The Public Option - Washington, District of Columbia

Christian P.

Last night was my first night living in the neighborhood, and I happened to walk by and walk into this place. I'm so grateful that I did. This is the kind of place that makes me hesitate to give it the great rating it deserves, because I'm afraid of it getting too busy and changing. But man, does it deserve it.

You cannot find new places this genuine. Bill (the brewer and DC born-and-raised) and his wife Kathy run an amazing little place that is as genuine as it gets, with spectacular beer (loved the Cream Ale best of what I had, but the Porter and the Rye IPA were both delicious as well), locally-distilled liquor and delicious veggie dogs (I tried the jerk plantain and the spicy eggplant/mushroom and I want more, but there's a Buffalo cauliflower still to try). Upstairs there was exceptional live music, but I didn't have the time to commit to it.

It's only open Fridays and Saturdays, but it's so worth it if you like value, excellence and authenticity. It's even better if you're in the neighborhood, because the clientele is mostly local and very friendly.

Joshua

Great beers! Nice quiet neighborhood bar feel. Family friendly and great service! Will definitely go back!

Gozi G.

The beer here and the live music is great! This is the best place to get a consistent cocktail! Every mixed drink I've had here is reasonably priced and delicious.

We're patiently waiting for The Public Option to open up again. Truly a great place to hang out after work.

Emily R.

The people are great and kind! The drinks are quality, both cocktails and beer. We just stopped in since we were visiting for a conference and it was a great surprise to meet the Public Option staff

James G.

I can't say enough good things about this place. The beer is the best in town, the owners are amazing, the staff are incredibly friendly, and the music venue upstairs is great. If you get a chance to stop in for a beverage and a show, you won't be disappointed. D.C. isn't exactly a hotbed for good beer despite the number of breweries, but this place is an exception. Although limited in quantity, they certainly exceed others in quality. They have food available some nights from a pop-up kitchen in the back, and the space upstairs is very inviting and laid back.

Isaiah ?. P. G.

I came here for an event. Even though I was early the two owners upfront were very hospitable. Got me drinks very quickly. They did not have their own food there but had @chefces on Instagram serving her food there. It was amazing. Atmosphere for the event was great as well. First open nice of the year. Great place. They do tours as well.

David S.

Nice relaxed vibe. The people are friendly. They serve local brews, as well as mixed drinks. They have board games, an upstairs with a dartboard (and sometimes a DJ), and a little area by the kitchen for a more quiet time.

This place is worth a visit if you're looking for an unpretentious, friendly environment.

James M.

A cozy, unpretentious bar with excellent beer. From the outside the place looks abandoned. Inside, the decor reminded me of my grandmother's breakfast nook. Not exactly what one looks for in a bar... but the staff and clientele where relaxed and the beer was tasty. We tried them all (they offer flights), and while some were better than others, all where good.