Mark is rude. And told me the bar doesn't have to see me agains after I ordered a margarita with salt and brought it back with no salt. Which was my request and then kinda carried me. Crazy crazy. read more

Would be a much better bar if they did not feel the need to play a bass in such a small space, at least four days a week. No one goes there for the base. It is a small bar with relatively good cocktails. But the noise and is unbearable. As a result you can't Hear yourself think, never mind other people speak. I wish they would play music but no bass. Or even less loud music would be a major help. I really wish I could give a better rating. But the noise is too much. read more

Love this place, great atmosphere, great music, from Zeppelin to wu tang clan to Sublime, great whiskey and beer combos, great pizza, and LOVE the pool table, glad they're back open again read more

My first time visiting black whiskey I had the worst experience ever. The bartender/ owner Mark was extremely drunk and put a broken glass to his neck after taking a shot with a patron. I made a harmless comment stating " Don't do it they really need you here." He asked me to repeat myself so I did and then proceeded to YELL at the top of his lungs at me. I then tried to wait for the next bartender because of course I did not want to give him my money. The other bartender was extremely busy and couldn't get to me. Mark then came over and asked what I would like. I told Mark I wanted 2 rail whiskey shots with a large rocks. I handed him $40 not knowing the price. He then gave me my drinks and did not return my change. I stood there waiting for awhile for him to acknowledge me and he never came back and he continued to over look me. I tried to grab his attention and he continued to ignore me. I asked one of the patrons to go grab my friend and she came over and he ignored her as well. She went to grab another patron a guy and he tried to get the guy to give me my money back and he still refused and tried to force me to get another round of drinks instead. I told him I was not interested and I would like my money back. He then proceeded to ignore me again. I walked away and a patron chased me down and gave me $20 out of his pocket. This guy seems to be very racist and has no respect for his patrons. I do not recommend anyone go here at all. STOP SUPPORTING BLACK WHISKEY UNTIL THEY GET RID OF MARK. He had no right to treat me that way at all and he stole my money. How can you run a business that way. I will never return. read more

Excellent Whiskey selection. The bartenders know their stuff and are great at providing suggestions for new bottles to try. The vibe is very chill and welcoming. Highly recommend. read more

This place is amazing. Great chill vibe, and a stunning selection of whiskey. The bartender jack is TOP TIER. I trust his judgement more than my own read more

Interesting drinks but super crowded when I came around 1030! Bartenders are working hard to make drinks to keep up with the demand so that's a good sign. The interior downstairs is like...half finished? I don't know if that's what they were going with but didn't seem like anyone had a problem with it. Will come back on a less crowded night to check out the cocktails! (Knocking off some stars because they restroom was also a utility closet, it was super hot, bouncers were sorta...brash.) read more

I loved this bar! Bf and I came here for a few drinks after dinner and we couldn't have made a better choice! Ambience is super chill and intimate. Bar staff was super friendly, attentive, and informative of its whiskey selection. We didn't get a chance to try any of the food here but def smelled amazing! read more

Black Whiskey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I stayed at a nearby hotel and passed this place a couple of times. Came here on a Saturday night, good size crowd and the ambience was exactly what I was looking for. Pool table, industrial rustic but a bit of dive. The bartenders were nice and recommended some sweet local options (I had the filibuster) the music was loud enough that if you wanted to bust a dance move, you can. The bar owner was super nice very hospitable and such a chill guy. They of course had an incredible section of whiskey and pappy van winkle 10 and 12 yr. (at he time) Will be back every time I'm in the area!! read more

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Horrible Experience! We stumbled upon this bar while looking for a last minute place to treat my friend to a drink on cinco de Mayo. The bartender/waiter appeared bothered as soon as we walked in and when we asked if they had any cinco drink specials he rudely told us "This is not a Mexican bar". We ordered two rounds of margs and hung around for about an hour before he let us know that they would be closing and we needed to close our tab. Ask I searched my purse I realized that I had left my credit card in my car which was parked around the corner. I let the gentleman know that I would be running to my car while my friend waited at the table. He immediately got super loud and told us that the doors were already locked and announced that he was "Calling the police if we didn't have any money to pay." I was stunned at this senseless and embarrassing accusation especially with the current political climate and it hit me then that he was obviously making this threat bc we are people of color. As the remaining patrons in the bar all turned their attention to our table, I asked to speak with a manager and he yelled "I am the manager!" in my face. My friend didn't have a card on him either so we tried asking someone he had recognized earlier at another table across from us if we could send them money via zelle or cash app to cover our tab which was only about $50, meanwhile the bartender was still yelling and being unreasonably obnoxious. I realized he was obviously under some influence so I ended up getting up and running to my car to get my card and as I was running back up to the bar my friend came out and said he was able to send the money to his acquaintance to cover the bill and all was fine now. As we were walking away in shock, the same bartender poked his head out of the door laughing and said "Are you ready to pay me now?" As my friend yelled "what do you mean, you know it's already been paid!" he laughed, yelled at my friend to "Get the f*** out of here nig*er!" and slammed the door. I have never experienced or witnessed such blatant disrespect at an establishment. The issue was very minor and could've easily been resolved in a decent manner. Obviously he wasn't at all concerned with there being any repercussions for his actions or his racist comments as he yelled it openly into the street! I am NEVER going back to that place and I'm going to tell all of my friends, especially those of color to stay FAR away from there. read more

An OUTSTANDING bourbon and whiskey. Small space upstairs, pool table, a few tables, nice bar, knowledgeable bar tender and a very well curated whiskey selection. They have beer, too, but who cares! Highly recommended for my bourbon appreciating friends when in DC. They have some food, but again: who cares? This is a whiskey bar and a good one. read more

Black Whiskey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Whenever I have friends in town I always swing by black whiskey. Music is usually good, so that will give you a good dance opportunity without the bougie club vibe or prices. Can get crowded but bar is usually good with getting you drinks. Marc is great. read more

Went to this bar with a few friends for a drink. The music was pretty good and there was space for dancing (might I add, there were a few funny/intense dancers breaking it down). The bar tenders were quick to acknowledge you and got your order as soon as they could. We were there a while and I decided to try the mushroom pizza because of the wonderful bread smell there. I'm not sure how they make this pizza but all that I can say is that it was delicious. I took this pizza to the high top tables and it was gone in just minutes! read more

Black Whiskey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

A solid, upstairs bar spot on 14th street that has regular happy hour specials and a decent amount of space. They offer a small selection of food too - I think I saw some personal pan sized pizzas coming out toward the end of their happy hour. The bartenders are great and the drinks are well made. A great place to come with a small sized group! read more

Great, knowledgeable, friendly staff. Rare whiskeys. Always a good time. Can't wait to go back.

ORIGINAL IMPRESSION: I guess considering this is a whiskey bar, I shouldn't be surprised that it sported a ratio of men:women that was something like 9.757:1. What did surprise me was how many of them wore non-prescription strength glasses with their designer sports coats and suits. I wasn't looking for a male fashion show; I was looking for a bar to enjoy whiskey and beer with my guy friends. In any event, the HH beer specials and the food are incredible so I'll definitely be going back. Apparently, there is some dude named Jack that runs this place who knows everything and anything about whiskey. Well, unfortunately, I couldn't even find the phantom Jack last night because there was precious little service and suggestions concerning the whiskey on my visit. It was odd because the people who work here are friendly enough but perhaps not too experienced behind the bar? The one whiskey I did get to try turned out to be the highly rated Corsair Triple Smoke, but it was probably a bit too diverse for my palate. Since the service's motto was apparently slow and steady wins the race, I decided to make like the hare and quickly outpace Black Whiskey's tortoise pours over at neighboring Black Jack. Yet Black Whiskey is still awesome. Why? Their happy hour beer specials are great for Logan Circle (for example, they had $5 Little Sumpin Sumpin) and the food is absolutely incredible. The carving plates, even at the sum of $18, are absolutely worth your time. I went with beautiful rare cuts of lamb and attempted to order the bacon wrapped pork loin (I received the brined pork instead). The lamb was great on its own, and when paired with a garlic bone marrow reduction, it was even more amazing. The brined pork was also nicely complemented by tangy whole mustard. While I would probably pass on the mashed cauliflower, the mashed potatoes were tasty and the sauteed vegetables I ordered were spectacular. When this place has a couple of months to adjust, I am thinking it will be one of the most solid options in the city for guys night out. Even now, it's worth a visit. UPDATE: They got rid of the food menu. It's probably best recommended as a place to start your night out, but the evolution of this place isn't trending in the direction I originally suspected. read more

