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    Off The Record

    4.1 (446 reviews)
    PriceyBars, New American
    Closed 11:30 am - 11:30 pm

    Off The Record Photos

    OFF THE RECORD ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Upscale
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Off The Record

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    Anna B.

    LOVED this bar!! The staff did a wonderful job taking care of us. We enjoyed all of the cartoon art as well, they let you take the drink coasters home which has the artwork on them. The OTR Old Fashioned was phenomenal! The hotel was also stunning!

    Perfect gin martini
    Jens J.

    We came here yesterday evening for a friend's birthday and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The stairs in the Hay Adams hotel that go down to Off The Record Bar are very inconspicuous and if you've never been there before, will have likely have to ask for directions to the bar. Service from the smartly dressed staff was polite and impeccable. The ambience of Off the Record is red velvet and more red velvet. Patrons ranged from business/political folk dressed in coats and ties to tourists in sweaty t-shirts and shorts. But from what I could see, all customers were treated respectfully. The only minus was how loud it gets in the bar, making conversation difficult. Drinks were very well made. After seeing espresso martinis everywhere of late, I decided to try one. I found the cocktail just too sweet. But it's personal preference, because somebody else at our table also ordered an espresso martini. She didn't find it sweet enough, so she had the server bring her some simple syrup to fold into the concoction. Somehow, I wasn't surprised that my espresso martini was served in a coupe glass, but I loathe coupe glasses because they are so dainty and grandma-ish. And yet they served JP his dirty martini in a sleek traditional martini glass. For my second drink, I ordered my favorite cocktail, which is Tangeray gin, a dash of vermouth (I like my martinis dry, very dry) and a splash of Cointreau. It was perfectly made and to my delight, served in a traditional martini glass. Off the Record presented our friend with a nice complimentary dessert for her birthday. She really liked it. Oh, the complimentary Wasabi peas were fantastic!

    Inside
    Iva S.

    Very crowded. Super loud! Needs to have some sound dampening to be added. Arrived at 10:30 and was told the kitchen is closed. It seemed so nice and upscale so I was quite disappointed with the service. Went here because it was right across the street from the White House and had fabulous reviews. I walked in the front of the hotel and didn't see any direction to the bar. The staff directed me to a door that led to an elevator to the bar. Unfortunately the night we arrived, they stopped kitchen service early and their webpage was not up to date with the current kitchen schedule. Staff was snooty and rude. I arrived with my mother and waited 20 minutes for a waiter to tell us the kitchen was closed. I understand being overwhelmed but a sign at the front of the bar, stating the kitchen was closed or removing the kitchen menus from the tables would have been a good start to keep the new arrivals happy. Not sure if I would visit again.

    Chell H.

    A political themed bar; so DC. Quaint basement lounge with great drinks and light bites. Great for after work crowds.

    Onion rings. Huge and delicious
    Dee Renè L.

    Small space, and can get packed if there is a conference nearby. Service was efficient. Nothing stand out but nothing to be upset about either. Good drinks and the Price for drinks is what I'd expect in that area but the drinks were not anything innovative to justify the cost to me. Unexpectedly the food was some of the best hotel bar food our group has had! Highly recommend the short rib grilled cheese.

    Table snacks. Nuts, olives, and green things that taste like wasabi !
    Nisha B.

    Stopped by, I think on Tuesday night This restaurant, is located right inside of the hotel Street Parking. Black Lives Matter Plaza! Our waiter, Mauricio, was exceptional! He was super friendly and had good recommendations! All of the Staff were very nice! There is a bar area or you can walk in for a table. Not sure if reservations are needed, but we just walked in and got a great table Ambiance reminded me of a speakeasy, but the music was a little too loud for me at times, which made everyones conversations also elevated Ceasar salad was crisp Table snacks were good! Drinks were good Bathroom was super clean and sheek!

    Expresso Martini
    Rob K.

    Off the Record is off the beaten path/hidden in the basement of the Hay-Adams Hotel. Bar has a really great vibe. I was here on a Tuesday night around 9:30 and it was very busy. People of all ages were present. Customers/employees were all extremely friendly. I had an expresso martini. Drink was not cheap but you are also a block from the White House. I can't put my finger on it but the bar just had a good vibe to it. Bring your wallet, but you will enjoy this hidden gem in Washington DC.

    Pear Martini
    Suraj P.

    This is a cool bar near the White House and a good place to stop to catch some AC and beat the heat. They have a lot of really cool and funny political caricatures around the bar. The location is fun and it feels like you are back in an old school bar. The service was fast but the prices are definitely high for what you get. They also offer bar snacks but they weren't ready when yet. I would recommend going once to check it off but that's it.

    Fries

    Went here a few days ago. Really liked the environment. The reviews are correct as far as how loud it gets when it's packed. Was a little hard of hearing at first but got used to it. Also, the service is a little slow, but I feel like that's a good thing. This place is perfect for enjoying your drinks and company. All in all, a great spot to spend either the start of your evening or the end of your evening.

    Josh D.

