Washington, DC isn’t just our nation’s capital. It’s also a hotbed of the coolest places to find a drink after work. Happy hour is a key part of DC culture. Here is why you need to find the best happy hour DC option right away:

• It helps you network. All the movers and shakers that make up the government can be found gossiping over drinks late into the evening.
• It helps you relax. People in DC don’t just work hard, they play hard, too. But they also know that the grind has to end at some point. When five o’clock hits, happy hour is the perfect way to blow off some steam.
• It helps you learn new things. The best happy hours in DC aren’t just where you can discover the most obscure microbrews and most creative cocktails, although they’re great for that, too! Getting together at one of these bars is sure to spark intelligent conversation. After all, DC is one of the most well-read cities in America!

Pizzeria Paradiso

If you’re craving a hot slice of pizza after a long day at the office, look no further than this “paradise.” With four locations across the DC area, you won’t have to go far to get your fix! Wash down the pizza with beers that start at just $4.

Vinoteca

Let’s face it: work involves sitting. A lot of sitting. Vinoteca allows you to get your blood moving with a lively game of bocce. Need some “liquid courage” before you hit the court? Their drinks menu features 15 wines and a selection of beers. From 5-7 PM, drinks are $5 and up.

Old Ebbitt Grill

Another thing DC is known for is its seafood. Old Ebbitt Grill offers classic oysters, chowder, and even sushi! Locals and outsiders alike declare that theirs is the best happy hour in DC because it runs all the way until 11 PM.

Grillfish

For a different seafood option, try Grillfish. It’s known for their “Off the Hook Happy Hour”: oysters are just $1.50 (on Wednesdays and Fridays, it’s $1), while their fish tacos are $3.

Rustik Tavern

You’ll want to get in the door early at this Bloomingdale bar: it seats only 30 people. Once you get past the exclusive feel, you’ll be amazed at their happy hour offerings. During their weekly happy hours, from 4-7 PM, the price of their wood-fired pizza drops by $3.

Number Nine

This LGBTQ-friendly bar is a strong contender for “best happy hour in DC” because of its 2-for-1 drinks special. The location has been completely remodeled and has a casual, welcoming environment. Its upstairs area is a video bar so patrons can watch sports or enjoy a selection of music videos from their rotating “video DJs,” or VJs.

Commissary

Located at Logan Circle / Shaw, Commissary is committed to honest pricing and amazing service. Happy hour is every day from 3 PM to 7 PM, and their “$2.50 Tuesday” is not to be missed.

Keep track of all the goings-on throughout DC with a happy hour app. Just Happy Hours lets you meet new people as you explore bars and restaurants. You create an event of your own, or use the happy hour finder feature to discover these and other locations throughout DC.