The service was great! No line & friendly people! Place look great & used space well. It long and narrow but they have a great assortment available. At the registered I joked w the gentleman who was really sweet. And I could not believe their prices! In NJ, I pay $10/11 bucks for a ten pack of Fireball shots. Here in WDC - it was $6.99! Couldn't hardly believe it. Also, it's in a great location & conveniently close to Glover House hotel. Overall 5 stars! read more

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Really great customer service. I requested that they stock Pranqster beer and within two weeks they had it.

Pearson's has a great selection of beer, wine, and liquor. The staff are attentive without being overbearing and resourceful. The prices are good for the region and is in a good location for those in Glover Park or Cathedral Heights. read more

I love it here! Everyone is so sweet and kind and helpful. They have a great wine selection and will tell you all about any bottle there (it is organized by region!!!) I was here once buying something to make a party drink with and one of the women there gave the best recommendations and was so sweet!!! read more

went in on Friday to buy a bottle of Markers Mark. Im asked what my name is and phone number before I pay. WTF? I wont be back. And the guy behind the counter thought it was perfectly normal. I wont be back. II'I'llll drive 10 minutes extra and go to McGruders! read more

The thing my friends and I like about this liquor store is the large selection of "baby" alcohol bottles. These airplane-sized doses of alcohol are in a huge barrel near the cash register, with a sign that says something like ".99 cents. You can't buy less than six. DON'T ASK WHY." Our guess about this rule is that it prevents homeless people from buying more booze. Why Pearson's feels that the homeless should be deprived of alcohol -- I'm not sure. Pearson's also has parking along the side, which is very convenient, since there usually aren't many available spaces in Glover Park. They often have someone watching the lot like a hawk, so be careful if you decide to park here and then frolic aimlessly around the neighborhood. They might tow you. read more

Pearson's Wine & Spirits - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I would avoid Pearson's Wine & Liquor - particularly if you are ordering online. They are liable to change the price of your order after it has been confirmed and then call you and attempt to jack up the price on what you've already purchased. Case in point, my recent transaction with them (see attached photos). I ordered two bottles of Yamazaki 12 single malt whiskey from them online, at a reasonable price that was roughly $5 less per bottle than in many other places online. I received confirmation of the purchase (seen in the photos). Much to my dismay, I received a voicemail about 12 hours later, informing me that the price of each bottle was more than $20 dollars more per bottle, and that there was a "problem" with the website. When I called the store and informed them that their attempt to charge me more after the confirmation was illegal, I was told by "Wine & Shipping Specialist" Erick Urbina that the price on the website had not been updated to reflect the raise in price in the store. I informed Mr. Urbina that it was the store's responsibility to update their prices online, and that it wasn't right (or legal) for them to confirm a purchase online and then change the price and demand the difference one day later (or have the order canceled). Mr. Urbina said my choice was to pay more than $40 more, or have the order canceled. I told him it was his decision, but if the order was canceled, I would be filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. He chose to cancel the order anyway. Not only is this bad business, but it is a fraudulent practice. For a point of reference, liquor stores often have large stocks and have a difficult time maintaining current prices on everything. But that is their chosen business, and thus, their responsibility. Occasionally, an item gets sold online, and the business realizes the price of the item has changed on the market. Not wanting to sell a product cheaper than the most current going rate in their market, the business will then try to jack up a price after the order has been changed. Is that what happened with Pearson's? Look at the photos and decide for yourself. I'd encourage anyone with bad experiences with this place to contact the Better Business Bureau and file a complaint. read more

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This little wine and liquor shop has an amazing selection at reasonable prices with friendly staff. I really like the charm of this neighborhood gem, which has been in business since 1933! I just learned that they do free wine tastings on Friday evenings. I will be back to sip something new and stock up on my old favorites. One tip: I really appreciate that this shop offers free parking with their own lot for their customers. The parking can be so difficult in this area, but, this makes it easy to stop by! read more