Since 14th street needed another bar with exposed brick, filament lightbulbs, overpriced booze, and self absorbed bartenders, Black Whiskey has come to the rescue! Come with your bros to the newest "whiskey bar" in DC. You will be treated to a bunch of other bros hanging out, waiting a long time for a bartender to serve you a cask-strength bourbon [get over yourself] and its hot. Seriously though, I haven't had a great experience either time I went here. The first time, the service was terrible and the bartenders were busy chatting with each other. The second time me and my friends got thrown out because we opened the door to the kitchen while looking for the bathroom. For as many other decent bars in the 14th/Ust area, this one deserves to shut down just like Blackbyrd, which it reminds me of. read more

This is bar none the BEST whiskey bar in DC. Anything you can think of they have. I would like to think of myself as a whiskey connoisseur and they meet and exceed my expectations. Marc is a stud and knows what his customers are looking for. Fridays are crowded but worth it. Go on a weekday to get a first rate experience. I can't speak highly enough about this place. 10/10 read more

What a bullshit place. The vibe was cool, but the beer selection Abismal .. only five beers abd paying $7 for a fat tire because you think you are passing off a cool indie vibe? Pretty shitty. Came here last night for the 80s party which was a complete joke. There was no A/C aside from one portable unit which was set to 85 degrees? No ventilation going, and no windows open. They even charged 5 dollar cover ?? Everyone here was over 45-50. Don't foresee this place lasting as a night club/bar very long. Terrible. read more

I couldn't agree more Alberto V.! I came here for a drink with friends on Saturday evening during Gay Pride weekend. It was rather empty inside so we went upstairs. The one thing I will say is the bathrooms are pretty neat but really dark. The drinks are really overpriced and the bartenders are terribly unpleasant. I hate feeling like I'm disturbing you to order a fucking drink. I have absolutely no desire to return to this place. read more

A cursory glance of the prior reviews here provides us with a few choice words: Lower East Side, non-prescription glasses, mustache, filament lightbulb. Oh, cool, another hipster dive bar styled after places in New York! I'm not chiding this concept. In fact, I kind of revel in it and am a sucker for exposed brick and quasi-steampunky details. But atmosphere does not complete a bar; it needs an array of tasty booze and knowledgeable, service-oriented staff to go along with it. Black Whiskey may still be overcrowded from people who are flocking towards the buzz of a new establishment, and this seems to bog down the speed of service slightly. My first visit coincided with a matchmaking/speed dating group that parked itself smack in the middle of the front bar area, shrieking and refusing to let other people use the area. Points for diverse clientele, I guess. Avoid this place at all costs on the weekends if you are averse to crowds and noise. When the bar isn't packed (early in the night), you'll get great service from bartenders, who are happy to recommend their favorite whiskeys to you and chat while they set up. Fancy-pants brands include Balcones, Few, Hudson, Whistlepig, HIgh West, as well as options above and below that price point and quality. Take the opportunity to try something new and rub the staff's whiskey-knowledge egos. read more

This is a good place to get a drink. A beer. A whiskey cocktail. I like wine too, but this is NOT the place to get that. Exposed brick, loud music, young (definitely waaay younger than me) hip crowd, free pool. Just good solid drinks. Knowledgable bartenders that aren't too chatty. Go here with friends when you want to blow off some steam and relax. Great laid back vibe. read more

Ladies, beware. I went to meet friends at Black Whiskey on my way home last Friday night since I live nearby. When I got there, this guy tried to grab me as I was moving past him, I think he thought I wouldn't notice because his back was to me but I was facing his back so I watched his hand reach back towards my crotch (he missed and grabbed my arm). Then later my friend got her butt grabbed when she was moving through people to go to the restroom at the other end of the bar and had to yell at the guy. It was like walking through a sexual harassment minefield. This is supposed to be a cool bar but it was super shady. read more

