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    The Mirror

    4.1 (258 reviews)
    ModerateCocktail Bars
    Closed 5:00 pm - 2:00 am (Next day)

    The Mirror Photos

    THE MIRROR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Hipster
    Casual
    Trendy
    Intimate

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    Entrance
    Melissa G.

    Been wanting to check out this speakeasy for a few years now. Decided to come right when they opened on a Sunday. Was hoping to luck up on parkling and I did. The entrance is down a set of stairs and through a mirrored door. The space is small, intimate and dark. There is someone at the door to check your ID. There are a couple of high tables, bar seating and couch seating in the space. They do not take reservations and seating is first come, first serve. I was greeted immediately upon sitting at the bar and decided on the Air Mail drink. It was light and refreshing. It was pretty chill since I was the first one there. In the background was old school hip hop which is right up my alley. They also have homemade fireball and lemon drop shots. The bartender allowed me a sample of the fireball and it was strong and much better quality than the bottled fireball. No food is served here and no outside food is allowed. Your only option is Lays potato chips.

    Entrance! The mirror is actually a door!
    Breanna T.

    Cool experience? Not so much, not sure what really made it a speakeasy aside from the entrance. Drinks? Not so much, Typical drinks that you can get anywhere. Be sure to not take any flash pictures or use your flash! It's very dark in here but I think that's the "mood" they opt for. Lounge type area, but the music is so loud you won't be able to actually talk. Would I go back? Yes but only for happy hour. $17 for a drink and it wasn't even good :(

    Keilon L.

    It's the feel of a dive bar in a speakeasy style setting with cocktail named drinks and accompanying prices but lacking a bit in the craftsmanship aspect. Service is pretty prompt at the bar considering how crowded it can be so that's a bonus.

    Contemplating existence with my Corpse Reviver #2
    Jeff N.

    When you think of a hidden speakeasy where you wouldn't know it was there unless you did your research or heard from others, The Mirror is it. From the inconspicuous location on K Street to the cool way to enter the bar, the Mirror offers excellent cocktails with more than a couple NOLA-originated as there seems to be an emphasis on that area for inspiration. From the Westin in City Center where I was staying, The Mirror is about a 10-minute walk, going down Vermont Avenue a couple of blocks before turning onto K Street where you will notice a green canopy that reads, "Vieux Carre." Upon going down the flight of stairs to the basement level you will find a fairly rough exterior with a "for rent" sign hung next to... you guessed it... A wall-sized mirror that stretchers from near ceiling to near floor. This mirror serves as a door. Hence the name of the bar. Upon pulling the door open from the right-side frame, you enter a dark world with the bar wall providing the main light source. Yes, you have other subtle dimly lit ambient lighting whether from a chandelier in the lounge area or from the candles on the bar or the track lighting on the ceiling. However, the bar area is mostly dark as your eyes adjust and take in the hidden mystique. Grabbing a stool at the bar, I glanced at the cocktail menu sign and the laminated menu on the bar. Between the two, the Mirror offers a variety of different cocktails from classics such as Aviation, Old Fashioned, Moscow Mule, Paloma, and Tom Collins to Prohibition-era specialties like the Lion's Tail, Fitzgerald's Neighbor, and Sunflower to NOLA-originated treasured recipes such as the Sazerac, Vieux Carre, and the Corpse Reviver #2, I opted for the latter. I enjoyed the Vieux Carre and Corpse Reviver at the bar, my buzz ever increasing from my previous bar I had attended around the corner. I couldn't tell you what music was playing but "Twenty Four Hours" by Joy Division kept playing on repeat in my head as I stared into oblivion sipping away on the couple of cocktails throughout my evening. The bartenders were great with the one who served me made sure I had water (I certainly needed it as the drinks were strong -- if you know the ingredients or at least read what is offered on the laminated menu). The service was expedient as the bartenders were constantly slinging cocktails in the tins. They run a great operation behind the bar and the drinks came out in good succession. I would return in a heartbeat when I am in DC again so I can enjoy some other cocktails under the dark ambiance of this splendid speakeasy behind a mirror.