    So cooooool! Came for the vibe/ambience and wasn't disappointed. Odds enough - one of my favorite keepsakes from my trip is the coaster from my beer. I asked for extras just to bring home for my friends/family who are political. They are hilarious!

    I framed a few coasters
    Lisa H.

    Yes! Come to this bar for somewhat of a speakeasy vibe for a crafty cocktail & a chuckle at their funny political pictures and coasters. I got the short rib grilled cheese & iced coffee and it was very good! Service was great all 3 times I went during my stay at the hotel. 5 stars & would definitely visit again!

    Coasters
    Brian B.

    By far one of my favorite cocktail places in the US. When I come to town I stop as their "coaster game" and drinks are fabulous.

    Susie W.

    What a fun basement bar - up scale, surprisingly warm for a basement, and you might run into a famous politician. Expect high prices, but good drinks and food! Is this a speakeasy? It's tucked away in the basement of the Hay-Adams hotel, it's pretty easy to find or the hotel concierge will help! Obviously political, I loved seeing the decor - lots of political sketches and cartoons. It feels upscale and there is plenty of seating - just pricey!

    Inside

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    1 year ago

    Really cool place. Drink were really good and the art is pretty incredible throughout.

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    3 years ago

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    11 months ago

    Very interesting atmosphere. Friendly vibe from staff and people. Very tasty sandwiches and good drinks. Also open late.

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    11 months ago

    Great service. Quiet, fast, and super close to the White House met friends for lunch and could not ask for a more attentive wait staff.

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    1 year ago

    Nice spot for a night cap and cozy bar feel. Drinks were well poured and on the pricey side, but you pay for the location and ambiance.

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    3 years ago

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    1 year ago

    It was high saluting. Victor was an attentive server and the drinks and appetizer plate qe ordered was delish.

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    2 years ago

    Classic politico joint! May be busy but worth the wait... definitely try lincoln's ghost!

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    2 years ago

    Awesome little bar in the basement of the Haye-Adam's hotel. Great specialty drinks & a lively atmosphere. Lots of fun!

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    Page 2 of 12

    Off The Record Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Off The Record

    Best parking for just dining at off the record?

    Street parking, depending on the time - pay to park

    Is that bar still moved to the 9th floor?

    The cocktail bar, Off The Record, is essentially below the hotel lobby

    What time does the kitchen close each day?

    The kitchen of Off the Record closes at 11pm every night.

    Is there hh pricing?

    No happy hours prices

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    St. Anselm

    St. Anselm

    4.4(1.2k reviews)
    2.1 mi
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    We ordered the biscuits, oysters, pan fried mashed potatoes, and butcher's steak with a half bottle…read moreof their chateau de fleurie. Everything was delicious and I would order it again. We ordered the steak medium rare and it came closer to rare. Restaurant was busy at 7:30pm on a thursday. I recommend making a reservation. It was a bit loud. Service was amazing and so sweet!

    Man, places like this need to duplicate as much as they can. St. Anselm did not disappoint from…read morestart to finish! I was a solo diner for this experience and sat at the bar. The bartenders were friendly, filled waters promptly and were fast. I came in about 5pm on a Saturday and there were only 5-6 other people at the bar, but the dining area was pretty full. This place has an almost pioneer-ish vibe with all of the taxidermy on the walls mixed with like your Uncle's cabin in the woods in the 60s. I was digging it. I started with the buttermilk biscuits and pimento cheese. Wow. I could have eaten all of them. The bartender and I agreed that it wasn't a good idea. He said he did it once. I also had a mint julep, and while I normally like them, this one was a little different. The presentation was cool, but the drink was all ice, which was disappointing. For dinner I had the Butcher's Steak, medium well (should have gotten medium) and the Brussels sprouts. I'm thinking about the leftovers now. The folks next to me ordered my exact meal because it looked so good. I will indeed return! Thanks, St. Anselm!

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    4.1(403 reviews)
    0.8 miDupont Circle

    Had a delicious birthday dinner here last night. I highly recommend the mussels as an appetizer…read more The lamb Bolognese was delicious and they were very accommodating for food allergies. Service by Natalie made the whole experience a perfect night! I'll be back next time I'm in DC.

    Fantastic New American / European restaurant in a gorgeous space. I visited the Pembroke as part of…read morea work team dinner during Restaurant Week, and we were thoroughly impressed by the quality of the food, super friendly service, and great ambiance. The space is gorgeous; I love all the plants, and the light brown, light blue, and white color combination for their furniture makes the space look classy and modern. The light brown leather couches are comfortable, and I love the way they circle around the tables to create a natural, cozy booth. Our food was just as beautiful as the space. The Restaurant Week menu comes with an appetizer, main, and dessert. Given how indecisive I can be (and how expansive the normal menu is), I was grateful to have my choices narrowed down a bit. I started off my meal with the octopus. The octopus was remarkably tender and not overly chewy, and had a delightful char that gave it a slightly smoky flavor. They double downed on the smokiness with their burnt chili oil, which, alongside the lemon and salsa verde, gave the dish a wonderfully balanced smoky, savory, and slightly acidic flavor. The crushed potatoes had a lovely crispy shell on the outside and served as a great base for the tender octopus. The main course was probably the easiest choice of the evening -- I'm absolutely obsessed with branzino, so the second I saw it on the Restaurant Week menu, I knew that was what I had to get. The fish is beautifully broiled, with a nice, crispy skin and super tender, flaky flesh. It's topped with a few pieces of roasted garlic and a wedge of lemon. The fresh lemon juice, as well as the lovely side salad, offered a great pop of freshness to bring the whole dish together. And finally, for our dessert, I chose the chocolate torta. This wonderful dessert is remarkably rich and decadent, with a strong dark chocolate flavor. It's topped with a lovely marsala date sauce and scoop of sheep's yogurt ice cream, but still doesn't feel overly sweet. The sheep's yogurt in the ice cream offers a bit of tanginess, and I loved the addition of the candied walnuts for a bit of crunch.

