Summer is officially here, and the temps are starting to really rise! Here is a roundup of my favorite outdoor spots to grab a drink or two with your crew:
12 Stories: This amazing new rooftop is located (naturally) 12 stories up on the Wharf! It might be one of my newest faves! The interior design is pretty spectacular, and the NYC-based bar team really went all out when it came to modern details and a big natural light ingredient via huge floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s Insta-worthy for sure! They have an extensive selection of spirits (hello, Casamigos) and stunning views of boats bobbing for days. Great for bday parties or any type of celebration.
Summit at The Conrad Hotel: This rooftop is also new and located in one of the hottest hotels in the city. Very classy space and ideal for dates. Don’t leave without trying their avocado fries, super delicious! Great to take in sunsets and watch the bustling city pass by below.
Zeppelin: Looking for a place with good sushi, strong cocktails (and karaoke), say hello to Zeppelin in the heart of Shaw. Their spacious outdoor patio is so cute, and I am in love with their godzilla-themed mural! They have a great happy hour, so make sure to ask about their 30 different varieties of seasonal, wild-caught fish, and shellfish showcased each day, appearing in nigiri, sashimi, maki, yakitori, and other Japanese menu items. Don’t forget to order a highball made straight from their laser-cut metal bar. There’s also a massive sake selection on-site.
Opaline: This patio belongs to the beautiful Sofitel hotel. I love that is located on a busy street, which makes it a prime place to people or dog watch (my fave!). They are currently offering a great happy hour, weekdays 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with $8 Sofia’s Rose or $40 for a bucket! Pairing that with their $1 oysters/shrimp sounds like the perfect HH spot to me.
Omni Shore Garden: This place is seriously so dreamy! It’s a hidden gem in D.C. The hotel often hosts the best events on their secret garden. My favorite is their jazz sessions, which will begin soon. Grab a cocktail at their bar and enjoy it surrounded by plants at this under-the-radar respite. “Future boyfriend, I’d like for you to take me here on a Friday afternoon” lol.
Buena Vida Social: Clarendon’s Mexican-themed newbie just tacked on a rooftop bar complete with a cooling mist system and margaritas, making the Orange line Metro trip well worth it. An al fresco dinner, featuring empanadas, tostadas, and burritos, is served daily until 2 a.m. Weekends call for rotating DJs and hookah lounge vibes.
Officina: Great views, yummy bites and upscale setting. This rooftop is the perfect place to get your weekend started. I personally love their Aperol Spritz. They also have a great selection of wines by the glass and bottle.
Make sure to follow me on IG @spicycandydc for more restaurant recs! Also checkout our EAT section on the blog for more foodie posts.
