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Very cute place. Happy hour menu is really good. Nice music. Diverse crowd. Kitchen was a bit slow though.
I heard good things in the past and thought I might finally check it out. It was a cool little basement speakeasy kind of bar, and the vibes were very casual. It was also a Tuesday night so it wasn't super busy, but there were definitely a couple other patrons. I loved the rice and chimichurri churrasco steak dish! Would definitely return.
Food was decent but there are some misses that I wouldn't get again. The service was really good, we sat at the bar and even though they were on their phones a lot they made sure to be aware of what was happening around the bar. I would give this place a solid 3.5 stars. I honestly didn't realize this was more of a club vibe until I was asked for my ID at the door and heard how loud the music was, but at that point there was no turning back, I wanted to try the food. As more people came in the music got louder and louder and I remember how much I liked this vibe when I was younger and it was funny how much I wasn't a fan of it now. The drinks were good I got the white flag which tasted like tamarind with a smooth after taste from the vanilla. For the food. We ended up only really looking the empanadas and the guac, I would pass on the octopus the flavor tasted pretty off. I eat a lot of octopus and it tasted like it wasn't stored properly. If you are looking for a place with a lot of energy and a slightly younger working professional crowd, it's a nice spot. I think some people were secretly smoking inside though and it ended up triggering my asthma so be aware of that if you have asthma.
I remember coming to Casta's Rum Bar back in the day when it was more of a nightlife spot, but recently I've been going for their happy hour - and honestly, it's become one of my favorites. Their mojito is exactly how it should be: super refreshing, light, and not overly sweet. I also tried the frozen piña colada, and it genuinely transports you with every sip. So good. Food-wise, you really can't go wrong. The yuca & tostones basket is a must every time - perfectly crispy with a slight tang from the sauce that keeps you going back for more. I've had both the chicken and beef empanadas, and adding a little of the sauces they serve with them just brings everything together. I was a little hesitant about the maduros envueltos en tocino (plantains wrapped in bacon), but they completely surprised me - in the best way. Sweet, savory, and honestly addictive. And the Cuban sandwich? Top notch. You can tell they've really nailed the bread, which makes all the difference. Everything also comes with a side of greens in a light vinaigrette, which balances things out so you don't leave feeling too heavy. The vibe is lowkey with dim lighting and always great music playing - perfect for a date night or just catching up with friends. The servers are always very attentive and polite, which makes the experience even better. They also have a separate smoke room where you can wind down with a Cuban cigar, and the prices are pretty reasonable. Definitely a spot I keep coming back to.
This place is odd to begin because you enter and then wind around, and then you come to a bar and you're told it's closed so continue on. But this is a well priced option for happy hour. I had a Havana Vice (I've seen it called Miami Vice normally) which was awesome. Seems like a cool place that I would want to spend more time in.
This restaurant is deceivingly large. During brunch hours it appears the patio is the only part that's open. My friend had the mixed rice. I had a taste and it was really good. It was also a decent portion. My Cuban brunch was just OK. The rice was really good but the chorizo was a bit tough. Our waiter was very helpful and attentive.
I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! I always come back for happy hour which is from 5-7pm. I always order all the food options and get the pitchers which I share with friends, but the atmosphere is so welcoming, and the music is great. A lot of people get up and dance around all night. There are 2 bars located in the entrance and one walking further in. It's half patio and half inside, but I love both sides. I wish I took pictures of the food but happy hour always wins haha However, parking sucks so bad, it's the only downside
David was a great bartender! He made sure we knew what dishes were favorites and same with the drinks. I loved both the drinks I tried (pics below). We enjoyed a few apps here, I did the beef empanadas and my boyfriend indulged in the pork belly bites. Both were superb and very seasoned, enhancing our drink experiences for sure! Looking forward to returning here soon!
While staying at the Ritz (across the street) and hanging out in the area for a Saturday night, bar hoping and dining, we came here on the way back to the hotel. We sat in their section of tables that's in an "indoor" courtyard area and the service from the lady helping us was great, so was the service we received when trying to find a table. Even though they were very busy and packed, we were able to find a table. I was not only seeking a drink, but also a late night snack. Their menu is loaded with plenty of options, including stuff to snack on, so I chose a couple beef empanadas and an order of yuca frita. The empanadas were great! Piping hot, fresh, and loaded with flavor! The yuca was reheated from being previously fried. It looked and tasted like it was reheated in an airfryer and burnt slightly on the edges, thus it came out too hard in spots with a slight burnt taste - Definitely not what I like about fried yuca. The venue is fun... loaded with rum too! Many types of rum, for those seeking shots of specific rum. Plenty of seating throughout, but they were quite busy and most of the kids (yes, I said "kids") in there looked like they were under 21... Many acted like it too. I'm too old to be hanging out in places like that. But the food was nice and so was the service.
