Buddy's is seriously undersold as "just a sports bar." The food is WILD. That curry seafood bisque?! WHOA. Rich, creamy, loaded with flavor, and they were not stingy with the seafood. Big shrimp, chunks of fish, crab meat... every spoonful had something going on. The seafood mac & cheese was another win. Generous portions of crab and shrimp, creamy, cheesy, and actually tasted like seafood mac rather than mac & cheese with three pieces of seafood sprinkled on top. And the blackened catfish bites were perfectly seasoned. Crispy outside, tender inside, flavorful enough that they really didn't need much else. Other folks at the table had the short rib burger, and from the reactions around me, that may be my next order. The entire table was impressed, surprised, and already talking about coming back. And then I noticed they have late-night happy hour from 10 PM to close, with the kitchen still open?! IJS. That's . Buddy's may look like the neighborhood spot where you come to catch a game and grab a drink, but somebody in that kitchen is COOKING. Don't sleep on the food. read more

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My granddaughter was visiting me during my month in DC and we stumbled upon Buddies - lucky for us! I was really happy to find several vegan options and went with the vegan bowl. It was delicious! My granddaughter had the chicken tenders and fries and loved them. The portions were generous enough that we both took boxes home, which was even better since we happened to be there during happy hour and saved a little money too. And I can't forget my dog who was with us. We sat out on the patio and they brought her a water bowl, which I really appreciated. Our server was attentive and friendly, the food was great, and the whole experience was easy and enjoyable. I'm looking forward to going back! read more

Buddy’s - Vegan Bowl (v) - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We had one of my friends 40th birthday celebration kickoff here at Buddy's. There was plenty of seating for us and we were about 40 of us. I loved the seating outdoor. The drink selection was pretty good and the food was delicious. Definitely will be going back. My server was Will who was really cool guy. He was quick to take my order and check on me. I was able to meet one of the co-owners of the place. He was super nice and easy to talk with about her business. She is from D.C. which scorea bonus points in my book. read more

Buddy's DC owes me nothing. Everything was amazing from beginning to end. Stopped by on a Saturday around noon. I think we may have been the first customers of the day. There were no other patrons. We decided to sit at the bar rail. Buddy's is a decent size sports bar, clean and well lit. Can't remember the bartenders name but she was really nice, answered our questions and made recommendations. I ended up ordering the potato hash with shrimp added. I asked to fry my egg cause I don't do poached eggs . I also had the old bay wings and curry seafood bisque. For dessert I went with the apple cinnamon egg-roll that was paired with a little ice cream. Oh and for my drink I went with the District Oasis. A drink consisting of rum, pineapple, citrus, cherry. The food is made to order and took a little bit to come out, but it was well worth the wait. My friend and I enjoyed our food so much we asked the bartender to have the chef come out so we could give a proper thanks. I told him he can come home with me lol. This is one of those places where you come hungry and leave happy. I highly recommend giving them a try. read more

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The food was amazing for a sports bar. The crab fries were my favorite, packed with crab and super yummy. I look forward for coming back for game day fun and food! read more

Welp, instagram pulled another fast one on me. I stopped in on a Saturday night around 11:10. The first thing I asked when walking in was what time does the kitchen close. Immediately I'm told 12. I quickly ordered the old bay wings and fries. I got my wife a drink. Approximately 15 minutes later the food one. 7 wings and fries for $18. The wings were TRASH. Some overcooked, some tasted like jerk, some tasted like 2 days ago, and maybe 1 or two tasted like old bay. The fries were great though. I tried to order another set of fries at 11:44. Guess what? Kitchen is now closed. I looked at the bartender and asked him, didn't you tell me 12 when I walked in the door. He raises his hands with the IDK what to tell you. The drink was strong. Not sure what it was but definitely had my wife feeling nice. They weren't stingy on the alcohol. Overall I won't be back. I really wanted to like this neighborhood spot but the wings being so bad and the lies about the kitchen rubbed me the wrong way. I told my friend that I went here and she shared the same type of expierence. One and done for me. read more

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Came here for a cocktail mixology class and had the best time! The owners were involved and the other attendees were fun and lively. It's definitely an environment where you can freely had fun over a great meal. This is a neighborhood bar that we've always wanted to stop in. It's a black-owned business with elevated bites, good music, and amazing drinks. The Caesar we had in particular was fresh and flavorful! Can't wait to make this our local go-to. read more

