Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club

Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club

Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club logo

✨ Vibe

A secretive, red-lit underground sanctuary featuring an eclectic mix of skull decor, kitschy art, and an inclusive "anything-goes" spirit that feels like a hidden neighborhood clubhouse.

🍸 Best For

Late-night EDM dancing, craft beer enthusiasts, an inclusive LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, and those seeking a gritty, authentic dive bar experience.

🔥 Highlights

  • Eclectic & Intimate Decor: From its iconic red lighting and skull motifs to the communal costume wall and historical patron notes, the interior offers a visually stunning and cozy backdrop for a night out.
  • Dynamic Soundscapes: Recently highlighted as an ultimate D.C. nightlife destination, the venue features nightly DJ sets ranging from techno and EDM to specialized goth night parties.
  • Unique Drink Offerings: Beyond the impressive beer selection and strong cocktails, guests can enjoy signature root beer slushies and escalating drink specials every Friday.

ℹ️ Need to Know

  • This is a cash-only establishment with a discreet, "blink-and-you-miss-it" exterior—look for the blacked-out windows on Bladensburg Road.
  • The venue is "bring your own food" friendly and hits its peak energy after midnight, staying open until 3 am on weekends.

📰 In the News

Thrillist Oct 25, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to DC Nightlife

Jimmy Valentine’s Lonely Hearts Club is a discreet, blink-and-you-miss-it dive bar in the Carver/Langston neighborhood known for its red-lit interior, eclectic skull-heavy decor, and extensive beer selection. The venue hosts ever-changing DJ sets and maintains late-night hours stretching until 3 am on weekends.

The Washington Post May 20, 2023

A yarn-bombing with heart

Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club is a discreet bar on Bladensburg Road NE known for its lack of signage, dim red lighting, and eclectic decor featuring skulls. The venue offers a signature "Mr. Lethal" cocktail within its mysterious and atmospheric setting.

PoPville May 19, 2015

Jimmy Valentine’s 8 Year Anniversary Party is Sunday

Jimmy Valentine’s Lonely Hearts Club is a Washington D.C. bar located on Bladensburg Road NE that is known for its late-night EDM events and eclectic atmosphere. The venue’s identity is inspired by the fictional safecracker Jimmy Valentine, a theme the owners lean into with unique trivia and lore regarding the bar's naming and history.

Washingtonian Feb 10, 2015

Did a Neighborhood Beef Lead to Cops Seizing This Man’s Dog?

Jimmy Valentine’s Lonely Hearts Club owner Mark Thorp filed a lawsuit against D.C. officials and the Washington Humane Society following a controversial police raid and the seizure of his pet. The legal action alleges the incident was fueled by a long-standing feud with a neighborhood politician who previously made false claims about the bar’s management and cleanliness.

NBC4 Washington May 4, 2011

Jimmy Valentine's Remains Open

Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club remains open indefinitely following the resolution of community protests and potential liquor license issues in the Atlas District. The venue solidified its status as a neighborhood dive bar staple after spokesperson Jennifer Jackson clarified that the initial challenges were not serious enough to force a closure.

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