The location is nice if you want to hide from a busy urban life. Big bar goes from the inside to outside. Worth visiting.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Mary Carew (Mary OnThe Block)
A Hidden Gem in Blagden Alley: Calico
If you’re searching for a place that feels like home but comes with great drinks and an inviting vibe, Calico in Blagden Alley is your spot!
This charming spot combines cozy and chic, making it perfect for happy hour or a casual night out. Their cocktails are consistently fresh and flavorful, thanks to a skilled staff that knows how to deliver quality in every glass. The outdoor space is a dream, with beautiful seasonal décor, heaters for the colder months, and even a bar that stretches outside.
Calico isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience. Whether you’re joining friends for bingo, sipping and painting, or carving pumpkins in the fall, there’s always something fun to do. The shareable plates are perfect for groups, and the main entrées hit the spot every time.
Don’t miss out—ask for Randall, Kyle (the amazing manager), or any of their friendly staff to ensure your visit is top-notch. Calico is one of those places that can quickly become your regular hangout. Highly recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mikael LaRoche
Hidden
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Femi Elemoso
Cute place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Oluwatunmise Oladejo
Celebrated a friend’s birthday here, and I have to say, it was a night to remember! We were lucky enough to have
We tried a mix of dishes, and each one was a treat. The Spicy pasta, with a slight kick that balanced the richness, were crispy with just the right amount of sauce.
One thing to note: the ambiance here can get a bit lively inside, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, definitely consider the outdoor seating. When we arrived on a Friday night, the restaurant was buzzing, which added to the fun, but sitting outside let us enjoy our own conversation without shouting. The bar area is tucked off to the right, making it feel cozy and more intimate if you just want to hang out with a drink.
While there was a bit of a wait for our food and drink refills, the bartenders were always checking on us, and the complimentary charcuterie sampler they bring out when you first arrive kept us going in the meantime. Plus, I noticed that the portions are more than generous, so it’s a perfect place to go with friends and share everything family-style.
And after a night filled with amazing pasta and even better service, if you're looking to keep the good vibes rolling, definitely hit up Pull Up DC! It’s a convenient way to keep the night going without worrying about parking or logistics, especially if you’re looking to wind down somewhere local. Altogether, the evening was a win, and I can’t wait to come back!
Food: 5
Dan Murphy
With a patio that’s charming and bright, Perfect for snaps in flattering light, It’s a post-brunch dream, Where the vibes all gleam, And service that's swift feels just right.
Though prices do lean a bit high, The ambiance helps justify. For Instagram flair, And a chic affair, This cute little spot’s worth a try.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
Rosie H
I love Calico! Such a fun hidden gem down Blagden Alley. Theres spots inside and out but the best is inside their decorative outdoor gazebo. I arrived around 5 before the happy hour rush came in so we were able to get a seat. I got some beers and some tots - delicious! Recommend for a fun happy hour and chill atmosphere!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Charles Palmiotto
Just as you expected from a gastropub. Slightly over priced beer and drinks but great atmosphere and service was good.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Lavender Lemonade Juice Box, Juice Boxes
Michael Tassos
Stop closing your patio (half of your establishment) 2 hours before you close and kicking people off of it. When I asked if there were seats inside (there weren't) and the response was "it doesn't matter, you need to go inside" isn't very appropriate to a paying customer. Start treating your customers as people and not profit.
Service: 1
Phillip Andrada
An excellent place for drinks (and food). It's placed in an alleyway we didn't know existed and seems to be amongst a string of restaurants and bars if you're looking to do a bar walk. Plenty of seating inside and outside, seems to be more of a local's hangout although don't let that discourage you from checking the place out. Plenty of drinks and cocktails to choose from. Their food was also tasty. A good vibe during our happy hour. The staff are polite and professional. They are following current respiratory hygiene guidelines. Recommended.
Good atmosphere, prices are quite high, food is average. - Recommended: Little Alley Daiquiri. - Avoid cocktail Blagden Rose, smaller size, taste is not that great
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Miller D
Cute space! Pretty pricey for drinks, but the happy hour deals were good. Didn’t have any food, but it looked tasty! It was incredibly hot when I was there… even inside which made it hard to stick around, but overall this is a good place to hangout with a group.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Jeffery Saeling
Calico Review: Charming Outdoor Bar with Great Food and Drinks
Tucked away in Blagden Alley, Calico is a great little outdoor bar known for its fantastic food and drinks. The cocktail juice pouches and mac and cheese are standout items. The bar has a charming cat-themed decor, adding a unique touch to the ambiance. The service is friendly and kind, making it a welcoming spot to relax and enjoy. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or a casual meal, Calico offers a delightful experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ashley Williams
The drinks were great and the atmosphere was fun and enjoyable.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Blagden Rose Juice Box, Lavender Lemonade Juice Box, Juice Boxes
Nicole S
Fun outdoor vibe. I like taking friends from out of town here for drinks to show them a more unique part of DC.
