If the D.C. bar scene was a collection of packable lunch items, The Tombs would be the peanut butter sandwich?reliable and tasty. But the same lunch everyday gets boring. Sometimes you need to throw in a Lunchable or a Snack Pak. If the Tombs has been the center of your diet, it’s time to mix in some new ingredients.
If you venture a little further out of the front gates, you’ll find some interesting bars. One of the best is the Brickskeller in Dupont Circle, which boasts the world’s largest selection of beers, offering more than 850 brands, sorted by country of origin. Try a pivo from the Czech Republic or a cerveza from Peru in this two-story cozy bar, the very first to serve Coors east of the Mississippi. 1523 22nd St., N.W.
Another idea is to mix two of college student’s favorite vices?caffeine and alcohol?at Tryst in Adams Morgan. If you’re not in the mood for one of their cocktails, try their Chai Latte?one of the best in the city. At night the lighting is pretty low, but people still read or draw, inspired by the comfy chairs and couches stuffed into the one large open room. If that doesn’t interest you, it’s great to stare out of the wall of window at the passing Adams Morgan revelers. 2459 18th St., N.W.
Another option is to check out the bar Newsweek has described as “like a gay Cheers”?JR’s in Dupont. It gets crowed early because of some of their amazing drink specials?like Thursday’s open bar with free drinks from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. and occasional free shots at midnight?but patrons say it’s easier to meet people that way. The music is a mix of pop and retro, so you can dance the night away. 1519 17th St., N.W.
If you want to get out of D.C. completely, check out the Galaxy Hut in Arlington. They offer a wide menu for meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans. While they only offer beer and wine, your compensation is that this music venue is a great way to check out burgeoning acts. Word is The Strokes played here long before the “The” band revolution. 2711 Wilson Blvd., Arlington.
Hipness a little closer to home can be found at the Red Room at the Black Cat. Throw back a beer and play some pool or pinball. This bar is perfect for the easily distracted?if you get bored at the bar you can either check out a show playing upstairs, or on the smaller backstage. You can even get a healthy bite to eat in Food For Thought, the connected caf?. 1811 14th St., N.W.
Feel like taking one for the team? Go to Kokopooli’s in Adams Morgan. This alternative sports bar features a diverse crowd sure to include a guy that has an ice cold beer in one hand and a willingness to meet you in the other. Dozens of TVs feature live soccer from across the world, including that match you’ve been dying to see in Dubai. If that’s not the sport you’re seeking, they show Canadian football and Mexican wrestling. Every single day from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. is happy hour?$2 drafts and $2.50 pints of Guinness. 2305 18th St., N.W.
Don’t forget about your favorite ‘80s Night or pitcher of Tombs’ Ale. But it’s time to spice things up with these other delectable entrees. Bon app?tit.