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    The Pembroke - Nice ambiance but disappointingly fake plants

    Nice ambiance but disappointingly fake plants

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    The Pembroke - The Pembroke: they have a coffee shop too!

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    Yardbird

    Yardbird

    3.8(890 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown
    $$$
    Full bar
    Gluten-free friendly

    Tried Yardbird for brunch for the first time and had a great experience! I was seated right away…read morewithout a reservation, which was a nice surprise. My waitress was super friendly, bubbly, and really knew the menu. She gave some great recommendations. I ordered the American breakfast and the biscuit French toast. Everything was good! The sunnyside eggs were especially great, and both the sausage and bacon were cooked really well. Even the arugula salad that came with the breakfast stood out. It had a light lemon vinaigrette that I really enjoyed. The hash browns with a fried block delight. I wasn't sure what to expect with the biscuit French toast, but it tasted exactly like it sounds. biscuits turned into French toast. It didn't have that classic French toast flavor, but it was still really good and worth trying. The atmosphere was nice, pretty packed, but the noise level was just right. My waitress checked on me often, which I appreciated. I'll definitely be coming back for brunch!

    We had a 7:30 PM reservation on April 25 at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar to celebrate my birthday…read more When we called to confirm--as requested--we were informed that the restaurant had been bought out for a private event. The response we received was, "Didn't we call you already?" Unfortunately, we had not been contacted, and this left us scrambling at the last minute with family, friends, and out-of-town guests already committed to the plans. It was a significant inconvenience, especially for what was meant to be a special occasion. On a positive note, we were able to pivot to another establishment that handled our group with professionalism and care. We truly appreciated their ambiance and service, which helped salvage the evening. I hope Yardbird Southern Table & Bar improves its communication and reservation management so other guests don't experience a similar disruption.

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    Yardbird - 32oz Porterhouse

    32oz Porterhouse

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    Proper Bar - Pasta prawn dish

    Proper Bar

    4.1(41 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    Came here with 3 of my friends while I was visiting DC from out of town and it ended up being the…read moreperfect spot to celebrate two of our birthdays. It was a newer restaurant so they had adjusted the menu/food a bit from what I saw online but everything was incredible. Katelynn was our waitress and she was the super sweet and made the whole experience feel easy and special. Food and drinks were all really good, and they gave us free champagne to celebrate and then they decorated the dessert we ordered to make the celebration even better. Overall a fun night with amazing food and ambiance!

    My good girlfriend was coming down from Baltimore and wanted to meet up for drinks and light bites…read more She's known for picking trendy, cute spots, so no surprise that we ended up at Proper Bar. A few people kept asking if we were going to Proper on F St or Proper on K St, both sports bars, and up until the day of I thought maybe they were affiliated. That was far from the truth... and honestly, once you walk in, you'll get why Drinks & Food I wasn't planning to drink since I haven't really been drinking lately, but I decided to go for a tequila espresso martini, and I'm glad I did. It was smooth, balanced, and honestly just really good. My friend ordered a Paper Plane, which she loved. For bites, we shared the chicken nuggets with caviar (yes, nuggets and caviar... and yes, they were delicious) and the lemon garlic shrimp, which was flavorful and perfectly cooked. Everything we ordered hit the mark. Prices are about what you'd expect for K Street and the overall vibe. Think $20-$25 cocktails, $20+ appetizers, and $35+ entrees. Portions, both drinks and food, lean on the smaller side, which is probably the only thing that might make you pause and wonder if it's slightly overpriced. ‍ Service Service was great. Our server checked on us regularly without hovering and offered helpful suggestions when we asked. Everything came out timely, and we felt taken care of throughout the night. Ambiance This is where Proper really shines. I walked into a cute, ground-level, dimly lit lounge with an opulent bar and a man playing the piano, which set the tone for the whole evening It felt upscale but still welcoming. Perfect for a romantic date night or a girls' night with your closest friends when you want to feel a little fancy. Overall The food, drinks, and vibes were so good that I completely forgot to take pictures, which almost never happens That alone says a lot. Proper Bar is a spot I'd return to when I'm in the mood for good cocktails, a stylish atmosphere, and a polished night out.

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    Proper Bar - Lounge seating

    Lounge seating

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