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- strong af drinks - super cute, committed to the theme of prohibition era - those chairs at the bar are kinda wobbly i was afraid of falling - quick and attentive waiters
A speak easy in DC that was super secluded. We were happy to get a reservation late night and was pleased with the menu options. They specialize in all types of drinks and everything we asked for they were highly knowledgeable about them. A very smooth theme and the vibe inside was super relaxed.
Such a cool bar in Adams Morgan. It felt like such an immersive experience with the decor. I loved the menu being in the form of a newspaper, it was a great touch. The menu had a wide variety of cocktails with different spirits and flavor profiles. I ordered the code red and thought it was good, personally wish it was a tad sweeter but I'd still order again. I can't remember the name of my husbands drink, but he thought it was just okay but would be willing to come back for a different drink.
What a cool place! In DC for a conference and staying at an Airbnb down the street, this was super close and easy to find. Thankfully they had a couple of signs so we knew we were in the right place (they were subtle). We knocked on the door, gave the code word (code red - shocker) and were seated right away. The inside is just gorgeous! Speakeasy decor, Frank Sinatra soundtrack - the ambience is great. We were there for happy hour so I got the Mary Pickford and M got the Southside - both delicious and reasonably priced. We also got the smoked Gouda arancini - delicious! For dinner I got the Roasted beet, arugula, and burrata salad - the vinaigrette was very good and plenty of it. The burrata was more mozzarella than burrata but it was still good. M got wings and crispy Brussels sprouts - both very good. I ended up with the brownie sundae as dessert and M got a classic martini. Overall, very good experience - the food was good, the decor was great - we really enjoyed it.
Winter Restaurant Week 2026 First, this place is a brilliant speakeasy and the proof of that is in the abandoned storefront look on the outside, leading to a stunning decor inside. Felt like we stepped into the 1920s. Loved loved loved Next, service was excellent and the staff really did a great job with the services offered. Our waitress Christina was the best. Drinks- I was completely sold on the Southside, a perfect citrus mix which tastes great but was a sure creeper, drink responsibly. My boyfriend tried the Kinky Thompson but it wasn't his fav so he pivoted to the Kentucky Trail bourbon flight, which he enjoyed! For the first course, we both ordered the Tuna Crudo, a fresh and delectable appetizer which had some beautiful notes of lemon zest added to it. Amazing start For the second course I ordered the Garlic & Herb Roasted Rack of Lamb, and my boyfriend ordered the Surf and Turf. Surf and Turf-paired with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts, both cooked perfectly. The steak cut was seasoned well and the prawn was buttery soft. This dish was stellar Garlic & Herb Roasted Rack of Lamb-paired with couscous and rainbow carrots, my goodness, this was a culinary masterpiece in flavors!!!!! The couscous complemented the lamb by adding a break in between the savory flavors which exuded from the perfectly seasoned lamb lollipops. The carrots were seared well, not too soft and just the perfect crunch. Absolutely amazing dish Final course- we ran into a shortage of crème brûlée as sadly they ran out early, so the later dinner crowd was unable to enjoy the award winning dessert. However, they were accommodating and I was able to get a banana foster while my boyfriend enjoyed the cheesecake. My banana foster was cool, nothing to rave about. The cheesecake was also okay. We will indeed return again and hopefully we could enjoy that crème brûlée. Amazing music selection at a great level Excellent ambiance Great mature crowd Make the reservations and go support, you'd be glad that you did.
