Off the Record Historic Bar / Hotel Bar / Lounge

DOWNTOWN WASHINGTON, DC –

It’s a never-ending battle of donkeys vs. elephants in the District of Columbia, but Off the Record, a chic lounge in the basement of the historic Hay-Adams hotel, brings both parties together for a cordial cocktail after an exhausting day of work.

Located a block from the White House, this venue’s name is no accident, as its deep red velvet booths frequently fill with powerful politicians and wizened journalists engaged in hushed conversation.

Upscale hotel guests claim stools at the U-shaped bar to question the bartender on sites to see in the city, oblivious to the Capitol Hill insiders who are making global decisions at the dark wood tables nearby.

Glass chandeliers hang from the intricate plaster ceiling, while the room’s crimson walls are covered with pencil caricatures of well-known politicians, many of whom have been regulars.

It isn’t rare for someone as noteworthy as the Chief of Staff to make an unexpected appearance for a quiet night out, though lesser-known but dapper patrons are still welcome to relax on the ruby-red chairs, a fresh grapefruit mojito or Delirium draft in hand.

Whether the conversation leads to politics or religion, education or healthcare, guests can be sure that it will all be Off the Record.