I can’t believe summer is coming to an end! In the blink of an eye we will soon be smelling the crisp fall air. Before we get sad, I thought I’d give you a roundup of my favorite restaurants with space for fun group gatherings! This summer was all about sharing laughs and good moments with my favorite people at some killer spots around town. Here are a few highlights!
Buena Vida Social Club: This place comes with great rooftop views, pretty spritzes and delicious food! They offer a $25 all-you-can-eat buffet for brunch — a perfect way to kick off your Sunday Funday! Don’t leave without trying their buñuelos and coconut cocktails. This might be D.C.’s closest thing to feeling like you’re on vacay in airy Acapulco, Mexico.
SPIN: Nothing says fun times more than a playful ping pong bar, a DJ and a tub full of plastic balls, so say hello to SPIN! The minute you walk in you feel like a kid all over again. This subterranean spot is perfectly designed for groups to laugh over flying balls while enjoying its lengthy list of cocktails and yummy appetizers. There is usually a DJ spinning hot tracks and TVs set up everywhere so your friends don’t miss an important game. Overall good vibes! Can’t wait to be back.
Marvin: Looking for a chill spot with live music? This is it! Marvin lounge has three floors, topped by an open and lively rooftop. The live music happens downstairs. Their cocktail game is strong, and they have such amazing customer service. A little hungry? No worries! They also serve food so you can watch the live show full and happy. Totally worth checking it out and staying there for a while! We love you, Marvin! Want to keep the party going? Sister speakeasy next door, The Gibson, is a dimly-lit drinking den with high-brow cocktails sexy vibes.
Ambar Clarendon: I’ve recommended Ambar a few times because it truly is one of my favorite places to dine at! I’m including them on this roundup because sharing bottomless tapas for $35 a person is legit amazing! I personally love sharing plates when going out with a large group of friends. It makes things so much easier when it comes to splitting the bill. Ambar’s selection of tapas is top notch, and some of my faves are their beets tzatziki spread, cabbage casuela and delicious mussels! Though I rarely consume bread nowadays, it’s a sin not to at this wonderful place. So good!
Casta’s: Are you in the mood to do a little salsa dancing? I’ve got you covered! Casta’s just opened in the West End and it comes with all the ingredients to have a good time. They have a dance floor with live music, fresh and minty mojitos and a festive patio with colorful murals that will keep you busy Instramming there for hours lol. Don’t leave without trying their classic Cuban sandwich and empanadas. They also have a cigar lounge for all those puffing fans out there.
There you have it! My top 5 places to have a good time with a group of friends. Need more restaurant recs? Check out our foodie section!