I don't even know where to start. This place is clearly not ready to be operating under the new ownership. Went last night expecting a live music experience and it was a complete mess. The sound system wasn't working, there was no sound engineer on site, and somehow they booked a band without even having microphones set up or ready to go. Just bartenders there trying to figure things out on the fly. The band, Paulie Boy Blues and Scottie Blue, showed up ready to perform and got completely let down. You could see the frustration and disappointment. These guys deserved way better than what this venue gave them. On top of that, the place felt unsafe. I saw exposed fan blades with no protective grates, broken and loose stairs, and open electrical junction boxes. That's not just sloppy, that's dangerous. And unbelievably, there wasn't even water available. I couldn't get a glass of water. Basic hospitality wasn't there. If you're going to host live music, at a minimum have a functioning sound system, proper setup, and a safe environment. This felt amateur and unprepared across the board. I'll keep supporting the musicians, no question. But they should not come back here unless this place gets its act together. Right now, it's not worth it, for artists or for customers. read more

Finally made it out!! Parking can be hard to come by. No nearby metro access .Suggest to rideshare. Cute little pop up bar. Drinks were good and tasty. I had the Santa Slide. Tasty! Cool spot to stop in for quick drinks before starting your night read more

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Women, do not come to this place. There is a bartender named Eddie who had numerous phone chargers behind him at the bar. Asked him kindly to charge my phone and he said he didn't have the right kind. A guy, claiming to be a friend, upstairs insisted he had it. I went and asked again and he replied "what do you want this time?" The guy gave him my phone to charge and it was never charged. When I came back to get my phone that wasn't charged, whether it was because he had a charger or not, I was flicked off and told fuck you several times. This man was shameful and not looking at me, flicking me off. This man should be fired. I'd love for ownership to give me a call. You're more than welcome to handle this the right way. Thank you. read more

I wanted to do a holiday pop up bar and this was on a list and also recommended on Drink NOVA FB page. Plus it was only a few blocks from the Washington Hilton where I was going to an event. I got there before my friend and scored the last seat at the end of the bar. Place so festive!! But the most incredible part was the well-oiled machine happening behind the bar!!! Wow! I am now spoiled. Immediately upon arrival the bartender locked eyes to see if I was ready to order. I said I needed a minute. Instead of disappearing, he was there as soon as I was ready. I ordered the Stuffed Stocking (a bourbon-based drink with cinnamon syrup) and a woman immediately appeared and took my credit card. No open tab. But she rang me out quickly. Tip was included but I had to tip additionally in appreciation of the service. My friend texted he was arriving soon so I got his order (snowball old fashioned) and went through the drill efficiently again. Both drinks were delicious and mine was in a cool unicorn mug. Service perfect. Drinks perfect and fun. Lots of beautiful fun people in the festive mood. What's not to love? This could be an annual event! read more

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My girlfriends and I came here for our annual Christmas gift exchange because of the rave reviews of the Christmas decorations. They did not lie. This place is decked out for the Christmas holidays. We had reservations and we were seated upstairs; however, we wanted to order food from the regular menu and was asked that we go downstairs for that. While downstairs it took FOREVER for the food to come. For one of my friends order, they didn't have the correct items, so she was comped her meal. While enjoying conversation and drinks, they told us our "time limit" was up on our table, and they have reserved a space back upstairs for us. We got back upstairs and this place was packed out. I ordered the pork ramen which was delicious and flavorful. The Christmas drink I had was great and packed a punch, so to me, it was worth the price. I would come back during the Christmas Holiday's just off the decorations alone! read more

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What a fun Christmasy place to grab a fun drink and a sushi roll!! Dragon roll was yummmy. I really enjoyed my Rudolph's replacement drink as well. Comes in the cutest cup! If you love Christmas, drinks and sushi, definitely stop by! Wings were something we probably won't order again. Service was great but we didn't go at prime time. Definitely recommend a reservation if you're going anytime after 5pm. read more

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This bar has removed everything I liked about it. No more cocktail menu, no longer have the upstairs space open on weeknights. I went and tried out the pool tables but in no way did their presence compensate for what was lost. I will have to try the holiday pop-up this year to see if it can remedy my sore feelings. read more

