Cozy Spaces To Drink and Eat this Winter
Winter in DC doesn’t have to mean the end of outdoor dining. Sometimes you need to get out of the house and enjoy good drinks with good friends! So bundle up, grab some friends, and check out these warm, outdoor bars.
Shaw
Rooftop at 801: The Rooftop at 801 in Shaw has always provided a cozy rooftop with heaters and lights. It remains a cozy evening spot that is enchanting at night. During the day, you can also enjoy a spot on the roof or outdoor street dining for brunch or dinner. Keep in mind 801 is a popular area of Shaw so visit early in the evening or week to avoid the crowds. Brunch is also less crowded before noon.
Takoda is known for its simple, high-quality brunch and tots with happy hour on their photogenic rooftop. Takoda features happy hour Tuesday-Thursday 4 – 6 pm plus bottomless brunch (3 courses + mimosas) on weekends from 11 pm to 2:30 pm. The rooftop is mostly enclosed by they have a heated outdoor patio with an overhang. Windows are often open on warmer days.
American Ice is tucked away on V Street and 10th Street. This cozy bar has a large, dog-friendly heated patio that is perfect for colder weather. They have a full bar and are beloved for their swachos (pork nachos).
NOMA
Wunder Garten in NOMA is a beloved outdoor, German-themed beer garden. After the holidays, this beer garden turns into a cozy, outdoor bar with firepits and happy hour specials. They offer happy hour specials Monday-Wednesday from 4 to 6 pm.
Cotton & Reed is a rum distillery that is very clear about one thing – rum. You won’t find any wine or beer here! Enjoy tasting flights or a cocktail with outdoor seating. Order a hot drink for extra warmth!
14th and U Street Area
Colada Shop is a beloved coffee shop on 14th and T which is a great place for a caffeine kick during the day but also offers a warm spot for drinks at night. The expanded rooftop is heated and has comfy sofas, chairs, and blankets to keep you warm. Enjoy happy hour specials from 3 to 6 pm from Monday to Friday. Reservations encouraged.
Lulu’s Winegarden on 11th and U Street has three outdoor spaces to enjoy a bottle of wine and a meal with contactless ordering. The cute back patio features heaters, a fountain, and lots of plants which feels like a city escape. Or check out their front patio and thoughtfully decorated streetery designed to keep you warm. Open Tuesday to Sunday with brunch on the weekends. Don’t miss their Golden Hour specials Tuesday-Friday and Sunday for wine and food discounts.
Virginia Wineries
Hidden Brook Winery in Leesburg has a cozy, cabin-style indoor building plus expansive outdoor seating with firepits. Bundle up to enjoy wine flights, mulled wine, and hot cider Wednesday-Sunday. If you get hungry, order one of the flatbread pizzas that are big enough to share.
Creek’s Edge Winery in Lovettsville has an unforgettable Sunday brunch deal. Enjoy a board starting at $50 for a board for 2 which can be sized up for up to 6. The board arrived overflowing with pastries, fruit, waffles, breakfast meat, and cheese. Pair it with a glass of red or white. Reservations are strongly encouraged.