, but they were an experience. Tastey is an understatement. I don't think they had food. read more

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Loved this speakeasy! Tucked away in the library of a hotel- super cute. The theme of the bar is Alice and wonderland through the eyes of Ruby Bridges. The art is gorgeous and pairs with the story as outlined in the menu. It's a genuine piece of art with a drink being price of admission. Service was great- bartenders were kind- it's more casual vibe and was already just only an hour into opening as it's a small space. This is a must visit in DC read more

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I love a good speakeasy and I am happy to add Allegory to my list. It was my second time going and it certainly did not disappoint. My boyfriend and I ended up going there last night and for a Saturday evening, we really lucked out. We got there around 11PM and was able to be seated at the bar without having to wait! I loved the ambiance. It has special significance depicting the story of Ruby Bridges. The mural paintings are colorful and moving. The dimly lit setting provides a romantic and intimate vibe. The cocktails are deliciously crafted. I had both the Unicorn and Crow from Tobago and they were phenomenal! read more

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This is an awesome speakeasy in the Eaton Hotel. The service (Julio I believe) was awesome and the drinks were tasty. The ambiance is dark and cool. I can see being a regular here. read more

Nestled inside the Eaton hotel along K St, the Allegory is a hidden cocktail bar behind what looks like a library. Not sure if it's just been a coincidence, but I've found myself at 4 speakeasies this past month. We had dinner reso's at Supra not too far away, but got into the city a bit early and decided to have a cocktail or 3 before dinner. We were seated with no resos and (Initially surprised that there was still seating available: Saturday night ~ 7pm) but the place was slammed by the time we ordered our first drink. Service was good although our bread/butter didn't get to our table until our third drink after we'd already asked for the check. The old fashioned I had, espresso martini and Queens Gambit were all tasty. I'd steer clear of the Queens Gambit if you don't like/prefer Smokey drinks. read more

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

Speakeasy vibes located in the Eaton hotel. Resys would be helpful but I did walk in on a Monday and waited maybe 30 minutes until I was sat at the bar. Excellent service. Wonderful cocktails. Highly recommend if you're in the area! read more

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

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Through the library door and into a reimagined Wonderland featuring Ruby Bridges, child desegregator, as our protagonist. Allegory is a night time corner in the Eaton hotel establishment located behind the library. Dimly lit enclaves provide an intimate but boisterous atmosphere. The playlist is eclectically urban and the murals are a a playground for the eyes. The menu is styled as a story book featuring quotes from Miss Ruby Bridges herself and each page giving a description of an inspired cocktail. I began with a curry infused Crow from Tobago. Served with a paper crow which sparks up in flames-- I appreciate the theatrics. I'm a spicy cocktail fiend and while not as spicy as expected it was a delightful experience and I wanted to order another but pivoted to a milky purple Ube based mocktail called the awakening. This was soft and light and a nice palette cleanser before I went for my next drink: Unicorn. Refreshing, and strong cocktail topped with a saffron and matcha whipped garnish to be chased by the not overly sweet coconut drink. I'm glad the menu has the alcohol content so I knew how to make my selections. Overall this was an enjoyable night. We got there early, we're promptly seated and our waitress was pleasant. I just wish they had lamps for my 40 year old eyes so that I could see the menu without straining. read more

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Amazing, intimate speakeasy decorated with images of Alice through the looking glass, or down the rabbit hole. Crafty cocktails were tasty and the menu fabulous. My only thought would be that the snacks menu should be more carefully thought out and executed. Don't eat. Drink. Laugh. Have fun. Service is good. Go eat in the hotels Michelin stared restaurant. read more

Came here on a whim with my husband and was lucky that we didn't have to wait (~5:30 PM on a Saturday). I really liked the atmosphere of the bar and their Alice in Wonderland through the eyes of Ruby Bridges theme was really unique. Everything from the mural on the walls to the storybook menu was on theme. The drinks are definitely creative and unique. I tried the Garden of Live Flowers and the Unicorn. Both were delicious but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the Unicorn. Drinks are pricey at $18 each but that's on par with other speakeasies in DC. The only reason I am giving Allegory 4 stars instead of 5 is because the food here is really expensive and also tiny portioned. We got Slay the Jabberwocky (fried goat cheese) for $16 and it was SO TINY, maybe 2 very small bites per person. Food is not worth it here imo. read more

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Went here last night around 7 pm on a Saturday. There was no line and we got seated right away. The interior was classy and the service was top notch! I got the Looking Glass and my fiancé got the Crow from Tobago (pictured). My drink was refreshing but for the price, it was some what underwhelming; I was expecting more subtle flavors, but mostly got just one note from my cocktail. It was still good nonetheless! The Crow From Tamago was interesting; I've never had a cocktail with curry in it before. I wouldn't order it again, but this drink is definitely very Insta worthy. Nothing says "party time" like your drink being lit on fire!! The lime also contains a shot, which will probably help ease the pain for when your bill comes! ;) read more

