The term “Tavern” carries a few definition. Near Logan Circle, there’s a place that represents a couple of those definitions admirably. All that’s lacking are the lodgings of an old-style inn, and the variation that describes a low-budget, local dive.

One year ago, one could just walk into this nightspot without worrying about a line – but oh how the times have changed… Now there’s only one word to describe Katra Lounge on a Saturday evening: POPPIN!

The 9:30 Club is universally regarded as one of DC’s best places to see live music; big enough for well-known bands, small enough to look up their nostrils. More importantly, the beer selection is unlike that of any other concert hall.

There’s something to be said for finding house-brewed tap beer in the heart of a metropolis. Given that craft-brewing is still shy of the mainstream, and the space required to brew beer in appreciable quantities, and the cost of said space in said heart of said metropolis, one must first of all be grateful for the entrepreneurial initiative that makes the urban brew-pub happen.

Prepare to take a step back into collegiate life. Although detached from any actual campus, the Froggy Bottom Pub feels like a renovated dorm-basement bar. Whether that is a good or a bad thing is strictly subjective.

These places are springing up all over. A cynic would say it cheapens the experience of brewed-right-there beer-drinking; that it makes generic what is meant to be unique. But to others, wider access to small-batch brews can’t be a bad thing.

Connecticut Avenue in Cleveland Park is a neighborhood in revival. What would such a neighborhood be without an Irish Pub? Nanny O’Brien’s fits the bill, even if there is room for improvement.

Saloon NYC describes itself as the “Best of Both Worlds” by fusing the NYC club scene with the NYC pub scene. If your group can’t decide if they want to just drink or would also like to dance this is a good spot to visit and explore both options.