50 Best Cocktail Bars near North Bethesda

“Excellent service from hostess and staff, Tenley, Santiago and Nicole. They checked on us so many times making sure we had a great experience and everything we needed at all times. The meats were deliciously fresh and very juicy. I really enjoyed celebrating my anniversary there.“

“Came in with a group of around 45 coworkers and the bartenders were excellent. They were very accommodating to our large party even though it was unexpected. Ruben helped with our champagne toast while the other bartenders, William and Brendan, made all of the other drinks. Overall amazing experience, can't wait to come back!!“

“Visited Compass Rose in DC and indulged in their Tour of the World brunch menu. It was an exquisite culinary journey featuring flavors from around the globe. Every dish was simply delicious! The staff were exceptionally welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for a delightful dining adventure!"“

“Friendly and knowledgeable staff, in a unique atmosphere. Residents has a chill vibe and a Menu that changes with the seasons. Love the small bites. Highly recommend the baby artichokes on the Summer menu! Visited in Summer and Fall of 2022… Residents never disappoints! Highly recommend.“

“We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner at New Heights, as always. Great kids menu! Highly recommend tuna poke tacos, pork belly buns as appetizers and steak medallions are absolutely amazing! Cherry whiskey sour if you want something sweet, it's almost like a liquid desert. Perfect! Thank you!“

“I’ve been to a lot of Peruvian restaurants outside of Peru, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better ceviche. Good chilli, citrus and cilantro. Went for traditional ceviche, pisco sour, tiger milk shot, empanadas and alfajores. All very good quality, would definitely go back“

“I recently planned a wedding reception at Dauphine's and it was incredible. The food, atmosphere and service was impeccable. The bride and groom were well taken care of, Courtney and Natalie were so easy to work with, communicative and really worked to listen to the couple's needs. It was such a fun, unique and beautiful space for a reception and provided numerous spaces to meet guest needs. The food was delicious and the staff were always on top of everything. I cannot recommend Dauphine's enough and cannot wait to go back for a delicious meal or an event!“

“Amazonia is a great bar/restaurant. Daniel was a great server and recommended great veggie options. The food and drinks came out promptly with great presentation and the upstairs staff was all really friendly. Can’t say the same for the downstairs hostess who wouldn’t let me go up to Amazonia without asking her and then couldn’t find my reservation after asking me the details 3 times and not being able to pull it up. After she pulled it up she said none of my party was there even though everyone but me was there. Maybe it’s a communication thing between upstairs and downstairs but for such an expensive restaurant, the hostess shouldn’t try and fight you as you’re walking in.“

“Me and my husband came to the bar for a la carte dining, had an amazing time with a very personalized beverage pairing (s/o to Chris our bartender!) We'll DEFINITELY be back to do the entire tasting menu. Lovely atmosphere, not stuffy, great music, GOOD LIGHTING (hard to come by in DC) and overall stellar food. Come here for your next date night or special occasion dinner, you won't regret it!“

“Wow! This location was a bit nerve-wracking at first because the building looked quite old. As we approached the door, a code was requested, and I whispered it - it felt like we were undercover agents or something! Upon entering, the ambiance was captivating. The decor was beautiful and definitely selfie-friendly. The drinks were strong, perfectly suited for the occasion. Unfortunately, we didn't dine there as we had already eaten dinner before arriving. However, both the bartenders and managers were professional. If you're seeking something different, I strongly suggest this location. Trust me, I'll be returning here soon.“

“Orders are placed via phone or you can order at the counter but the tip defaults to 22%. I’m a generous tipper but am annoyed at this, esp when our server didn’t return with sugar after being asked for it or to check up on us. Otherwise, it’s a very cozy place.“

“We celebrated our wedding anniversary at Royal Tandoor and had a wonderful experience. The food was definitely the best Indian food we have had in the Gaithersburg area, the service was excellent and the atmosphere very pleasant. We’ll be back for sure!“

“I went to Imperfecto for a work event and was very impressed with the beautiful decor and ambiance. The service was incredible, and the food followed suit. The truffle pasta was a highlight. I also had the eclair for dessert which was also delicious!“

