Hush Harbor stands out among all other bars in DC as the city’s first truly phone-free bar. Other bars talk about it; Hush Harbor does it. Owner Rock Harper and his patrons have proven that device-free hospitality is not only possible, but can flourish. It’s a welcoming, relaxing space where friends and strangers can hang out, share stories and enjoy excellent drinks and food. Following Hush Harbor’s bold leadership, dozens of bars, restaurants and speakeasies are going phone-free across the country.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ada Rich
This was a wonderful experience!!!
Firstly, the no phones rule is not to be played with. I tried to snap a quick picture of my friend sitting at the bar before handing over my phone and I was stopped so quickly. Don't try.
Now, the experience of not touching your phone is pretty genius. Without your phone you're able to be fully immersed in conversation and experience. And the experience is amazing. I can't wait to go back.
The bar staff was wonderful. Service was perfect. The owner literally sat at the other end of the bar talking and enjoying his evening. What a life! His staff was not uptight and nervous with him around. We all had great conversations with them including race and culture. It was amazing.
Drinks were delicious. I arrived at 11 and the kitchen was closed so 2 drinks in and I was pretty toasted! But I was among old friends, and the new ones I made at Hush Harbor!
Sir, you've done good. You've really poured your heart into this place in a brave way. I'm glad I found it. See you soon.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Lucy B (L)
“no phones” is the worst idea i’ve ever heard. will never go here and i recommend you never go here as well. place deserves to be shut down
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Tricia Woodcome
Love this place!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
William Henagan
Great spot to hang out on any night of the week!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jesse Crane
Love the idea of a phone-free gathering space and was thrilled that the vibe matched my expectations. While phones are locked in a pouch. You still get to keep it on you, which was a nice surprise. The ambience and drinks were great and the servers were friendly. Would definitely recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
cristhianramiro
Do not go here. I ordered two Vodka Mules for $10 each from the “H Street Festival menu.” I went to two different bartenders, and both charged me different amounts. Neither provided a receipt. What’s more concerning is that this business is now claiming I signed for the charges—which I absolutely did not. It’s unacceptable for a business to falsify signatures and take advantage of customers, especially when they require phones to be stored in a bag, giving them freedom to charge any amount to your credit card. To make matters worse, there was no clear notice on the menu about any service charge.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Natasha Wright
I really wanted to like this place as I think the concept is very interesting and the backstory for why the owner created restaurant and bar is compelling. However, we visited tonight, and our experience was very disappointing. When we entered, there was a camera crew filming, and the staff were more interested in the media coverage instead of helping patrons. They asked to record us putting our phones away, which was fine. Fast-forward to after we sit down, and the waitress gave us water and menus. We waited a very long time, and the waitress never came back. The camera crew approached us again asking if they could film us while we were sitting there. This made me uncomfortable because it felt like the entire dining experience was just going to be about their publicity. When we left, we saw our waitress at the hostess stand with another staff. I shared my dismay. She simply commented that it was an interesting night for them. She could care less about Customer Service it seemed, and there were not a lot of people in the portion of the venue we sat in.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Imani
We visited Hush Harbor in D.C. during the H Street Festival. The line was long as to be expected, but that was a one-off because of the festival. When we got in, we were asked to put our phones in the Yondr lock cases. That brought back nostalgia since I used those in high school 10 years ago in Philly lol — good and bad memories — but I didn’t really mind locking my phone. Honestly, I liked it because people need to socialize instead of being on their phones all the time. If it was an emergency, I still had my Apple Watch or could ask the host to unlock the case.
The bar lines were long. I wanted a drink but after waiting 10 minutes I gave up and just found somewhere to sit. I wasn’t mad though, I’m a bartender, I know how it goes, and they were clearly busy.
(Video recorded on glasses)
Atmosphere: 4
M M
I haven’t even been here yet, and I’m already impressed by the concept. A bar that doesn’t allow phones? Finally! It’s about time someone pushed back against the culture of scrolling, flexing, and curating every moment for Instagram. Too many nights out have turned into silent tables with glowing screens instead of actual connection.
This place forces people to do something radical—be present. Talk. Laugh. Engage. It’s not just refreshing, it’s necessary.
Honestly, take all my money. I don’t care about the price of food or drinks—what this bar offers is far more valuable: an environment where people remember how to be human again. I'll be there this weekend!