I love this spot man!!! From the lil maze to actually get inside to first see a complete dining area to realize you haven't even made it to the final spot.. Then poof you're in the patio area which is warm and cozy.. a good amount seat by the bar but all a lot of others in the patio area. I had every drink on the preferred drink menu. David made each drink to my liking and with a flare Cuban to it.. Mind you this is a rum bar so they do flights of all types of rums around the world. They have over 200 rum selections. I waited till 4 to indulge in the pork bites... when I tell you that put me in such a great mooood! I love this place wish I was up there block from them.. definitely will be returning soon.
Came here for happy hour/dinner. The rum drinks were great and the food was authentic and delicious. We had the ceviche and three different kinds of pinchos. Great friendly service by our sever Phoebe and the other team members!
Came here last month during my week long visit in DC. It was my first time had Cuban food and I absolutely loved it! Owner was super friendly and came over to our table recommending dishes, every single one was spot on! The Beef Empanada was exceptional! This is a popular hang out place for GW students. But we came at 6pm so it was relatively quiet. We will definitely come back next time we visit DC.
Came by Casta's Rum Bar to celebrate a friend and colleague's birthday and for a little happy hour fun. Casta's feels like a hidden gem - The food and drinks are really good, making it a great spot for after work happy hours or just catching up with friends. Casta has what feels like a underground entrance that leads you down a hallway into a little Casta's oasis. Even though you're technically underground, there's ton of light and a nice "outdoor" vibe in the patio area. There's also a full dining room with a full bar, plenty of tables and a overall great atmosphere that my party really enjoyed. The service was great. We had a large group, and the staff went out of their way to make space for everyone, even adding tables and chairs as more folks arrived. Our server was really friendly, welcoming and made sure our drinks and food came out in a timely fashion. The food and drinks were really good. I tried both the chicken and beef empanadas and loved them both. The cuban sandwich was tasty as well! I will definitely come back to try items on their dinner menu. Overall Casta's is great for drinks and food with friends. I really enjoyed my time here and will definitely be back.
If you are looking for a hidden spot that's a bit divey but has a solid cocktail program this place is worth a visit. If you can find it. We went looking for it and almost walked past the entrance as it is a basement level door off the street that is not easy to see. Once you enter you are greeted by the friendly staff that direct you where to go. We walked through a few narrow hallways that let to an inside dark intimate bar and walked out to a back bar that feels like your outside but is covered. It felt like we were in Havana! Definitely a vibe. We sat at the bar and ordered a drink and it was delicious! I had a Smokey mezcal drink that was the best mezcal cocktail I've ever had. We didn't stay for food but a few people around us were eating and it looked good and they seemed happy. read more
2 years ago
Easily one of the best happy hour spots in DC. You won't go wrong meeting up with co-workers here. read more
This spot is very unassuming. There is a flag on the side of the building and it appears to be underneath an apartment complex. If you don't pay attention, you could walk right past it! I stopped past on a Thursday evening for a happy hour get together with coworkers. We were able to snag a seat in the covered patio area and it wasn't too crowded around 6 pm. I quickly gathered that Casta's is a rum lover's paradise. As a strictly wine drinker myself, I decided to take the leap and order a MOJITO! I know, I know. Who am I? It was just as good as a I remembered it. I also ordered the Cuban sandwich and yucca fries. Although it took over 20 minutes for my food to arrive, when it did, it was DELISH and filling to boot. My coworkers ordered other small bites including the empanadas and the shrimp, and the food was a bit hit. Next time I visit this spot I'll be more adventurous and try some of their other rums! read more
1 year ago
Business owner information
Nicole B.