“Wonderful place, best falafel ever. I hope they read this because I would suggest they describe the bread it is on in more detail. They apologized for not having traditional pita bread for it. Instead the should say they have put a new spin on it using their own homemade ??? bread. I don't know what type it is, but it was absolutely delicious!“

“My partner and I walked in at 6:30 PM on a busy Friday night without a reservation (I didn’t realize they had started taking reservations!) The host said the only options were bar seating or outdoor seating under heat lamps. We didn’t really want either of those options, but understood that since we didn’t have a reservation, we could not be very choosy. The host then kept looking at his reservation app and offered us a very nice table as long as we could be finished by 8:30 PM. We said that two hours is plenty of time! He said he felt bad that there wasn’t room for us but we assured him this was perfect and we would definitely be finished by the time he needed the table back. He was so kind and accomodating. The rest of the staff was also excellent (as always!) and the food was outstanding. I have always loved Purple Patch and will certainly return soon. Thank you PP team for being awesome!“

“We were bowled over by this place. We got there at 4.45pm as a walk in and were sat straight at the bar. Get there early if you want a seat! The food was absolutely outstanding, but Andrew the lovely bar waiter was the highlight of the night for us. He was so warm. informative and professional. Very much recommended.“

“What an incredible collection of brown- 65+ pages of incredible whiskeys, bourbons and more. Multiple bottles of pappy if you're into that. I had a blast selecting (at random, but nothing disappointed!) and my friend got the flight to help guide him, which he loved.Food was fine, acceptable, but for the cool environment I would have figured higher grade in the cuisine. Admittedly the snacks/small plates were far higher quality than the main dishes so maybe the intention was to drink and small plate.Service was good, they made sure we had what we needed but I would have loved a bit more enthusiasm for such an amazing collection.Overall great experience and would go again!“

“Every bite we had here was delicious. Their Lapis Old Fashioned is delectable and Trilogy is a fun take on Mezcal. The Lamb Shank absolutely dissolved in my mouth. The Lamb Masala had incredible flavor and Mahee had a wonderful crust. We had a hard time deciding on the best dessert. The Cacao, Sheer Berenj, Sheer Yakh, and some pistachio cake were a perfect sweet finish.“

“A warm and inviting bar with friendly waitstaff and killer bartenders!My daughter and I spent a little time here to savor a few cocktails and we loved the vibe.The patrons also seemed like fun people and the drinks were amazing. Don’t forget to have a Black Label, as it’s the “currency of the Middle East”!“

“St Vincent is consistently a slice of heaven here on earth and my favorite “good in the hood”. The service, ambiance, bites and vino are unmatched. And now that there is live music in the garden, it is in a league of its own. The pop up with the Eritrean chef a few weeks ago was a pleasant little twist and I look forward to more of these curated experiences. This is my go to happy place—-home away from home and I cannot recommend it enough!!! Great date place or just gathering spot with your friends.“

“This place was a lot of fun. I was a little worried because my husband and I are in our forties and I thought we might feel out of place. But no -- we had a very good time playing minigolf, our drinks server was great, my drink (can't remember the name of it, but it included Hennessy and a flower garnish) was tasty, and I won a free cookie by getting a hole-in-one at the end, which really made my night! Everyone around us seemed to be having a great time as well. The staff did a good job pacing people so you didn't feel rushed by someone else waiting for their turn. The only thing I wished had been different was that it felt like it went very quickly, and I would have loved an option to upgrade and do the second course. But if my only problem with the place was that I wanted MORE time there, that's a good thing. I probably could have opted for that when I bought my tickets, if I hadn't been unsure of whether it would be worth it. Great aesthetics and design, good staff, good volume level (there's music but you don't have to shout for your partner/friend to hear you), fun place all around. I'd definitely go back!“