Pearson's Wine & Spirits - the outside of the store - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Let me preface this by saying that I have lived in Glover Park for three years and DC for seven. I adore Glover Park! It's a charming neighborhood with nice families that flies under the radar. When people have heard of Glover they usually associate it with one store in particular - Pearson's. Countless times, I have had co-workers and acquaintances say something along the lines of "that's awesome you live right by Pearson's!" For the first year or so I thought that I must be missing something because while the store has a decent selection and a storied history, it's undercut by terrible hours and unfriendly staff. They close at 8:45 during the workweek and if you want a bottle of wine to go with dinner you have to hustle after work. At this point, it baffles me that anyone continues to shop here. I stopped going for good after a trip with two friends - one another Glover resident and the other an old acquaintance. We went in on Sunday during a long weekend to grab some wine for dinner around 5:50. We had just been there the night before and, as my neighbor and I live so close, recognize the faces of all the workers. I would think that, after all this time, they would recognize us as well. Pearson's is never crowded so it's not like there's a flood of new faces for them to be confused by. But, as usual, we were greeted with glares from the two men working. Pearson's closes at 6 on Sundays and while we were trying to decide on a Pinot for dinner one of the workers came up behind us and loudly said "Do you need any help deciding? We're closing." As a note, there were still a few minutes left while they were open. I try not to go into restaurants because, as someone who has worked in the service industry, I understand how laborious closing down can be. But for a wine store, it should be fairly painless. We said no we were just deciding. He huffs and stomps off. Before we can turn around with our bottle of wine one guy starts slamming things around, making moves to shut the place down. As my friend checks out, he's carded, which is absolutely fine, but then while he's paying the second guy looks at the other two of us and says "show me your IDs." Not, "can I look at your IDs?" I have no problem being carded, but not only had we been in there the day before (and many times over the past three years) I got the sense from his body language and intonation that he was just trying to make our experience as unpleasant as possible. Next, they turned the lights off (it was 6:00 on the dot) and one employee waited with keys with the front door held open. As we stepped outside onto Wisconsin Ave he slammed the door shut and locked it. There is nothing particularly egregious about any of this, but the folks who work at Pearson's are so consistently cold, rude, and unfriendly that I just can't understand why it still has a good reputation. There are plenty of places up and down Wisconsin to buy alcohol. Don't give these guys any business unless you want a door slammed in your face. read more

The first time I entered Pearson's, it was like the gods smiled upon me and decided to introduce me to wine heaven. Rows and rows of shelves and racks of wine. And I saw, and it was good. There's not much more describing that I can do that the other reviewers haven't handled, so I'll reiterate. Pretty much any wine you can imagine, at reasonable prices. I have found a couple of the wines they carry for cheaper at Whole Foods and Safeway, but it's a bit of a roll of the dice. Never more than $5 difference. The people who work there have a great interest in being a neighborhood store. The first time I ever went in, one of the owners remarked that I looked exactly like a long-time customer and so she was confused when I handed her my ID and it wasn't who she thought! They like to get to know their customers and keep an eye on what items people are interested in. I'm sure they're great for party supplies as they sell ice as well. A wonderful place with wonderful people! read more

Pearson's is an above average local liquor store. They've got a good selection of wine and their own generic brand of liquour (which is cheap and disgusting.... but that's usually what I buy anyway. Quantity, not quality!) The beer selection isn't the best, so just don't come here looking for beer, it's that easy. The employees are not the friendliest folks in the world but they'll answer your questions at least. They always have diet tonic in stock which is fantastic, but I'd recommend adding limes and lemons to their wares just to make this a true one-stop-shop. Plus one star for the only easy access parking lot in Glover Park. read more

I like alcohol. I don't even think English has a word for how much I like it. I mean, I drink it ALL the time. And not just because I like it. It's almost like I have to. And when I don't drink it, I get all shaky and sometimes pass out. Anyway, this place is great for keeping me from waking up in the emergency room under the judgemental eyes of the nurses. Would get 5 stars, but (like pretty much everywhere) there a bit too much emphasis on the vodka section, and the beer selection is a bit weak. read more