Buddy’s - avocado Ceasar salad - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Coordinated my bday happy hour at buddy's and we had a great time. Communication leading up to the event was smooth. We arrived as has an area set aside area for my guest which was neat. Service was great, food was great, and the cocktails were delicious!! We would all recommend coming here for happy hour or dinner!! read more

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I forgot to take a photo but I still wanted to provide a review. The food was great and the staff very personable. We enjoyed the catfish bites, fluffy eggs, wings, gumbo and bacon. I wish I had more to explore on the menu but I was there for an event. The space isn't big but has indoor and outdoor options. read more

This place was really good! The service was great, the staff was awesome, and we even got to meet one of the owners. My favorite dish was the bang bang shrimp--they were huge and definitely worth the price! The drinks were also really good, and the bartender even made me something special. I'll definitely be back! read more

This was truly an awful experience. The drinks? Overpriced and disgusting. The food? Took years to come and it was small, expensive, and also disgusting. It was an all around bad experience. read more

If you have anything close or don't want to get high blood pressure do not order the blackened catfish bites!!!! Anything else: you're good! read more

10/10. The wait staff, the drinks, the fricken food! Omg everything was incredible! This was our first visit and we attended a birthday brunch, complete with musical bingo. The brunch spread - just wow. Literally everything we ate was incredible. My favorite bites? The creamy grits + shrimp, the candied (THICK) bacon, and the deviled eggs. I don't know if these items are regular menu items or only brunch but my goodness - I'm strongly considering hosting a brunch here in the future. It's also black owned, so that's a bonus. Outside? Lots of outdoor patio space. Inside? Not so much. It's your typical sports bar sized corner spot with lots of TVs to enjoy games. I'll be back for sure! read more

Buddy’s - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I like Buddy's DC. It's a grown folk vibe . I had the opportunity to meet the owner(s)(Black Owned). Great people !!! My guy and I decided to step out and have couples date night . It was the same night as the Whiskey tasting . We sat on the patio and might I add, it was great outdoors night . Buddys is a place for hanging out with the guys/girls but also could be intimate on a summer night on the patio . We ordered the cheese fries, avocado Caesar salad, and (I forgot the 3rd dish) however our food was good . I also like the location of Buddy's DC. Yes parking is sucks but it's D.C. (kind of the norm ). But we were able to find parking down the block. We'll definitely return and invite others . read more

Buddy's is an amazing bar with great food and drinks. We loved all the food we had including an apple cinnamon egg roll, fish and chips, deviled eggs, and old bay wings that we enjoyed with a Dewey Beach Swishy Pants beer while watching the Eagles play the Rams in January for the NFL playoffs. read more

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The burgers are decent but i dislike that they come with chips and you they have to pay to upgrade to fries or another side. Theres a small sign on the menu that this establishment adds 20 % service fee. Dang that service fee. It notes that you do not have to tip extra. My boyfriend and i got soda water, a Coke (so much ice and so little beverage) upgraded sides to our burgers. 60 dollars. Others have mentioned you are encouraged to order through a QR code at the table. It's fast, tasty, but overpriced especially when that service fee hits. I've gone twice. But for 60 bucks for two burgers fries and a non alcoholic drink - i won't be returning. read more

Do you want an open and bright floorplan where you do not feel like you are sitting on top of people? How about excellent food served with amazing service? Let me throw in excellent bartenders who makes you feel like you are a regular who they love to see? Then you need to take yourself, friends and loved ones to Buddy's DC. I have been here for a quick bite, a quick drink, and even an event... Each and every time I have visited Buddy's DC, I have been happy to have gone and make sure I stop by the next time I visit DC. If you are ever wondering where you should go - let me pick the adventure for you: Go to Buddy's DC. You can sit inside, outside, watch sports, don't watch sports, drink with friends, eat with family... Whatever you wish - you will find it here. This place never misses! read more

I've lived in Columbia Heights 10 years and have visited Buddy's on several occasions to support local business. Unfortunately, after tonight, I won't be back. I've always used the Buddy's QR to order food/drinks. After a year as a patron, I've realized the QR orders are sequenced well behind in-person orders. 9 out of 10 times that I order via Buddy's QR, after a considerable wait, I have to remind the bar staff that I've placed an order. I've dealt with this more times than I care to admit, and have shared this feedback with management. I appreciate that Buddy's is an establishment that welcomes everyone. However, customer service is lacking considerably. read more

