Cocktails with a view are always a treat after a long day of work, and in the Capitol Riverfront, we have a wide variety of both views and cocktail selections depending on your mood for the day. Quench your thirst over a sunset by checking out one of our top 5 picks:
5.) The Salt Line
This Capitol Riverfront staple has graced us with its river side views since 2017. Whether you’re looking to taste their delicious oysters, are craving an authentic New England style lobster roll, or are just looking to quench your thirst with a craft cocktail (we recommend the Fish House Punch!), this place has it all. For the chillier nights, they have a number of outdoor fire pit set ups, and if you’re looking for a great happy hour—Fridays from 12pm-4pm they offer ½ price oysters as well as varying drink specials.
4.) Dacha Beer Garden
Known as the DC home of “das boot”, this dynamic establishment is just a stone’s throw away from The Salt Line, and offers equally beautiful views of the Anacostia River. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing outdoor brunch, happy hour, or a delicious dinner, Dacha has you covered. Not only do they offer an impressive selection of carefully curated German, Belgian, and American craft beers, but unlike many beer gardens—there’s an equally impressive cocktail menu for all of the non-beer drinkers out there.
3.) Top of the Yard
If you’re looking to experience a National’s game without all of the crowds, then this seasonal spot located above the Hampton Inn is a place you’ll want to check out. With views directly into Nationals Park in addition to the classic river and monument views, you can grab a drink and a hotdog from their ballpark-inspired menu and relax in the comfort of one of their rooftop sofas.
2.) Takoda
This newly opened rooftop restaurant beer garden and restaurant joined the Navy Yard just this year. The newest of two locations, it boasts 150% more square footage than its Shaw location. If you’re looking for some well-priced happy hour deals, you’ll find several happy hour drink options under $10 from 4-6 PM. As an added bonus, their happy hour specials run every day. We love the vibe of this location due to their generous use of rooftop greenery as well as a canopy system that allows you to enjoy beautiful neighborhood and river views no matter what the weather.
1.) Smoke & Mirrors
Also a newly opened concept, we chose this as our number one pick for a few reasons. First, it’s located just steps from your front door at The Collective (who doesn’t love convenience?). Second, Smoke & Mirrors offers incredible and expansive views of downtown DC. This rooftop lounge as a very chic and relaxed vibe that include multiple private seating areas in addition to plenty of regular bar-style tables. Gather around a fire pit and sample their extensive list of unique craft cocktails while you savor the view of all of the DC monuments. If you’re hungry, you can sample some dishes that are as chic as their décor (the spicy tuna comes with caviar, need we say more?).
While we are so excited to have all of these new options available so close to The Collective, you can’t beat the views of the largest and most amenity-filled rooftop in DC—yours. There’s something to be said for having this convenience in your own home, so if you’re not feeling like being out after a long day, grab the wine or cocktail shaker and head up to the roof!