Pearson's is a place that has the potential to grow on you. At first there is a sense of suffocation as you acclimate to an environment of barely controlled chaos punctuated with shopping carts full of works in progress. The staff probably has a gruffness typically associated with the late night staff at 7-11 so you don't ask any questions. However the parking was convenient; the selection appears good so you breathe deeply avoiding the cashier's gaze and slink down the aisle hoping not to break anything in the process. Pretty soon 20 minutes have gone by as you find yourself assimilating the classification system and then revisiting each section to further delve into the contents. At some point you realize that the prices are actually pretty good and wonder whether the tasting counter in the back might be self service. By now your hands are full and you slowly head to the register really hoping not to break anything now. The cashier mumbles something about an email address for their newsletter and you overcome the immediate spam spasm and acquiesce. Soon thereafter the first weekly email arrives. Their lack of concern about first impressions is reinforced as you struggle through this recruiting poster for the importance of typography education. However the casual tone is appealing, the observations are interesting and at least you don't feel the need to press your shirt before returning. You return and actually speak to the staff this time. During a discussion of the newsletter the late night 7-11 robots transform into real people who appreciate your business. Heading to the back you wonder whether the aisles have widened or your balance has improved. read more

I found Pearson's to be a decent liquor store -- great wine selection, friendly staff, and your standard bottles to choose from. Sure, the prices are a tad inflated, but it's located on the main drag in Glover Park across from Whole Foods and just a few doors down from the best BBQ joint on the eastern seaboard, so no whining is permitted. They always have a bit of a tasting happening with their very informative sommelier, which is lovely. He's also very eager to help you select something, so if you find yourself overwhelmed by the copious selection or aren't in the mood to spend 30 minutes browsing, he'll ask you a few question and help you pick the perfect thing. Sure, the interior is a little scruffy and dim, but it's an old liquor store with loads and loads of booze ranging from $500 bottle of wine to nips. I happen to find the sagging shelves and dusty windows charming, but that's just me. read more

Three and a half stars. Staff behind the counter are happy to answer questions and set aside bottles for pickup. Liquor selection's quite good, with pricing on par for DC; not quite good enough to make it into my top 5 Ron Swanson shopping stops. Sprawling wine section, mediocre beer fridges. Street parking in the neighborhood can be sporadically competitive, so it's nice that they have their own small parking lot despite the randos lounging in it. read more

Pearson's is a great place, and it will grow on you fast, but it's important to have to have the right frame of mind. First, this is a neighborhood place. Sure, there are plenty of important people who commute from other areas to buy here, but I suspect its day-to-day trade is the loyal Glover Park residents who saunter by after work or on Saturdays, drawn by the fabulous wine experiences described in the weekly emails. It's kinda like Cheers-- they won't necessarily know your name, but after a couple of visits they'll know who you are and you'll gain a standing. To newcomers expecting a red carpet, I can see why that might seem "brusque" or "unfriendly"-- but they're not, really. Second, although I don't know the background of the place I highly suspect its roots are in the Midwest. I say that because the environment is neither the curt professionalism of the East Coast nor the groovy superiority of the West Coast (I'm from the West Coast), but kind of an understated, no-bull (dare i say Protestant?) efficiency. They know a lot about what they do, and they can be plenty friendly, but they're not there to B.S. you. My girlfriend, on her first experience, came in to get a bottle of Kendall Jackson Chardonney but also told one of the employees that she was interested in expanding her horizons and learning more about different whites. Apparently the first thing he told her-- before recommending ten or twelve favorites-- was to put the KJ back on the shelf! When was the last time you had an employee talk you out of something you already had in your cart? Third, you have to think about the whole package. There are places you could go that are cheaper, at least for your standard bottle of Cabernet-- but could you sample a range of reds in your price range and take home a bottle you already know you'll like? Will you learn anything about how to appreciate wine or find out about unusual or underrated deals? For me, its worth the trade for the experience, the insight, and the community. I think they're competitively priced for an independent retailer, and I've found some great values there which I continue to enjoy. They're also flexible; I've been given an equal discount on a non-sale wine when a sale wine is sold out, or just sometimes when I'm interested in trying something. Try getting that somewhere else. Finally, the way a lot of people fall in love with Pearson's is through their emails. Steve, the Proprieter, not only uncovers dozens of new wines each week but also describes the background and full experience of the wine-- every week, year after year. Even if you know nothing about wines, you'll enjoy reading the newsletter-- and it will make you want to stop by the next chance you get. Give it a try, and you'll soon be a Pearson's "native." read more

