It’s been a long winter. Washingtonians are tired and cold. But nothing can stop the professionals of this city from the soul-warming and merry-making of St. Patrick’s Day.
In retrospect, D.C. may not be the most Irish city in the US. We don’t dye our rivers green or close down our businesses. But the city stills know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. With Irish pubs, sports bars, and historic gems, this list will give you options and save you time.
Georgetown
In Irish, Ri Ra means chaos or a good time but at this Georgetown Gem you will come for the environment and stay for the beer. Indeed, Ri Ra Irish Pub is in a restored building from the 1800s that is designed to reflect a traditional Irish pub, including a Victorian-era bar and Irish artifacts. Besides history, this Irish pub will be opening its doors at 8:30 am where you can view a Rugby tournament and drink from their Guinness and Irish beer craft menu. I recommend the Clonmel Kick which is Magners Irish Cider, Boru Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Pineapple Juice, and Fresh Jalapeno.
Ri Ra Irish Pub | 3125 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007 | RiRa
Shaw
As far as Irish bars go in DC, this is the most famous. The owner prides himself on his Celtic heritage and many of the staff are Irish. Yes, Obama once drank a beer here and you can too- very cheaply. In fact, The Dubliner will be serving 44 cent Guinness pints from 9-10 am. This pub has been in D.C. since 1974.
The Dubliner | 4 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001| Dubliner
U Street
U Street is known for being the party street in the city- but if you are looking to class it up, go to the District Distilling. For St. Patrick’s day this year the restaurant created cocktails with its recently released minty and green, Crème de Menthe. The cocktail the Triple Tipple is Embassy Row Creme De Menthe, Backroom Rye, Angostura bitters, and a mint sprig garnish.
District Distilling Embassy Row |1414 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009|District Distilling
Dupont Circle
Sauf Haus Bier Hall may be a German bar but fear not- they are prepared for this Americanized Irish holiday. They’ll be throwing a St. Patrick’s day party including classic green beer and complimentary Irish Nachos. Plus, this bar has an amazing rooftop with benches, lots of space, and views of the city. This bar in general- is a favorite of DC locals in the summer- why not try it in March?
Saur Haus | 1216 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036 | Sauf House
H Street
If your looking for a little bit more of a Boston feel (one of the US cities with the most Irish immigrants) in D.C. for St.Patrick’s Day try Dirty Waters. It’s your classic sports bar located above Mythology Restaurant complete with Boston sports-themed decor, lots of TVs, and plenty of Sam Adams.
Dirty Waters Sports Bar| 816 H St NE, Washington, DC 20002 | Dirty Water
