Allegory
Category: Speakeasies, Cocktail Bars, Hotel Bars
Neighborhood: Downtown
Price: $$$
Address: 1201 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005
✨ Vibe
Hidden behind a library bookshelf in the Eaton Hotel, this moody and artistic speakeasy masterfully blends high-concept storytelling with an intimate, upscale atmosphere featuring stunning wraparound murals.
🍸 Best For
Experimental cocktail enthusiasts, art lovers, intimate date nights, and travelers seeking one of North America’s most acclaimed bar experiences.
🔥 Highlights
- Award-Winning Excellence: Proudly ranked No. 45 on the 2025 list of North America’s 50 Best Bars, Allegory is recognized globally for its ambitious and creative cocktail program.
- Narrative-Driven Menu: Experience the "Banned in D.C." concept menu, a beautifully illustrated storybook that pairs innovative drinks like the tropical "Mardi Gras" and apple-flavored "Black Dove" with a powerful civil rights narrative.
- Immersive Artistry: The space is defined by its breathtaking mural that creatively reinterprets Alice in Wonderland through the lens of civil rights icon Ruby Bridges, offering a one-of-a-kind visual experience.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Allegory operates on a "no reservations" basis, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot in this exclusive, high-demand lounge.
- Look for the entrance tucked discreetly behind the bookshelves within the lobby of the Eaton DC hotel.
📰 In the News
These 5 bars are elevating their cocktails through art
Allegory is highlighted as one of several Washington, D.C. venues that blend visual storytelling with innovative mixology. The lounge offers unique creations such as the cornflakes-topped 'Saturday Morning Cartoons,' showcasing an art-focused approach to the cocktail experience.
Allegory, one of DC’s most ambitious cocktail bars, debuts new concept menu
Allegory, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in D.C.'s Eaton Hotel, has introduced a new "Banned in D.C." concept menu inspired by themes of censorship and the legacy of civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. The menu features 15 pages of intricate toy-based digital photography and a range of ambitious drinks, including the tropical "Mardi Gras" and the apple-flavored "Black Dove."
Teaching for Change Featured in Eaton DC Allegory’s "Banned in D.C." 2025 Illustrated Story Menu
Allegory, a speakeasy-style bar inside Eaton DC, launched its "Banned in D.C." 2025 illustrated story menu featuring intricate dioramas by artist Katie Miller that follow a dystopian journey of civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. The menu was developed in collaboration with the non-profit Teaching for Change to highlight the fight against book bans and celebrate D.C.'s punk and go-go culture.
Spring's Best New Cocktails & Dining in DC
Allegory has debuted its "Banned in DC" mixology menu, which utilizes advanced techniques like enzyme treatment and clarification to explore the fictionalized journey of civil rights icon Ruby Bridges. Developed by Creative and Beverage Director Deke Dunne in collaboration with artist Katie Miller, the menu integrates historical storytelling and activism into a sophisticated cocktail experience.
3 DC bars named in North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 list
Allegory earned a spot on the 2025 list of North America’s 50 Best Bars, ranking forty-fifth for its unique Alice in Wonderland-themed speakeasy concept. Located in Washington, D.C., the bar is celebrated for providing an immersive, high-concept cocktail experience.
Recent Reviews from Google
I really wanted to love Allegory Speakeasy, but unfortunately, the overall experience left a lot to be desired. The aesthetic and vibe of the surrounding hotel are absolutely beautiful—there’s no...
I love coming to Allegory! The vibes are always so fun and the menu a delight. The staff are always attentive and great at suggesting drink options. I only knock one star off for the food because the...
Went on a busy evening and man was it packed! The vibes were immaculate, the service was A1 and the food even better. Our server was amazing. We chatted all night, ate our food and it was immaculate...
I really wanted to like this place and got here right at 5pm to ensure we got a spot at this “no reservations” bar. From the start, I could tell the staff culture here was off. The hostess checking...
Really enjoyed finishing my evening here. Great service at the bar, with enough personality and conversation to make it interesting. I like bartenders with opinions and stories, and they delivered...
