Denson Liquor Bar

20

96

183

5 months ago

This place is great! Entrance was tricky to find (around the corner and down the steps), but once I did, I was transported into a nice, quiet little spot. The drinks were so tasty and reasonable during happy hour! The service was great - fast, friendly, and the perfect amount of checking-in. This is a great place to meet up with a small group of friends to catch-up. We shared the deviled eggs and grilled cheese. Only complaint is that they won't divide the bill - like at all. The best they'd do is divide it evenly. I mean, if Perkins can do it, this place (with a premium on food and drink) can definitely do it. ‍ Still - I'll be back. Gotta work my way through that drink menu! read more

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Haley M.

226

278

222

6 months ago

My coworkers and I originally planned to come here for a happy hour and ended up coming with a much larger group. There was a bit of a hiccup with the reservation and party size but they were able to accommodate us for a limited time in between reservations. The waitress was ok, she was a little unpleasant in some of her one on one customer service but I assume that because this bar is probably usually busy, that type of service goes unnoticed however it wasn't very busy when we were there. Regardless, the drinks were really good and the prices weren't unreasonable. The decor and atmosphere was really nice and lent itself well to being a speakeasy. I think this would be a great happy hour or even casual date spot. I'd come back in the future. read more

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Wendy K.

202

446

1620

2 months ago

What a cute place and space. We called ahead at the last minute since we needed a place to hang out before our Theatre event and they graciously accommodated our party of three. Our server was kind and knowledgeable and helped us decide on which drinks to order. We loved our experience and definitely highly recommend. If I had one item to note the music selection didn't match the vibe of the speakeasy. I would love to see some thoughts put into selecting music that is more in tune with this amazing space. read more

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Jessica D.

25

183

595

4 months ago

Really good espresso martini and friendly service! The bar is down some stairs, so it could be tricky to find. It's not a big place, so it can get crowded quickly, but the ambiance is very speakeasy-esk. If you can grab a table, this would be a great place to lounge and enjoy some fancy cocktails! read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Amy S.

151

187

125

3 months ago

We were staying at the Arlo and in need of a late night cocktail and light dinner within walking distance for our brief two night stay. We LOVED the creative and delicious cocktails here, though the price is not for the faint of heart. The Roger Rabbit drink is a must-try for folks who like carrot cake. We checked out Free State a few blocks away to be adventurous but came back to Denson's for our second night because of the vibe. Denson had a good mix of folks of color and were also super warm to us clearly queer squirrels from California. read more

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Denson Liquor Bar - Menu - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Entryway - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Victoria M.

48

160

314

8 months ago

I hadn't been to Denton in quite some time, so decided to pop in with some friends. And in the several years that it's been, this place hasn't changed a bit. The service was spectacular. The food was absolutely amazing. And of course, their drinks work just absolutely fantastic. I love that. The bar gives off a dark look but you still have light illuminating from specific places within the bar so it gives a really cool vibe as a patron. If you are looking to eat, I highly recommend the grilled cheese. It is not your average grilled cheese. It has a sweet jam flavor mixed in so you get kind of this multi layer experience. After several cocktails, it was exactly what I needed and really hit the spot. What is not pictured is the truffle Barada, which is served with some toasted bread, and that was absolutely fantastic. I highly recommend coming here either for drinks, food or both. It will absolutely not disappoint. read more

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Jesse C.

2

54

123

11 months ago

Checked out Denson's and tried the Tariff This -- solid cocktail, but not one I'd rave about, especially at $20 a glass. That said, the overall vibe is great. Dimly lit, stylish, and laid-back -- perfect for a quiet night or a date spot. The bartenders were friendly and welcoming, which goes a long way in a place like this. It's definitely on the pricier side, so it's hard to recommend purely for the drinks. But if you're looking for a chill, elevated atmosphere with good service, this is a spot I'd still come back to. read more

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Anne C.

16

82

550

6 months ago

Stopped into Denson's after a Wizards game for a quick bite and drink. The staff was nice and service was fast. I enjoyed the ambiance and drinks. Made for a great post game recap! read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Roasted Baby Beet Salad - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Evbu O.