Went last night for their Christmas pop up bar. Of course it was packed. But they do Christmas up! Like Christmas threw up! It's a cute, great spot to get your pictures! I had the unicorn drink, I'm not gin drinker but it was tasty and the mug is cute! If you can make a reservation, do it! We did not, so we were standing for a bit but then Anthony who was working came over and helped us. Helped my pregnant friend find a seat. He was amazing, that man deserves a raise! We didn't eat so that's why 4 stars, I need to go back and try the food when it's not the Christmas pop up! read more

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Went here for the Miracle Pop Up. The pop up takes place on two floors. The first floor (which is really the second floor of the building) is where most of the seating is, the bar, and restrooms. The floor above that has a pool table and more limited seating. This pop up is such a fun and cute place. It really gets you in the Christmas spirt. To drink, we got the Christmapolitan, Elfing Around #2, Marshmallows & Unicorns, and Koala Cooler. The drinks were good and hit us pretty quickly lol. The Bartenders were also really nice here. We went early afternoon on a Sunday, so I found parking rather easily, which is not the norm for Adams Morgan lol. There's also a nearby pricey parking garage. read more

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Fine place to grab drinks but not great. It was pretty empty for the evening. Drinks were good but I didn't love the ambience.

This review is for their Xmas pop up. First the decor is super cute. Very much the type of place to take some cute pics and I cannot even imagine the time it would take to put all the decor up! Drink were decent. The yippee ki yay is STRONG. Like this packs a punch. The marshmallow unicorn drink was interesting but pretty good! All drinks are served in a cool cup too. It is pricy though so that's something to be considered. read more

MIRACLE POP UP REVIEW ONLY We loved the Christmas pop up! My group of 6 tried almost all the drinks and loved basically all of them! I've forgotten the names but you can't go too wrong. The mint drink, we agreed, was the most interesting. It was sweet but also kinda spiced. The shots come in adorable Santa shot glasses. The server was very helpful with our bills and dietary accommodations. read more

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I was visiting DC with my mom and wanted to find a bar with vodka and French fries. A friend recommended Death Punch to us because he said the bartenders are very friendly. That was the perfect reason to stop by. We sat down at the beautiful wooden bar top and ordered drinks. They were not able to make a martini before 5pm so my mom enjoyed a vodka soda and I had sake. My mom asked for her drink to be made extra strong and the bartender definitely poured some extra love into her glass. Our bartender was so kind and charismatic. He showed us the bouquet he bought his mom for her birthday, and told us about himself. My mom and I love when bartenders interact with the guests and he did not disappoint. We ordered the Schichimi Fries without dipping sauce so they would be vegan, and we were blown away. We have never had such well seasoned fries before. The dining experience was simple with just fries and drinks, yet the atmosphere and employees made it a very special experience. My mom said she would never have stepped foot in a place called Death Punch, and now is already excited to come back for a visit. read more

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Stopped by their Christmas pop up and it was a hit! I enjoyed the menu items as well as the decor. Opted to sit at the bar, as they had just opened. We tried the "naughty shot", which went down really smoothly. They even have glasses for purchase, which was a nice touch. I'd love to see how upstairs is decorated and order some of their speciality cocktails before Christmas. read more

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Stopped by this Christmas themed pop up bar around 3pm on a weekend. It wasn't very crowded but we still made a reservation ahead of time- which I would definitely recommend on a weekend or after 5pm. Each drink comes in a different holiday themed mug! We orders food from Shibuya and we were pleasantly surprised with the amount of food they were offering! We tried two different sushi rolls (spicy tuna and shrimp tempura) which were fresh and delicious! We also tried the wings but honestly were underwhelmed. They were cooked well with a crispy finish but the flavor was lacking. I would recommend trying the sushi but skip the wings. Great place for a Christmas photo op and some drinks! read more

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Went to get the late night $20 drink deal. It was chaotic and hard to get a drink. Bartenders were trying their best - they needed help. The bar was also packed so moving around was tough. Music seemed extra loud but there was a dance floor! Not accessible- there are stairs into the bar and it's really tight. read more

This review is based on their holiday bar... the Miracle Pop Up. But.... omg, yes. I absolutely LOVED the decor there! Ceilings covered in lights, big Santas and nutcrackers and elves... such a vibe for the holiday spirit. The drink choices, though unable to be modified whatsoever, were tasty. I forget the name, but mine was a green, minty, creamy drink that was delicious! I didn't plan on starting with dessert, but oh well! Looking beyond the holiday decor, the layout was nice! There was a pool table that was off limits because of holiday stuff, but I'd love to play some time! I eyed some plates as I looked around, but I didn't get any food myself. Everything looked great! Bathrooms were also very clean. I'll return at a normal time so I can see how the true Death Punch is! It might be a while, I'm hardly ever in AdMo XD! read more

