The Codmother

We literally ran right past this place while trying to escape the pouring rain. Then again, The Codmother doesn't necessarily stick out like a sore thumb along U St. anyway. But once we turned around and made our way back, we found it hidden down a set of steps.

We first grabbed a table and attempted to get warm while listening to a loud mix of 80s/90s music. After a little bit, a guy sitting at the table behind us walked over and said, "They really don't do table service here." Fair enough.

We walked up to the bar and looked over a short chalkboard menu of options, prefaced with "It could be better, it could be worse." Fair enough again. Two orders of Fish and Chips, please, and a pint of Fat Tire (only three beers on tap).

We noticed a couple of empty stools at the far end of the bar, snagged them and gave the bar a look over. Pretty much every inch of the walls and ceilings had something written in chalk, which was not frowned upon, but rather, encouraged. The awesome mix of tunes continued to play, inspiring a few of the eclectic group of patrons to get up and dance. Thanks, MJ!

Once the F&C arrived we poured on some vinegar and dug in. I have to say, it was much better than I expected, especially with a side of tartar sauce. Filling too, with ample pieces of deep-fried, tender fish and numerous fries for only eight bucks.

After another drink, we paid the bill and left happy...until we quickly realized it was still pouring rain outside. Run!

At some point, U-street was a place you took a taxi-to, got dropped off in front of your location, then waited in said location until the bouncer got you in your return cab. Now...the street gets so crowded by 9 pm on a Friday night, you dreamed of the good old days where you could duck into a quiet, no frills bar where you might even get a chance to chit-chat with the bartender over a cheap shot of Bourbon and a tall boy! That's why, a quick stumble down the stairs of Codmother is like a refreshing step back in time to the good old, dangerous days. With specials that include a shot and a beer, heavy pours of every drink, and fried food.....you at once feel at home, and at the same time, if your home looked like this, your wife/husband might leave you. Chalk on your table...means....write something on the exposed break walls...ya...go ahead. Even the half coat-of-arms on the wall is free game.

Codmother is the perfect jump-off spot for a Friday night of fun on U-street, or a good refuge from the growing insanity outside. It also makes for a good companion on a random evening when you just want to be alone with your beer and your shot, and not feel judged plowing through your extra large serving of onion rings! Don't call it a dive, call it a renaissance!

I have been to Codmother more than you have.

It's true. In fact, it's undeniable, unless I know you, and we've spent many nights together at Codmother.

Here are a few fun facts about Codmother: 1) it's a dive. There is chalk covering every square inch of the walls and ceiling. There is no one in the bathroom to offer you a mint and brush the dirt off your shoulder. 2) If you're not a regular, and you took the Metro from Arlington to spend a night amongst the peasants, you probably will not get fantastic service. 3) If you order a drink involving more than two ingredients that is not up on the board, apologize to everyone in the bar and leave. There is not a mixologist on staff.

The point of Codmother is simple: it's a cheap place to go and drink and eat some delicious fish and chips. Weeknights are great. It's never completely empty, but it is also never packed. The people are excellent, and the scene is super relaxed. On weekends, Cod gets absurdly packed and a lot of what I'm assuming are either GW or Georgetown students come in. It's not my scene, but it can be pretty great regardless.

In conclusion, I present "Ten Steps to Success at Codmother:" 1) don't dress up. 2) walk in. 3) order a PBR and bourbon. 4) if you're hungry, and it's not slammed, get fish & chips; 5) repeat #3; 6) repeat #3; 7) repeat #3; 8) ???? 9) repeat #3; 10) stagger out.