PUBS, PATIOS AND BARS:Kudos to Clyde’s in US capital

Washington DC, it seems, has dominated the news cycle more than ever for several months now (go figure!), but for all its recent dark circus-like atmosphere, the US capital is still an amazing destination to visit when possible, with countless landmarks, museums, and open spaces to explore. So where to settle in for a pint when the feet are finally weary?

Try Clyde’s of Gallery Place, a now favourite haunt I was introduced to by an industry friend while attending the US travel trade show IPW a couple of years back.

Located in the Penn Quarter downtown district, in Chinatown, and essentially across the street from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, not to mention Capitol One Arena (where the NHL Capitals play), the venue’s ethos is to be “an opulent homage to Washington and American sporting,” the latter evidenced by tasteful décor throughout, ranging from assorted artwork like sculptures of athletes, plus paintings of sailing, polo, and Babe Ruth at bat.

Accenting a rich, dark-wood interior that somehow just feels “DC,” the sports theme nevertheless declares that Clyde’s is not stuffy, as suggested by the lively pre- and post-game crowds, and those just watching, spread out across two levels that includes three bars. However, its no standard poster and pennant sport bar either.

Serving “classic American fare,” favourites include burgers, chili, and Buffalo wings, but also mains ranging from seafood to meatloaf, beef stew and filet mignon. (There is a kids’ menu).

Drinks include a wide range of beers, from craft to classic, wines, and a dozen signature cocktails.

Clyde’s of Gallery Place is located at 707 7th Street, NW (Metro Station Chinatown-Metro Place) and is open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the week and 11 a.m. to 10 on weekends. There are also six other Clyde’s scattered throughout the District.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here: