As a general rule, it’s a good idea to avoid dark, isolated basements. But despite its location underneath the pan-Asian restaurant Doi Moi in an alley just off U St., 2 Birds 1 Stone is not exactly dark and full of terrors.
On the contrary, 2 Birds surrounds you like a chic Anthropologie sweater, ornamented with birds and rustic charm. My friend and I were warmly welcomed by the server and were invited to sit at the main bar or at one of several booths and alcoves.
We were soon provided with a cocktail menu hand-drawn by Adam Bernbach, bar manager at Proof and Estadio and the mastermind behind 2 Birds. The cocktails rotate weekly but always include house-made juices.
A punch du jour that changes daily provides regulars with a chance to try something new. Monday’s punch combined house made apple cider, bourbon, and bitters to complement the crisp change of season.
I followed up my punch du jour with a Gin Daisy, a combination of gin, lemon, and grenadine. Sweetly pink, the well-crafted drink was by far the best gin cocktail I’ve had.
Interested in trying a non-alcoholic beverage, my friend selected the homemade ginger beer. The drink was cut with sparkling water but still had quite a kick.
Quality mixed drinks are the focus of 2 Birds, but unfortunately the portions are small for the prices. I spent $25 (including tip) on two drinks, so this bar isn’t the best fit for price-conscious students.
Starting next week, 2 Birds will begin serving small plates from the kitchen it shares with Doi Moi. The bar is still trying to find its niche as it adjusts its menu and hours, which are usually from 5:30 p.m. to 1:15 a.m. on weekends.
Word has spread fast about this little alleyway bar, and for the past few weekends there have been wait times of almost an hour. Patrons are invited to sit in Doi Moi until called to enter, which will be convenient in the upcoming winter months. While not selective about entrance, 2 Birds simply wants to limit the number of guests to around 60 to keep the space comfortable.
Though sparsely populated on a Monday night, the bar’s clientele was comprised mostly of young professionals looking to relax after work. Not as hectic as most happy hour hot spots, 2 Birds is perfect for intimate conversation. Each booth and alcove is private enough for a discreet romantic encounter, but the whimsically erotic bathroom wallpaper could suffice if you come alone.
Pairs of birds alight on almost every surface, including the blue mural that provides the only splash of color. Whitewashed walls meander around the alcoves and booths, adding a farmhouse feel to the dimly lit bar.
2 Birds 1 Stone is still not a basement you want to enter alone, because it’s all about sharing excellent drinks and conversation with friends. When walking through the alley and downstairs into this bar, you should only fear that the drinks will empty your wallet.
