Nicknamed the “Oval Office of Bars” by Conde Nast Traveler, the historic Round Robin Bar has been a lively meeting place for D.C.’s political and social elite since it was established in 1847. Famous for its circular bar, oak-paneled walls, and its signature drink — the Mint Julep, the Round Robin Bar is a quintessential DC experience offering classic cocktails and light bites in one of Washington’s most iconic locations.
Celebrate DC Cocktail Week at Round Robin Bar in partnership with Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. Enjoy our exclusive offering: “Where there is smoke, there are cocktails and ribs.” Indulge in a smoky riff on the classic Last Word, crafted with Mezcal, paired perfectly with a Braised Short Rib sandwich on a brioche bun with Swiss cheese. Experience this flavorful duo, available as part of this vibrant citywide celebration of cocktail culture!
Celebrate the holiday season at Round Robin Bar with an alpine-inspired experience that brings the magic of a European chalet to Washington, D.C. Indulge in a Signature Freezer Martini — a pre-mixed blend of Gin (or Vodka, if preferred), Dry Vermouth, and Orange Bitters. Whether toasting to the season or unwinding after a long day, our Signature Freezer Martini is the ultimate way to celebrate in style.
Operating Hours:
Monday through Thursday 4:00 p.m. to midnight
Friday and Saturday 1:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. to midnight
The Round Robin Small Bites available every day, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Late-Night Food Menu is available from 10:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
“We’re calling it: this is the Oval Office of bars. Located inside the historic Willard InterContinental hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue, the stately Round Robin Bar is a stalwart part of D.C. history. Established in 1847, the handsome spot has polished mahogany, portraits of political figures, leather seating, and its namesake: a literal round bar—the better from which to sit and people-watch (a flagship D.C. pastime), with a throwback cocktail—there’s a range, but the classics are what they do best—in hand. According to Willard legend, this is where Sen. Henry Clay introduced the Mint Julep to Washington; learn more at one of the bar’s History Happy Hours, which feature authors, journalists, and museum execs as speakers.”
– Adele Chapin, Condé Nast Traveler
“This iconic watering hole bears all the hallmarks of a true classic: a polished mahogany bar, forest green walls, sketches of historic notables (like Eleanor Roosevelt and Mark Twain), and an extremely knowledgeable bartender who’s survived six presidential administrations, Jim Hewes. Drop by when he’s working, so he can regale you with colorful stories of the city over the house cocktail, the mint julep.”
– Katie Chang, Forbes
“One of the most influential establishments to serve the Mint Julep is the Round Robin Bar in Washington D.C.’s Willard Intercontinental Hotel. It opened in 1847, and their signature drink became a popular beverage for the Washington elite when U.S. Senator Henry Clay famously shipped in a barrel of Kentucky Bourbon. The politician, known for bringing together the North and South, frequented the bar to imbibe juleps during his 40 years in government.”
– Jessica Gliddon, Iconic Life