162

145

283

1 year ago

Came here Thursday night with a couple of friends. It's a cute speakeasy with great music. Our server disappeared so we ended up having to order more drinks with a different person. The drinks were really good and strong. Prices were alright, typical DC prices. I'll definitely be back. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - French 75, Espresso Martini and Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Allison F.

1

21

0

1 month ago

What a sad excuse for a cocktail bar. First off, all of their cocktails on the menu are batched, which is not noted. Second of all, their waitstaff apparently only knows how to serve aforementioned batched cocktails and nothing else. Our waitress did not know what a Sazerac was, nor did she understand that there was more than one type of martini. She asked us three different times if we wanted our martinis with olives or lemons when we had ordered them with a twist. Nothing about our order was complicated and yet it felt like this was the first time our waitress had heard these orders. It took over 30 minutes to get each drink and we shouldn't have to be teaching the waitstaff basic recipes. Will take our business elsewhere next time. read more

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Sarah P.

0

186

692

1 month ago

Cool ambiance! Definitely get the deviled eggs! The staff were so nice and welcoming. Make sure to make a reservation or get there early! read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Deviled Eggs and roasted nuts - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Adonis M.

15

74

172

10 months ago

This is a nice location. The bar is dim, plays light music, and is very nice aesthetically. I walked in without a reservation and was able to secure a standing bar spot where a waiter comes around who was very nice. We got the Tariff This and Old fashioned which were just okay. I believe if I am paying $20 for a cocktail it should live up to the expectations of a $20 cocktail. They were good but nothing special in my opinion. The After School special seemed interesting but they did not have the ingredients to make it at the time. After, we had requested some off menu drinks, but first asked if the bartender was familiar with those and they said yes. What we received in return was not good. So, stick to the menu if you're going. At the end, the bill breakdown was weird and we asked the server some questions to understand the bill and she got visibly upset. For the off menu drinks they charged us for the spirits and then a small fee for the craft, my friend ended up paying $45 for a cocktail. I won't be returning, but if you decide to try it, stick to the menu. You may have a better experience than I did. read more

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Evan B.

54

429

261

2 years ago

Deliciousness - 4/5 Happiness - 3/5 I popped on in to Denson's liquor bar, which has a really fun exterior that does make you feel like you're sneaking into an old time speakeasy and a fun throwback interior. That said, despite being alcohol-focused, I was a bit underwhelmed with the selections. A lot of the liquor were things commonly available elsewhere (although the vodka I went with, a single estate vodka from Belvedere, was delicious), the wine selection was just OK, and the beer was very underwhelming. They did have some cocktails but I stuck with straight liquor and wine for this outing. They have a very small food list. My favorite thing all together was the duck prosciutto and beef bresaola - both of which were delicious and came with a healthy portion. But I also note that it's not like they made it or or anything. I also got caviar (which I love) that was presented nicely and a reasonable price (for caviar, meaning it's still unreasonable, but sometimes you just gotta TREAT YOSELF), but there wasn't really anything to set it apart from caviar I've had elsewhere (i.e., a perfectly generic crema and forgettable toast). Most disappointing was the service. Although the servers were very nice, the service was extremely slow. It took a bit over an hour and a half to get the two small plates (neither of which needed to be cooked) and 3 drinks. When I asked for recommendations, they simply said "whatever you like" and the generic "that's a good choice" when I ordered. That may be fine in a less upscale place, but I hope for more guidance and engagement at a top-end liquor bar. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - They,ll leave the light on... if you lnow where to look! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Royal osetra Caviar! Nuff said! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Alli C.

574

1072

3747

2 years ago

What a Fantastic speakeasy! We stumbled into Denson and found THE BEST cocktail I've had in a long time - 'Who Framed Jessica Rabbit.' This was a carrot cake inspired cocktail that made me SO HAPPY - delicious and creative without being overly sweet and managing a balance that was downright refreshing. I had three (don't judge me). Staff was great and the bar managed the right balance of speakeasy/bar and had a diverse clientele. read more

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Jessica A.

92

270

988

1 year ago

Came here on a busy Friday night. There were no seats available but we lucked out and got the only two available seats at the bar. It definitely gives speak easy vibes, but it may just be a standard bar. My friend and I ordered drinks and had a chill evening. read more

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Devon E.