Hola! Thank you for joining us Steve. We're delighted that you had a…
This place was amazing. Visited here for brunch and the vybz was great. The staff was very welcoming and the food was delicious. I ordered the Cuban sandwich which was very flavorful and asked for some additional mayonnaise on the side. The show stopper was was the mojito tower and bottomless mimosas. My party had a great time and we appreciate the shots on the house. read more
6 years ago
I love this gem in the city! I caught up with a girlfriend on Thursday night and it was amazing! It's such a sexy and Latin decor and vibe! I really love it. It was strange that when I booked through opentable, I had to put down a credit card to reserve a party of 2. But, whatever ..... Oscar was the amazing server and was so sweet. I arrived a little before 7pm, and he told me about happy hour. For my drink, I ordered a MOJITO. It was very good. It contained rum, mint, lime, and soda. As I waited her arrival, I ordered the CEVICHE CARIBEÑO. The dish contains Fresh wild fish cured in citrus lime with mango, pineapple and cucumber salad paired with plantain chips. I wasn't a fan of the chips! I really enjoyed my entree. It was the LAS BORRACHAS. It was BBQ pork ribs with spicy rum sauce. The paired salad with it was good but I desired more ... the dish seemed more tapas style. For dessert, we had CHURROS. They were good just a little hard. I will definitely be back. It's such a cute spot for connecting with friends or date night. read more
6 years ago
**3.5 stars** Casta's is a nice bar! As others have said, it's very unassuming. When you walk in, it's like you're underground and headed to a covert location. The vibe is very chill, with Latin music playing in the background. There's a semi-outdoor patio to enjoy the weather and have a good time. Food: We ordered the chicken empanadas, shrimp, and mojitos. The chicken empanadas were good, but different than what I'm used to. I expected with bit of cheese in the empanada, but there wasn't any. Instead, it tasted like a chicken and potato mixture - which is fine - but I wanted some cheese! The shrimp appetizer was also tasty. I didn't enjoy the mojito too much. It was more seltzer water than anything. Service: Definitely deducted a star because of the customer service. When we walked in, the hostess was rude as hell. No proper greeting, she walked us back to our table, plopped the menus at a table, and left. How rude. Overall, I would visit again...for the ambiance alone. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
Business owner information
Nicole B.
Hola! Thank you for considering Casta's Rum Bar for your Easter…
2 years ago
Food and drinks were good but towards the end of our meal 2 rats ran into the dining area. read more
Business owner information
Nicole B.
Hola! Thank you for visiting Casta's Rum Bar, Thomas. We're so sorry…
2 years ago
4 years ago
decided to come for brunch after I seen a TikTok for the mojito tower. The menu did not really entice me. I wanted a meal meal and it was giving small plates. I got a single mojito just to try it was decent could've been stronger. I settled with the empanadas which came with two. I was upset they didn't let you mix and match for $13 the empanada was good but I wanted more. My friend for the chorizo egg and biscuit. It came with two eggs but one biscuit she enjoyed it but was still hungry. It's a cute place if you have friends to get a mojito tower with but for brunch there are better places. I would like to se show dinner is though I'm skeptical. Did love the ambiance however I just went to Cuba last year and I felt the vibes. read more
5 years ago
Such a pleasant surprise. I walk past here weekly and never knew it was even here. I love that it's so quiet on the street and when you enter, you go down into a dark hallway and come out into a spot that has a cool fun vibe. Love the space, the decor, the music and menu. The service is friendly but if you have an allergy to gluten or dairy, I didn't get the impression that they really care. There are several gluten free items that are delicious. They don't do substitutions so know that if you're eating here. I have a severe gluten and dairy intolerance and I ordered the bacon wrapped plátanos, cebiche, and yuca. I also ordered a mojito. Felt fine that night and the next day. So I can speak to those items. I loved the platanos and cebiche but didn't love the yuca. It was harder and drier than others I've had. But those bacon wrapped platanos are damn good. All in all- I recommend this spot to anyone who wants to enjoy a fun, loud vibe. (If you're wanting to engage in deep convo- go somewhere else). read more
Came to DC to see the Cherry blossoms and goons this place. And OMG... 5 stars is NOT enough!! The drinks are amazing! The El Nacional was perfection. The Mojito? ... best I've ever had. The Ceviche was amazing! The empanada's came with two different types of sauce and just WOW! Also, best Cuban I've ever had! Like- call ahead and get a reservation or you won't get in- we got lucky! read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
The Cuban food here is great. The empanadas and Cuban sandwich were delicious. I also liked the chips and yuca that they came with. The daiquiri was also really good. The vibe was fun and lively and I had a good experience here overall. read more
6 years ago
The only disclaimer I have for this spot is to not go here looking for dinner. The menu isn't extensive at all. I would say this is an happy hour or neighborhood bar spot. I loved the atmosphere, the music was good and the service was great. You're allowed to smoke on the outside(I didn't know until we arrived). The outside is small so you'll definitely smell like smoke leaving out. I had a mojito and a dark and stormy with an extra shot of rum. The empanadas were decent and my guest said the Cuban sandwich was just ok. I work in the area so I'll be back for happy hour for sure. read more
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Joanna R.
