Mr. Smith's Piano Bar

Mr. Smith’s of Georgetown provides a musical experience like no other in Washington, DC. Patrons leave with vocal cords exercised and pockets empty.

A clash between old diner and museum in terms of décor and fixtures, the bar’s inconsistent theme is a metaphor for the pianist’s various tunes from the 70s sung by GWU-students to today’s hits playing throughout the bar during the pianist’s break.

Requests can be made by guests from the limited lists of songs, but the line can be long, so it’s vital to stick around to hear your favorite jam. A buck or two for the pianist may even help as he is surrounded by dollar bills strewn throughout the piano, which is transformed into a bar on the other side where guests can sit and get a close listen to the songs.

For those looking to socialize with their gang, the upstairs is always open and provides some extra seating at a few rustic tables, an open floor and a less rambunctious crowd.
The back room, lit up by white lights, is a garden restaurant heated during winter months and where a second bar will soon open up. Tables hovered by a large bell and hanging plants will make patrons feel as though they’re dining in a greenhouse.

Squanderers may be tempted to try out the $1,000 burger, any burger of their choice and any toppings, all accompanied with a bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild.
Whether it’s a night of big-spending, vocal cord-stretching or hearty eating, Mr. Smith’s of Georgetown leaves its crowd feeling satiated in multiple ways.

Solly's on U Street

Washington, DC may be known to be on the pricey side, but Solly’s U Street Tavern differs by offering a constant price of $3 PBRs all day every day, along with many other great specials.

A shabby dive bar located near the U Street Metro Station brings together local DC professionals and students looking for a cheap brewski and some weekly merriment.

For a relaxing evening, patrons choose the laidback bottom floor, where an Internet jukebox hangs near the entrance and plays classic tunes or where a hunting video game in the back corner is played. Adorned in DC sports teams’ trophies and jerseys, two HDTV televisions play that day’s match and any NFL games every Sunday during the season.

For a little more solitude, local hipsters can grab a PBR or a shot of Powers Irish whiskey, one of the hot choices at this bar among regulars and head to the bay window bubble, which overlooks U Street and the outdoor patio, which provides more seating for a sunny day.

The bar may only provide a liquid diet, liquor and beer, but patrons are invited to have food delivered to the bar or to bring their own eats to share.

Customers looking to be entertained can head up the narrow stairway that leads to a plain room with six HDTV TVs, a few wooden tables and a stage, where the bar owner hosts Wednesday night trivia or costume karaoke. Patrons get quiet when the gruff-looking yet down-to-earth bar owner reads the answers to trivia questions or announces who’s up next sing to belt a tune.

Thursday nights get rowdy too when local bands take over the stage. Rockabilly, ska or reggae music reflects off the wooden barriers holding up the hole-in-the-wall. Young music lovers pack into the small area upstairs, while every bar stool and chair is full.

If intimacy isn’t a concern, Solly’s U Street Tavern is the place to head to after work for happy hour. Locals will love the deals, tunes and the forced camaraderie in a small, cozy dive.