214

391

3228

1 year ago

I really like the vibe at Denson' Liquor Bar in DC. It gives major speakeasy vibe secret as its a little hard to find as you have to do down some stairs to access (and the only "signs" are the bar name in the light fixtures down the stairs). The decor is simple, but sleek. The bar on the smaller side and first come first serve, the tables are by reservation only. I've been here a couple times and the bar is crowded and most of the tables stay empty so I kind of wish they'd change that policy. In addition to fancy cocktails that change regularly they also have beer, wine, and a small food menu. Our group ordered the cheese plate to share. We did the selection of 4 cheeses which included Humbolt Fog, Brie, Boschetto al Tartufo, and Gorgonzola. It was nice to have a mix of cow, goat, and sheep cheese. It came with baguette, honeycomb, fig jam, chutney for $22 which in DC is not a bad price. I got a cocktail off the Fall Menu which was called the Art of war (Tequila blanco, ancho Reyes, ginger liqueur, pomegranate syrup, lime. Served on rocks with chili threads). I don't typically lean in to tequila creations, but this one sounded good. I liked its little spicy and sweet combination. I like that everyone time I come I can try something new and different. I'm glad my friend told me about this place so we have a staple to visit when spending an evening in DC. It just a fun and laid back place to hang out with some good drinks. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Follow the stairs down to get in! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Cher - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Laura M.

27

143

574

1 year ago

Such a fun speakeasy setting with a neat off the beaten path entrance! Appreciated that the website gave such clear directions to find the entrance too. Got lucky and found bar seating easily around 7 on a Wednesday! Loved the goat cheese stuffed peppers- the pink sea salt on it was more than it needed, so I did brush that off because the goat cheese brought the perfect saltiness in my opinion :) the Jessica Rabbit drink was all of the carrot cake vibes and was a nice slowly sipped cocktail. The current seasonal menu is a lot of fall/winter spice- am excited for the next menu that drops in March! The bartender also mentioned a chocolate Old Fashioned that I would like to try next time! read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Entrance - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Who Framed Jessica Rabbit - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Bar seating - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Goat cheese stuffed piquillo peppers - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Michael C.

653

454

1676

1 year ago

Great servers who know their stuff. Reasonably priced drinks, good atmosphere. Need to add some gin cocktails to their menu though. Menu is extremely dark liquor heavy, need more vodka/gin/tequila options. Had to ask the bartender what kind of gin cocktails he could make me since there weren't any available. Probably many more spots with better variety than this spot. read more

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Ashleigh S.

173

323

302

1 year ago

Drinks are 10/10. My Aztec Orchard was served in a smoker and gone way too fast. Espresso martini looked expertly crafted. Jessica Rabbit is a fun one and a bright color without tasting too carrot juice-y. These are a little pricey. Obviously. Server was wonderful. Her timing was great. We had a reservation for 6 but only had 5 and that ended up being better because the circle booth we got is a tight squeeze! I don't know how another full grown person who have fit in there. The whole place is a little crampes but I suppose that adds to the speakeasy ambiance. To get in, go around the corner and down the stairs into the basement. read more

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Ka L.

10

133

270

2 years ago

Great place to have drinks. Well balance cocktails with great ambience for dates and gathering. Not for family as expected. Service is excellent. A place I will definitely return for cocktails. Sakura's Tail - well balance drink without any over powering read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Sakura's Tail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Sara G.

220

1681

3238

2 years ago

You know how I feel about subterranean bars. Denison's in DC is the spot. Drinks are fantastic. The real highlight was a delightful find: Goat Cheese Stuffed Piquillo Peppers. These little bites were so good. The creamy goat cheese paired beautifully with the smoky piquillos. I didn't expect a good snack, I only went for the drinks. Cheers! read more

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Gloria M.

19

350

716

2 years ago

This place is always so busy! They were at capacity but a few people walked out so I was able to get in and get a spot at the bar, not a long wait to be served. Drinks are great as well as the atmosphere. read more

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Katie W.