Plain old Pearsons, wines galore top-shelf liquors that fill the store. If you come for beer, you'll be disappointed with the small array all messy, disjointed. But come for good wine, and an education They'll talk Cabernet with much elation. The prices are your normal retail variety, given the store's location in high society (Georgetown, if ya didn't know! and the rent is high) but fear ye not, and stop on by. Waiting for your table at Old Europe next door? come on in and browse the store. The liquors and wines won't disappoint. This is a winning, historical joint! PS: If you come by car, good luck I say! Their little lot is full both night and day. read more

I've shopped at this store for years and have generally had a good experience. I do think they could improve on their check-out experience though. Today I bought a bottle of wine there and said "How's it going?" to the young lady at the register. No response. Okay, maybe she didn't hear me. The purchase was completed and I was not told thank you. Then I said "take it easy" and again no response. In the big scheme of things it's not a big deal, but even if I'm not buying something from a business, a little common courtesy doesn't hurt. For instance, if you're walking down the street and a stranger says "hi" to you, you say "hi" back right? And I've worked in retail before and I know it can be boring, but thanking someone for doing business with you is good business whether it's $10 or $10,000. I work in the restaurant industry and I thank every single guest who I serve. To be fair this kind of indifference is not an uncommon thing in retail. But once, again, it takes so little effort. read more

I am pretty used to gruff employees at packies..um..I mean liquor stores so the staff here never threw me. And when I am looking for a specific wine or liquor I know I will find it here. With thousands of different wines. liqueurs and cordials at Pearsons it a virtual alcohol wonderland. This place has basically been a DC staple since the 30's. It is rumored that more than a few politicians have shopped here. So not only do you never know what you'll find, you never know who you will see here. Every time I stop in here, there is a wine tasting going on. (or maybe it just feels that way). Take a look at their website and next time you are here. ask about their "Email Wine." Right now it is a Pinot Noir which usually runs for about $25 bucks. If you call or ask about it in store, you pay fourteen bucks! read more

A couple of updates... Pearson's was recently sold to new ownership. Fortunately, pretty much everything has stayed the same including the excellent staff. Steve still pens (actually, types) the informative e-mails. Sadly, however, Mary passed earlier this year after a long battle with cancer. Pearson's is still the standard by which a wine shop should be measured! read more

Pearson's is my favorite place to purchase wine in Washington, DC, mostly thanks to the expert advice of Michael Du. His recommendations have never disappointed. Pearson's isn't the largest wine shop, but the selection is very well chosen. Numerous bottles are usually available for tasting at all times. Despite its location in Woodley Park, Pearson's has its own spacious parking, making it an easy trip. Sales and discounts occur with some frequency, and the saavy shopper will be able to get a generally good price here. They certainly aren't expensive. Although they have spirits as well, their strength is wine. I've noted that many of the less enthusiastic reviews revolve around their beer and liquor selections. Also, their parking rules (customers only) are plainly posted. I'm sure they pay a huge premium for their lot and the easy parking is a big draw, so not letting people park to use other businesses isn't unreasonable in my view. read more

