Round Robin Bar
✨ Vibe
A historic "Oval Office of Bars" that exudes political and literary prestige with its polished mahogany circular bar and a sophisticated, time-honored atmosphere that feels quintessentially DC.
🍸 Best For
Upscale after-work drinks, political history buffs, legendary Mint Juleps, sophisticated date nights, and impressing out-of-town guests.
🔥 Highlights
- A Living History Landmark: Established in 1850 and recognized by Historic Hotels of America, this storied institution has hosted everyone from Civil War generals to modern presidents, earning accolades such as the 2023 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice award.
- The Iconic Mint Julep: Famed as the location where the Mint Julep was first introduced to Washington, D.C., the bar remains the gold standard for this signature cocktail, served fresh by master bartenders.
- Masterful Craftsmanship & Elevated Fare: Beyond the classics, enjoy expert mixology like smoked Old Fashioneds and dirty martinis paired with upscale dishes including grilled octopus, pork belly, and artisanal cheese plates.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Look out for "History Happy Hours" led by legendary bartender Jim Hewes, which offer a fascinating deep dive into the political and literary stories of the District.
- Located inside the prestigious Willard InterContinental, it is an ideal post-museum retreat just steps away from the National Mall and the White House.
🔄 Weekly Events
🎶 Nightly Holiday Caroling Program
Daily performances by local choirs and musical ensembles in the hotel lobby, running from December 1 through December 23, 2025.
Afternoon Tea
Traditional Afternoon Tea services served with harp music, canapés, and pastries.
Willard Holiday Caroling
Nightly Caroling Program featuring performances by local choirs and musical ensembles.
📰 In the News
Washington D.C.: Exploring History at The Dupont Circle Hotel
Round Robin Bar, located inside the Willard InterContinental, is a historic Washington institution known for its polished mahogany and distinctive circular bar. The venue serves classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and refined dishes such as tuna tartare in a space steeped in political and literary history.
Why The Willard InterContinental Is My Favorite Hotel In Washington, DC
Round Robin Bar, located within the Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C., is a historic establishment that famously served as a watering hole for Union leaders during the Civil War. It remains a key destination for visitors looking to experience the District's rich political legacy and historical ambiance.
A Drink-by-Drink Tour of DC’s Most Historic Cocktail Bars
Round Robin Bar, located within The Willard InterContinental, is a historic landmark known as the 'Oval Office of Bars' where the Mint Julep was first introduced to Washington, D.C. The venue offers a deep dive into political history, featuring stories of past presidents and hosting 'History Happy Hours' led by legendary bartender Jim Hewes.
The Best Cocktail Bars in DC
Round Robin Bar is a historic DC institution at Metro Center that has been in operation since 1850, offering a classic atmosphere steeped in political history. Famous for its signature mint juleps, the bar also features modern cocktail trends and a menu of upscale bar fare like crab cake sliders and truffle fries.
15 Best Bars in Washington, D.C.
Round Robin Bar, located inside the historic Willard InterContinental, is a classic D.C. institution featuring a mahogany round bar and portraits of political figures. This storied venue is famous for being the place where the Mint Julep was introduced to Washington and hosts History Happy Hours featuring guest authors and journalists.
Recent Reviews from Google
Loved this bar. It’s quiet and exudes its history. You can feel it. I wanted the barrel aged old fashioned, but they were not ready, so the bartender made me an OF using Michters Rye. It was...
Great place for an upscale drink. Feels very DC, like a place where important people get an after work drink.
So much history, we had to stop here. Certainly recommend the mint julep, smoked old fashioneds and dirty martinis with blue cheese, olives. For food, we tried the cheese plate, which is plenty for...
The museums are closed for the evening. You're thirsty. Something sweet appeals. This place hit both of these desires for me in the best way. The bartenders were great. Masters of their craft. The...
Great place to grab a drink after a day at work / visiting the National lawn Their signature mint julep drink tasted super fresh! Historic bar with grand interior
