Didn't think I would really enjoy this place, but good thing I let my friends drag me in anyway (not that it was overly hard with that awesome guy out front slinging fresh donuts... I had like 9 of them, by the way. Delish.). Anyway. Good beer. Decent BBQ. Prices are really reasonable for DC. Ambiance was good too- as long as you plan to sit outside since the bathroom in this place is larger than the rest of the indoor area. Fine with me, since it was a gorgeous Sunday afternoon. Service was a little spotty- guy waiting on us was REALLY interested in talking to his hipster buddies about the latest indie record and film photography or something, but he was nice enough, and every time I asked for a new beer he seemed to get a sense of urgency and made sure I wasn't ever empty-handed (good boy). The whole communal thing really worked out for me, since I'm the personality who wants to be besties with everyone, but be warned if you don't like socializing with strangers: you might end up stuck next to someone like me who has had enough German beer to be convinced I can speak the language fluently, and PS we should probably go there sometime... together... Lucky for me there were lots of other peeps around who felt like, or rather, WANTED, to indulge me and my awesomeness. I don't know how things get in the evening, but for a little afternoon delight, this place was definitely a win. read more

We went here past 8pm and it was packed. We weren't impressed with the $8 beer and ambiance. Perhaps that may change if we go here at a different time/day. However, I did hear the food is pretty good. I will probably try the food out when it's less busy. read more

I love east coast beers, but sometimes I want a nice west coast IPA and for some reason this place's beer options always do it for me. I think because they only have seven beers on tap and go through so much volume the beer is always guaranteed to be fresh. So many times I've had skunked beers from other DC establishments. It's true it can get crowded sometimes but I've always found Sunday to be nice and easy going. The staff was super friendly, and all told pretty prompt with getting met beer and food. The food is incredible. One of the best burgers in DC. Highly recommend the corn especially when in season. The barbecue is great too. Couldn't believe how much I got for the price considering I'm used to paying $30/lb back in SF. Will definitely go back whenever I'm in town. read more

HOW AM I JUST FINDING OUT ABOUT THIS PLACE?! I've walked this corner many a time, yet somehow never saw this little gem. Let me start by saying I LOVE BEER GARDENS! The communal tables always make for a fun, social time with strangers, and the beer is usually top notch. Usually I find the food lacking -- which also turned out to the case here -- but I still loved it! Pros: First off, it's so convenient close to the metro and other food spots which is a huge plus. Second, they don't even card to sit at the tables and relax (it's not as "fenced in strict" as Dacha). You do get carded for beer though inside. Cons: Come prepared for it to be packed! And, oddly, folks here think it's okay to "save seats" for people that aren't there yet (a big no-no in beer garden ettiquette in my opinion!). They aren't as willing to scootch over as I've experienced at other places. The food is also a con. We ordered a pretzel and hush puppies -- the former was smaller than I expected and too dark, while the later didn't even come with a dipping sauce. If you're in it for a laid back spot to soak up some sun and the beer - go here. If you're expecting to squeeze in among friendly strangers and have decent food, I think you may leave slightly disappointed. read more

This place is dangerous. With a chill, relaxing beirgarten vibe, a strong and delicious German beer selection, and a menu full of fried goodies, the hours just slip away here. Just because you had only two or three beers here doesn't mean you just had two or three beers somewhere else. Each beer creeps up on you and seems to have an inebriation multiplier of at least three. Keep this in mind. That aside, the Weihenstephaner hefeweizen is truly fantastic. Standard's menu looks great, but the individual dishes are only slightly above average. But still, hushpuppies and fried pickles are a rare find in this town, so I appreciate the effort. Others swear by the Texas beef brisket sandwich here. I haven't tried it. I've twice tried the pulled pork BBQ though. While just so-so, I give Standard props for including cole slaw on the 'cue, which is an absolute must. Next time I'll give the brisket a whirl, and of course, a few fried sides. Dangerous or not, I'm a fan. read more

