Top 5: Irish Pubs in Washington, D.C.

The nation´s capital may not be known as party central likes its neighbors to the north (Philadelphia and New York), but D.C. still has an impressive selection of Irish pubs that combine the rustic vibe of the pubs in Ireland with the modernity of the D.C. elite.

Kelly´s Irish Times

The Capitol Hill watering hole pops up just a block from Union Station and is nestled among more modern edifices like hotels and office buildings. Beyond the doors is a surprisingly spacious bar with plenty of seating and a few arcade games. Scale the stairs to the basement for a darker bar with live music on select nights.

Fado

The Chinatown pub is just a few steps from the Verizon Center and serves as an ideal pre- or post-event place for a pint. Fado — Irish for “long ago” — features Irish favorites like Shepherd’s Pie, fish and chips and corned beef and cabbage.

Duffy´s

A bit off the beaten path, this rustic bar is just north of U Street Northwest and features old-world character in a sports lover´s paradise. The pub is also a few steps from the 9:30 Club where some of the nation’s best musical acts come to rock in D.C.

The Dubliner

As the second Capitol Hill locale on the list, The Dubliner is part of the Phoenix Park Hotel, just a short walk from Union Station. The kitchen serves Irish smoked salmon, corned beef sandwiches and Guinness burger with a succulent beer-based marinade.

Nanny O´Briens

Further uptown in Cleveland Park sits this smaller neighborhood pub with a loyal client base. A rotating beer and cider list comprises both local and foreign favorites, and a daily happy hour includes craft beer for $4.