The ribs! Get the ribs. Fall-off-the-bone good!!!! Now that we got the ribs out the way, I visited another time during their "Miracle at Death Punch" holiday pop up and really enjoyed the aesthetic Christmas vibe. The Christmas Cricket cocktail (contains an attractive taste of Pandan) and Christmapolitan would be my drinks of choice. As for food, get their Chutoro or any of their Fatty Tuna sushi or the flame-grilled wings; phenomenal! Their menu has a decent amount of options and always rotating so this place is definitely worth multiple trips. read more

What a beautiful Christmas atmosphere! The staff are super friendly and all decked out in festive attire. I love it when everyone participates! The waitstaff encourages punctuality and are excellent at explaining the menu. We had drinks. Nice strong pour and very smooth interesting combinations. We Christmopolitan, Naughty shots, Marshmallows and Unicorns, and Rudolph's Replacement. I tasted them all. My favorite was Rudolph's Replacement. Go order food. The trays going by looked delicious! read more

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The Christmas themed decorations were super cute! Loved the holiday themed drinks! If you're hungry, Shibuys restaurant is located right downstairs from the bar. Ramen was super good! Would def recommend! read more

Death Punch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Second year we've gone to the Christmas pop up Death Punch presents and it's just gotten better. This year, even though there was a mix up with our reservations, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us, which we super appreciated since we were in full Christmas fancy dress, and not being able to get in would have been a let down since we would have looked like clowns anywhere else. The food was great, the drinks are fun and served in creative ways in festive glasses and mugs. The staff does an incredible job especially considering how crowded it is and how difficult it must be to make sure everyone is taken care of and served. One of the highlights of our Christmas season - thank you Death Punch ( except that one guy who intentionally made me lose whamageddon ON PURPOSE - we'll meet again, good sir, and my revenge will be mediocre!) read more

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I feel like you have to go to at least 1 holiday bar before the season is over. I gave 3 stars because the drinks were not really good & the staff/bartenders were not friendly at all. I really enjoyed the Miracle bar when it was at a different location in DC a few years ago. read more

Death Punch - a christmas drink and a book on a table - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This place smells terrible, and our server seemed high. Ordered a hot drink and it was pretty lukewarm and overpriced. Can't tell what it was that smelled that bad, but someone else in my party brought it up first (I was not going to say anything). Fish? read more

This is a review for their pup holiday bar. The decorations were cute with Christmas lights, balloons, and a giant Santa you could take a photo with. The drinks however were just ok, they sounded way better than they actually tasted. The naughty and nice shots were horrendous, I would avoid them. read more

I got the opportunity to check out this bar located in Adams Morgan this previous weekend and it was a cool experience. I was here for a friend's bday and so currently they have their "miracle at deathpunch" holiday pop up going on and it was a pretty festive environment, nice decor, and a large turnout of customers overall. We were upstairs where there's the bar and then a sectioned off area you can reserve with couch seating and upstairs in that same area pool table. They have a holiday cocktail menu which features various festive drinks like the "Christmas cricket" and the "Christmapolitan" with cocktails priced at $18 per drink. I was able to try the "Elfing around #2" which was a champagne based drink probably more of an acquired taste, felt like an enhanced sangria but overall decent. I also tried the "snowball old-fashioned" (my favorite between those 2 options) which was pretty smooth and the gingerbread added a nice touch to the more traditional ingredients. Food wise this placed is tied to a Japanese eatery called Shibuya which has a variety of ramen, bento box, and sushi options but this bar only offers a limited few items from that menu. Due to the event we were able to try out some chicken sliders, beef sliders, and pork belly sliders all of which were really good with the beef sliders being my favorite of the 3. All in all the service was great their was ample staff, very courteous, and capable of handling the group's orders as well as maintaining the huge crowd that continued to come in as the day progressed. I'd definitely recommend checking them out before the pop ends. read more

Death Punch - Elfing Around #2 cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The atmosphere was fine but this place was out of multiple food items. Ordered a chicken sandwich to be later told it was also out of stock. We never received our pretzel and fries after 50 minutes. Also be aware, the tip is included and not disclosed. We tipped additionally giving way too much for terrible service. Do not recommend and will not return. read more