260

221

538

2 years ago

Been back here a few times and it remains a great place! The drinks are seasonal and very creative. Also tried a new food item this time with the burrata and it was very tasty. read more

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Calla L.

74

42

27

11 months ago

Cocktails are ok. Servers are friendly. good vibe. Easy to get table. Hard to find the door read more

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Meka M.

6

354

524

2 years ago

Amazing swank cocktail bar that serves craft cocktails. The playlist is always great and the dimly lit place it such a great place for a date or intimate conversation. read more

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Honei S.

0

1

0

3 months ago

Smelled like hot dogs.... Instant turn off . I did like the ambience and set up. Greeted immediately but I couldn't imagine sitting down with the smell. It was a no for me.... Maybe will try one more time if in the area. read more

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Nicole H.

Elite 19

71

78

57

9 months ago

Took my friend here when she came to visit a while back. The atmosphere was giving dark, intimate and cozy. To me it felt like a speakeasy and I was transported back in time. read more

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Michaele M.

114

332

308

3 years ago

Cute, dim spot - very busy and noisy. Go early to get a decent seat. The hostess was kind enough to let me sit at a reserved table until the party arrived. Deviled Eggs - bland. No ma'am. Gran Tapete - citrusy, mezcaly and refreshing w/ a kick Tyme shrub. Delicious. Coco Went Bananas - chocolatey with banana notes. Creamy, I like it. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Remnants of Deviled eggs. Bland. Save your money - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Priyanka B.

23

116

108

2 years ago

Very well made drinks! Loved the ambience. Each drink was unique. The mezcal drink had a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. read more

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Gen W.

0

1

0

5 months ago

The food and the ambiance are excellent. The drinks are delicious. I got an espresso martini and it was the best one i've had in awhile. Also the grilled cheese with the jam is tasty. read more

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Jennifer T.

103

291

655

2 years ago

The ambiance and drinks were great! A little hard to find because it uses a side door but just follow the instructions online. There is a good amount of seating inside with lux feeling booths. I think this place is best for small to medium size groups as it's a small place. The drink selection was amazing though. They have some unique drinks mixed with some classics. The server gave us recommendations based on our tastes and it was an overall nice time. read more

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Michelle I.

2

34

16

2 years ago

I freaking love this place, I try my best to go back every time I'm in the city!! All the drinks are made well and they take special requests. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Espresso martini and an old fashion with a twist. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Kimberly S.

122

163

542

3 years ago

I loved the speakeasy vibe here, which is enhanced by the below-ground level entry. They also do a good job with the crowd control. Ambiance - The vibe in here was amazing. Energetic, dim, and cozy. Just what you would want and expect from a place like this. Customer Service - The customer service was amazing. All the servers seemed knowledge and moved with a purpose. We came after a Wizards game so, they were kind of packed, but they managed the crowd extremely well. We wanted for nothing, and were even moved to a table once some people got up. Food/Drinks - Yum! Even the nibbles are good. I'd definitely recommend this spot. Pro tip: Make a reservation if you want a guaranteed table. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Deviled eggs - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Long Island iced tea - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - Meat and cheese board - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Denson Liquor Bar - (i forgot) :) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Jaisie S.

0

225

23

1 year ago

I recently visited Denson Liquor Bar, and it was an unforgettable experience! The cocktails were expertly crafted, and the food menu offered a perfect blend of bold flavors, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special nights out. Follow my IG account for Curated Google Maps list for brunch, happy hours, rooftops, parks, wineries & more in the DMV area: @yourdmvbestie read more

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Will M.

2

329

708

2 years ago

Strong speakeasy vibes and that's what their going for. Go for the top tier cocktails and be impressed by their layers of flavors you rarely get from a bar. Something for every type of liquor fan. Didn't have much of a food menu but dessert was good. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Dessert trio - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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EriCKa C.

Elite 24

32

129

2715

2 years ago

The grilled cheese was amazing! Tart and sweet. The perfect late night treat. The host was accommodating, as we didn't have a reservation. However our server was a bit disheveled. She spilled a drink all over my husband & offered no compensation. The ambiance was fire! We will return and hopefully get a seat at the bar. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Sidecar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Jackie W.