A whiskey bar that showcases local art inside. A nice small space with exposed brick, I do happen to like the art here, and the booze offerings aren't bad, but the food is terrible. Yes this is not a place where you go get food, but even their snacks were bad. The tacos, fries, sliders, everything was completely weak. I went with a group, and everyone thought the food was terrible, and most didn't even bother to finish what they ordered despite being really hungry.. Don't offer food at all if it's going to be terrible, especially on 14th street, is my advice, because people are just going to feel ripped off. read more

If you are looking for a dimly lit, all wood, total dive bar in DC then look no further! I love everything about this place - even the writing on the (unisex) bathroom walls. They have a plethora of whiskey (not a huge fan) but also have some good beers on tap ($2 off drafts during happy hour) as well. They dont serve real food here so dont come hungry. If you love 90s/early 2000s music, you will love the vibe here. They play music every night (DJ on the weekends) and mix up early 2000s pop music with 90s hip hop to make you reminisce about your high school/early college days. It gets really busy on weekend nights so I would recommend coming early so you can get a seat at the bar or one of the tall tables. read more

Black Whiskey is the 14th Street Mecca of Whiskey Hands down, this is my favorite bar in the city Black Whiskey has a carefully considered list of whiskeys, happy hour (4-7), great tunes, friendly bartenders and free pool. Oh & yes it's true they have crunkcakes, i.e., cupcakes with alcohol (districtofcrunk.com)! So, really, what's there not to love? The exposed brick will knock you off your seat from the moment you walk into the bar. The atmosphere is quaint, dim and perfect for a conversation with friends. But don't think this bar is only a place for pleasant conversation. Black Whiskey will surprise you because there is dancing, too! Black Whiskey reminds me of Knoxville, TN in particular it reminds me of Barley's Taproom. If you've been to Barley's or Knoxville and are jonesing for some southern style, make your way to Black Whiskey! As you can tell from the name, the choices in anything but whiskey are slim though there are options! Black Whiskey offers about five beers and rotates their taps. This is my go-to bar and I really enjoy a night out at Black Whiskey. If you are looking for that independent, go-out-and-have-fun, Brooklyn-hipster type place then this is a place you need to try. read more

This review is for their weekend night bar scene. I made a stop here for my birthday and also I stopped by this past month for a night out of bar hopping. My friends and I stopped by black whiskey to dance and grab a few drinks. It is pretty small in space and therefore, super cramped that is when it gets packed. It's never packed with tons of people it just seems like a lot more people are partying because of the lack of space. The chandeliers are fun. They have red colored chandeliers that add a gothic and dark vibe when you look up to the ceiling. The bar area is bright and alluring. It definitely lures you into buying more and more drinks. Overall, I would stop by this bar for a drink or two while chatting over some very loud music. However, I wouldn't plan to go here nor would I stay here the whole night. There are more popping and epic bars to go to in the area. read more

Came here with a group of friends when I was in town. They played great music from the early 2000's and we were loving it! The music is very loud, but even though the bar was super packed it didn't take long to get a good, strong drink. I will be back. read more

It was a Friday night after dinner, too early to go dancing, so my friends and I stopped by Black Whiskey for a few drinks. Behind the bar is a wall full of all kinds of whiskeys you can imagine. This would be quite literally the heaven on earth for whiskey lovers. I have yet to reach that level, but I still enjoyed my drink. Music was popping. It was hip hop at first and then went slightly more chill and mainstream as the DJ started spinning. The space was darkly lit and a bit intimate. My friends and I were lucky enough to be able to grab one of the few wooden tables. I loved that there were coat hangers on the wall for jackets and purses. I can't be the only one who hates sitting on her coat on a bar stool. Every bar should have coat hangers! The staff were helpful. I enjoyed watching the bouncer bobbing his head to the beat. The owner was sitting, relaxing, and having a drink just like the rest of us. Occasionally he would stir up a conversation with a patron. There is a TV and a pool table in the back, so you can enjoy a game of billiards after a round of darn good whiskey! read more