The location is nice if you want to hide from a busy urban life. Big bar goes from the inside to outside. Worth visiting.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
A Hidden Gem in Blagden Alley: Calico
If you’re searching for a place that feels like home but comes with great drinks and an inviting vibe, Calico in Blagden Alley is your spot!
This charming spot combines cozy and chic, making it perfect for happy hour or a casual night out. Their cocktails are consistently fresh and flavorful, thanks to a skilled staff that knows how to deliver quality in every glass. The outdoor space is a dream, with beautiful seasonal décor, heaters for the colder months, and even a bar that stretches outside.
Calico isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience. Whether you’re joining friends for bingo, sipping and painting, or carving pumpkins in the fall, there’s always something fun to do. The shareable plates are perfect for groups, and the main entrées hit the spot every time.
Don’t miss out—ask for Randall, Kyle (the amazing manager), or any of their friendly staff to ensure your visit is top-notch. Calico is one of those places that can quickly become your regular hangout. Highly recommend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hidden
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Cute place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Celebrated a friend’s birthday here, and I have to say, it was a night to remember! We were lucky enough to have
We tried a mix of dishes, and each one was a treat. The Spicy pasta, with a slight kick that balanced the richness, were crispy with just the right amount of sauce.
One thing to note: the ambiance here can get a bit lively inside, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, definitely consider the outdoor seating. When we arrived on a Friday night, the restaurant was buzzing, which added to the fun, but sitting outside let us enjoy our own conversation without shouting. The bar area is tucked off to the right, making it feel cozy and more intimate if you just want to hang out with a drink.
While there was a bit of a wait for our food and drink refills, the bartenders were always checking on us, and the complimentary charcuterie sampler they bring out when you first arrive kept us going in the meantime. Plus, I noticed that the portions are more than generous, so it’s a perfect place to go with friends and share everything family-style.
And after a night filled with amazing pasta and even better service, if you're looking to keep the good vibes rolling, definitely hit up Pull Up DC! It’s a convenient way to keep the night going without worrying about parking or logistics, especially if you’re looking to wind down somewhere local. Altogether, the evening was a win, and I can’t wait to come back!
Food: 5
With a patio that’s charming and bright,
Perfect for snaps in flattering light,
It’s a post-brunch dream,
Where the vibes all gleam,
And service that's swift feels just right.
Though prices do lean a bit high,
The ambiance helps justify.
For Instagram flair,
And a chic affair,
This cute little spot’s worth a try.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
I love Calico! Such a fun hidden gem down Blagden Alley. Theres spots inside and out but the best is inside their decorative outdoor gazebo. I arrived around 5 before the happy hour rush came in so we were able to get a seat. I got some beers and some tots - delicious! Recommend for a fun happy hour and chill atmosphere!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Just as you expected from a gastropub. Slightly over priced beer and drinks but great atmosphere and service was good.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Lavender Lemonade Juice Box, Juice Boxes
Stop closing your patio (half of your establishment) 2 hours before you close and kicking people off of it. When I asked if there were seats inside (there weren't) and the response was "it doesn't matter, you need to go inside" isn't very appropriate to a paying customer. Start treating your customers as people and not profit.
Service: 1
An excellent place for drinks (and food). It's placed in an alleyway we didn't know existed and seems to be amongst a string of restaurants and bars if you're looking to do a bar walk. Plenty of seating inside and outside, seems to be more of a local's hangout although don't let that discourage you from checking the place out. Plenty of drinks and cocktails to choose from. Their food was also tasty. A good vibe during our happy hour. The staff are polite and professional. They are following current respiratory hygiene guidelines. Recommended.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Good atmosphere, prices are quite high, food is average.
- Recommended: Little Alley Daiquiri.
- Avoid cocktail Blagden Rose, smaller size, taste is not that great
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Cute space! Pretty pricey for drinks, but the happy hour deals were good. Didn’t have any food, but it looked tasty! It was incredibly hot when I was there… even inside which made it hard to stick around, but overall this is a good place to hangout with a group.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Calico Review: Charming Outdoor Bar with Great Food and Drinks
Tucked away in Blagden Alley, Calico is a great little outdoor bar known for its fantastic food and drinks. The cocktail juice pouches and mac and cheese are standout items. The bar has a charming cat-themed decor, adding a unique touch to the ambiance. The service is friendly and kind, making it a welcoming spot to relax and enjoy. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or a casual meal, Calico offers a delightful experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The drinks were great and the atmosphere was fun and enjoyable.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Blagden Rose Juice Box, Lavender Lemonade Juice Box, Juice Boxes
Fun outdoor vibe. I like taking friends from out of town here for drinks to show them a more unique part of DC.
Atmosphere: 4
Service: 4
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