5 Stars for a Wine/ Liquor Store? Yup. Excellent selection, lots of parking, knowledgeable staff. Always something to try in the back. Very friendly staff make it easy to forget you're shopping. They're excellent with recommendations and very helpful. Their Newsletter will tell you about various Sales/ Tastings. Don't miss out. read more

This is simple. Great family owners who recently sold out to another couple, so always hands on help from the owners in the wine selection. I have never had trouble finding what I am looking for here, and with special requests the staff have special ordered for me. There is a cold beer selection, large liquor section, and a great wine selection. Prices are reasonable and very fair for the location and the level of service. Mixers, lemons, limes and juices are available as well. read more

Pearson's is back in business. Well stocked and attentive service. Ask for Eric if you need anything. He's terrific, knowledgeable, and will make recommendations based on your price points. I'm really enjoying returning to this Washington staple. read more

I ordered two bottles online (one bitters, one bourbon whiskey) for very affordable prices. I called and asked when/if they would be ready today, and the man with whom I spoke said they would be ready immediately. I told him I would be coming to the store around 7:30 to pick them up. No problem. When I arrived, no one was at the register. One store employee seemed particularly captivated by a bottle of something-or-other at which he was staring intently on the shelves. Only after a few moments did he realize someone was at the store, needing some customer service. I told him I was there to pick up my order. I recognized his voice and he was the one with whom I had dealt on the phone. He looked at me like I was speaking Klingon when I told him my name and that I was here to pick up my order. He sent one of the other employees upstairs to look for my order. He then said: "Oh...Did you call earlier?" I said yes. He then said..."ohhhhh. okay". Then he looked at the printed copy of my email receipt (didn't check his register/computer to verify I had indeed purchased them) and started to gather the items from the shelves. AKA the order was not ready as promised. After finding the two bottles, he said "sorry" and handed me the bag. I give this place three stars for good prices, being clean and easily accessible but the service could be kicked up a notch from the dazed and confused individual manning the register. read more

This is one of three liquor stores I use, buying all my store-brand liquor here. Don't laugh. Some cocktails call for exotic alcohols, and you'd be hard pressed to finance a big inventory of top-shelf spirits needed for a complete bar. For example, I have one drink I almost never make that calls for absinthe. You can go to any other store in DC and spend $55 - $200 for one of the many brands sold in states following legalization of this drink... or buy a bottle of "Pearson's Anisette" (a variant anise-flavored drink) for $6.99. This store enabled my complete bar. Outside of store-brand it is a bit pricey. read more

Decent store, with a decent selection. Prices are a little high -- Juan Gil Jumilla -- $19.99 -- about 5-6 bucks more than some other stores. Their scotch prices seemed to be better and selection interesting......I would shop here if I lived in the neighborhood, but would not go out of my way...you can find other places that have as good of a selection and prices, without the funky smell and grumpy staff. read more

I agree with the post just a few below me, about the parking. Customer service is shoddy--the eastern european-ish a-hole that works there got a horrible attitude with me, because I was going to leave my car in the lot for literally one minute while I ran an errand (after shopping at Pearson's, mind you). He said, and I quote: "I will f*ck you up" (presumably if I left my car there). I am no longer a customer of Pearson's, after being a long time customer there. The guy who started with me is almost always working inside during the week, wearing a lame eastern european-ish type hat. Sad that I'll be giving all of my business to whole foods or safeway from now on, instead of a local store, but I will not deal with customer service like that. Someone needs to f*ck up the dick that works there. read more

Stayed at the savoy suites right down the road and the staff here answered all the questions i had about the area and were very helpful with wine selections. They care about their customers and it shows! read more

Pretty good selection of liquors. Somewhat geared toward college students, with low-priced stuff easily available, but also a good selection of better stuff. read more