“Second time to Ceibo and it once again did not disappoint. Start first with the excellent, interesting, and perfectly made craft cocktails. Next move on to the food, everything is exceptional and intriguing. It's hard not to order the entire menu. You can't quite place the food concept; part Latin flavors, part Italian, part Asian, but how this team has put it together just works. Each dish is beautifully plated and with appropriate portions for a filling meal. Everyone reported their dishes to be both delicious and unexpected. One of the most exciting food experiences in DC right now. Last, the restaurant itself is minimalist, but reminded me of a hip restaurant in Mexico City. The tables are nicely spaced apart so you don't feel you are eating with your neighbors and the noise level is lively but not loud, so you can have a relaxed conversation with your dinner mates. The dining space is split between an upper level and a lover level. The bar is on the lower level, so feels a bit more lively than the upper level. All around a wonderful experience and a fantastic addition to the AdMo/DC dining scene.“

“I have been twice to this place and both times the experience has been good. Zucchini kofta and daal makhani was good but I felt paneer pasanda can improve. Their menu has a very limited vegetarian options which is kind of disappointing as it would be difficult to go again and again due to limited vegetarian options. The ambience was exceptional and serving staff was courteous. They really took care of my Food Allergies.Drinks were average.Give it a shot and try for yourself!Dietary restrictions: If you tell them about your food Allergies they will take care of those.“

“I tried Sweet Baby Christos, The Bird Reynolds, Big Mac. I absolutely love the pizzas here. My favourite is SWC! If you are trying it for the first time... Considering visiting the establishment in person. My friends also tried the wings and loved it.“

“Why don't we see asian dining experiences as "elevated"? Ingle Korean Steakhouse proves that it can be. We had the prix fixe and every dish was well executed with quality ingredients. The meats melt in your mouth. Restaurant interior design was pleasant and comfortable. The service is the best I've experienced in an Asian restaurant in North America - our servers were knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly.I would highly recommend this place when hosting or for special occasions.“

“My husband and I visit last week while we were in DC for our two year anniversary. We decided to celebrate our actual wedding date by going to The Dabney.Our first michelin star restaurant experience set the bar high. From the start, the team was quick to answer our questions and was open to having us bring in a stroller since we had a newborn with us.Our server Ryan was absolutely exceptional and phenomenal. He did all he could to make the night special for us. All of the staff shared personal stories and tidbits of information throughout the night.Everything was meticulously crafted, plated, and presented to us with pride, joy, and love. The tiniest details made the largest impact on creating an overall completeness to each dish.It was breathtaking, palate pleasing, borderline overfilling, and will be a lasting memory and true highlight of our trip.If you are debating visiting this location, do it. Book that reservation. Try something new. Create a memory. And spread the word. A place like this deserves to be experienced.“

“The food was good, but definitely not worth $57 a person on a Thursday night….We ordered four dishes (fermented cabbage toast, arancini, thai fried chicken, and scallop crudo) and had a drink each. Portions were small, even the “entrees.” Will not go back anytime soon for dinner. Our waiter was very nice though.*Came back over a year later for dinner because of an InKind Coupon. The $50 off $50 made the meal more worth it. But still expensive for what youre getting.“

“A great place for a date or a quick nightcap. Everything about this place is quintessential D.C.Order something off the menu and ask for Bartenders choice, you wont regret it! Keep your eyes peeled for the munchied out koalas. You won’t find a better bartender than the beautiful Maria. She’s the best in town.“

“I love Great American Restaurants and can always count on Patsy's American for a perfect casual dining experience. The comfortable seating and airy space with high ceilings give us a unique experience that other restaurants don't provide. The food, drinks, and desserts are always perfect; even a simple hot fudge sundae is delicious at this restaurant. Nothing can go wrong when we dine at Patsy's American.Parking: Although the restaurant has a parking space in front of the premises, it fills up quickly. An adjacent free parking garage is available.“

“In love with this restaurant went the first time for Restaurant week . I felt in love with their ceviche. My husband and I are coming every Friday since for birria tacos , ceviche and margaritas!Everything is amazing from the Birria omelette to the flan. I can recommend enough this amazing place !!“