71

449

65

2 years ago

We came in on a Friday night around 7pm and were able to get one of the tables without a reservation as long as we cleared out before 8pm. The service was excellent because the place wasn't quite packed, and they were attentive knowing that we needed to get out of there by 8pm for another reservation. The cocktails were good though the cocktails are around $16-18. I like that they have a rotating cocktail menu thus giving the bartenders more creative license with the drinks they get to make. There is a large selection of whiskeys. read more

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Rocky B.

1.1 mi•H Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast

102

402

1524

2 years ago

Great ambiance and place to go to right after watching a game. Perfect place for a night cap before heading home. Service is on point and nice speakeasy that we accidentally stumbled upon. Food comes in very small portions, but if you come here, it's mainly for the ambiance and drinks read more

Denson Liquor Bar - More drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Sid P.

Elite 23

37

160

301

3 years ago

Great service. Perfect mule. Very cool atmosphere. Bartenders were great. Very attentive. A little on the pricey side for their signature cocktails but worth it for a special night out. read more

Denson Liquor Bar - Harper's Mule - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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K H.

0

3

4

1 year ago

Really cool spot, good lighting with speakeasy vibes. The cocktails were great, especially the espresso Martini. It wasn't too sweet and we could tell it was made with real espresso. Service was excellent and our water glasses were constantly refilled. read more

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More info about Denson Liquor Bar

600 F St NW
lower level
Washington, DC 20004
Penn Quarter
Directions
(202) 758-3867
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.densondc.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Denson Liquor Bar open?

Denson Liquor Bar opens at 4:30 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Denson Liquor Bar close?

Denson Liquor Bar is closed on Monday and Sunday.Denson Liquor Bar closes at 1:00 AM (Next day) on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Denson Liquor Bar closes at 2:00 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.

Mon, Sun ClosedTue-Thu 4:30 PM - 1:00 AM (Next day)Fri-Sat 4:30 PM - 2:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does Denson Liquor Bar take Bitcoin?

No, Denson Liquor Bar does not take Bitcoin.

Does Denson Liquor Bar take credit cards?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Denson Liquor Bar have a happy hour?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar has a happy hour.

Does Denson Liquor Bar serve alcohol?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar serves alcohol. Full Bar

Services

Is Denson Liquor Bar by appointment only?

No, Denson Liquor Bar is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does Denson Liquor Bar allow dogs?

No, Denson Liquor Bar does not allow dogs.

Does Denson Liquor Bar have TVs?

No, Denson Liquor Bar does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Denson Liquor Bar have bike parking?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar has bike parking.

Does Denson Liquor Bar have outdoor seating?

No, Denson Liquor Bar does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Denson Liquor Bar have parking?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Denson Liquor Bar wheelchair accessible?

No, Denson Liquor Bar is not wheelchair accessible.

Does Denson Liquor Bar allow outdoor smoking?

No, Denson Liquor Bar does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Denson Liquor Bar have free WiFi?

Yes, Denson Liquor Bar has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

This proper liquor bar provides a welcome reprieve from the modern world above. From the bar, expect an emphasis on classic cocktails and a focused spirits list that includes favorites and explorations alike. The kitchen offers dishes ranging from pork belly to salads, light and hearty snacks, and dessert so there's an option for whatever your evening brings. Denson accepts and encourages reservations for all booths and the remaining bar space is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

History

Established in 2014.

Denson Liquor Bar believes that the path to true contentment is achieved through honest and close relationships with those around us. These connections with family, friends, and strangers are best cultivated over cocktails and food. The simple act of sharing a meal and sharing our stories can help us to find the moment, the most honest and truthful place to be. We create a rich and full life by sharing all the delights and the sorrows, the happy successes and inevitable disappointments, with the ones we love. When we reject fear and instead choose to open our hearts to those around us, we find true joy. Denson Liquor Bar seeks to create the space to connect with each other; to bring people together and into the moment.

Meet the Business Owner: Dominic P.