Hush Harbor is a refreshing hidden gem—a modern speakeasy-style restaurant and bar with one bold limitation: no cell phones allowed. At first, it feels unusual to put your phone away, but it quickly becomes the best part of the experience. With shelves of books and plenty of board games to choose from, it creates an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and intentional.
The food and drinks are just as thoughtful. I highly recommend the grilled cheese (perfectly crisp with a gooey center), the hearty red beans and rice, and their standout cocktail, “The Blacker the Berry,” which is as bold and flavorful as its name suggests.
This is the kind of place that encourages real connection. It’s perfect for a first date, where undivided attention really matters, or for a small group of friends who want to try something new and engaging together. Hush Harbor isn’t just a spot to eat and drink—it’s an experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amber Poole
The vibe was a solid 10/10 the space was clean, welcoming, and the staff was very pleasant. you can play board games, there’s a record player, and the outdoor area is beautiful with fresh flowers and very well kept. We even got to meet the owner and chef, who were both very nice. Our food came out quickly, which we appreciated.
However, the flavors didn’t quite hit the mark for us. The kale greens had a good mix of onions, turkey meat, and garlic, but we were hoping for that “been cooking all day” richness and pot liquor that really locks in the flavor. The cold chicken sandwich had too much mayonnaise and lacked a punch of flavor something to brighten it up would have helped. The shrimp wasn’t my favorite (I personally don’t enjoy cold shrimp), and the sauce didn’t stand out. My friend found it manageable, though.
The red beans and rice were solid, but we wished they had a deeper smoky flavor to round out the dish. On the bright side, the mojitos were tasty and refreshing.
Overall, the service and atmosphere were great, but the flavor profiles just weren’t as bold or as Southern as we were expecting.
We loved the no phone concept.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 5
Kimberly Croner
Attended a fund raiser for #OurBlockShow, the vibe was incredible, conversation flowed, attendees supported, and the food was tasty.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Daionna Camille TV
Great drinks from bartender Ken. He pays close attention to every detail, and the drinks are always 100% perfect.”
Service: 5
bianca destout
GET THE QUEEN MOTHER’S CLASSIC! The best fried chicken sandwich you’ll ever have and for sure order the duck fat fries. Old fashioneds are solid and Rock is the kindest! I was there 2x this week and can say for certain, this will be a regular go to for me.
Hush Harbor stands out among all other bars in DC as the city’s first truly phone-free bar. Other bars talk about it; Hush Harbor does it. Owner Rock Harper and his patrons have proven that device-free hospitality is not only possible, but can flourish. It’s a welcoming, relaxing space where friends and strangers can hang out, share stories and enjoy excellent drinks and food. Following Hush Harbor’s bold leadership, dozens of bars, restaurants and speakeasies are going phone-free across the country.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This was a wonderful experience!!!
Firstly, the no phones rule is not to be played with. I tried to snap a quick picture of my friend sitting at the bar before handing over my phone and I was stopped so quickly. Don't try.
Now, the experience of not touching your phone is pretty genius. Without your phone you're able to be fully immersed in conversation and experience. And the experience is amazing. I can't wait to go back.
The bar staff was wonderful. Service was perfect. The owner literally sat at the other end of the bar talking and enjoying his evening. What a life! His staff was not uptight and nervous with him around. We all had great conversations with them including race and culture. It was amazing.
Drinks were delicious. I arrived at 11 and the kitchen was closed so 2 drinks in and I was pretty toasted! But I was among old friends, and the new ones I made at Hush Harbor!