Black Whiskey is unlike anything currently on the 14th Street Corridor - divvy, dirty yet somehow absolutely gorgeous. Stacked from head to toe in whiskey bottles, this is a whiskey drinkers dream. This is the perfect place to check out a few different whiskies before deciding to fork over the cash for a nice bottle. If your not into whiskey, they do have a couple special cocktails, a nice selection of beers on tap and Crumpcakes (aka alcoholic cupcakes). They also have free pool in the back making this a place I can get behind. Note: Happy Hour is from 4-7. Good time to go. The bartender working happy hour had a cold demeanor and barely said two words the entire time I was there, but I feel like that is part of the rustic charm. The place was pretty quiet during the week making it a great place to catch up with friends without feeling the need to scream across the bar. I've hear it gets wild on weekends but you'll have to be the judge of that. The space is a little too small for me to be caught in a mosh pit type dance party. Overall, I'd go again. Good, nothing to rave home about. read more

Originally being one of my favorite spots when they first opened, I started to see a slight decline after the bearded tattoo'd bartenders began to disappear. The place has a great vibe and had great bartenders that put time and effort into creating a delicious cocktail (made of whiskey). After moving further than a block away and not having been back in months I was sad to order a Manhattan that tasted like it'd be made at 'Public'. With the motions gone through, no effort or care could be tasted. I then swore off my former favorite bar, set to never return. After a year or so since my last time at Black Whiskey, while out with friends, our set destination was a monumental fail. While in the Logan Circle area, I figured, what the hell, might as well give it another shot. I ordered a Manhattan from one of the female bartenders and it tasted like a cocktail made by the old Black Whiskey. I then ordered the same drink from the tall male bartender who I later realized made my 'Public' Manhattan way back when and once again an utter fail. I love the vibe and the whiskey choices at Black Whiskey, but unfortunately to receive a drink that tastes good, it's dependent upon your bartender. read more

Awesome new addition to the neighborhood! The bar is dark, comforting, and has awesome character for such a new space. I'm sure they spent a lot of money to make it look like they didn't spend a lot of money. :) The bar is where it's at though. A HUGE selection of whiskey, scotch, bourbon, and a bar staff they makes amazing cocktails and new drinks just by asking. So if you're a fan of any of those and want a chill spot to sip your favorite or try something new, Black Whiskey is for you. I won't comment on the food offerings since I haven't eaten anything there yet, but friends have told me everything is delicious so I'm looking forward to trying these my next time in. read more

Hus-bear says this bar feels like walking into Brooklyn. I've never been, but if Black Whiskey is what it's like, sign me up. Not really, it's hot right now, I'll go in the fall. I'm not a whiskey (whisky?) drinker, but I like this bar. Why? Because they have reasonable prices in a city full of $11 pints, the bartender lets me order by saying "Mix whatever you want with ginger ale!" and THEN suggests ginger beer instead. The reason for four stars instead of five? It was the non-alcoholic ginger beer. Just kidding, that's not the only reason. During the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland, you can tell they ran out of money part way through creating it. You notice because there is a 30 second period where they create part of the thrill through noise in the dark after a whole ride of exciting visual effects. Yup, no money. That's what half of the bar feels like. Half is nicely decorated, sweet swinging door into the kitchen/spice rack, artsy (Brooklyn-y?). Half is...*insert awesome sound effects and fake poisoned wind-arrows rushing through your hair.* Boring. What happened? Where are the tables and chairs? Maybe a plush chair? They have a crazy selection of whisky and I'm sure we'll be back at some point. Just gotta sit pre-limited-cash flow. And bring on the whisky-ginger-beer! read more

Black Whiskey is one of my favorite new bars. I love whiskey, I love hipster, Brooklyn-type bars, and I love knowledgeable bartenders. They hit the trifecta! All the times I have come here have been on weeknight evenings, and it has been surprisingly quiet. Now, I would hold it against them on a weekend, but this is absolutely perfect when you are just looking to chill with friends, have a few drinks, and play (free!) pool. I am terrible at pool, but that certainly doesn't stop me from embarrassing myself in front of my peers. Luckily, with very few people around I have never had to wait more than 10 minutes to play, and that also means less people to witness my pathetic lack of skills. I have ordered beer and Manhattans. Obviously pretty hard to mess up a beer, and prices are reasonable. The Manhattan was perfectly executed, no complaints there. I have never ordered food, so I can't speak to that. Overall, Black Whiskey is a chill, inviting spot. I will be here often. Find me saddled up to the bar or practicing my skillz at the pool table. P.S. the bathroom is like one big, unisex, door less area. So to all my ladies out there: be prepared for everyone to see you as you fix your makeup or hear you while you debate the merits of the dude who just bought you a craft beer. The pool table practically backs into the bathroom area so don't be startled if you get poked by a pool stick as you exit. read more