Hi Brooklyn,…
4 years ago
Casta fun bar was such a cute experience! The location is kinda hard to find because there's a sign that leads you to the alley but then the entrance is a door that didn't look like the entrance. But once I found the place a cute little gem! There was no host and when we saw an employee we were told to seat ourselves. Thankfully it wasn't too crowded that this was an issue. I was concerned because I made a reservation online and needed to push back the time but no one ever answered the phone for hours after opening. You can't change the reservation online it says call- but no one answers the phone. But we were able to sit! I specifically came for the towers! The main one we wanted was not available and this was at 3pm so it musta been a hit. So we got the tower made with sparkling wine and like passion fruit. It's like $80 for the tower but what better way to brunch? Also on Sundays this and brunch is available 12-9 which is a win. We got beef empanadas to begin- fresh and good. Next i for the French toast with a side of eggs scrambled well with peppers. It was made perfectly! My soul was happy. My friend got the potato bowl and it was so well seasoned! My other friend got a sandwich which she enjoyed- that and the empanadas came with a side salad. All the food was good! We all enjoyed it! My homegirl got the churros while I ordered the plantains and ice cream for dessert. Everything was great! The tower was just so great! Three of us finished it (well two really)! The outside patio is where we decided to sit and it was cute out there- music low enough to still chat and catch up. Ambience is definitely cute- we love a trendy spot. Service was good- no true complains there :) Parking can be a hassle but this is the city! We know this. I loved this place and will definitely have to circle back when the weather is nicer to enjoy it even more! read more
5 years ago
I came here Monday night as they were having an event where all frozen drinks were $5, we got the Sexo Tropical, the Strawberry Daquiri and the Havana Vice. The Havana Vice was the best one!! We also had the beef empanadas which were really good they came with a little side of salad, dressing & dipping sauce. The music choice was great and the interior was dim lit, intimate with amazing ambiance. Our server was kind and attentive, it's a bit hard to find parking i will say. You definitely want to try and arrive at least 20 minutes beforehand because we spent 25 minutes just searching for parking and had to park 8 minutes away walking which wasn't too bad! read more
3 years ago
Casta's has been on my list for awhile and I finally made it. My friend made a reservation, so arrival was pretty smooth. I ordered the mojito which was okay, but the dark and stormy...be careful, that drink is pretty strong. My friends ordered food, mostly yuca fries and empanadas. Due to the wait time for food being nearly an hour the server gave us free drinks and double the original order of empanadas. The chicken empanadas were my favorite!!! I can't wait to go back just for the dark and stormy and the chicken empanadas. Delicious! Other than the long wait for food, the vibes were right. Folks were dancing and just having a great time. It's a great low key moment for those that don't care about the club scene these days! read more
7 months ago
Business owner information
Nicole B.
Hola Emma! Thank you so much for visiting Casta's Rum Bar! We're…
2 years ago
Food was very good and quick to come out. The service was impeccable, our waiter was so nice and attentive. He also answered all of our questions no problem! Ambiance was very nice, a little dim but it sets a nice mood. Overall, I highly recommend. read more
2 years ago
Enjoyed dining here on a Friday evening. The ambiance was great. The waiting staff was friendly and took care of our orders. I got the beef empanadas and the skewers, both were on point. The desserts and yucca fries could use a bit more love but overall a great experience. Also great drinks! read more
4 years ago
2 years ago
Love this place... a must visit if you're in DC looking for a place to grab a drink. Looks welcoming to everyone and has a place for smoking upstairs. Chris C was our bartender and was just absolutely so nice. He was full of knowledge about DC and was able to help us out. He gave us lots of insider tips about where to eat and visit. Enjoyed our time here and if we're ever back in DC we're definitely coming back! read more
5 years ago
This was a fun bar with great music but it was way too crowded. The crowd kept on pushing us around and there was no space to walk around too. However, i enjoyed the atmosphere, and music. They play a huge variety of music specially Spanish music. When we arrived the kitchen was almost closed so all they had was empanadas so that's what we ordered since we were starving. The chicken and beef empanadas were good. I also enjoyed a couple of mojitos. read more
7 years ago