Sir, you've done good. You've really poured your heart into this place in a brave way. I'm glad I found it. See you soon.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
“no phones” is the worst idea i’ve ever heard. will never go here and i recommend you never go here as well. place deserves to be shut down
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Love this place!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great spot to hang out on any night of the week!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Love the idea of a phone-free gathering space and was thrilled that the vibe matched my expectations. While phones are locked in a pouch. You still get to keep it on you, which was a nice surprise. The ambience and drinks were great and the servers were friendly. Would definitely recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Do not go here. I ordered two Vodka Mules for $10 each from the “H Street Festival menu.” I went to two different bartenders, and both charged me different amounts. Neither provided a receipt. What’s more concerning is that this business is now claiming I signed for the charges—which I absolutely did not. It’s unacceptable for a business to falsify signatures and take advantage of customers, especially when they require phones to be stored in a bag, giving them freedom to charge any amount to your credit card. To make matters worse, there was no clear notice on the menu about any service charge.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
I really wanted to like this place as I think the concept is very interesting and the backstory for why the owner created restaurant and bar is compelling. However, we visited tonight, and our experience was very disappointing. When we entered, there was a camera crew filming, and the staff were more interested in the media coverage instead of helping patrons. They asked to record us putting our phones away, which was fine. Fast-forward to after we sit down, and the waitress gave us water and menus. We waited a very long time, and the waitress never came back. The camera crew approached us again asking if they could film us while we were sitting there. This made me uncomfortable because it felt like the entire dining experience was just going to be about their publicity. When we left, we saw our waitress at the hostess stand with another staff. I shared my dismay. She simply commented that it was an interesting night for them. She could care less about Customer Service it seemed, and there were not a lot of people in the portion of the venue we sat in.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
We visited Hush Harbor in D.C. during the H Street Festival. The line was long as to be expected, but that was a one-off because of the festival. When we got in, we were asked to put our phones in the Yondr lock cases. That brought back nostalgia since I used those in high school 10 years ago in Philly lol — good and bad memories — but I didn’t really mind locking my phone. Honestly, I liked it because people need to socialize instead of being on their phones all the time. If it was an emergency, I still had my Apple Watch or could ask the host to unlock the case.
The bar lines were long. I wanted a drink but after waiting 10 minutes I gave up and just found somewhere to sit. I wasn’t mad though, I’m a bartender, I know how it goes, and they were clearly busy.
(Video recorded on glasses)
Atmosphere: 4
I haven’t even been here yet, and I’m already impressed by the concept. A bar that doesn’t allow phones? Finally! It’s about time someone pushed back against the culture of scrolling, flexing, and curating every moment for Instagram. Too many nights out have turned into silent tables with glowing screens instead of actual connection.
This place forces people to do something radical—be present. Talk. Laugh. Engage. It’s not just refreshing, it’s necessary.
Honestly, take all my money. I don’t care about the price of food or drinks—what this bar offers is far more valuable: an environment where people remember how to be human again. I'll be there this weekend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Hush Harbor is a refreshing hidden gem—a modern speakeasy-style restaurant and bar with one bold limitation: no cell phones allowed. At first, it feels unusual to put your phone away, but it quickly becomes the best part of the experience. With shelves of books and plenty of board games to choose from, it creates an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and intentional.
The food and drinks are just as thoughtful. I highly recommend the grilled cheese (perfectly crisp with a gooey center), the hearty red beans and rice, and their standout cocktail, “The Blacker the Berry,” which is as bold and flavorful as its name suggests.
This is the kind of place that encourages real connection. It’s perfect for a first date, where undivided attention really matters, or for a small group of friends who want to try something new and engaging together. Hush Harbor isn’t just a spot to eat and drink—it’s an experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The vibe was a solid 10/10 the space was clean, welcoming, and the staff was very pleasant. you can play board games, there’s a record player, and the outdoor area is beautiful with fresh flowers and very well kept.
We even got to meet the owner and chef, who were both very nice. Our food came out quickly, which we appreciated.
However, the flavors didn’t quite hit the mark for us. The kale greens had a good mix of onions, turkey meat, and garlic, but we were hoping for that “been cooking all day” richness and pot liquor that really locks in the flavor. The cold chicken sandwich had too much mayonnaise and lacked a punch of flavor something to brighten it up would have helped. The shrimp wasn’t my favorite (I personally don’t enjoy cold shrimp), and the sauce didn’t stand out. My friend found it manageable, though.
The red beans and rice were solid, but we wished they had a deeper smoky flavor to round out the dish. On the bright side, the mojitos were tasty and refreshing.
Overall, the service and atmosphere were great, but the flavor profiles just weren’t as bold or as Southern as we were expecting.
We loved the no phone concept.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 5
Attended a fund raiser for #OurBlockShow, the vibe was incredible, conversation flowed, attendees supported, and the food was tasty.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great drinks from bartender Ken. He pays close attention to every detail, and the drinks are always 100% perfect.”
Service: 5
GET THE QUEEN MOTHER’S CLASSIC! The best fried chicken sandwich you’ll ever have and for sure order the duck fat fries. Old fashioneds are solid and Rock is the kindest! I was there 2x this week and can say for certain, this will be a regular go to for me.
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