I mean, I guess? Located in the heart of Adam's Morgan Code Red is a discreet speak easy that serves tapas and specialized drinks. I made a reservation for 8:30pm on 1/23/26 for their $55 Restaurant Week Menu. Upon arrival we knocked at least 3x before settling on calling the location so they could open the door. In 20 degree weather you can understand how frustrating that was. When we got inside we could barely hear one another so it doesn't surprise me that they couldn't hear us knocking. Seating is sparse with roughly 6 tables for 2 lining the center isle, booths on the left and the bar on the right. Once inside we were seated immediately. The decor inside is very......red hence the name lol, a cool vibe for a lowkey date but don't expect to do much talking here without a bit of shouting. Took a bit for our waiter to make it to us but otherwise the service was seamless. Emelio (sp) was our server and he was amazing. We had: Tuna Crudo - 6/10 - the texture of the tuna was decent but it lacked any actual flavor especially salt. The ginger made up for it in some respects but it couldn't save it. I would've loved to take this home but am a stickler for proper food storage and unless I could guarantee they could store it properly before I left it wasn't worth the risk for me. Surf N Turf - 6/10 - Prawns, Waygu, mashed potatoes and Brussel sprouts. The prawns were rubbery, the mashed potatoes were chalky, the Brussel sprouts were burnt and overall everything lacked seasoning. I wasn't asked how I wanted my steak cooked but luckily it came out medium well and while I prefer more of a medium cook it wasn't bad. In addition to the lack of seasoning the meal came out room temperature, barely luke warm. I don't know if had been sitting or what but by the time it made it to me it was nearly cold. Mashed potatoes tasted boxed, no depth at all which was unfortunate because paired with the steak it's a staple that fell flat. Cheesecake - 10/10 - the best thing I ate from here. The crust was perfect and the cheesecake itself had great flavor. My friend had: Heart of Palm Ceviche - 8/10 Lamb - 8/10 Cheesecake - 10/10 Strawberry lemon drops 4x - 10/10 - they were delicious, no notes. However buyer beware they charge an additional $2 per drink to flavor it bringing the total to $18. Not a terrible thing but wasn't mentioned until I saw the bill and would've been good to know upfront. After all was said and done we spent $208 plus $25 tip for, what I felt, was just an ok meal. For the hassle that is parking, plus entry I couldn't see myself coming back but it was nice to try which is what the general sentiment for restaurant week is for.
Stumbled upon this awesome speakeasy while visiting DC. Walked past it twice before realizing where it was. You have to know the password to enter (code red). We caught the mid day crowd and made it just in time before the big rush. The service was fantastic. We sat at the bar, it was happy hour so we took full advantage. The star was the octopus. Everything we had was great. I look forward to stopping in when I visit again.
I am obsessed with this speakeasy! The menu is actually a fake newspaper from the prohibition days. The whole bar was dim with red lights. All of the drinks were inspired by the prohibition days with a couple classics. They also have a solid food menu and highly recommend the desserts. The server was very attentive. We had a group of 6 and were able to comfortably sit in one of the booths and it was great people watching.
I had heard of this speakeasy for a few years now but this was my first time actually getting to check it out. The entrance door is a large steel door with a knocker, a combination lock and a sliding grate in the middle. To gain access, you need to use the knocker and then provide the code word when it is answered. I, however, didn't know this so I had a great banter with the staff before being allowed in lol! As soon as you walk in, you feel like you have been transferred back to the prohibition era. The space is intimate and dimly lit with red lighting and decor all around. The seating ranges from velvet couches to other antique furniture. Luckily, because I arrived early enough and didn't have a reservation I was able to get a seat at the bar. They have happy hour aka bootlegger hour from 5-7 with both drink and food specials. Tuesdays they also have $1 oysters all day while supplies last. The menu is a presented in newpaper format from th early 1900's. In addition to the menu it is filled with fun facts from history. The staff were great! Super friendly and food and drink came out fairly quickly. I usually avoid the AdMo area due to the traffic and awful parking but definitely plan to be back to visit this gem.