Enjoyed a beautiful crisp Thursday evening here - well cured brisket sandwich and gigundus grilled cheese (to be honest, too much - the third half is a nice idea but unnecessary) - fries and really tasty carolina cole slaw - topped with a root beer and large german octoberfest bier = perfect evening. I imagine it is hard to come up with a 'Q sauce that satisfies all the mid/east coast bbq factions, so they kind of skipped trying - but the brisket was damn tasty. Also, the donut machine was curiously idle - if you are looking for a job they need someone to become the donut (wo)man of 14th street...tempting. read more

I live in LA, where its almost illegal to eat sweet, fried, anything delicious - especially in public. I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw FRESH DOUGHNUTS sprinkled with sugar sitting out at the entrance, calling my name. Sure, they have good beer and sausages - everyone in DC likes to hang out outside while the weather is nice... but it was the doughnut machine is what really won me over. read more

I hadn't heard anything about Standard, but my dad was dying to try it out so we headed over after an afternoon in Dupont. We all were starving and got a mixture of burgers and brisket sandwiches, with sides of fries, pickles and hush puppies. It could've been the large amounts of beer talking, but the burger was delicious. I took the pickles off (ew) and left the tomato and onions and it still tasted great, without any other additions. The fries were perfectly salted and fresh. Hush puppies were tasty but could've used some butter or something to dip in. Heard mixed reviews for the brisket -- some enjoyed, others were underwhelmed. Beers were large and different. The wait for food was a little long (but there were 6 of us) and seating was minimal (we crowded around the bar inside, with only two stools) but I thought it was great and very different for the area. I'd be curious to see how they do once the temperatures dip as the inside can only hold about 10 people comfortably. read more

I LOVE this place. It gets really crowded right after work on Fridays, but a lot of that crowd moves on an hour or so after and there's plenty of space to sit and chat with friends into the evening. The fries are absolutely to die for. The weihenstephaner hefe-weissbier is my favorite. I really like the atmosphere of Standard and whenever I have gone, my friends and I have spent hours sitting outside. Even in the cold month of March, we all crowded around a table and were fine with a very warm space heater hovering over us. Definitely a must. The fried pickles also look very tasty...but I was never able to try them myself. The only con is that there are two bathrooms (ones upstairs by the kitchen) and so the there's usually a line. Also, did I mention they make delicious-smelling donuts? Awesome. read more

Came here about half hour before opening to get a table and though we were among the first people there, we were the last to get a table. They really should have some queue system but once the doors open it's like the Wonka Chocolate Factory and it's everyone for themselves. Ok so I can't drink alcohol (allergic) and you may think I have no business reviewing a beer garden. So if you want to stop reading, I won't be offended. Drinks: They have a few different sodas here - birch beer, root beer, ginger ale to name a few. I had the root beer and ginger ale and both were tasty and worth the $3 and it's nice they had some nonalcoholic options. Food: Tried the -fried pickles (ok but eat fast or the breading gets stale) -pulled pork sandwich (ok, but small for the price and not enough flavor) -fried (ok, overly oily, not memorable) -grilled Mexican corn (fantastic - but it's always been a favorite food of mine) Service: Terrible. We were there 2 hours and had 3 different waiters in total. And in transitioning between people, we lost parts of our order and had to re-order and wait for food. I ordered the pork sandwich and corn at the same time, kept reminding the waitress about the corn 3 times and finally got it an hour after the sandwich came out. All in all, service it not that great - it's just way too packed and it seems like they don't have enough waitstaff. From what my friends say, beer was good, food was ok and the Mexican corn saved the day - so delicious I ordered another despite the wait the first time. read more

I was super excited to try out Standard because I have loved other biergarten-type restaurants in the past. No plans to return for several reasons. First, the staff was super rude. The first greeting at the bar was "How much have you had to drink?" in a very condescending manner. Secondly, it is WAY too crowded and to make it worse, you are kept in by a cage-like gate. Finally, its overpriced. If you are looking for a good german bar, I suggest Biergarten Haus on H St. read more

