The Gibson

Cocktail Bar / Lounge
The Gibson Bartenders in this unmarked lounge like a challenge, and the simple, one-page menu at The Gibson is better regarded as a place to start than the sum of what's available. Washington, DC United States 38.9171156144724 -77.0319700241089
3.4 6
The Gibson - Cocktail Bar | Lounge in Washington, DC.
Collapse map / See photo gallery
2 User Reviews
+
Add to list
Ratings:
Lucas
Adriana
Jonah
Emma

Party Earth Review Bartenders in this unmarked lounge like a challenge, and the simple, one-page menu at The Gibson is better regarded as a place to start than the sum of what’s available. The intimate candlelit space is fitted out with... ... read full review

  • Metro:

    Green, Yellow Lines: U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo

  • Phone:

    202-232-2156

  • Links:

    Official Website

  • Hours:

    M–Th, Su 6pm– 2am, F–Sa 6pm–3am

  • Recommended as:

    • Night Spot

Party Earth The Gibson Review

The Scene

Bartenders in this unmarked lounge like a challenge, and the simple, one-page menu at The Gibson is better regarded as a place to start than the sum of what's available.

U Street Corridor, Washington, DC –

Bartenders in this unmarked lounge like a challenge, and the simple, one-page menu at The Gibson is better regarded as a place to start than the sum of what’s available.

The intimate candlelit space is fitted out with a long bar running down the middle of the ground floor with enough room for a few dozen thirsty patrons to observe the mixologists work their magic on ingredients like celery-infused pisco and cinnamon.

A handful of tables and booths along either side of the bar provide space for cozy couples and dapper dons to sip vintage cocktails like the Sazerac or unusual concoctions like the rich Japanese Cocktail made with brandy and orgeat syrup.

When not overtaken by a private party, the upstairs space provides comfy sofas for the upscale clientele, while a back patio trimmed with white lights and candles draws young professionals and creative types looking to mingle under the stars.

Standing room is not allowed at The Gibson, so losing a cocktail to an errant shoulder bump is not a concern, though getting a seat without a reservation is, especially on weekends.

read less
read more

Tip from Adriana:

You can leave your cell number with the doorman on weekends, and he’ll send you a text message when a space opens up. Don’t dally, though – you only have eight minutes to get your spot inside!

  • Crowd

    Sophisticated mix of small groups and couples, late 20s to 40s.

  • Entertainment / Music

    Down-tempo mix of mostly jazz, soul, reggae, and electronica.

  • Food / Miscellaneous

    Light snacks including maple rosemary-spiced nuts and chickpea fries. Reservations recommended, especially on the weekends. Two-hour limit on table seating during peak hours.

  • Prices

    Snacks $5–$10. Beer $7, wine $8–$13/glass, spirits $10–$18, specialty drinks $11–$16.

  • What to Wear / Dress Code

    Smart casual: trendy jeans, cool t-shirts and tops, dresses. Dress code: no shorts or flip-flops.

  • Hot Nights / When to Go

    Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for the biggest crowds, though reservations are strongly recommended. Any other night for great drinks without the wait.

  • Close By

    Just steps away is Marvin (2007 14th Street NW), a restaurant and bar under the same ownership that melds Southern and Belgian fare like waffles and moules frites.

Tags:
20s30s40sBlousesCocktail LoversCocktailsCouplesCreativeDesigner JeansDress CodeElectronicGroupsIntimateJazzLate 20sMixologyOutdoor AreaPatioReggaeSmall PlatesSmart CasualSnack FoodSophisticatedSoulSpecialty CocktailsTrendy CasualUpscaleYoung Professionals

The Gibson User Reviews

Average rating:
Shhh...!
Lauren M.
Lauren M. May 14, 2013
So my first time here and I love the place! First off, I don't know how many people have done the official "speak easy" experience but this one is legit! Brought here for my birthday and I am a fan-100%! So , first you see this door that looks like there's nothing there and then you knock and enter swanky-ville (ok, so excuse the corniness, but it is seriously swanky..think Holden Caulfield/J.D. Salinger time period). So, the lights are dimmed so much that you can only focus on the vibrancy of the warm mood lighting and super fun looking drinks! I sat at a booth in a corner and was told that there is an outdoor section that is even hotter! Can't wait to try it! It is seating room only -minus the bar and then of course the drinks are too die for! I'm a fan of fruit infused beverages and so I was told to request whatever I could dream up. WOW! I got the most exciting drink ever..the mixologists at this spot are the best! There was smoke coming from my glass and the color of the my drink was hypnotizing! Anyone who loves to be out and about, in the right spot, and/or is just down to find a "hot" spot, you gotta be at The Gibson!
These guys take their cocktails seriously
Jimmy D.
Jimmy D. Nov 24, 2012
The Gibson is one of those place in the U Street area where the bartenders think of themselves as "mixologists" if you know what I mean. I like the spot and think it has its place when you aren't just looking for a good beer. But they do take themselves a little too seriously at times. Right next to Marvin in U Street. If you want to grab a bite at Marvin and then drift over to The Gibson its a bound to be a fun night. A nice date night combo.
Load more comments
Not sure where to go this weekend in Washington, DC? Sign up for our weekly email and get updates on the coolest things to do!

Book Now and Save at Hotels.com

Are we missing a venue or event?
Find your scene