For reasons I cannot fully explain, I sometimes yearn for the "olden days", those old-fashioned days when everyone smoked with cigarette holders and drank bourbon from cut glass decanters like it was water. A little mild alcoholism masked with black and white, '30s style glamour is what I am referring to. So, while Pearon's does not necessarily embody the above mentioned glamour, it is a throwback to the days when alcohol was more of an experience, and less of something you scrambled to buy in the 7-11. There is a distinctive neighborhood feel here, especially when a little crowd is gathered in the back, tasting and discussing wines. They even give me a discount for living in my building! All kinds of beers, wines, liquors, mixers and people come in and out of these doors. Don't be scared of the brusque manner of the clerks up front...they are actually pretty friendly if you smile or crack a joke. They will also take your bigger orders out to your car, conveniently located in the next door lot. Mostly I am intrigued by the sale items ($3 dollar packs of kools and merits up front? 99 cent airplane bottles sold in six packs? Jalapeo stuffed olives?). Too bad they close at 8:45 pm, as I am often seen running down the street full bore at around 8:40....visiting the corner deli just isn't as fun! read more

Okay liquor shop. The customer service is just not there. The parking guys out in the lot aren't too friendly (for ex. I pulled in to the lot and he came charging me down telling me I couldn't park in the lot when I was walking towards the shop!) I ended up spending well over $200 and they give me a lecture on parking? It used to be a great shop with cool staff but they were bought out and it's gone downhill since. read more

The most efficient wine buying experience. They have free parking. Friendly people who are very knowledgeable. I will be back!

Pearson's in-house wine expert is incredibly helpful! My friend and I came in with a difficult, and somewhat unusual, request but he quickly directed us to the perfect bottle. Efficiency, confidence, and accessibility make Pearson's a local gem! read more

It's a tad bit telling when I say that I ADORE this place. I love the old-school vibe, and they have a great selection of wines and liquor. They don't have too much in terms of refrigerated beer, but if you're a hardcore alchie (or like to throw parties every weekend) - the prices on their handles of liquor (whiskey, vodka, rum, gin you name it) can't be beat. My liquor cabinet is chock-full of Pearson's purchases. I love that they're down the street from me! read more

Bought a couple of single malts yesterday only to realize that they were almost 20% cheaper at Calvert Woodley. Need to do a bit of research. read more

I live right in the neighborhood at this store. I can say that they certainly do have a good liquor selection however their prices are pretty high. Forget about trying to get wine and beer at the store though. Selection of beer is very small and the price of wine is almost painful to look at. I don't mind going here for the occasional bottle of liquor for Glover convenience but certainly wont be picking anything else up. The staff is always nice and helpful. Also they have parking which is always a plus. read more

I have been a regular customer for six years. Usually one hundred to five hundred dollar purchases. Today I went in to inquire about their online sales for wine. In particular I wanted a Pinot Gris that was advertised online at twelve dollar range for a case. I also wanted a Malbec. I wanted a case of each. I was directed to Mike at the wine counter. After he stopped talking to a visitor who was not purchasing anything he asked me if he would help me. I asked about the sale, about which he knew nothing. He offered me several pages of printed out page selections, then walked me to the Pinot Gris section of the store. I asked about the online sale wines. He said he knew nothing and that it was probably an out of date web posting. I walked out saying that I would never come back because of no customer service. He shouted back we don't want you back. I was prepared to spend five hundred dollars. Avoid this place! Later...I returned yesterday on a walk to buy a handle of Famous Grouse Scotch. Two workers were chatting and not helpful. One then said "none left." No indication of when it would be available. I reluctantly took a Chivas Regal to the counter. A gentleman was trying to pay for two bottles of champagne with a credit card. An utterly incompetent woman at the register was no help. He got more frustrated. She tried again, finally she called for assistance from her colleague. I walked out. Utter incompetence. read more

Far and away the best customer experience for wine shopping in the area. Good tasting selections. Wonderful and friendly atmosphere with a great selection. Critically important--they make good and knowledgeable recommendations. Very reliable recommendations. The pricing is actually good--if--you understand their email list discount pricing. If you just walk in off the street, you will pay too much. Ask to be put on the email list. read more

Love this place - the free tastings are great and I have learned a ton about wine from the smart staff there!