The Passenger

I'm not sure that this review can express my level of love for this bar. It's a down to earth, divey leaning, not pretentious, amazingly awesome kick ass cocktail bar.

First up, the layout. It's sort of like three bars in one. The first area when you walk in is your traditional bar area. Handful of booths/stools/tables. Small bar area (that's maybe my only complaint). And an awesome vibe. If you continue towards the back through the hallway, on the left hand side there's a couple of little hidden tables. If you're looking for a private area for you and your friends, or you and your "friend", this is the perfect spot. And then all the way back it's a bit more mellow with more traditional tables.

Second, the vibe. They had a great music mix playing. Maybe a bit loud, but that's mostly just because I'm 40. (Get off my lawn!) But I totally dug the music selection. And the overall atmosphere was one of just fun. Everyone from the staff to the patrons were a blast.

Third, the service and drinks. I'm not sure who the bartender was but by the time I was done I must admit I had a slight crush on her. Maybe it was just the cocktails. In any event, she was extremely friendly and seemed to truly love her job. And the cocktails she made up were fantastic. I just gave her the flavor profile I wanted, and within minutes I had this amazing concoction in front of me which was exactly what I was looking for.

As with anything that's this amazing expect a crowd. I was there on a Wednesday early evening (about 7p) and I had to fight for space at the bar. But it's well worth the fight and visit.

If you're a cocktail nut in DC you owe it to yourself to stop by The Passenger.

Excellent drinks and a fun staff. My favorite place to go when I need a good drink.

I'm glad I found this place.  Thank you, Yelp.

First, I've had half a dozen old fashioned cocktails here and they were all spot on.  I love this place.  The drinks have been perfect.  The food is funky and delicious.  

I've had all the appetizers and to a dish they are all perfect.  Funky:  Pork Cheek Nachos.  My fave:  Hummus.  I can't recommend the hummus enough.  It's by far the best hummus I've ever had. The burgers I've had here were only so so.

A couple of things are a little weird about this place.  For one, I can't figure out which days are busy days for this place.  I've been here on a Tuesday for happy hour and the place was a ghost town.  I've been here on another Tuesday and it was slammed from wall to wall.  The other think about this place is that when it's full it is LOUD.  I've always found seating even when it's full which is nice.  

Highly recommended.  Buy me a drink when you see me.