After taking the reins of Denson Liquor Bar as the General Manager in 2017, Dominic began to build the culture and atmosphere of Denson. He wanted Denson to continue to be known as a place where a guest may feel at ease away from the rigors of life and where they can relax and connect with friends and family. An emphasis on signature cocktails with seasonal ingredients was established, but he also he placed an emphasis on the ability of Denson staff to execute all of the classic & neo-classic cocktail cannon as well as the ability of staff to use their unique skillset to create customized cocktails for guests based on their individual tastes. Dominic became the owner of his beloved Denson Liquor Bar during the pandemic in 2020.

More Info

Special Hours, Health Score

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Nice & Easy is a fun dive bar with americana decor and good music. The pool table was also really…read morecool, and it made the night feel more like a hangout than just a bar stop. I got the Long Thailand Iced Tea and wow... it tasted like boba tea with that strong black tea flavor. Definitely recommend trying it. Drinks are solid and affordable. Bathrooms aren't great. But honestly, it to be expected for a place like this, it's still a good spot for a casual night out.

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Tea

Flight Club D.C

Hosted my husband's surprise birthday party here and it was amazing! Everyone had a great time,…read morefood was on point and there was plenty of space to celebrate. I definitely recommend getting two oches for 15+ people. Most of all Jessica was amazing and a great host for us. We look forward to coming back!

This was our first time here and we will definitely be back! I love the speak easy, old school…read morepub vibe and ambience. We had bottomless Mamosa's and 3 beef sliders and they were awesome!! The service was on point! The hostess was very welcoming and informative! Our server was very friendly and attentive to our needs. Our food came quickly and everything was great! I can't wait to go back!

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

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

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Flight Club Social Darts is a nightlife destination.

Free State

4.3(149 reviews)

0.1 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!

Spiked chocolate

Bar

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Small glasses

Serenata

3.9(73 reviews)

1.4 mi

Stopped by to grab a drink with a friend on a Tuesday evening after work and had a great time!…read moreTalked to the bartender about their happy hour specials and she led the way to a hibiscus margarita. So refreshing and so good! The ambiance was relaxed and fun on a week night. I would definitely come back again for a chill catch up chat.

This bar has been such a standout ever since it opened! I still remember their ginormous cocktail…read moremenu, but am still very happy with their offerings now. My go-to has been the Venezolana, which has a base of a dark rum and a combination of tropical fruit. Don't be fooled, however, this is not a fruity drink! I love the balance and it's always fun to see the fancy ice with the bar's name in the middle. Don't sleep on their snacks! My fav have been their chorizo empanadas. The black bean dip is also tasty. Aside from what I consume, I ALWAYS leave feeling good about the service. Their bartenders are skilled and aren't overbearing. They always answer any questions I have or provide recommendations to friends. A really great team over there and I'm glad it's close enough to grab a random drink here and there!

Care is taken in every glass.

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Taste just as great as they look

Chadol Korean BBQ

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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Ciel Capitol Hill

4.3(9 reviews)

0.9 mi•NoMa

Omg!! The food was delicious. This was my first time patronizing this restaurant and I was blown…read moreaway. Interestingly enough they have two locations which I did not know. The food at this location was great. The red snapper with the rice and tomatoes was very flavorful. The red snapper could have been cooked a little harder. However, other than that it was great. My friend order the same dish except with salmon. She enjoyed the dish as well but also mentioned that the fish could be cooked harder. We sat at the bar so we didn't get service from the waiter. However, the service from the bartender as great. He was very knowledgeable on the drinks and the food. Unfortunately, I did not get a picture of the drinks. But I ordered a smoked margarita which had a great taste. The ambiance was wonderful. It was very aesthetically please. From the flowers on the ceiling to the rooftop overlooking the Capitol it was great. The roof top provided a chill vibe with low music. It could be a great place for a date night or just a place to go to meet up with friends. I 100% recommend.

My first visit to Ciel Social Club was such a good experience! I went during happy hour with…read morefriends and the entire vibe of the rooftop was amazing from start to finish. The views alone make you want to stay all night, especially as the sun starts to set over the city. We also got to enjoy live music from the band, which made the atmosphere feel even more fun and elevated. It was the perfect mix of great energy, good music, and a beautiful rooftop setting. For drinks, we tried the Blushing Orchard Martini, Capitol Blossom Fizz, and the Lavender Ginger Bloom -- all refreshing and well-crafted. For food, we ordered the East Coast Oysters on the Half Shell, Beef Sliders, and Mediterranean Tacos. Everything came out fresh and flavorful.