“This has become my favorite brunch spot. I meet my friends here every time we need to get together. The variety of food/tapas and how they just bring it to you and clean up as you eat. My favorite is the jam and butter, the meat flatbread, French toast, and the poached eggs! The mimosas are good too, however I recommend ordered from the cocktail menu as the champagne in the mimosa is not the best. Their espresso is the best espresso I’ve had compared to all the coffee shops. The staff is always so accommodating and have such great customer service. The vibes and decor is just so perfect too! 10/10! Highly recommend.I do go for brunch and it’s on weekends only, and you have to make reservations!“

“600 T is an excellent cocktail bar, where the bartenders really know their profession. It’s a small neighborhood establishment, wood paneled, cozy in the winter and with that hidden feeling during the summer. I miss living nearby, but stop in whenever I can. They have an EXCELLENT happy hour with classic cocktails and a larger (but not too large) menu based on the classics and their own twists. Run don’t walk, but be sure to come early or get a reservation.“

“This is intelligent and well thought-out food that is delivered with kindness and engagement. Truffle dumplings with a corn foam were genius. Terrific vegetarian drunken noodles. And silken tofu in a complex fermented black-bean broth that made me see through time. My wife's cocktail had a tiny touch of a Chinese cough syrup in it, which sounds funky and was, instead, kinda transcendent! We sat at the bar and watched the passionate precision of the kitchen. Bartender was super friendly. Great evening that we hope to repeat soon. Keep up the great work!!“

“If you’re looking for elevated southern comfort food then definitely stop here! The portions are very large and everything is delicious. Tarik was our server and he was very patient with our 1 year old and made great recommendations. We will definitely be back when we visit DC again.Kid-friendliness: They have high chairs and all the staff were very welcoming and patient with our 1 year old.“

“Coming from Los Angeles, one of the best cities for Mexican food in the US, I have high standards for Mexican food, especially street tacos. When I learned they had a location in Bethesda, I ran as fast as I could to visit. I fell in love when a coworker let me try a spoon of esquites. What differentiates them is their Mayo. They do their own twist by making it spicy and delicious with some godly seasoning. I loved it so much I tried making it at home, but wasn't able to exactly replicate it (please tell me your recipe haha). I am on the hunt to find something like this in LA! Service at Tacombi is always superb. Super fast service here. I went on Easter Sunday, and was attended to by a lovely person. He was super accommodating to a picky family member I brought. Appreciate the great vibes, food, and amazing tacos. Love ya Tacombi.“

“Had a Great time celebrating a friend’s birthday! Food is amazing, sushi is fresh! Good atmosphere! Owners are Super cool and really knows how to make their guests feel special. Kudos to the entire staff for the Great service. Highly recommend!“

“Thai food is slowly but surely becoming my favorite cuisine and I'm on a mission to try it wherever I travel! This wonderfully colorful atmosphere gives you a warm hug as you gorge down Thai Tea and some fluffy D.U.I (drunken) noodles! Warning: they give you HUGE portions!! I ate it all anyways.. :-))“

“Very cool, little speakeasy. The drinks and service are great but I do wish they had more food options. The little bites they offer are definitely tasty but I feel like I'd be able to order more drinks if they offered a bit heavier snacks.“

“If I could give this place 100/5 I would. Went for a drink, stayed for 3 hours. Luke is the best bartender both in the drinks he makes but also helping find the right cocktail for your mood. Even gave us a few small samples of the drinks on tap to try beforehand.GET THE RHUBARB SODA it might change your life.Most of the people at the bar with us were locals and regulars. Very cute decor as well.Small spot so limited seating. If you want to go for dinner recommend getting a reservation ahead of time.If I lived here I’d have my name engraved on a stool.“

“Last night I had an incredible time at Kumbia, the DJs played the best music, my wife and I didn't stop dancing and we liked Ivanna's attention, that's why we always ask her to attend to us because she already knows what we're drinking ?thanks kumbia and thanks ivannita for the attention and affection... you are the best!!!“