The first time I came to Code Red was last summer, and I genuinely found myself counting down the days until I could return. Finally made it back - and it did not disappoint. This is such a perfect spot for either a date night or a fun night out with friends. The speakeasy vibe, the chic atmosphere, and the music (a smooth, chill house mix) all come together so effortlessly. Plus, being open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays is a huge bonus. Definitely make a reservation ahead of time - this place stays busy for a reason. From my previous visit, I remember having a ravioli dish, what I believe was a braised beef, and their sliders with duck fat fries - all of which were incredible and clearly memorable since I was thinking about them for months. The sliders paired with those fries were honestly a standout. This time around, we had to get the duck fat fries again, and they were just as phenomenal as I remembered. The cheesesteak oysters were easily a 10/10 - fresh, meaty, and honestly surprising coming from someone who used to not even like oysters. We also tried the grilled octopus, which was well-seasoned (as expected, slightly chewy), and the fried calamari, which was light, not heavy at all, and paired perfectly with the sauces. The tuna tartare was another standout - super fresh, soft, and practically melted in your mouth. For drinks, we went all in. The Dirty Diamond martini with blue cheese olives was great, though if you like your martinis extra filthy, I'd recommend specifying that. The Hemingway Special had a nice subtle sour kick, and the vanilla mint espresso martini was strong (you can definitely taste the alcohol) but still smooth and frothy. The Mary Pickford with Malibu was surprisingly delicious - almost like a mocktail. The Paloma was solid, and the Code Red cocktail gave me slight cosmopolitan vibes. But the real star was the dulce de leche espresso martini--absolutely unforgettable. What really ties everything together here is the service. The staff - from the hosts to the servers - are attentive, welcoming, and genuinely elevate the experience. Overall, Code Red is one of those places you keep coming back to. If you're looking for a stylish speakeasy atmosphere with great food, drinks, and energy, this is it.
Knock knock! What's the code? Don't tell anyone but the code is "code red" you didn't hear that from me shhh! Tucked away behind an unmarked door in the heart of Adam's Morgan DC, this speakeasy is quite the gem. From the moment you step in, the intimate ambiance, fabulous vintage decor & perfectly crafted cocktails. I felt like I was transported back to the 1920s. I had the beef skewers and a side of fries along with my cocktail of choice "MARY PICKFORD". My friend enjoyed calamari and fresh $1 oysters (Tuesday special). If you're looking for a cool experience and a sophisticated environment I highly recommend this establishment! Parking: 1/5 Ambience:5/5 Food and Drinks: 5/5 Ease of finding: 1/5 (well this is expected)
This truly was one of the best speakeasies I've ever been too. You walk through this big metal door and are escorted into a red-lit room sprawled with tree-like plants and old memorabilia. My friends and I were placed in this little cozy nook with a cool couch and great lighting which made it all that better. I got the Code Red drink and it was very tasty but also so strong so definitely worth the money. I got the espresso martini which I think is one of the best I've had. Overall, the staff were friendly and checked in accordingly and I would definitely want to come back when I'm back in DC. This place is a must!
Hiding in plain sight! This inconspicuous storefront passes as possibly vacant with a bunch of random pieces of paraphernalia in the windows that totally throws you off. Once you check the address a couple of times, you realize this has to be it! You walk up to a locked metal door with a keypad. Once you knock, a small window opens and a gentleman asks for the password. After a quick interaction, we realized the password was RED! LOL Once inside, we were impressed by this dimly lit Speakeasy. Mostly adorned in red velvet and red lighting, this could not have been a cooler vibe. Our server was amazing. She explained the theme and menu in detail. We chose the grilled octopus, truffle fries, lamb chops and Wagyu Sliders. Everything was delicious but those damn fries were BOMB!!! I couldn't stop eating them. The drinks were expertly made, especially the "Oscar's Wilde" which was delicious! We thoroughly enjoyed CODE RED and look forward to visiting again in the VERY near future!
3 years ago
My fiancé and I are visiting DC and we are big foodies and speakeasy endeavors. We had no plans coming to Code red as it was a last minute adventure. I will say that after traveling the USA and the world trying different cultures and drinks that all have their own story, this place has left a special spot in my heart. From the service, drinks the amazing supper personable security gentleman to the ownership, I'm just left speechless and totally stuns me the whole attention and dedication to detail Wow wow wow Drinks I highly recommend: The flapper, Last word, Espresso Martini read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Hi Mikhail. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a…
2 years ago
Great food and drinks, excellent service. Definitely a great time for a date or just friends gathering. read more
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Nikolas N.
