There are many reviews about how unsafe this place is. It's filthy, smells like urine, patrons are aggressive and employees are rude and disrespectful. Theres another review addressing safety of the bathrooms...same bathrooms Bahbee endorses below, bathrooms with aggressive men that started this whole incident which I was not believed on. Bahbee reviewing below (and giving her place of employment a 5 star review after this incident) is the one who yelled and physically assaulted me with three big men behind her, my husband was a completely sober witness, and he was scared. She escalated the situation and even her managers told her to leave. My husband saw Bahbee PHYSICALLY THROW ME UP AGAINST A WALL. Consider where her review is coming from as an employee (a threatening and rude one at that), and read the rest of the reviews on this place. I'm not saying anything new about this bar, so it's interesting they say I am lying. As I headed upstairs to use the bathroom (not sure why they are saying I didn't use the bathroom because the start of this incident was when I came back out of it)...before I went up there, a man stopped my husband and said "you better go up there with her and be careful." That comment wouldn't be needed if it was truly a place of peace and safety. I didn't volunteer to leave. No one was nice to me - patrons or staff. I did ask to speak to the BARTENDERS as they were the only identifiable staff. I didn't lie about my interaction with the man assaulting me at the restroom or "cry fake tears" and have no rebuttal. Being questioned about anyone's gender was confusing and had nothing to do with the fact of this patron being allowed to be aggressive and harassing, but they wanted me to explain how that patron could be justified in that behavior. So no, I did not have an answer for them defending him. They just kept saying "what do you want me to do about it?" I wasn't being entitled, I was asking for accountability for aggressive and violent people. I was physically assaulted at the restrooms. I didn't say anything but when I came out the same man came at me and was yelling and harassing me, like really close in my face with his hands up at me. It shouldn't matter that they allow men in the same restrooms as women, and if it didn't matter then this wouldn't have happened. This person harassed and assaulted me and I was terrified. I tried to approach the bartender and explain and was told "to get the fuck out". I did not verbally harass the man who did this to me because I was afraid of him, as was my husband. I started crying, I went downstairs to discuss with 2 other bartenders who refused to give me info. Another employee physically assaulted me, threw me against a wall while 3 other men stood behind her as backup. She then followed me downstairs and harassed me until other employees told her to leave. I was kicked out. Not the man assaulting me before I went into the restroom and again after. Don't go here unless you want aggressive men and bartenders who allow it and will also physically assault you. BARTENDERS ALL REFUSED TO GIVE NAMES - assaulting patron, or their names or manager. My asking this info was what they considered combative, there was nothing physical on my end nor was I yelling. If you want to complain or find recourse, especially about assault...you are on your own. They are now trying to lie and say I was screaming and yelling about "what genitals" someone had. This is absolutely not true, like the rest of the story about how everyone was nice to me. This man at the restroom was aggressive and violent and there was no discussion about "genitals", only that a man at the restroom had made me uncomfortable and assaulted me. And any conversation about genitals would not excuse aggressive and violent behavior, as Bahbee seems to suggest it would. That didn't happen - but would it be okay to assault me? They said yes. This bar seemed to avoid accountability at the expense of safety and respect. P.S. when I left I threw my drink (of water...from a clearly identifiable plastic brand water bottle...) at them, which was a big "to-do" (lots of big men screaming in the street about that..) ...enough for them to throw several of their security at it. She wants to say "unknown substance" to add on the lies she has told about the incident...eyeroll, like so sad your bouncers got some water residue barely on them but you can throw me against a wall and let a man physically and verbally assault someone. But hey, when I complained about assault, not so much of a response. Even the women. I did edit my review in response to the lies that this person Bahbee stated in her response to my original review. I do not know this person, they presented themselves as an employee and the establishment reinforced that idea by allowing this person to physically and verbally handle someone, escort them, and manage the interaction. read more

The Fireplace - Gay Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We stumbled into this bar during my mom's graduation celebration, and it quickly became one of our favorite spots. From the moment we walked in, we felt genuinely welcomed and comfortable. The atmosphere was warm, the staff were incredibly kind, and everyone made us feel right at home. We loved it so much that we came back every day! Thank you for helping make such a special occasion even more memorable. read more

Not sure what is happening here but I think the new ownership is trying to kill it! I have been there 4x's over the past year and the vibe is WAY off! The lights are turned all the way up downstairs all the time. No atmosphere at all. Usually the bartender at happy hour has internet radio on which music and commercials! My last visit was this past Saturday 7/19 between 8pm - 830pm and it was DEAD. There was no music as they had the TV on what I think was TBS channel. The owner was there also. If I wanted to watch TBS I would have stayed home. I stayed long enough to finish my drink and went to Green Lantern. Not sure what type of clientele are you trying to attract? Too many options in DC to keep going where they don't really care. read more

Yelp, please look at Kerry D edits & use your better judgement. She is continually lying on me & my neighborhood bar & at this point it's very telling of her behavior that night.. This review is in response to Kerry D. The fireplace is a place of peace and safety. The issue started when she went to the women's restroom and started shouting to someone that she assume identified as male & what body parts they may have had that "you don't belong in a woman's restroom" she harassed the individual all the way to the bar. What Kerry doesn't know is that the women's restroom is singles stalled & have a lock for the safety of those who don't identify as male. Kerry didn't know that & didn't bother to understand because Kerry D never bother genuinely needed to use the restroom. Once there at the bar she tried to get the bartenders attention but only sat there with her hand up. The bartender didn't notice her. So security stepped in to meditate the situation. She shunned off security with both her shoulder and her arm until security announced that they were the proper authority to address about the situation. Once she finally acknowledged security she asked them to step to there top of the stairs. Once there she proceeded to lie and say that the individual coming out of the bathroom just started randomly screaming at her. Security asked what was said and she seem to not be able to remember. Once questioned about what did the persons gender have to do with allegedly yelling at her because she was asked "if this person yelled at you what do their gender have to do with the situation at hand" She had no rebuttal. She VOLUNTEERED to leave the premises. Security escorted her down stairs out the door but she insisted on going to TO THE BARTENDERS at the bottom bar where she then tried to lie about her interactions AGAIN with both security and the patron. The bartenders then attempted to take control over the situation to further try to Meditate the situation but yet again was combative. Kerry D asked for the managers name. What Kerry D didn't know was that it was a manager on duty. When she was instructed to speak with the manager on duty She threw a fit for reasons unknown..When the manager tried to meditate the situation and asked what happened. Kerry didn't want to explain. There was not any three big men against her. Nor was she assaulted at all. Not even when she was asked to leave the bar again. All employees were very patient with Kerry D until she refuse to cooperate & was asked to leave again. She was leaving out & still threw an unknown substance from a water bottle on her friend, bar employees, & patrons. Everyone from strangers to bar employees were all nice to Kerry D but Kerry D was not happy that her entitlement at there bar earned her any leverage over what was right and what was wrong. read more

The Fireplace has been my new go to spot! I immediately was welcomed and the staff are kind and bring a very family feel. I've witnessed how they handle altercations with people that try to cause trouble and I feel completely safe there. The drinks are great and not overpriced. The music is always fun to dance to. The owner sits in there as well and isn't just running the place from the shadows. I don't go to many bars because of how people can get when drinking, but I feel safe and relaxed here. I'll definitely be going back again and again. read more

This is the last vestige of the original gay bars. It's tucked away in DuPont. Look for the warm and welcoming fireplace on the outside corner. This is everything you would ever want in a warm, welcoming gay dive bar. There's everything you need and plenty of kind patrons. The bar is a decent size and welcoming to groups of people as well as solo riders. The drinks are well worth it. You'll surely get plenty of bang for your buck here. Cash only, and they have a ticket dispensing key pad only ATM that not only works, it fascinates. Check it out! read more

The Fireplace - the entrance to the fire place - Gay Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The Fireplace is still a scary, dirty place. I went there - grudgingly - with a friend. MISTAKE! The place smells like old dirt and grease. It appears to never, I repeat, never have been cleaned. I cannot imagine why this place is still open. Stay away from the Fireplace! read more

Left with a sour taste in our mouths after security yelled at me and my girlfriend for sharing a stall in the mixed-gender bathroom. As a woman in a space that, while a gay bar, is still overwhelmingly male, it's unsettling to be expected to navigate a bathroom where men are openly using the urinals right next to you. My girlfriend didn't feel safe going in alone, and frankly, I don't blame her. If this place wants to be welcoming to everyone, they need to consider the realities of women's safety. Lesson learned--ladies, stick to the upstairs bathroom. That said, the drink prices were solid. read more

As a long term Patrol of The Fireplace (since 1997),I am prepared to give yo a TRUE & HONEST review. First off The Fireplace is going through a transition as of July 2025, &I for one couldn't be more pleased. Let me start by saying (I don't care what ANYONE else tells you.. THIS IS A GAY BAR!!!! ALL ARE WELCOME & SHOULD at least feel welcomed but KNOW that is is a GAY BAR & PROUDLY SO.) The STAFF IS always friendly and the drinks are EXCELLENT, especially when you taste the strength of the drink and the cost ratio, you will not find a better cocktail. There is no food served because AGAIN IT IS A BAR, NOT A SPORTS CLUB NOR A RESTAURANT. If you need a snack they have machines that dispense Nuts, and candy NO WINGS HERE LOL LOL. The Fireplace is going through some much needed upgrading. Lighting, painting, Plumbing, are being changed even as I write this review and it is about time because it was showing it's age. What I like so far is The Fireplace is remaining a CLASSIC BAR & I am hopeful that will NEVER change. Music is fine with me but again everyone is different so do not expect ALL HOUSE MUSIC, ALL R&B MUSIC, ALL OF ANY KIND OF PARTICULAR GENRE,as the customers are diverse and you cannot please EVERYONE ALL THE TIME. To sum it up. Great Bar, Excellent cocktails and prices, for the time being CASH ONLY, & no foolishness allowed because police will come and have no time for people upsetting the peace. Yes I am a 20t year Patron and I am not being paid. I just LOVE MY BAR!!!!!!. Dion. read more

I last visited the Fireplace during the summer of 2016, and boy what a night! In fact, I'm still in touch with a couple of people I met. I'm planning on a winter visit at the end of January; can't wait! read more

Cheap drinks. Heavy pour. Good laid back environment. Cash only. Go have a good time!

This place is the best Scott the bartender is the best he is very attentive and will get you whatever you ask for because he is just that good, great atmosphere, awesome music, and everybody is the bomb you definitely have to come here!!! read more

I e always loved the Fireplace Bar. Many night have been started with Scott in the upstairs room. I have "gotten my life" several times over and over again. Nonstop fun ! read more

This is your standard fare bar. What makes it special is that it creates a space for older Black gay men. It's a no gimmicks, cash only place, and the drinks are just okay! It feels like a small town bar located in a major metro area. It's a bit dingy and you can smell the decades worth of smoking that has soaked into the walls and surfaces of the bar. Not the best, and far from the worst. And grateful this place exists for the community. read more

Great neighborhood bar. The drinks are strong and reasonably priced. Remember it is cash only.

i went to this bat last year and it was such a vibe ! they have an upstairs part as well . i do want to visit again .

This place is something! Walked in thru the door and right into a whole other dimension. Where Cheers is gay. Where white wine is served with a straw. Where a friendly banter between a bartender and some regulars made us roar with laughter. We will definitely back read more

The Fireplace - a glass of water with a straw in it - Gay Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

There is something special about The Fireplace on the corner of 21st and P street NW, especially for locals like myself. Its a haven were gay men of color, their friends and admirers can just be fully themselves with no societal judgements. Side bar, I actually met the first guy I every kissed half a block up from their twenty-five years ago! They make good drinks at a good price. It is not a fancy place but that's not really a big deal, that's not why you go there. You go for the drinks and the folks! The staff are usually nice except for one bartender upstairs I am not sure of his name but he wares a signature platinum Anne Burrell haircut and he is the reason I am writing this review in the first place. For all intense purposes we will call him Joe. While I enjoy popping in from time to time to do some people watching. I absolutely hate engaging Joe but sometimes I must. I am a pretty even person, I come across a little shady but I am kind and polite because my mother taught me manners. I am a bit stand offish because I am shy and I don't like drama but always respectful. The first day I saw Joe bartending years ago it was a busy Friday or Sunday evening and the place was pretty busy, it was my turn to order a drink and Joe seemed pissed, I didn't let it bother me .... I ordered my drink, he couldn't hear me, I repeated it. He made my drink with the NASTEST ATTITUDE screamed out the price, took my money, gave me change, rolled his eyes and walk off. I tipped him and I know how to tip because I receive tips also in my line of business. I figured that whatever just happed between us two was not about me and went on with my night. Another time I came in on a weekday early maybe 5 pm, the place was slow maybe 8 people in the upstairs area most of the folks are at one end of the bar, talking to Joe. I walk in, hug a couple of guy I know and go sit at the other end of the bar. Joe walks over with the same nasty face and attitude, he ask what I want, I ask for a second. He walks away, goes back to his conversation, I waited for him to be finished with his conversation about ten minutes later he returns, I quietly as for my drink, the same thing happens again and realize that this is who this guy is. Over the years I have dealt with Joes horrible disposition and have had numerous conversations with other about the way he treats customers of the business. People like myself who have been long time supporters of The Fireplace. I wanted to write something a while ago but didn't want to be petty but this New Years Eve just went to far. I came from a wonderful show and late dinner with my partner decided to stop for a drink before heading home. Hoping to run into a few familiar face and celebrate the coming in of the new year. We get upstairs and Joe is at the bar, against my better judgement I walk up to order a drink, I order two, he begins making the drinks, rite as he begins pouring, I stop him and ask for top shelve, he walks away over to the dj booth looks me straight in the face and announces that the upstairs area is closed. I pissed, walked over to the booth, told him I didn't know why he acted like that and that I would be writing a letter. He told me, to get away from him before he called the police. I walked away very upset, it almost ruined my night. I went downstairs, ran into friends, order 4 drinks all top shelve, from a very busy must nicer bartender. I stated venting with my buddies and was told that they just stopped going to him to avoid any conflict but I don't think that we as paying customers who work hard for their money, should have to avoid an employee who is absolutely unpleasant on purpose. I am a business owner and I have over 20 years in customer service and I could never imagine acting toward or treating a guess in the way he treats customers. I would be out of business. I do have empathy for the fact that it is a hard job to do because he is working with people and alcohol but his vulgar temperament is unnecessary and classless. I am not sure why they keep him around. The reason I gave a favorable rating to the business is because I do truly enjoy The Fireplace every now and then but something really needs to be done about him. read more

great place to chill out an have a drink its been in the town for years

I love this bar for it's neighborhood feel and strong drinks. Shout out to Bill and Scott.

If you're looking for a gay dive bar with cheap drinks you've found it. This place has the cheapest strongest drinks in all of DC. END OF STORY... If you don't mind mingling with a mix of OLDER and younger people you'll love this place. Downstairs is typically where the white bread can be found and the wheat bread can be found upstairs. The bathrooms here are extremely small and unwelcoming. Tuesday's are tequila tuesday and they practically give the stuff away.If you're ordering a shot be prepared for it to be about 3 times the size of your typical bar shot. They have other drink specials but throughout the week. If you're going to tequila tuesday or any other work night be prepared to be hungover at work the following day or better yet call in sick the night before because this place is serious. read more

OMG! Out of all the Sunday's I've come here after brunch it was today that I got kicked out . My friends and I usually trek here after a hearty brunch in the surrounding area but today was different. Can't quite put my finger on it. But it was definitely something different. I wasn't ignorant, belligerent, or misbehaving. My friend and I were talking to to some of the patrons that we were familiar with. I tried to order a drink but he said he wouldn't sever me. Fine. Understandable. A fellow patron offered me a sip of his drink, something new. And the bartender came over and told my friends and I leave. Couldn't understand but we left with no struggle. We've been patrons for several years and this has been beyond our worst experience. read more

First off I love this place. *This is a no frills kind of bar that has a rough on the outside (and inside) but good with the drinks, people, conversations, music, etc.* The drinks are very cost effective and are STRONG!! I love coming here to pre-game (usually it ends up being the game as I admit defeat and head home earlyy) prior to a fun night. Word to the wise is to pace yourself because these drinks will sneak up on you. read more

Just plain awful. Place was so gross and creepy. I sat by the fireplace and there was a strong odor of vomit. My mixed drink was so strong, and foolishly didn't ask for a top shelf. Rock gut rum. Terrible and couldn't drink it. read more

Talk about dives... this bar in general is awful. Some of the bartenders aren't very nice, the bathroom is forever nasty(you can almost smell them as you walk out of DuPont metro station) and the bouncers act like they are actual law enforcement. Amusing, actually. It's only saving grace is that they make the drinks exceptionally strong. Which is probably just as well since it's not worth staying in there for any length of time. So by the time you've had four drinks, the so-called law enforcement, will likely throw you out. By that time, it's off to another bar/club to finish off your night out on the town. read more

A great dark gay dive bar with heavy handed bartenders. I have a lot of fond memories of the Fireplace. Yes, back in the day it had a certain sexy risqué reputation. ;). There is an equal mix of dark and white chocolate with maybe a little bit of caramel sprinkled around. A nice mix of eye candy for your pallet. The patrons can range from; catty-chatty,friendly, creepy and pretentious. It's all up to luck in fate and who you choose to surround yourself with. Give this place an open mind and venture down. Straights may be a little intimidated by the sexual tension and energy can be in the air. But hey that's why the fireplace is what it is. As for drinks,the bartenders can make some of the strongest Long Island Ice Tea's out there. If you like to drink that creeps up on you go for a "Zombie." read more

This is the worst place I've ever seen!! Service is terrible! I went there once, visiting from NY. I ordered Grey Goose dirty martini, and I've been waiting about 15 min for it... I actually got olive juice in martini glass!! When I tried to complaint, an old bartender gave me such a nasty attitude and said "I ALWAYS MAKE IT FILTHY, THIS IS HOW IT SUPPOSED TO BE".... That was my worst experience ever! I've been a bartender for 4 years in midtown Manhattan, I know how DIRTY MARTINI supposed to taste. HORRIBLE PLACE!!! AWFULL!!! read more

Went there last night had a great time very nice people I'm from Pittsburgh and they were very welcoming I am a straight female and this is a gay bar but it was so welcoming drinks were inexpensive and strong read more

If you're looking for a cool dive bar with heavy handed bartenders and a comedy show (some of the patrons), then the Fireplace is for you. I was here recently and had the best time. The drinks were definitely on point, and of course, if Scott is making the drinks you'll only need 2, maybe 3, before you're staggering. The upstairs still gets more packed than the downstairs, and on Saturday nights they have a $4 Bacardi special. Starting to love the Fireplace again. read more

While in DC, we had to check out some night life. DuPont Circle is a trendier area of town. It is also home to some nightlife in DC, including quite a few gay bars and clubs. One of G's friends wanted to meet at this place called The Fireplace. It is cash only, but they have a sort of ATM. You scan your card, get a receipt, and then go to the cashier to get your money. It's two levels. The first floor charged me $4 for a drink, while the 2nd floor charged me $3. Both prices are cheap, especially considering their pours. These drinks are STRONG. They basically give you a cup of alcohol. The drink I had was straight whiskey on the rocks, and the tall glass was almost full. If you want to drink on the cheap and get a good buzz from one drink, this is the place. My only negative thing was this place had a bit of a dank smell. It was better upstairs. I had an awesome time at this place. read more

I'm really surprised that this place doesn't have a lot of reviews, but then again, its kinda like a low key place where you go, but its not mentioned. lol at least that's what my gay guy friends would say, bless their souls. Okay so this place has really changed and i haven't been in a long time, but I have to give my review on it- i have had too many good memories here. Now its a cover charge- 5 dollars I think. Think- a dive bar with two floors, where the downstairs floor is like "Cheers" and the upstairs floor- anything goes. If you like music, dj'ing, hard drinks that will knock you out and mingling with strangers while occasionally being hit on, than head upstairs. I have never had a dull moment in this place and it gets packed in the summer. bathrooms are filthy but what do you expect? Guys are pretty friendly. Majority of the music hip hop, reggae. read more

This place was pretty good. Came here as out of towners in need of a cocktail fix after doing all the monuments. For the most part it feels like a daddy bar at happy hour but I'm that changes at night. Drinks are VERY strong. So strong I was tipsy with one! If I had more I'd be somewhere else. No need to front on that. Definitely will come back when I'm in DC. It's a cool bar. read more

Awful place, crowd is always wasted beyond reasonable, constant fights and screaming outside of the bar, and police gets called every other day. I really don't understand what is the deal with this place and how it is still open. read more

I was very please with this place. Very strong drinks, Nice bartenders, Very eclectic scene and a extremely nice ambience.. my only issue was, there was too many, sloppy drunk young boys spilling drinks on people.. hats off to the bartenders, for doing your job well. Just don't give a 5'7, 150pound manboy multiple long island ice teas. They can't handle it. read more

We stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn across the street, so this bar was very convenient to us. After dropping by on our first night in DC and having a great time, we knew we'd be back. The downstairs bartender, Scott, was hilarious and made us feel right at home. Plus, he gave us plenty of sightseeing tips and suggestions. We'd go back just to see him, but everyone was friendly and talkative. So, the second time we dropped by it was like walking into 'Cheers' with several people waving and greeting us. Definitely a lot of regulars in the diverse crowd here that appreciate a stiff drink at a reasonable price! We will be back on our next visit to DC. read more

I love it!!! Great Bar with nice people. Everybody is welcome to visit and have a nice cold drink. They have two floors with nice music. read more

The Fireplace - two men toasting outside of a pub - Gay Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Visited this bar with my Black Gay male cousin. Let me just say I LOVE that there is BLACK SPACE for GAY BLACK MEN. When I tell y'all that ALL the BLACK BOY JOY was there... words don't do it justice. We spent our time upstairs it seemed as if an older more seasoned crowd was downstairs. I loved sitting up on the ledge checking out all the beautiful beings in the space. I was one of the only females but everyone I came in contact with made me feel welcome. For that I was grateful! The drinks are STRONG and the atmosphere is fun. NOW, when I say strong... y'all I couldn't even put a dent in my drink. 0_0 read more

The downstairs bar at the fireplace is a pretty decent place to stop in and have a beer with your friends. Not too terribly crowded, nice bar and tables, large windows looking out on the street. It's dark and smoky and loud and everything you expect from a hang out bar. The bartenders are really nice and make strong drinks. They're quick, clean, and always friendly. The customers in the downstairs bar mostly keep to themselves, just sitting back and enjoy a beer with friends and watching the video screens. Upstairs is another story. Hidden up a frighteningly narrow staircase, the upstairs literally thumps with techno music, with an overly crowded dark dance floor where I've definitely seen more than I ever wanted to see. Unless you're into that scene, the upstairs can definitely be beyond overwhelming. Overall, it can be a little too loud, and if you're not a gay man, or comfortable hanging around them, you may find this place slightly uncomfortable. But if you're just looking to grab a beer or two with a friend without the hassle of crowded dance clubs, the downstairs bar is decently nice. read more

Always a cool place to go and have a nice drink and listen to great music. Very friendly staff read more

The Fireplace - a man with a hat and vest - Gay Bars Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The good: If you are of a certain age, this place will make you nostalgic for a time when Dupont Circle was an actual gayborhood; today, the neighborhood hardly counts as even a theme-park version of one. The drinks are pretty good for the price. Once, I asked where people go to meet African-American gay men 50+, and this bar was unanimously named. The bad: Getting past the bouncer can be difficult, especially if there is anything at all about you that makes him not like you. The service is hit or miss, but mostly miss. The ugly: The downstairs bathroom is revolting. It reminds me of the trash compactor on Star Wars, complete with monster. read more