“Great food, super cute and chic ambiance, and easy, prompt service. The menu has all the classics of an upscale Italian restaurant and the flavors + portions don't disappoint! I had the Burrata, the mushroom pasta, and the broccolini - all were well prepared and delicious. The price point is certainly on the higher side but nonetheless it's a cute and cosy spot that I hope to be back to soon. Glad to have this option in the neighborhood!“

“One of the best happy hour deals in the city!! Could not recommend this place enough! The space is small enough to have an intimate atmosphere yet full enough to enjoy a couple of cocktails on a week night! Server was quick and attentive, we never felt like we were waiting too long for anything! We will definitely be back!“

“Another delicious meal - I frequented the original location and I have visited the trendy and welcoming CR NoMA more than any other sit-down restaurant in DC. How is the Pastrami Poblano even better, each time I order? Perfectly runny egg, soft and toasted ciabatta, delicious crispy spiced fries. The cigars appetizer are not to be missed. Weather you choose the wines, beers, cocktails or mocktails, you are in for a good time. Thanks Oded and team for making our night out a great one!“

“A couple of girlfriends and I finally went to this woman owned restaurant that has been celebrated for years! And now I can see why! We had such a wonderful time, and the service was impeccable. The food was delicious, and portions were very generous given that it happened to be restaurant week. I would write more details, but those have faded in my memory. As Maya? Angelou said, to paraphrase her, you may not remember what someone said or did but you will always remember how someone made you feel. And after a find me at RIS, I absolutely agree.“

“CAN I SAY THIS IS SOME OF THE BEST SUSHI I'VE HAD IN ALL OF DC!! The flavors in their Seaweed Cucumber Crab salad, and Rainbow and Unagi specialty rolls were music to my tastebuds, so much that we ordered a third one!! My dirty martini and my sister's plum wine added great spirit to our evening and our server was attentive and flowed with our jokes. They also followed great COVID protocol. You must pay them a visit TODAY!!“

“Wow what a beautiful and cozy bar. The staff were nice and friendly. The drinks were great, especially the paper plane. And the burger and chips were tasty! I hear the cheese and charcuterie boards are really good so I’ll go back for that next time. Highly recommend.“

“Some great food and a few misses. The oysters were great- cold, briny, and delicious. I ordered the grilled tuna off of their special spring menu and it was phenomenal. Great flavor and cooked well. The most egregious flaw was a medium-rare steak that was ordered was served medium-well. The waiter wasn’t able to provide information about what oysters were available and the bar struggled with a martini. I’ll give it another shot but expected a little more for the price and reputation.“

“Came here for brunch and it did not disappoint. My mom and I love french food and we had to check out this new place in town. First off the service went the extra mile to help us get a extra seat on a busy Sunday. Their reservationist without a doubt one of the best customer service experiences I have ever had. Definitely made us feel good before even walking in the door. We got some Bloody Marys to start. It was well balanced and we requested it extra spicy and it was. Well balanced and flavorful. My mom got the Quiche it was big and served with a side salad. She said it was very good rich and flavorful. She had to finish it because it was that good. It was well balanced with the mixed green salad adding freshness to the meal. I got the steak sandwich it was really good. Had a ton of flavor and the steak was tender. Coked mid rare which is the way I like it. The cheese was super gooy and rich. Bread was perfectly crispy and airy. It held its form even with all the drippings from the steak. Fries served with it were crispy and well seasoned. Our friend got a classic French omelette which was served with home fries. She said it was good but more plane than she was expecting. The interior is classic french restaurant looks fantastic. Overall a delicious meal cant wait to try the dinner menu another time.“

“Such a hidden gem! I had their pecan latte, which has actual pecan pieces in the drink. So creative! Limited pastry options, they do have vegan options. The vibe is cozy and cute, would love to come back to try their dinners/food and alcoholic drinks.Street parking available.“

“An interesting take on Chinese cuisine, definitely worth trying! Everything was delicious, the staff were friendly and professional…But including 22% service fee is ridiculous!!! Why don’t you just pay salaries to your staff, guys? It’s absolutely fine to include wages in to the prices - they are not that small, btw!PS Ribs and wings were awesome ??“