Hi Matthew, thank you for visiting Code Red DC! Glad you enjoyed all…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you Surina for the 5-star review and great feedback. Come back…
3 years ago
Wow... This is one of the top 5 restaurants I have rated over the years, I have been doing this. It's definitely a place my wife and I will go back to when we visit DC. Ambiance, decor, and FOOD!! All get 5 stars! Since this was a speak easy, we immediately ordered a smoked old fashioned (see video) and a dirty martini. Then we were told by one of the owners that Oysters were $1 on Tuesdays! What?? We ordered 2 dozen on the spot(see pics). We then went on to order the grilled Octopus(see pic) and the smoked bone marrow(see video)! The oysters were fresh and flavorful.The grilled Octopus was cooked to perfection, and the smoked bone marrow started off with a great presentation, but the taste was even better. My wife and I were in heaven. But we weren't done yet!! We went on to order another dozen oysters and scallops with a lemon Risotto. The lemon Risotto was one of the best we have ever had, and the addition of the Scallops topped off a great entree. This place is the perfect place for a first date, date night, or even a great spot to start before you go out to a show, club, or whatever. It is HIGHLY recommended. We can't wait for our next opportunity to go back. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Rocky, we are thrilled to hear that you had an exceptional experience…
1 year ago
My fiancé and I tried this place on a Thursday evening, and I'm so glad we did! Great, high quality cocktails. Tasty, good priced food. Attentive service and amazing vibes!!!! Love the attention to detail with the prohibition theme. We tried a variety of cocktails and food. The scallops and lemon risotto were my favorite. Can't wait to go back and try more. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
We hope this message finds you in great spirits! On behalf of the…
2 years ago
Let me start by saying I'm in from out of town on business, and I saw online $1 oysters on Tuesdays in a speakeasy atmosphere, and I jumped at the proposition. These are things I love and I came in with high expectations. I sat at the bar when they JUST opened and I was greeted with open arms. For us industry people we know this is rare and I was very grateful. The bartender Emma was attentive, engaging, and made the experience 10x better for all 3 unconnected people sitting at the bar housing oysters. The happy hour deals are fantastic (especially for a cocktail lounge) and the vibes are great. By the time I sat up to go 1 hour into service they were packed, proving this place is loved by locals and tourists alike. DC you're on notice, I'm telling everyone about this place. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind and…
Code red is a speakeasy in Adams Morgan. It is on the Main Street where all of the other bars are, but it is still unmarked and feels somewhat speakeasyish. The cocktails are solid and the food options stay online late. The vibes are great too. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Ean thank you for visiting Code Red! Glad you enjoyed all of the…
2 years ago
Ok... where do I begin. It was an amazing experience at another speakeasy, still celebrating my bday month with my daughter, sista, and cousin. Low-key sexy to me. It was raining we were wet and the atmosphere was ready.. Btw there's a code to get in..(RED) i so loved that.....I ordered a lamb chop with cheese fries. I haven't eaten meat in 20-plus years, but I recommend it. Glass of Chardonnay, my daughter ordered some steak slices with cheese fries, needed a different type of sauce, but still would recommend it. Sista ordered her chicken and reg fried with their specialty lemon drop drink. I'm not sure of the name, but we had 4 of them sep just during happy hour. Oh, and the wait staff made it more special he was some eye candy. D" read more
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Nikolas N.
Hi S. Valencia! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a…
3 years ago
Absolutely love. One of my new favorite places. Love the people, love the cocktails, love the food. A definite must! read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you Alicia for your great feedback. Come back and visit us soon!
3 years ago
Awesome place. Love that the procedure to get in requires a code word. Great cocktails. Didn't food. But great ambience. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you George for your great feedback. Come back and visit us soon!
3 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you so much Samantha for taking the time to leave such a kind…
1 year ago
2 years ago
This is a really cool spot to chill solo. At least, that's what it was for my case. I was here for happy hour, the drink I ordered was the Mary Pickford and it was okay just a small portion that you get. But the sweet chili wings were better than I expected, as well as the pichana steak skewers. If you wanna check this place out, I hope you know the password to get in. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you Khiry for your great feedback. Come back and visit us soon!
