Duke's Counter
✨ Vibe
An energetic East London-inspired gastropub that has recently transformed into a vibrant, panda-themed "Bamboo Bar" oasis featuring quirky decor and a colorful, uplifting atmosphere.🍸 Best For
Award-winning burgers, post-zoo refreshments, panda-themed cocktails, lively happy hours, and family-friendly dining.🔥 Highlights
- Home of the legendary "Proper Burger," a multi-year winner of "DC's Best Burger" celebrated for its tender, flavorful beef and perfectly crispy fries.
- The immersive "Bamboo Bar" experience, which celebrates the return of giant pandas with whimsical decorations and creative specialty drinks like the Bamboo Mule, Panda-rita, and "Bao-zy" hot chocolate.
- An exceptional patio and indoor setting located directly across from the National Zoo, blending high-energy neighborhood charm with attentive, friendly service.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Voted one of the city's best spots for both Brunch and Happy Hour, making it a top choice for value and quality in Woodley Park.
- The venue is highly community-focused, frequently hosting seasonal pop-ups and special offers for locals and visitors alike.
🔄 Weekly Events
Brunch 🍳
Voted DC's Best Brunch at this East London inspired gastropub.
Happy Hour
Voted DC's Best Happy Hour!
📰 In the News
Toast the Season at These Holiday Bars and Pop-Ups Around DC
Duke's Counter is hosting a panda-filled "Bamboo Land" holiday pop-up as part of the Destination: Dreamlands series through the 2025 festive season. Located near the National Zoo, the venue features themed decorations and a specialized menu of seasonal cocktails.
Already-Hurting D.C. Restaurants and Bars Need This Shutdown to Stop
Duke’s Counter, located across from the Smithsonian National Zoo, is supporting furloughed federal workers during the government shutdown by offering a free shot of bourbon or house wine with the purchase of any burger or entree. Owner Daniel Kramer also features $5 beer specials as part of a broader effort to provide relief to the local community during the funding lapse.
A Jewish-Korean Crossover Featuring Red Bean Rugelach — And More Spring Pop-Ups
Duke’s Counter in Woodley Park features "The Bamboo Bar," a panda-themed pop-up celebrating the arrival of giant pandas at the nearby National Zoo. The specialized menu includes cocktails such as the Bamboo Mule, "Bao-zy" hot chocolate, and the "Panda-Colada" served with themed glassware.
Visit Dukes Counter's Bamboo Bar for a panda-themed experience right across the zoo
Duke's Counter features the panda-themed Bamboo Bar located directly across from the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. This immersive experience provides a themed destination for visitors and tourists celebrating the return of pandas to the public eye.
Panda-monium in DC: Where to find panda treats, Bao-zy cocoa, souvenir Metro cards
Duke's Counter, located directly across from the National Zoo, has introduced "The Bamboo Bar" featuring panda-themed refreshments to celebrate the arrival of the zoo's new giant pandas. Visitors can enjoy specialty drinks such as the Bamboo Mule, Panda-rita, and "Bao-zy" hot chocolate for kids.
Recent Reviews from Google
Stopped in to Duke's Counter after spending half day wondering around the Zoo. The Connecticut location is conveniently located across the street from the Zoo entrance. We sat inside at the bar...
🍔 Best burger for like a gagillion years in a row apparently according to the all plaques at the entrance... the burger is for sure bussin' bussin'. I felt compelled to order it after seeing they've...
Duke’s Counter is a delightful hidden gem, exuding an East London inspired energy right in the heart of Woodley Park, just across from the National Zoo. The moment you step in, quirky Asian-inspired...
Went here because we needed a kid-friendly restaurant after the zoo and it did not disappoint! The waiter (who also might have been the manager/owner) was incredibly friendly and even brought them...
Just Came in with such high hopes. With good reviews and a claim to the best burger in DC for years, you could see why I’d be excited! But what came out was a cold absolutely drenched and soggy burger...