Really enjoyed my night out here for the Miracle Pop up review!! If you want to get in the holiday spirit, this is the place! It's decorated from head to toe, with everything from lights to a Santa statue to the drink vessels holiday-themed. It's so cute! I didn't order an alcoholic drink, but I asked for a mocktail. The bartender whipped up something fruity and sweet, which is my favorite kind of drink!! We ordered a ton of food, which is an extension from the Shibuya Eatery. Kobachi / Small Plates: Just going to say, all of the grilled vegetables are super good! you can't go wrong with any of them! I tasted the Crispy brussel sprouts, the Local shishito peppers (which were actually spicy for me!), the Grilled heirloom carrots, and the Grilled Florentino. This was the least friendly small bites to eat, at least without a knife. They come in big pieces and may small stems. The Sandos, Sliders version The sliders were okay. I liked the Tori sando - the fried chicken sandwich, although it feels like you're tasting a chicken nugget in it (left with a lot of bun while you can eat the chicken in one bite). The ShiBurger was pretty good, their version of a smashburger. This place is definitely one you go to for the vibes, not necessarily the bar food, but the food is pretty good to enjoy with your drinks. read more

I love death punch with my whole heart always try to get my friends to go because they play r&b Nicki Minaj rap Afro beats and the DJ always plays requests if they're lit death punch is the best place ever the bar also was nice enough to also charge my phone this place rocks read more

A really cool spot with great vibes. Came on a Friday night and sat upstairs. It's super loud so if you're looking for a dinner where it's easier to chat it's best to eat downstairs at Shibuya. Regardless the upstairs bar, Death Punch has a really different alternative vibe and they play really great music with a mix of rock, punk, indie, etc. The cocktails are hit or miss depending on what you get but they have a great sake list and full service bar as well. As far as sushi goes, it's not bad. I had the rainbow roll which was really fresh and a seaweed salad which was really yummy. Service is awesome and it's overall a good vibe. Not sure I'd come back for dinner but would definitely come back to hang out and have a beer. read more

Cool little upstairs bar to Shibuya with great vibes, good service, and some very tasty food. But most importantly, $20 for open bar or $5 per drink for happy hour 4PM-6PM and 10PM-12AM EVERY DAY! I don't know how this place is staying open with those deals but I am not complaining. read more

Shout out to Tom! He had the best recommendations and makes bomb drinks! We went on a Tuesday pretty quiet they started trivia night (forgot what time), there's about 20 questions with a break halfway through so, be prepared for a time! We learned some stuff we'd never done it before! I had sushi and my friends had ramen which was amazing (Braised short rib ramen) the combination rice was pretty salty didn't care for it too much. Nice spot for a Tuesday! read more

I'm going to be specific in terms of the holiday spirit there. The Christmas decoration is charming, definitely for friends and family pictures, and the drink mugs are so cute, too. The food was not that tasty and was overpriced since I asked for a vegan side; also, the service was not the greatest. The waiter was rude and not open to adjusting dishes upon request. read more

My sister and I decided to check this place out, as we love anything Christmas related, especially bars to go over the top with the decorations. And miracle at Death Punch did not disappoint! We went on a Thursday evening (definitely make a reservation in advance) and were blown away by how amazing it looked! Totally gorgeous and set the mood for a wonderful evening celebrating the holidays! My sister got the Santa's Little helper, which she thoroughly enjoyed, even though it tasted a bit like licorice. As someone who loves rum and hot drinks, the hot buttered rum was calling my name. Absolutely delicious and I love that it came in a Santa mug. Overall the drinks were a little pricey, but you're paying for the atmosphere on top of that. I think this will definitely have to be an annual tradition to stop by! read more

Death Punch - Santa's little helper, hot buttered rum - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I came here with some friends on Sunday night around 5:30 PM. The bar was already packed and I highly recommend putting down a reservation for the bar or their downstairs restaurant. Since it was a group of 6 people, I asked to make a reservation for their Shibuya restaurant and was told it would be 1 hr and 45 min wait which was fine. They told us we could access their bar without a reservation and we managed to find a table for 6 people there. Since they were busy we didn't know the table was reserved and we took up the spot using a QR code to order food to the table. They have a limited bar menu and plenty of christmas cocktails. I got the mulled wine which was delicious and we all shared french fries, brussel sprouts, chicken wings and karaage. All came out delicious and we ended up moving to the main restaurant downstairs. Shoutout to one of the red hooded staff - he was super helpful and I know he was busy managing orders and reservations. The downstairs restaurant was quieter and we had a larger menu of various japanese food. I opted in for the Bara Chirashi which could easily feed two people. Sushi was fresh and you can also order drinks as well. read more