    Entrance is at the bottom
    Marietsy P.

    It's a dive bar and everything is dark inside with low lighting. There were 2 bartenders who were friendly and helpful. We went before it gets dark and good thing because it's hard to find and the top floor is unoccupied. The bar is downstairs in the basement. I don't believe there was a snack menu but there is a restaurant next to the empty office front on the street level if you get hungry.

    Outside
    Susan L.

    Very interesting location and hard to find. A little intimidating until you finally find the way in. You would never guess there's a bar there! The drinks were pricey and the bartenders were not too friendly. I would've enjoyed it more if they had been more welcoming. I would recommend if you want to experience a speak easy.

    You can hear the music from the stairs. You can feel the vibration on the wall.
    Ed G.

    The mirror. I love a speakeasy but this wasn't that. It was hidden and I loved the hunt for it but that's where it ends. Inside is way too loud. Where's the intimate experience where the atmosphere speaks for itself. The drinks weren't anything special. A step above rail drinks where is this plus this, they have the classics which I can make easily at home. I'm talking a margarita, Moscow mule, martini, etc at an upscale price. When we visited, there was room at the bar but after perusing the menu, I got 1 drink to try it out and dipped. The mirror could be better and has potential but I see it as just another "spot" . Finding it is the best part of the mirror.

    Charro's kick
    Shari D.

    My boyfriend saw the mirror on Instagram and kept saying we should check it out. We stopped by here on a Friday, right before happy hour ended and had the chance to enjoy some of their cocktails. At first you have to give it a minute for your eyes to adjust however once you do, it feels like you are somewhere in NY, or Chicago. Honestly, their cocktail Menu is one of the most unique I've seen in a long time and it really offers something for everyone.

    Bar
    Emily H.

    Fun spot with good drinks and a decent happy hour. Staff were friendly and will gladly give you a recommendation if you need it. The lighting is low, but lights are located below the bar so you can read the menu!

    Ameena A.

    Stopped in here for a drink after dinner, and absolutely loved it! It's under-assuming and likely underrated. I thought the drinks were delicious (slightly pricy but you're in the heart of DC), the bartender was friendly and had good service, and the ambiance is cute. I will say it was very dark and many people had to use the flashlight feature on their phone to use the menu, but I didn't have a problem with this at all! I put the light on, got my drink, and then enjoyed my night in the dim light.

    Vodka Tonic

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    3 years ago

    Very good standard drinks here! Dim-lit but a great speakeasy vibe. Very intimate and good for a date!

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    2 years ago

    This was a really fun speakeasy bar. The mirror entrance is cool and they have really great drinks. Would definitely return here.

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    3 years ago

    Pretty cool. Excellent drinks. Excellent. Low key and good vibes. I would return when in in the area

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    Page 3 of 7

    Ask the Community - The Mirror

    How is the vibe on a Monday?

    Busy and loud

    Do you have live music? If so, when? Cover?

    There was no cover charge when I went. This place is very small and intimate so I doubt they would ever have live music.

    Do they do weekend happy hours? If so what is the deal?

    Happy hour is only from M-F.

    Are they open until 2am now or are these pre-covid hours?

    We are open until 2 am on weekdays, and 3 am on weekends — we’d love to make a craft cocktail for you, come on by!

    What time is happy hour?

    5-6 (maybe 6:30?) I think it's $3 off cocktails/beer/wine

    Is this a cash only bar?

    Nope, they take cards and will open a tab for you

    Do you need reservations?

    No, but good seating will get grabbed early

    View All 13 Questions

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    CR NoMa - Swordfish Nicoise Salad

    CR NoMa

    4.4(216 reviews)
    1.5 miNoMa
    $$

    This was one of the best meals we have had!! We will return before our vacation is over with!…read more We had the chicken kabobs, lamb shawarma wrap, and kids burger. Everyone was pleased. Editing to add: we ended up eating here 3 times on vacation. Can you tell we loved it here! Highly recommend!