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Bar Betsie

4.3(67 reviews)

1.4 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.

Quick view of options

Frozen hibiscus pina colada

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A well balanced Old Fashioned

The Alchemist DC

4.2(117 reviews)

1.5 mi•U Street Corridor

We visited The Alchemist in DC and ordered the Banana Bread Rum Old Fashioned and a Fireplace…read morethemed cocktail with chocolate and cherry notes. Both were disappointing. The drinks tasted watered down and unbalanced. The banana flavor in mine was dull and overripe rather than fresh and vibrant. The smoke and fire presentation was nice, but the actual cocktails did not justify the $25 price point. The restroom was unacceptable. There was urine on the floor, a strong foul odor, and the surface was slippery. For a speakeasy positioning itself as upscale, this was a major miss. The space is very small and service was just okay. Overall, the concept has potential, but the execution did not meet expectations. I will not be returning.

Good cocktails. Killer Sally was refreshing but a bit too sweet for me. Old Fashioned Fireplace was…read moregreat, definitely chocolatey and coffee-y. I find Old Fashioned generally a bit too strong for me, but this one was very smooth and rich, and I really enjoyed it. It is definitely heavy though! Very crowded on a Friday night, around 6-7 pm (we were lucky to snag an empty table 10 minutes later). Good service, especially when it was so busy in the night.

Something experimental (no name, yet!)

House made!

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Dragons lair

Death & Co DC

4.2(113 reviews)

0.7 mi•Shaw, Downtown

•$$$

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.

We were here to get drinks and apps to kickstart our friend's birthday celebration. Unfortunately,…read morewe didn't have a reservation for that evening. Because the last time we were here, we could find a seat easily. So never thought about making a reservation. As we walked in, the place was packed. Lucky we got a table in the corner for an hour. One of us had to stand unfortunately. Drinks were great but felt overpriced. Food was delicious too. Fried potatoes and tartar is a must have. The service was great. Ambiance is amazing as well. Slightly on the darker side in the inside. They also have outdoor seating.

Please and Thank You

Mutineer

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19 reviews that are not currently recommended

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John K.

24

7

10 years ago

Went here last night with friends. Overall was a pretty cool place! Located down the stairs on the side of Fuel - it was a tiny bit tricky to find, but they were going for that speakeasy vibe so it was super cool. Parking across the street was super easy and free after 10PM. Decor was awesome. A little too dark for my ideal, but still cool. Menus, tables, and overall vibe was chill. Drinks were superb. I had Maker's Mark whiskey which was also delicious. Their drinks menu is extensive and whiskey/scotches (I'm a fan btw) was broken down into regions! Superb. Only critique was that we had a party of 8 and they gave us two round tables kind of far apart so it was hard to converse with the entire group. Perfect place for groups 4-5. read more

Todd T.

0

7

12

8 years ago

Shocking that RAMW chose to ignore Ari and Stacy Gejdenson's long history of tolerating sexual harassment at their restaurants as documented in the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune and other publications. Respect for women and concern for the safety of vulnerable restaurant workers, many under 18, were clearly not criteria for this award. Conferring this award is a badge of shame for RAMW and puts them squarely on the wrong side of the restaurant industry's well known problems with sexual harassment and abuse. If you confer awards on the perpetrators of sexual harassment and violence, their apologists, and their enablers, then the behavior will not stop. Eat elsewhere and know how worthless a "Rammy" is. read more

Maria A.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Impeccable service and cocktails! I tell all of my friends from NYC to go to Denson when they're in DC, and when they get done marveling over the cocktails, they go on about how friendly and inviting the staff is. I've been coming to here for a couple of years, and what stands out to me is the loyalty of many of their customers, which is a testament to the bar's ownership and staff. Everyone behind the bar goes out of their way to ensure we are cared for, share laughs with us, and create the most amazing drinks. You know you're in for a good time with good people in a beautiful bar. Trust me, we wish we had a Denson Liquor Bar in NYC! Go! You won't regret it! read more

Sarah W.