The bartender who took my order was incredibly rude and condescending. I ordered drinks and asked for an extra glass to split with my siblings. She immediately questioned my order and told us that we should order something else due to the circumstances of the situation. She then rolled her eyes when checking my, and my siblings IDs. This interaction made me feel unwelcome to the establishment and I cannot see myself coming back in the future. read more

It's hard to walk by this place and not want to check it out -- it's full of people sitting at picnic tables under strands of lights, enjoying beer and BBQ in the sunshine. After the Cherry Blossom 10-miler and a long brunch, we jumped at the chance to sit outside and relax with a beer. I really enjoyed the Hofbrau original lager (served in a hefty mug/stein), and my friends also said the porter and the grapefruit ale were good, too. We didn't eat, but this place is definitely worth a return visit for a happy hour/U St pregame! Seating is at a premium so get there early or be on your game. read more

I haven't eaten here, so this review is just about ambiance and drinks. I must say that based what I saw being eaten by others, the sandwiches are a bit small for what they cost. Beer selection is a bit light here (perhaps since they are a bit new). The service is great. There are several servers walking around and constantly picking up empty classes. Be prepared to stand in tight quarters, or wait a long time to get a table. I would get there a few minutes before opening time if you want to score a seat. Seats near the wall might be better if its chillier out as the heaters are attached to the walls. read more

I feel so lucky to live right around the corner from Garden District, 14th Street's friendliest neighborhood biergaarten by far. Drinking and dining is done outside on long communal tables with plenty in the sun and in the shade. DRINKS: a healthy beer selection--maybe seven on draft--a few wine options, and some beer by the bottle. German and Michigan draughts were the most frequent offerings, but I was all about the SPIKED HOT APPLE CIDER. We're talking about BOURBON, people, and a healthy dose of it. I came in yesterday with a friend and it was still chilly enough to justify the hot drink. FOOD: We didn't end up ordering anything, but good lord was it difficult to resist. The menu is full on southern style BBQ fixings: pulled pork, cole slaw, brauts, etc., and they smelled like utter heaven. I do wish, however, they had some healthy options! SERVICE: Awesome. Our service was fast, knowledgeable, and attentive without hovering. read more

solid burger spot. i got the impossible burger w fries and it hit the spot. simple and good quality, just want i was craving. look forward to going back and trying something else and having a drink on the patio when the weather gets nice. read more

My only complaint here is that it gets packed early. Wish this place were bigger (similar to Frankford Hall in Philly). Either way, it's a perfect say drinking gem. I don't eat meat, but my boyfriend raves about the pulled pork sandwich (as do others). They also have a good beers on tap, and sell half and full size liters. Perfect for a sunny day! read more

Garden District - Hello beer :) - Barbeque Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Went here on a whim on a Friday night. The first thing I saw was a guy selling fresh donuts near the gate for a buck, which I thought was pretty cool (even though I'm not a huge donut fan). The tables were all crowded and you basically had to yell in order to hear one another, but I was captivated by the large steins in people's hands. We walked into the back to order food (the main reason we were there - to eat!) and I ordered a burger. Prices were fair and the service was fine. I wasn't expecting much from the burger, but it was pretty great! Good flavor, some crunch from the pickles and the cheese was well melted into the patty (a white cheddar, I think). I had a bite of my companion's pork BBQ sandwich, but didn't think it was amazing. Tasted good, but could've used some sort of sauce or something to give moisture. i think I would like it more on a calmer night (is there?) in order to not have to yell, but inside seats weren't bad and the door was open to let the air circulate and allow me to still enjoy the cool evening weather. I'll probably be back some day. read more