Allegory - Crow from Tobago - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

First time visiting this bar and it was mind blowing Cocktails were delicious, well balanced, boozy but not strong in the palate. Upscale cocktails, in the first sip you are going to be confused but in a good way because the flavors are absolutely delicious and impressive. The place is well decorated, good lighting, good music, not too loud, perfect for a date. Thanks Kapri for our amazing cocktails and for your amazing attention with us read more

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I went here for HH with a couple of my coworkers and we had a really nice time. Drinks and food are typical DC price (when we went it was $18 for their specialty cocktails and between $12-20 for food if I remember correctly). I got the Eden; a little fizzy, nice fruity taste but balanced well with alcohol. When they brought me the drink, it came with literal bubbles! The ambiance and bar decor really set the tone for what Allegory was all about (Ruby Bridges meets Alice in Wonderland vibes were quite fun). It wasn't overly crowded when we went, and the space isn't large. Service was a bit slow but it wasn't bad by any means. read more

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

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Walking into the Eaton in DC you would never guess that an area that looks like a library would lead to such a cute little Ambiance... maybe I should say fierce instead. I love the story behind the Ruby Bridges in wonderland theme! It really does fit the bravery Ruby took as a child to walk in and fight the jabberwocky of racism and separatism. The drink menu looked great and we got a special treat for a holiday pop up when we went... had the best berry cobbler cocktail ever there and the staff was so polite and in tune with water and new drinks needs! Totally recommended! read more

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

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Allegory's easily my favorite bar in DC! Their new cocktail menu's world class (which is unsurprising), but SURPRISINGLY, their food's ridiculously tasty as well. I'll be back to talk drinks at some point, but today's review is all about food. Must tries include: 1) Bread & Butter(flies): Smoked onion brioche rolls with whipped everything spiced butter and garlic chips. I can't even begin to tell you how much I love this starter. The bread's freshly baked so it's soft as can be, and the butter is otherworldly. It's heaven in carb form, and it's something you need to experience stat. 2) Slay The Jabberwocky: Because who wouldn't like fried goat cheese with pepper jelly? Anything fried's delicious, but fried goat cheese? Shut the front door! It's as delicious as you would imagine so make sure you get an order or two for your table to share. 3) The Duchess! The Duchess!: Potatoes are pretty much my best friend so when I found out these were twice baked duchess potatoes in the shape of donuts, served with ranch dressing, I couldn't NOT get this. Tasty, creative and fun - what's not to love? There are only three per order so you may need to get more than one. 4) Curiouser and Curiouser: There are two delicious handhelds available at Allegory, and both of them are nothing short of scrumptious. This one's their Bahn Mi Katsu Sando, and it's made with crispy pork, jalapeño aioli, pickles and herbs. Think explosive flavors, and the meat's so damn juicy. The other option? A fantastic chicken sandwich called "Chicken or the Egg!" You can't go wrong with either so make sure you try both at some point! 5) Tiramisu Parfait: If you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this parfait's a must. Made with candied cocoa nibs and mascarpone sabayon, this dessert has THE most amazing texture. It's so creamy, I guarantee it'll be love at first bite. Enjoy it with an espresso martini for the ultimate treat! For more on delish DC eats, follow me on @nomtasticdc =) read more

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Went with friends who live in town (we're visiting) put my name in around 7pm on a Friday night for five people. I was told I needed to return within five minutes of my text or our spot would be lost and that the wait would be about 1-1.5 hours. We went to the restaurant at the front of the hotel to have a drink while we waited. I was able to check our space in line online which was nice. When I saw we were next in line we closed out and waited for our text. We got the text and went to the host stand where there was a line of people. By the time the hostess was finished with the people in front of us it was six minutes passed our text and she told me our table had been given away. When I said we'd been In line in time she just repeated she'd given our table away since we were not there within the five minutes. She offered to readd us to the list aka wait another hour so we passed. She was not helpful. She was not friendly. I understand this is a "speakeasy" but the vibe was not secretive or exclusive but more that of a gatekeeper who could not and would not allow for a minute to pass. The hotel looked nice. The waiting area looked nice. The view from inside the bar from the door looked nice. Other than that, I'd skip it. I wouldn't wait again for an attempt at this experience again. read more

Allegory is an Alice in wonderland themed speakeasy on the main floor of the Eaton Hotel. It's a great place for a date night, they have a wide variety of themed cocktails and a good selection of small bites. The service is pretty fast and prices are similar to what you'd expect from other DC restaurants. I love that their menu tells a story and its a great topic for conversation. read more

I came to Allegory on a Friday night around 11 pm and there was quite a lengthy wait for a table. Not sure if they take reservations, but just a heads up when visiting this "speakeasy" there is a limit to who they will let in and it's not the biggest venue. However, once inside the decor was adorable and I really appreciated that it was spaced out rather than people piled on top of one another! I'm told the theme is based in stories/storytelling, which made the fact that it was hidden behind a library wall extra fun. Once inside the service was excellent as were the drinks! Definitely worth the wait and a good place to come whether you're in a group or just a one on one with a friend. I look forward to returning to try some food because the drinks were top notch! read more