    A Wonderful Sunday Brunch at CR NoMa!…read more I visited CR NoMa for Sunday brunch and really enjoyed my experience! CR NoMa is a Moroccan-Israeli scratch kitchen featuring Middle Eastern and North African flavors. I love that it feels like a relaxed neighborhood spot while still being stylish and sophisticated. FOOD: I ordered the Traffic Jam Breakfast, which comes with scrambled cheesy eggs, a hash brown, and cornmeal-crusted French toast with maple syrup and raspberry glaze. Since I don't eat pork, I swapped the bacon for crispy lamb, and everything was delicious! The French toast was definitely a highlight, especially with that raspberry glaze. I do wish they offered another traditional breakfast meat that isn't pork, like chicken or turkey sausage. The crispy lamb was a great substitute, but having another non-pork breakfast option would be nice. DRINKS: I did the $24 Bottomless "Make Your Own Mimosas," which I thought was a great deal! Instead of constantly waiting for someone to refill your mimosa, they bring bottomless bottles of sparkling wine with a selection of juices, so you can make your mimosa exactly how you like it. They also offer a $45 Deluxe Bottomless option that includes the make-your-own mimosas plus CR Bloody Marys, Micheladas, draft cocktails, and Old Time Lager. An entrée is required for either bottomless option, and food is purchased separately. SERVICE: Our server was wonderful! She was attentive, kind, and accommodating. I explained my dietary needs, and she had no problem allowing me to substitute the bacon for crispy lamb. I really appreciated how easy she made it. ATMOSPHERE: The restaurant is surprisingly spacious! You really can't tell how big it is from the outside. I loved the modern rustic décor, beautiful natural lighting, and relaxed but sophisticated feel. It works perfectly as a casual neighborhood brunch spot but also feels like somewhere that could easily transition into a lively dinner and drinks destination. The broader menu features Middle Eastern and North African flavors, including fresh brick-oven pita and house-made hummus, plus craft cocktails. They also offer happy hour and weekend brunch, so there's plenty for me to come back and try! PRICE: The prices are very reasonable, especially for the portion sizes. You get a good amount of food without brunch feeling unnecessarily expensive. And $24 for bottomless sparkling wine and juices in DC? I'll take it! Overall, CR NoMa delivered a wonderful Sunday brunch experience. Delicious food, attentive service, a beautiful space, good portions, and reasonable prices. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu!

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    CR NoMa - Seating area near the front of the restaurant

    Seating area near the front of the restaurant

    CR NoMa - Chicken Kebab

    Chicken Kebab

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    Flight Club D.C - At Flight Club Social Darts, cutting-edge tech meets an elevated menu of shareable snacks, cocktails, and curated beers.

    Flight Club D.C

    4.4(60 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$
    Free WiFi
    Vegetarian friendly

    I booked reservations on line for two people Saturday 1:30 which was $15pp. the time slots after…read morethat were $17pp. We took a little longer then expected to find a parking spot so we arrived 10 mins late to our booking time. The staff was so nice they slid our time slot by 15 mins so we could keep to the 90min total duration. We were quickly taken to our bay and was provided instructions on logging in to the system and selecting the games etc. the games were sooo fun! It really showed our competitive spirit! There were lines on the ground denoting your level of expertise so it's customizable to your skill level. We order a few drinks which were delivered quickly and tasted fantastic! The decor and vibe was so awesome!! There was so much to see and surprises at every turn. No spoilers but check it out! Of course we will be back!!

    We only popped in for a quick drink. I had the snapdragon and it was very good, a little on the…read moresweet side (I think due to the lychee) if you prefer sweeter tasting drinks. Really cute ambiance as well. Everyone was so nice and accommodating whilst in the middle of prepping for a private event.

    Photos
    Flight Club D.C - Flight Club is a high-energy, upscale spot where tech-powered, fast-paced darts meet elevated small plates, craft beer, and a...