Came here for the third time last night with a big group of people and was reminded why I love this place so much. We showed up around midnight and were surprisingly able to commandeer an entire table--I guess the cold scares some people off, though they do have heat lamps! Just beer for us last night since we got there after the kitchen had closed, but the Oktoberfest they had on draught was really solid. Last time I came here I got the pulled pork sandwich which was fantastic--they do BBQ really well, and I'd definitely be back more often to sample the rest of their menu if I lived in the area! Their pretzel was also really good, and I also really appreciate how they set their prices to round up with tax. Highly recommend that you pay Standard a visit if you haven't already! read more

What an awesome place!!! This is a great summer spot for hang out and enjoy the weather... Their burgers are THE best!!! Yummyyyyy Their beers are also great.. If you are not a beer person but you want to go there, order the grapefruit beer. It's fruity and refreshing. Even though the place is packed, the waiters are extremely nice and they don't rush you to get out. Overall, an awesome, chill hangout spot for summer and a must go! read more

This is an unpretentious, open-air place with a friendly, slide-over-and-make-room feel. You won't get gourmet anything, but you will get good, fresh beer, sausages, and cheerful service, and you won't get gourmet prices. This is the type of place that you can comfortably hang out at with friends, or just relax and make new friends. I sat down at a table with a young woman who looked remarkable like Brandi Carlile, and although I never got the chance to lean over and tell her that, this is the type of place where chance meetings and friendly conversations can happen very easily. Thoughtfully, Standard has outdoor heaters along one side of the eating area, so hopefully you'll be able to enjoy it until it closes for the winter on December 10th. It'll reopen in early March, so don't be too dismayed. You should go sooner or later -- it's friendly, the food's good, the beer's great, the service is nice, and there's no better place to people-watch the unending parade of 14th characters strolling by just a few feet away. read more

Standard is the best bbq place in DC that I've been to so far and an awesome place to hang out outside - when you can actually find space at one of the picnic tables..Get ther EARLY on busy nights. I've written like 5 reviews in a row so I'm getting kind of lazy but I'll try...I've been to most bbq places in DC and am always trying the new ones. Standard is still the best I've had two years later. The pickles and hush puppies are great, as are the meats. The pulled pork sandwich is much more flavorful and smoky than others and the other meats I've tried are equally tasty, with a little bit of char on the outside. It's a great place to go with a group of three or four friends as the food comes out on a giant tray so it's like eating a "family meal" and adds to the awesome beer garden style ambiance. I think they make their own donuts too, but I've never tried those... Service can be a bit slow because of the multiple parties at one table thing, but that's what traditional beer gardens are usually like anyway. read more

Standard is the perfect place to go on a beautiful warm weathered spring or summer day after work with one exception, the crowds. If you get there right at 5pm when it opens, you get to enjoy Standard for a while before it gets too crowded. Other than the "Clarendon" like crowds that start swarming in around 6 - 6:30pm daily, Standard is a great beer garden. Standard has picnic-style tables, which make the environment fun and carefree. As far as the food is concerned, I wasn't expecting much from Standard because I didn't go there to eat as much as I did to drink. However, I was pleasantly surprised. My friend and I ordered the bratwurst and bauernwurst sandwiches and split them. Both wursts were very tasty but my friend and I both preferred the bauernwurst. Both sandwiches are accompanied with sauerkraut. We also tried the fried pickles or "frickles" as I like to call them and they were a good addition. Overall, Standard is the ideal place to be outdoors and enjoy a good selection of draft beer, just go early before it gets too crowded. read more

Delicious!! What is not to like- amazing food and very reasonable prices, sitting at communal tables where you are bound to meet some new people, HUGE mugs of beer!!! Minus one star because it is very challenging finding somewhere to sit. I love Standard!!! read more

They made me wait 30 minutes to tell me they're out of the kielbasa. Then, they decided for me that I wanted the knackwurst. I ate it thinking it was complimentary to make up for their poor inattentive service. Nope, they billed me. Even though they left a bad taste in my mouth, I can tell you that their onion rings are bland. Maybe, and I could be wrong here, but maybe if the servers didn't just socialize with one another and actually asked the customers what they wanted, it could be good for repeat business. read more