Buddy's DC is a great place to catch a game and catch up with friends. Had the nachos...think they were on blue corn tortilla chips, nice touch. I need to visit again to check out more of the menu. Glad I stumbled upon Buddy's... I'll definitely be back. read more

3.5/5 it was really good and will go back. Socks are still on beer is cheap and the glasses were plastic. Get the wings. read more

just attended an anniversary brunch party at Buddy's and the food was yummy! loved the mini (LOADED with) blueberry pancakes and fried chicken. i'll definitely return soon for more scrumptious delights. I highly recommend for a delicious good time in the Columbia Heights area. read more

I was craving some mac and yams and settled on this place. I also ordered a crab cake. The mac and cheese had a strong smoked aroma. I was nervous that it was cooked with bacon or something. I hope not because that wasn't disclosed if so, but overall the mac was tasty. I wasn't a fan of the yams. They were sweet but had a lemon juice after taste (best way I could describe it). The crab cake had decent flavor but had a quite a bit of shell in it. I may try again idk. read more

I like this low key spot! Such a cute little place with nice service. They have a diverse menu with good prices. I got the nachos with beef and ate every bite lol, they were so delicious! Everyone tried a little bit of everything and no one had any complaints. We stopped by randomly with a party of 6 and they were able to take us and get our food out in a timely manner. Gotta come back with my husband. read more

Buddy’s - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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My job had a happy hour here and it was dope! The owners were amazing! They were short staff for a minute but apologized and accommodating to us! I spoke with the owners and they were so cute! I can't wait to go back and try their foods. And they're black owned read more

Nice vibe! Came in to watch the game and enjoy some good food. The gumbo was crazy and the crabby patty was amazing! read more

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The food, the drinks, the service ALL STELLAR!! Went to watch the draft but had a fantastic night! We will definitely be back!! Sidebar...get the deviled eggs!! You're welcome!! read more

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My friend had a breakfast HH here on 6/28 between 6-7pm. For the time it was fairly empty and I was able to get a bar seat immediately. They have a decent HH menu that includes what seems like some smaller fan favorites from the main menu. I ordered the fish and chips and my friend ordered crab fritters. Fish and chips - 10/10 - the consistency of the fish was great, it didn't fall apart when you bit into the batter and the crunch was amazing. It was served when a spicy sauce that I'm not sure I can place. It didn't taste last tarter but it was a decent pairing with the fish and chips. You get a really small portion for the $12 but it's DC so I guess? Besides it was really good so at least it was worth it :). Crab fritters - my friend said these were decent but I wasn't hungry enough to try them. Would def try next time just because they got the fish and chips right. The spot itself was cool, they have limited indoor seating (I'd say 15-20ppl comfortably) and a patio outside. Plenty of TVs if you needed a chill spot to watch the game and get up with friends. Non food issue: I'd ordered a drink at the bar and the bartender never made it. He seemed kind of all over the place (we had to remind him a few times about things we'd asked for but didn't receive), we'd chalked it up to growing pains or something but weren't surprised when he brought us the check with my drink on it without having made it. There was a situation where they said they'd refund me for the drink and while I was charged via my bank for the full amount there was no refund in sight a week later. Fast forward to 7/5 I call the location and leave voicemail message about the situation and give it 24hrs. I did not receive a call back so I called again on 7/6 and was ultimately able to speak to Carly and explain the situation. This rating could've easily been a 3 because of the situation with the bartender but Carly was not only apologetic overall, she immediately looked into the issue and resolved it within 20mins. I purposely waited to write this review to see if I could resolve the issue without one. So happy that was the case in this situation, and will go back just off of my interaction with Carly. Thanks girl! read more

We love Buddy's! Great neighborhood spot with perfect bar food, drinks, service and staff. We had our birthday party here and it was a perfect outside patio space for a ton of guests, and staff was so easy to work with to coordinate! read more

Great food and friendly, professional staff. They have a bunch of TVs and can get most games upon request.