3 years ago
We went there for Happy Hour and everything was so wonderful. Such delicious food and drinks from the Happy Hour menu. Excellent service, which is always evident that the employees all love their jobs. We were there on a Tuesday, when they have fresh oysters on the menu. Reservations are highly encouraged. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Gregg We're thrilled that you found our Happy Hour to your liking. We…
1 year ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
A new bar in the neighborhood and I'm fully impressed!! They do take reservations but we have been fortunate enough to luck out 2x during the happy hour - which runs until 7p on weekdays! Absolutely love the cocktails, ambiance, and the food is also a knockout! Will be making this a regular rotation! read more
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Nikolas N.
We're thrilled that you found our Happy Hour to your liking. We take…
2 years ago
2 years ago
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Nikolas N.
Thank you Becky for the 5-star review. Come back and visit us soon!
1 year ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
We're thrilled that you found our Happy Hour to your liking. We take…
3 years ago
Was visiting DC for business and was free looking for something to do stumbled upon code red! Very nice ambiance and service! The music was really good too it's renditions of songs we know and love and it was pretty funny hearing them. We ordered wings and sliders (I forgot to take a picture of the sliders) with drinks all were really good. Definitely would like to come back and definitely recommend for a great vibe! read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Laneisha thank you for visiting Code Red! Glad you enjoyed all of the…
3 years ago
This place is a MUST try for speakeasies. By far the best speakeasy I've ever been to. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, super friendly, and the vibes are top notch! From Arizona and they made me feel at home. Nico is the best!!! read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Hi Cheryl! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind…
2 years ago
1 year ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you Beatriz for the 5-star review and great feedback. Come back…
1 year ago
3 years ago
The speakeasy vibe was strong at Code Red, and they did a fantastic job with a birthday/promotion celebration party. Mark accommodated requests for a custom drink menu and a party-specific code word and set fair terms for the part space at the back of the bar. They also allowed for a change of date because of inclement weather. The night of - Everything was set out for us, and the server, Emilio, was ON IT. Drinks were coming out as quickly as expected in a busy bar, and he was checking in with everyone to ensure we were all having fun. Worth checking out! read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Mark Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind and…
3 years ago
This place has the most mediocre food and service. Took so long to get your food and drinks. Overpriced drinks for no reason. I can go next door and grab a beer for 5$ Upon arrival, I personally watched the owner being very rude to the staff. That why they look understaffed. I understand they are new, and they are going through some growing pain, but something have to be done about the service, and the owner screaming at the staff for no reason. First impressions last forever. I'm very disappointed with my visit. I won't be back, sorry... read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
We apologize for your mediocre experience and as you could imagine…
3 years ago
We enjoyed 2 Crystal Services. We first tasted the Old Fashioned with milder cherry smoke it was smooth and tasty. After enjoying Smoked Gouda and Shrimp appetizers for happy hour we enjoyed Crystal Service Manhattans with stiffer smoke. It was very flavorful. The service with smoke at your table side really makes it special. I highly recommend these special experiences at Code Red. It was special to enjoy this new and upcoming speakeasy. read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you for such a great detailed review Chris look forward to…
3 years ago
Absolutely amazing lounge! Came in and had a few signature cocktails and very tasteful and service is excellent and ambiance is impeccable. Totally recommend and can't wait to come back read more
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we appreciate your…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Madinah, thank you for visiting Code Red DC! Glad you enjoyed all of…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Thank you Blanche for the 5-star review and great feedback. Come back…
3 years ago
Business owner information
Nikolas N.
Kitty We're thrilled that you found our Happy Hour to your liking. We…
More info about CODE RED
2440 18th St NW
Washington, DC 20009
Adams Morgan
Directions
(202) 265-0590
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http://www.codereddc.com
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How's the late night music?
It's great, love the night vibe here. They have a dj that comes and plays good house/ techno music.
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CODE RED - cocktailbars - Updated September 2026
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