Death Punch - Mulled wine in a sant cup - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Ok so let's get straight into it, this spot is my absolute FAVORITE spot for Japanese cuisine. I've actually reviewed their eatery before, and have revisited several times off camera!! This time I'm chiming in on their trifecta of establishments. Located at 2321 18th St., N.W. Washington D.C. you'll find a building that has 3 unique spots in one!! You have top chef@darrennorris whipping up your favorite, authentic meals Japanese meals (downstairs) @shibuyaeatery, AND he's adding finite touches to your delectable fine dining experience one level up @shabuplus!! Hold up, don't go anywhere, it's no need to...ready to get your 2 step on with some craft drinks & billiards? Well, go to the top level @deathpunch bar to party with a DJ spinning everything from classic R&B, old school hip hop, Afro-beats, and more!! Ok Shibuya's menu has your favorites like their handmade 8 piece Sushi Rolls (from spicy tuna cucumber $10 and Fresh jumbo lump crab California rolls-$12), on down to their Fresh hot or cold noodle. Please visit www.shibuyaeatery.com for their vast menu. So Shabu plus has menu items like Butter Poached Lobster Sunomono (A Japanese cucumber salad with cucumber, beets, salmon roe, and black sesame tuille), and their Binchotan Grilled A5 Wagyu Top Sirlion (with Koji cured red cabbage, crispy Japanese yam, and Beef Jus). Menu item here are seasonal and subject to change, and you'll have to make reservations. So I copped Shibuya's Vegetable Yakisoba Noodles (pictured-stir fried egg noodles with carrots, onions, scallions. Snow pea shoots, green beans, ginger, and garlic $14), their specialty Futomaki/ Veggie roll & Avocado (pictured-sushi-$10), and their Koji cured chicken thigh skewer with wasabi (pictured-$5). Look...this is my GO TO!! STAMP EVERYTHING!!! Trust me!! GO THERE!! I have yet to go to Shabu plus, but judging by how it's consistently packed, it's a go to as well. Don't be leery of the name "Deathpunch"...it's the best Bar you've never herd of!! GO!! GREAT MUSIC & DRINKS!! You might just meet a handsome, debonair moonlighting food reviewer at the front door too!! That's it. www.Shabuplus.com www.Shibuyaeatery.com www.Deathpunchbar.com read more

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Great happy hour spot with $20 unlimited 4-6pm weekdays or $5 drinks. No food specials, but very tasty! the hamachi scallion roll was super fresh and our wagyu ramen had delicious broth! Would definitely return here. Also, our server Mira was on point! read more

Death Punch - Wagyu ramen - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

First time to this bar for the miracle pop up and was very disappointed in how this place handled everything. First off let start with the bar ordered two drinks and they added a 20% on top of my total without saying anything. Then I get to drink out of a fancy mug that you can't even keep 47 dollars for two drinks and the mug goes back... lastly there is a chick that goes around and is like a seagull after these mugs I put my drink on the table to tie my shoe and she tried taking it. I said I am not done with this and she replies back with next time I come around I'm taking it. Who is she to tell me when I'm done with my drink. Place is cool but not worth my money. read more

Amazingly cute Christmas bar ! Great staff and even better vibe. Make a reservation if you want a table!

I visited Death Punch for the Miracle Pop Up Christmas Bar and was unimpressed. The bar area is the size of a hallway. The drinks are decent but overpriced and it was a strong smell of sewage in the bar area. The hostess and server was very rude and asked for us to get up from open bar seats because other guests were "waiting". In all, there are much better smelling bars in DC with Christmas themed cocktails that are better tasting and have reasonable prices. Skip this one! I hope Miracle Bar finds a different venue in DC next year. read more

Death Punch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

So we were here for the pop up Christmas thing and apparently I made reservations for the wrong thing. I wish they had a link solely for the event. Regardless the sushi was pretty good and so was the service. I would have given it 4 stars but there was no way for me to tip the sushi chef which I thought was weird. I was able to find an atm outside and take out cash for him. Being as it's Christmas Eve I feel like there should be an option to tip who made our food. Hopefully there work this out. read more

Death Punch - Dragon roll, eel roll, rainbow roll, spicy tuna - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia