Bar: The Dubliner Restaurant
Location: 4 F. St. NW, Washington, DC 20001
Score: 8.9/10
A few years ago I went to our nation’s capitol for the first time. I went without knowing anything about the city or bars for that matter. When I went it was in January and for whatever reason I decided to participate in dry January. Historically, I have done this every year since turning 21 and have made it through the month with ease. The only exception to this is when I entered the Dubliner. Immediately when I entered the bar, I knew a Guinness was in my near future. It was one of those bars that was so cozy and welcoming, that made you want to stay and have a few drinks. I intended to go for a few appetizers before dinner, but this quickly turned into a few appetizers and pints of Guinness. Throughout this trip, my only regret was not visiting the Dubliner again because it was truly one of the better Irish pubs I have been to.
I know what you are thinking, an Irish pub in DC? Really? Even though we have explored Irish pubs in New York, Chicago, Boston, and St. Louis, the Dubliner holds its own. Like most Irish pubs, you’d expect somewhat dim lighting and a good amount of dark-aged wood throughout the bar. The Dubliner checked off both of these criteria. The bar itself was just truly gorgeous. From the wood bar, and walls, to the green stools, this is a place I would spend a lot of time at if I was a DC local. While this bar had its fair share of signage, mostly Guinness signage as you’d imagine, they also had other signage such as older photos of individuals and animals along the walls. Who were these individuals you might ask? Shit, I don’t know, but it fits the theme, that’s for sure. One of the coolest things of décor that I also noticed in the bar was a few stained glass windows. Out of all my bar adventurers, this is not something I have come across. This is something I’d love to see more of in bars.
The next thing I noticed, which set this bar apart from other Irish pubs was the space that it had. Every turn you made, it felt like you entered a whole new bar. From outside seating, to bar seating, to restaurant seating, and another bar, the Dubliner was massive. It reminded me of the space from another fellow Irish pub, John McGurks, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Along with the great décor and spacious bar, the bar had an awesome atmosphere. From people getting off work from Capitol Hill to your blue-collar audience, to your younger college crowd. It was a great vibe, one which I’d like to experience again. The staff was quick as well. When I went it was a Friday afternoon, a very popular time as the weekend was beginning. That did not matter for the staff though, they were still able to turn tables quickly and made sure I never had an empty pint. If you are going to DC and are in the mood for a Guinness or some A+ fish and chips, give the Dubliner a try. You’ll be happy you did.
Décor: Great décor, as expected for an Irish pub, the amount of wood added another great element to the décor of this bar.
Prices: Fair prices for the area. DC is pretty expensive. I found most bars to be priced the same.
Service: As mentioned, killer service. Very quick.
Atmosphere: A wonderful atmosphere. Everyone is welcome.
Cleanliness: Very clean.
Bonus Points: No bonus points are awarded.