Capo Speakeasy
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✨ Vibe
Hidden behind a nondescript industrial freezer door in a bustling Italian deli, this U Street gem offers an "in the know" experience that blends 1920s Prohibition glamour with a high-energy modern lounge atmosphere.
🍸 Best For
Late-night dancing, clandestine cocktails, group celebrations, "in the know" nightlife seekers, post-bar cravings.
🔥 Highlights
- The Secret Reveal: The entrance is cleverly disguised as a functioning freezer door, providing a thrilling transition from a classic deli to a sleek, low-lit lounge with a spacious dance floor.
- Expert Mixology: Recognized as one of D.C.’s must-try speakeasies, the venue features artisanal cocktails like the strawberry gin-infused Strawberry Fields and acclaimed Espresso Martinis, often served with a theatrical fire show.
- Premier Late-Night Dining: Recently honored as one of the city’s top late-night dining destinations for 2025, patrons can enjoy world-class Italian sandwiches from the deli side well into the early morning hours.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Visit Thursday through Saturday to catch live DJ sets spinning a high-energy mix of hip-hop and Top 40 hits.
- The venue is a prime destination for bottle service and lively group outings in the heart of the U Street corridor.
📅 Upcoming Events & Specials
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📰 In the News
5 Hidden Bars In D.C. You Have To Try
Capo Speakeasy is featured as a top hidden destination in Washington, D.C., accessible through a secret freezer door inside an Italian deli. The venue provides an intimate, retro atmosphere where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a sophisticated lounge setting.
The Espresso Martini Is Everywhere (Again) (Published 2021)
Capo Speakeasy is recognized for its contribution to the espresso martini resurgence, specifically gaining national attention for its innovative bottled versions of the cocktail. Located behind a hidden freezer door within a D.C. Italian deli, the venue remains a key destination for enthusiasts of the classic coffee-infused drink.
DC’s Best Speakeasy Bars & Hidden Lounges
The Backroom at Capo Deli is a hidden speakeasy located behind a freezer door in a Shaw neighborhood Italian deli. This candlelit lounge offers a cozy atmosphere for enjoying house cocktails alongside freshly prepared Italian subs, with the venue staying open until 3 a.m. or later on weekends.
Best speakeasy: BackRoom at Capo Deli
Capo Speakeasy, hidden behind a refrigerator door at Capo Italian Deli on Florida Avenue NW, offers a prohibition-style cocktail experience featuring vintage decor and a posh interior. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted drinks and classic Italian sandwiches in a secluded atmosphere that transitions into a lively space for dancing on the weekends.
Recent Reviews from Google
Easily the worst 'speakeasy' I've ever been to. Drinks list is tiny, and my paloma was almost undrinkable. Dude behind the bar was super rude, and the atmosphere is awful. Avoid at all costs
Super cool spot!! Awesome music and crowd. The bar tenders were true mixologists and knew how to make delicious drinks- the French 75 was amazing.. Also loved the fire show!! I'll definitely be back!
One of the worst lounges in DC. The bartenders and management are very rude. The music is trash, the bartenders suck and the drinks are horrible. They refill their top shelf alcohol with bottom...
Excellent music selection. The espresso martini was one of the best I’ve ever had. Great experience!
Definitely for the college age folks. It was a good vibe, but below my age group.