It's a great spot and has been my go-to for a relaxed evening out since I first moved to DC five years ago. I've now moved but I make a point of eating there whenever I'm back in town. The service and atmosphere are always good and the food is consistently top notch. My favorites are the brisket and the fried pickles. Come early - it always fills up! read more

I live across the street, so there's one star already. That they serve good BBQ and good beer mandates another star. The third star is requisite for all outdoor eating establishments not plagued with flies, locusts, or stench. So there you have it. No more stars. Here's why: The brisket is worth $7; the bratwurst is not. The beer is worth $4; you'll pay $7. The hours are haphazard, and finding a seat a pain. Too many people come here. What makes this last drawback especially painful is the twenty square feet or so, just outside the prison fence, where a nice set of tables could reasonably nest. You find yourself lookingly longingly toward the other side of the fence, crammed in your tiny spot, maybe standing, maybe wedged next to some smelly Brits (as I was), or in any case put in a space too small with good food too expensive. Open the unused portions, drop the prices (except on the brisket), and bar smelly folks entrance. read more

I have been back a few times, service has majorly improved and the food is very good. It's seemingly always packed and definitely a fun way to spend a nice Saturday. Note: Bathroom longs get very long, plan ahead before you finish that giant beer. read more

Came here on a slightly rainy Fri night and was really sad to hear that it was last call (and the kitchen was closed) before 10:30 PM. Service was pretty slow. My friends rave about this place so I might try it again but it was a huge disappointment. My bf kept saying all night that all he wanted was a beer and a delicious bratwurst when we went elsewhere to drink and eat. read more

I discovered this place on a Thrillist article that listed Garden District as one of the top 10 beer gardens in the nation; I was super stoked to find out that one of them happens to be 30 min away from me! BEER: 3.5-4.0 I guess I can see why this beer garden made the article, but I was quite disappointed with the beer option. There was about only 6 beers on tap, I was hoping they would have more choices. Only about half of the beer were german beers, and the rest were American craft beers. I had this impression that it was a bavarian beer house where all their beers would be imported and of course, with more choices. However, they probably rotate their beers on tap; I guess I'll just have to catch them when they have a better selection. AMBIENCE: 5 The place is quite small, but has a very laid-back, casual vibe that I like. There are picnic style tables set throughout a small backyard and some outside. There are no hostesses so you can go ahead seat yourself and yes, you'll be expected to sit next to strangers, but what a perfect way to meet people. The 'seat yourself' aspect and the picnic style is true to the german beer gardens I've been to, which I appreciate. This place is the perfect place to chill and enjoy a beautiful day in the middle of the city. However, it is small so I recommend going early or with a smaller crowd. FOOD: 3 My boyfriend and I got the currywurst and the fried pickles. The currywurst was good, but not hot enough. The fried pickles had a batter that made it slip off easily, but wasn't bad per se..I've just had better. Reading the other reviews, this place seems to offer good food, so I will have to give the other items on the menu a try! read more

I love beer, and I love beer gardens. Last time I wanted to come here, it was way too crowded. Today unfortunately, it poured, so I had an easy time getting a table. Staff was hospitable, especially it being a gloomy evening with heavy precipitation in horizon. I will have to try this place again when it is nicer out. read more

The beer, food and prices are decent hence the 3 stars. You're going more for the atmosphere and outdoor seating. Since it's an outdoor place I decide to bring my dog, but apparently it's not dog friendly-- they have to stay outside on the sidewalk. BOTTOM LINE: If I want to have BBQ I'll go to Kangaroo Boxing Club or DC City Smokehouse which is hands down best in DC IMO (as someone from the south). If I want to have a beer and sit outside I'll go to Dacha where dogs are more than welfome read more