    Flight Club is a high-energy, upscale spot where tech-powered, fast-paced darts meet elevated small plates, craft beer, and a...

    Flight Club D.C - Flight Club Social Darts is a chic hangout offering immersive, technology-driven dart games alongside upgraded pub bites and ...

    Flight Club Social Darts is a chic hangout offering immersive, technology-driven dart games alongside upgraded pub bites and ...

    Flight Club D.C - Flight Club Social Darts is a nightlife destination.

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    Flight Club Social Darts is a nightlife destination.

    Free State - Hazy IPA

    Free State

    4.3(150 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    Not to be confused with Free State Distillery in Upper Marlboro (though many also call it Arthur…read moreWheeler Spirits haha), this place is located just off of the main street in chinatown, and it's surprisingly lowkey. It's a basement bar with a bit of a dive vibe, but it's hard to ignore the nautical, blue crab theme throughout. Turns out that one of the owners is a Marylander, which is cool to see reflected in the decor in a place in dc, even though it is next door. They have a happy hour and they have a great variety of drinks in general. It's bring-your-own-food (BYOF) and there are a bunch of delicious looking Asian spots nearby, including upstairs. It didn't start getting crowded until closer to 10, which, as I said, is surprising for this part of town to me. Everywhere in Chinatown is not going to be packed and busy, and this place is here to remind you of that. Stop by if you're looking for a more chill vibe. Staff are pretty cool.

    Free State is perfect for a chill bar in the Downtown area. It's exactly the kind of place you want…read moreto share a few drinks and be able to hear the person in front of you. I had a delicious orange crush drink and my friend had a sangria. The bartenders are extremely chill and nice; they only come up when you need it which is nice for good conversation. I'll easily be back when I want to catch up with friends without a speaker blaring in our ears. Great place to introduce to more people!

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    Free State - Spiked chocolate

    Spiked chocolate

    Free State - Bar

    Bar

    Free State - Small glasses

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    Small glasses

    Chadol Korean BBQ

    Chadol Korean BBQ

    4.5(136 reviews)
    2.3 mi
    $$$
    All you can eat
    Full bar

    Chadol Korean BBQ was such a fun pick for our monthly dinner series! My friends and I had a great…read moretime and honestly left fullllll. For $45 per person, the all-you-can-eat experience feels like a really solid deal considering how many protein options and side dishes you get. They start you off with a variety of banchan (side dishes), including a salad with this super tasty dressing that had the perfect little spicy kick. For the BBQ, we kicked things off with the spicy bulgogi and butter garlic shrimp, while the others tried the pork belly (I don't eat pork). Later we ordered the steak, spicy brisket, and grilled squid, which were all delicious. The spicy brisket especially was a standout for me. The guys also ordered two rounds of fried dumplings that looked amazing, but since they contain pork, I had to sit those out. I'd love to see Chadol add a veggie dumpling option to the menu! As for the sides, the kimchi and cold glass noodles were both hits at our table, and of course we all added white rice. The "mashed potatoes" though? Definitely more like potato salad and unfortunately very bland. On the other hand, the cheese corn costs extra but is 1000% worth adding. For drinks, the guys enjoyed the Woody Old Fashioned while I had a mezcal margarita-style cocktail that was smoky and refreshing. We also ordered one of the chicken options but never received it and eventually just gave up on it. One of the coolest parts of the experience is the ordering system. Most meats are ordered directly from a machine at your table, and the food comes out quickly on this conveyor belt-style setup which was honestly so fun. Drinks and side dishes are ordered through the servers. The atmosphere was lively and energetic without feeling overwhelming. The restaurant is actually much larger inside than I expected, with a modern setup that works well for smaller groups. That said, I didn't really notice tables for larger parties, so I'm not sure how they accommodate groups bigger than 6 people. Service started off a little rough because our server wasn't very attentive, but after I called it out, he definitely stepped it up and things improved. Overall, Chadol was a really good experience and absolutely worth the price. The 1.5-hour seating limit makes sense too, both to keep things moving and give others a chance to enjoy the experience. I'd definitely go back!