Attempted to enter Black Whiskey on a Friday, but was denied entry. My partner has a service dog and the bouncer said that they do not allow dogs of any kind. I explained to him that the dog is a service dog protected under the ADA and she was wearing a vest as well. He insisted we could not enter without some form of ID for the dog (which is illegal to ask for under the ADA.). I asked to speak to the manager, Marc, but he was unavailable. Since our visit I've reached out to Marc 3 times without response in order to discuss the situation. I'd recommend taking your business to a bar that respects federal laws and accepts all people, regardless of their disabilities. Plenty of other spots on 14th offer that experience. read more

First time I went here it was fine. Somewhat slow service at the bar but that was my only complaint. Second experience was awful. I hate when people give a place yelp review for one random reason, but this was inexcusable... Tried to go here after a show at Black Cat and the door guy refused to let one girl out of the four of us in because she was "too drunk." She wasn't slurring her words or stumbling or doing anything to suggest she was a liability. I'd been with her all night and we were all tipsy but no one was black out drunk. Or even close. I love drinking but I'm not a fan of being around people that are totally wasted and annoying, so I think I'd know what too drunk looks like. Anyway, the guy was REALLY rude and condescending and I don't think it would have happened had we not been a group of all females. read more

The Black Whiskey is a very raw bar. The thing that attracted me to this bar was the fact that it was very "independent", it made me feel like I could just do what ever I wanted in there and be appreciated. This is a fairly new bar, but has much potential being one of the bars on 14th St. to have live music. They also have a huge line of whiskeys, whether you're a bourbon fan, rye fan, or even an old fashioned fan, this is your place for everything whiskey. Until this bar grows a bigger fan base for days that don't have a live musician playing, it will be a place that I would most definitely start at to begin my night around The District but I will none the less start my night off right. The cost of drinks is quite pricey as well, but being on 14th St. that's what you've got to expect. The bartenders and the aesthetic aspects of the place are real "tough", It's a bar you'd expect to see a charismatic hard working man to go to in the "old days" grab a masculine drink and do manly stuff. The shelves are made from wood and so are the countertops so you could imagine how old time this place is and I think that's what gives it it's diversified "flavor". The bottom floor is more of a casual bar, people are there sitting down, it's brighter in there and they usually have fun dances that I sometimes see people at. Overall, I must say I really do enjoy this bar, it's a very independent "go out and have fun" type places to go. read more

3, maybe 3.5. The happy hour selection doesn't seem so happy. The cider (for those who enjoy the GF option) is alright, but not something you'd want to come back for. The beer is good for happy hour, but I'm still on the hunt for a place that has a good porter or stout option. This place is not it. I could also enjoy the music not being quite so loud, but hey that's just me. read more

Extremely trendy and low key whiskey bar. Located right above a pop-up hipster market, the vibe and ambience can't really be beat (if that's what you're looking for). The bar tenders were nice and offered me free drinks and service just for being new to the whiskey scene. I'll definitely be coming back. read more

Black Whiskey - Whiskey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Not going to lie, only came to Black Whiskey for a hot minute. Our friends were in line for the club next door so I came with a friend to take a quick shot before joining back with our crowd. Black Whiskey is a little confusing because it has a pub type feeling, then there is slightly some Mexican Cantina vibes, but then there is also that awesome Whiskey wall. I like the brick interior and the hallways were kind of thin in the upstairs area, but it provides a comfy friendly vibe. There were people all around drinking and cheering and having a good time. If I lived in DC I would probably come here and sit to enjoy it more, but I was short on time and just wanted to see the inside real quick. It is not fully my scene and whiskey is not really my drink of choice either. We unapologetically took Fire Ball shots. :) read more