Thanks to my bookmarking from the Hot & New notification, my visit here was sooner than anticipated. Casta's was our final production location & my favorite above all. After I walked through the door that was donned with the Cuban Flag & amongst the mini hall, I arrived to the Hostess area. Before I could state my reason for the visit, the lovely Alysa (Hostess & Manager) welcomed me in & ask if I would be dining inside or enjoying the outside Bar/Patio. After I shared my need for a 20 person Crew Meal, Alysa kindly offered to assist me, and proved to be time efficient & effective. The menu is quaint with Small Plates, Sandwiches, Soups & Desserts. Both the Black Hummus Marquitas & Green Plantain Soup are Vegan, with other items suitable for Vegetarian substitutions. Plates are not full size entrees, which means you can get more of a variety & are shareable. Our table consisted of Ceviche Caribeno, Camarones Al Ajillo - Garlic Shrimp, Hicharron De Puerto - Fried Pork, & various sandwiches topped with Grilled Chicken, Roasted Pork, & Ham Croquettes. One of my crew members was looking for a Seafood sandwich, but I told him to enjoy the Cuban cuisine & he could get Cajun food on the next shoot. Yet, that did make me wonder are the standard Cuban sandwiches made without fish & shellfish? Nonetheless, the entire crew was satisfied with their meal & service...extra thanks to our Servers Liam & Jurell, who were top notch. The concept, space, design, furniture & decor celebrates everything Cuban while presenting food, drinks & cigars. Although no alcoholic drinks are allowed for the crew until wrap, their rum-infused menu offers Mojitos, Sauco & Daiquiris as well as frozen options. The inside atmosphere is dimmed lighting & cozy with live music. While the outside is festive with overhead music, tv's & a colorful bar. The patio winds around one side of the building with hand painted murals on the wall by local artist Nicolette Capuano. Thank you again to Alysa & Arian (Owner) for assisting me and my crew in having a successful, food & fun filled production. Casta's Rum Bar & Cerveza Garden is definitely bringing the Cuba culture to DC's West End area. I'll be back for Happy Hour - to that end, HH is from 4P-7P with $5 Wines/Beers & $10 cocktails. read more
4 years ago
Went during happy hour and the food, drink, and service were great! Love the indoor vibes and how welcoming everyone was when we walked in. Must say: the star of the show is this cocktail drink -- the frozen strawberry daiquiri (one of the best ones I've tried and split among friends = even better!) read more
1 year ago
Sure it looks cool inside and feels like a secret location. But the frozen drinks I would stay away from. Basically frozen syrup. Food is ok. I would recommend eating somewhere else and to just go for the drinks (not frozen) read more
Business owner information
Sofia B.
Hi Joseph, thank you for your review. Our frozen drinks are pre-made…
2 years ago
5 years ago
I've heard the Casta's Sunday hype and was looking forward to celebrating my boyfriend's birthday here. While the music was popping (mix of reggaeton, dancehall, etc), there was hardly anyone in the restaurant. Not sure if it's because of the weather, or if people have truly left the city due to the pandemic, but I was not expecting an empty space :( Nonetheless, we made our own fun! Sipped on a frozen daiquiri, the havana vice, mojitos... all super strong and what we were looking for. Tried their food too (empanadas and churros) and thought they were just ok. I hope the crowds return because it has so much potential. read more
More info about Casta's Rum Bar
1121 New Hampshire Ave NW
Washington, DC 20037
West End, Downtown
Directions
(202) 804-0073
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https://www.castasrumbar.com
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Ask the Community - Casta's Rum Bar
Is there still a dance floor friday nights?
I wish I could confirm, but I'm not sure. I can easily see where there might be space for one though and I recall there being a line of people out of the door on a Friday night trying to get in as happy hour was ending. Quite possibly to dance!
Can kids go?
My bride and I enjoyed our time at this bar. Besides delicious food, we enjoyed the fragrant aroma of several patrons smoking cigars. Unaware of Washington, D.C. rules, it would surprise me if children were permitted in the environment described.…
Do people smoke cigars in the dining room?
Smoking is prohibited in the inside dining area. Smoking is allowed outside on the terrace and bar area
Is it crowded on Tuesdays? Or which day is not crowded? Thank you
We are not able to get a reservation for the night we will be there. Is there open seating at the bar?
Hi Jennifer, yes, there is!
What are some parking garages close to casta?
Hi Cree, yes, there are a few parking garages in the area.
Do they have parking or where is the closest parking to be found? Also, are Cigars avail. for purchase and to smoke during Sunday Brunch?
There is street parking right outside the venue, and the availability just depends on the time and day. Yes, cigars are available for purchase and to smoke outside during Sunday brunch! We hope you visit us soon!
What covid precautions are they taking - is there outdoor seating?
Are cocktails really $10 for happy hour or was it a typo? That's not a HH price, usually even in…
Yes they definitely are but it's because the regular price is closer to $15 for their cocktails. I believe the beers and wines may be under $10 for happy hour but the cocktails are worth it!
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