    I ate here around a year ago and reviewed them on google. The food is not good, service is slow,…read morefor some reason you can't order certain things with the tablet, and it's really easy to miss the little automated train thing that brings out your food. This place has negative reviews deleted on Google. Spend your money elsewhere, there's better Korean food in DC.

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    Chadol Korean BBQ
    Chadol Korean BBQ
    Chadol Korean BBQ

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    Bar Betsie - Back area

    Bar Betsie

    4.3(71 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    A trendy, NYC like vibe this spot was a lot smaller than I expected so I see why they often have a…read morewait. On a nice day, they do have a small outdoor patio as well. I think they take reservations but we were able to grab a bar spot. Are drinks pricey? What do you think? It's a cocktail bar in DC. The drinks we tried were pretty tasty, even the mezcal one which I thought was a refreshing take. The wall shows some of the drinks on the menu and the ingredients/glass it comes in which I thought was a nice touch. Bartenders were friendly but not too chatty as they were super busy but you never waited long for a drink. The bourbon drink with the whipped honey was our favorite but the gin drink that was pink was also fantastic. For food I did try the buffalo chicken dip, pretty large and tasty (not too spicy) and loved the super crisp celery and the fritos. Clean, trendy bathrooms, nice vibes throughout the whole spot for pictures, great for a night cap or pre-dinner drink.

    What a fun cocktail bar. My friend and I popped in for happy hour and it was a cool vibe from the…read morestart. I encourage you to get there early if you plan to go after work. They don't take revelations and the place fills up fast. It's a very cute spot and feels so comfortable and fun. Our bartender was Gaylan and he was great--had great reccs, laughed with us a bit, all around great guy. The 'let me just say this' was so soo good! It tasted like a rainbow--just bright and with a really delicious after taste. I should have stopped at the rose but after my trying my friend's, i had to have one! We initially came for happy hour, but moved to the cocktail menu. The hh was a bit limited, but the drinks were priced overall pretty reasonably for the area. My one complaint is the wine glasses were so teeny. Overall though, I would recommend this bar. Bonus: cheese balls when you sit down! I believe there is also a limited food menu (think nachos) for the after work or late night crowd.

    Photos
    Bar Betsie - Quick view of options

    Quick view of options

    Bar Betsie - Frozen hibiscus pina colada

    Frozen hibiscus pina colada

    Bar Betsie - A well balanced Old Fashioned

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    A well balanced Old Fashioned

    Death & Co DC - Fool's Gold

    Death & Co DC

    4.2(116 reviews)
    0.5 miShaw, Downtown
    $$$

    Came in for my birthday and had an amazing time. Quality drinks made with precision and delicacy…read morethat packed both flavor and wow factor. Chef James personally brought out so many amazing things for me and my best friend to try out. Definitely a memorable experience we will be back. Those chicken wings were phenomenal. Keep doing all the amazing things you have been.

    I've been eyeing this bar for several weeks now, and the other day, I finally decided it was time…read moreto give them a try. I know reservations are probably highly recommended, but we were fortunate to walk in at just the right moment and snag a seat. The seating is cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening. The atmosphere is just my style, an elegant, dark, grown and sexy vibe that really sets the mood. The decor is striking, with thoughtful touches that create an inviting space to unwind. While it leans a bit on the pricier side, the exceptional service more than justifies the cost. Jordan and the team were incredibly knowledgeable about both the drinks and food menu, offering suggestions that perfectly matched our tastes. We tried two standout drinks that I can't recommend enough: the Attractive Nuisance and El Tiburon, (which is an Old Fashioned made with gin). The bartenders here clearly know what they're doing, each drink was crafted with care and precision. The good music in the background added to the overall ambiance, making it a delightful spot to spend an evening.

    Photos
    Death & Co DC - Please and Thank You

    Please and Thank You

    Death & Co DC - Mutineer

    Mutineer

    Death & Co DC

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    The Mirror - cocktailbars - Updated August 2026

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