3.5 Stars... This is a poppy favorite that locals love and it is good for the summer.. It is always packed. Read all of the other reviews and get all of the "typical" crap that "typical" yelper will say. The GOOD: I give it a bunch of stars for the outdoor-i-ness of this place, the group tables, and most of the food is pretty good. I also like the prices - pretty cheap. The BAD: Terrible Beer selection and even though this is a "hipster" bar, it is not cool to have a crappy beer selection and only have high alcohol beer during the middle of the summer. So with that, I have taken away 1.5 stars... The UGLY: Nothing really - Good location, Good food... just a little hipster-ish.. SIDENOTE: Don't recommend the Maine Lobster Roll.. But then again what kind of a jacka$$ actually orders the "Maine Lobster Roll" at a German bar? Yea, all of my friends bashed me pretty hard for that... read more

Definitely one of my favorite spots on 14th to drink and eat outside. The food is amazing, beers are available in liter size, and occasionally they make homemade donuts to enjoy! It's a popular space so it may be crowded and seating may be tight. This also leads to slower service occasionally. Also is not dog friendly. read more

It's a favorite on 14th, especially when the weather is cooperating. People may say the service isn't spectacular, but you come here to enjoy the atmosphere, catch up with friends, and drink great beer. I'm at a beer garden, I don't need someone asking me if I'm ok every 10 minutes. The beer comes in large steins so they don't have to! Also, I'm human, if I want something I'm able to ask, and the staff has always been very responsive. Plus the crowd is great, and meeting people here is easy. And the home made donuts are the cherry on top. read more

They have plenty of tables visibly open and don't seat groups of less than 4. If you're trying to get in the waitlist as 2 people- say that you're a group of 4 so that you'll get seated! read more

Not a beer drinker personally but this place has such a good vibe and tasty beer. I don't remember exactly what I got but something light and citrus. Price is very reasonable. They also offer different sizes. You can chug down a big glass of beer if you are in the mood. It would be nice to have a beer or two when weather is nice and to catch up with friends. They also offer some light bites and they all look very yummy! I like this place! read more

Garden District - Barbeque Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Pretty great barbecue. Nice outdoor location, small list of beer but I was able to find something that I liked. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have Hofbrau the day we were here. The pulled pork sandwich was very good. There was a taste of smoke, tender meat that had fallen apart into shreds and very small chunks. A pretty good barbecue sauce that wasn't overloaded onto the pork, and a vinegar based slaw that worked very well with the sandwich. The brisket sandwich was good as well, but I liked the pork better. Long strips of brisket folded over on themselves on a bun. This was a saucier sandwich than the pork. Both sandwiches used the same sauce, a Texas style barbecue sauce. It was pretty good and worked well with the sandwiches. Both sandwiches used the same seeded roll. A well made, soft roll. While I typically prefer a brioche roll, this worked very well. We tried the hush puppies and the pickles & sauerkraut. The hush puppies were excellent, a crisp fried shell around a soft tasty center. The pickles were exactly how I like my pickles, a milder, smaller pickle cut in half. The sauerkraut was warm, bitter, and crunchy. I don't like sauerkraut, but this was inedible for me or anything. read more

I wanted to take one star off because they don't have a large indoor seating so I can get my fix during cold weather. That wouldn't be fair though. Great beers, great ambiance, and sometimes there's a dude making donuts up front! The paulaner Oktoberfest beer is highly recommended as well as the hush puppies, pickles & slaw, pulled pork, and brisket sandwich (although the sandwiches are a bit petite for the price). I'd stay away from the warm pretzel though. read more

We tried this place for the first time on a Wednesday evening around 6:30 and we managed to find some room, but it really gets packed so I recommend getting there as early as possible. I enjoyed both of my beers- 21st Amendment and a Hefeweizen. If you don't eat meat I definitely recommend eating before or after drinking here, unless you want to eat a dinner of fried foods and pretzels. If you like beer gardens this is really great place to go on a nice day or evening with a group of friends! read more