Came here to sit out on the patio for brunch on Sunday. The patio is not covered so can get a bit hot, but they have some fans going and it's a nice place to sit outside. You order everything from your phone which I'm not a fan of, since you can't ask anybody questions about stuff that's not expressly on the menu (I wanted coffee but it wasn't a menu item). I got the MIL drink which was good but they were a bit stingy with the portions--my drink didn't even fill up the whole glass and my friend's bloody mary was small as well. The potato hash was fine but the jerk chicken wings were a bit dry. I enjoyed the grits and eggs, but it was watery from the salsa. read more

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I've been to Buddy's 4-5x now and it's really a great spot! The space is pretty modest in size, but it has a chill, laid back vibe which is perfect for catching up with friends or watching a game. To my surprise, the food is actually really good as well and they have quite a few vegan options. Many of the dishes are also not totally basic and expected. For example, we ordered the nachos with chicken and they weren't just nachos with the typical fixings - there were mushrooms, caramelized onion, mushroom, corn and the flavoring was unique - I picked up on cumin, cardamom and/or possibly light cinnamon. We've also ordered the fish bites and the crab toast - both also good! Also, the owners here seem to really care about their customers always coming by to ask how things are going and if you like the food. It feels like a nice community staple kind of spot that you can count on for comfort. Definitely would recommend if you're looking for a chill spot to watch a game, grab a quick bite or both! read more

Buddy’s - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The food was amazing it is New Orleans creole infused so so I'll start there! The vibe was great and this place is very LGBTQ+ friendly. In addition to the food we loved the bartenders very personable and they kept the drinks flowing. We happened to go on music bingo night which was a great time read more

We visited Buddy's when it wasn't too busy and seated ourselves quickly. It seemed like only one person was working both the bar and servicing tables, but they did an amazing job, especially given those circumstances.The vibe was that of a standard bar but the art pieces were very cool! One downside is that you have to pay for your order at the time of submission, which makes tipping and taxes a bit awkward if you want to order more things later, like drinks, or if you're indecisive. We tried the crab fritters, blackened catfish bites, jerk wings, and vegan bowl. The fritters were incredibly dry, and the jerk wings and catfish were just okay, but the vegan bowl was the star of the show! We may go back in the future. read more

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This is a fun little sports bar that does not have nearly the popularity it deserves. The bartenders/servers are friendly and fast. The space is clean, trendy, and fun. The food options are diverse (ranging from seafood mac and cheese to tomato soup to strawberry cream egg rolls) and better executed than your average sports bar. The short rib burger is one of the best burgers I've had anywhere! We also loved the rice, fried pickles, and wings. The salad was also good, but the other food was better! I know Leo's, just a few blocks away, is a popular sports bar, but I recommend walking the extra few blocks from the train for my favorite sports bar in the city. read more

Buddy's DC is the perfect mix of good vibes, great cocktails, and delicious food. It's more than just a sports bar--it's a fun spot to hang out, catch a game, or relax after work. The menu is full of tasty dishes made with fresh ingredients, and the drinks are always on point. Definitely a place worth coming back to! Follow my IG account for Curated Google Maps list for brunch, happy hours, rooftops, parks, wineries & more in the DMV area: @yourdmvbestie read more

Cocktails were great! Service was good too. Could see this as a place to go with your coworkers for a drink or two.

Second time coming here, it's a vibe. You want outdoor seating? Got it! Indoor seating? Got it! All your local games, you a Maryland fan??? Got it! Excellent service here, great food as well. One of my wings was under cooked, but honest mistake. Gumbo with grits was , will always choose this spot for a weekend walk through! read more

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If you need a lowkey spot to catch a game, do brunch, or to just simply gather with friends this is the perfect spot. It's not the biggest location interior wise but thats part of the appeal, a decent sized bar with several tv's with a few tables opposite to it and they also have some outdoor patio space as well. I came in with a few friends looking to catch an NBA game and we were able to get a few seats at the bar. It was midday on a Sunday so brunch was still being offered, the menu provides a variety items: appetizers like jerk wings, nachos with several different protein options, old bay wings, egg or veggie soufflés, grits in several different combinations, as well as avocado toast and Belgian waffles with prices ranging between $12-$17 per item. They also have several different brunch cocktails ($9-$15) as well as mimosa carafe options with flavors like pineapple, guava, and cranberry priced at $28. I went with an order of the old bay wings and the shrimp nachos, and the guava mimosa. Service was excellent the bartender was very attentive to the group, made really consistent cocktails, and provided some great recommendations for food and beverages. The old bay wings were on point and I'm not usually a huge fan of that flavor in general but these were well cooked and had the right balance of other seasonings in addition to just old bay, and the shrimp nachos very good and a perfect portion size. Overall great experience and I highly recommend checking them out. read more

Buddy’s - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The food was delicious and the service was excellent. A great place to watch the game or catch a bite with friends. read more

Buddy’s - Blackened Catfish Bites and a side of French Fries - Sports Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Good food, great vibe and good folk, go. Look at my reviews, tell em I'm pandering or wrong, go. read more

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