Allegory is a truly amazing cocktail bar in D.C. I've been to Allegory a number of times over the years, and it has consistently impressed me. The cocktails are, simply put, stellar. I've never had a bad cocktail here, even when the base liquor wasn't my usual choice. This is one of those rare places where you know you're going to get a good drink no matter what you order, no matter when you order, and no matter what your taste in cocktails is. One tip: try to go to this place on off hours, like in the evening on weekdays. This place tends to get popular/crowded, so it's usually a bad idea to go during peak hours - you'll be waiting around for a while. read more

It's one thing for a place to have a concept menu but a totally different ballgame to have said concept be executed with the menu then have visuals such as a menu & a downright killer mural to support everything. I'm my humble opinion a list such as the prestigious "worlds 50 best" can be hit or miss however this was hit. The chicken sandwich was slightly above average but honestly nowhere near as special as the cocktails. My 1st cocktail the "Unicorn" contained an explosion of flavors. The added lick-able addition of the matcha atop the cocktail most certainly elevated the drink. Twas so amazing that I ordered two of them. My 2bday drink was equally impressive as the first. "Crow from Tobago" had a shot within a half lime, beautiful presentation, beautiful story but above all it tasted amazing. In addition to the drinks there was some awesome music playing & the staff were professional yet totally approachable. I guarantee this'll be a place I make it my business to visit each & every time I'm in D.C. read more

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love it here! from the drinks to ambiance && bartenders who are always a vibe along with the music playing you are guaranteed to havena good time! princess && kapri (2023 bartender of the year) along w everyone else who keeps that place flowing... you wont be disappointed! make a reservation if you can just so you wont get denied at the door. && make sure to check out the museum along w the rooftop bar called wild days! read more

Allegory - BOOK SHELVES W SOME GEMS BEFORE YOU GO INSIDE - Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Sucks. That will only hold your table for 5 minutes when you're even in line but gives your table to the people in front of you. Make it make sense. read more

Great bar, great service.Interesting combinations..tried thr Eyes of Flame..great cocktail

I had a really nice time at this place. It's done speakeasy style, so unlabeled until you get back to where you're going. You walk into a nice hotel lobby with several lounge options and those is too the far back right. Once you're in, super polite, chill atmosphere, and a really cool thematic menu based on a juxtaposition of a Alice and Wonderland and Social Justice. I had a crispy fried pork sandwich small plate and several cocktails, and it was all great. They took their time but were attentive and just overall pleasant. Highly recommend. read more

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I enjoyed this speakeasy's theme thoroughly: the story is reflected in the menu, drinks, decor, and by the waiters! So well done without overdoing it. My two friends and I had no wait on a Tuesday at 6:30pm. Drinks are boozy, music is on point(!), and clientele seem great. I'd be careful tho, so much fun can lead to a mighty bill! read more

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Not what I expected. I've been to Eaton Hotel many times, but never been to the Allegory. There's something mystical and intriguing about a door, in which you cannot see the other side. The same for allows persons to enter upon the hosts discretion and exit when their experience is complete. I've always wanted to see what lies behind the "door", but this was my time to experience a modern version of a speakeasy. I was with a party already inside. As soon as I entered, it was louder than I expected. The decor felt a little cold and the seating was not as was warm and relaxing as the outside lounge area. The drink menu was theme based, which I liked, but did lack a typical selection, which I'm sure the bar was able to accommodate easily. I do didn't stay long because the party had to get ready for the main party upstairs on the rooftop. Sure to the fact that I didn't get to experience the drinks and the setting as I should have, I added the 4th star. Otherwise I would have put 3. I look forward to a revisit and taking in the whole experience. read more

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

What a great speakeasy. The hostess did a great job getting the front of the house ready and checking in everyone that was waiting! The drinks are amazing! Very creative and fun. The attention to detail is totally in point. This place does not disappoint. We look forward to coming back soon. read more

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Do not go here! It was recommended to me by an event professional and I am wondering if he is getting a kickback. I came here to vet the place for a company event (buyout in May) and the receptionist was rude and unprofessional! I watched her threaten to cuss out a group ahead of me. I minded my business because I didn't know the whole story. She told me to get on the waitlist, which I did. I waited patiently for close to 2 hours. I was #2 on the list and watched 4 couples enter ahead of me. When I inquired the receptionist told me I may not get in because they were seating couples ahead of me. my response was if you weren't going to allow a single person to be seated she should have conveyed that information upfront. She blamed her coworker who wasn't the person who originally helped me, it was her and she basically told me I could leave. It was literally 1am. She literally cost her business thousands of dollars from one customer. They may not need it, but why on earth would anyone want someone like that representing their brand? read more