After a long week (or day) at work, nothing is quite as relaxing as heading to your local watering hole. Whether you want to sip on a refreshing brew as you watch the game or enjoy a specialty cocktail as you chat with friends, these bars will provide the atmosphere you are looking for.
Cocktail Bar
Winner
Salt
Head to Salt for a date night or to enjoy happy hour discounts. This basement cocktail bar in Rosslyn offers small plates and desserts, but don’t forget to try a classic or house cocktail, like El Duderino, complete with tequila and coffee syrup. Feeling sleepy? Grab one of the spot’s nightcaps. 1201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Editor’s Pick
Baba
It’s not your grandmother’s cocktail bar—or is it? Try a drink from one of five mixology categories at Baba, which means grandmother in many Slavic languages. From Strong and Boozy drinks to something Light and Refreshing, this pick has an abundance of options and weekend brunch to boot. 2901 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Beer Garden
Winner
2 Silos Brewing Co.
Grab an order of spinach dip or a soft pretzel while you watch a live musical performance at this destination brewery. It’s so good you’ll even recommend for a first date. Pick a limited release or a flagship staple like the Citralicious, a juicy IPA with citrus and tangerine flavors. 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas
Editor’s pick
Caboose Commons Brewpub
The outdoor beer garden, lot, and patio provide plenty of space to gather and drink both local beer and cocktails in the summer months. (The numerous tables are served by a QR code system.) You can order a drink from Caboose’s coffee bar if you want to make it a full night. 2918 Eskridge Rd., Fairfax
Brewpub
Winner
Ornery Beer Company
A great spot to bring visiting friends and family, Ornery Beery Company offers a homegrown draft list and the typical beers on tap. But it’s not just beer and burgers on the menu—Ornery prepares some pretty fancy veggies. Get some honey-fried Brussels sprouts to pair with one of their draft beers. 3950 University Dr., Ste. 106, Fairfax; 8088 Flannery Ct., Manassas
Runner-Up
Water’s End Brewery
If decisiveness isn’t your strong suit, head to Water’s End Brewery and order a tasting (or drinking) flight (three pours each). If you’re in a hurry, use the drive-through for takeout drinks. A Blood Orange Sour or Blueberry Mosaic IPA will certainly make for a unique night in. 12425 Dillingham Sq., Lake Ridge; 14397 Potomac Mills Rd., Woodbridge
Irish Bar
Winner
The Auld Shebeen
There’s certainly a reason why our readers picked The Auld Shebeen as the best Irish bar for the sixth year in a row. Grab a Guinness while you watch some soccer in the pub and get transported to Ireland, thanks to the Irish fare and hospitality. If you’re an early bird, get a full Irish breakfast—complete with bottomless mimosas that certainly deliver. Slainte! 3971 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax
Runner-Up
Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub
You’ll find a traditional Irish bar in Murphy’s, where you can indulge in bangers and mash or shepherd’s pie while you slam back a Kilkenny (an Irish red ale). The fun doesn’t stop at the food and drink: Enjoy some live traditional Irish music, or stop in for pub trivia. 713 King St., Alexandria
Rooftop Bar
Winner
Wilson Hardware
There’s a reason Wilson Hardware is a Clarendon staple. The rooftop bar is perfect in the warm weather and even the not-so-warm nights, as you can sit under the heaters while you sip on a signature cocktail. The space is open enough that you can gaze at the scene and sky but intimate enough that you can enjoy conversations with friends and mingle about. 2915 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Runner-Up
The Electric Palm Restaurant
It doesn’t get any better than the views at The Electric Palm Restaurant, located on the grounds of the Prince William Marina. Head upstairs to the bar area, and then go outside to gaze directly at the Occoquan River while you sit on the rooftop patio. While you’re near the water, try the seafood, which is discounted on select days. 12745 Sea Ray Ln., Woodbridge
Sports Bar
Winner
Open Road Grill
It’s a great place for food, drinks, and service, but don’t forget the sports! Head to Open Road Grill to watch your favorite Washington, DC, sports team with friends and family. If you’re not attending a game in person, you can at least grab a local craft beer while you chill with the bros. 1201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 8100 Lee Hwy., Falls Church
Runner-Up
Glory Days Grill
There’s a Glory Days near you in NoVA, so don’t worry about driving far to head to this sports bar staple. Get a beer and Old Bay traditional wings while you cheer on your favorite team. Like their motto says: great food, good sports. Is there anything better? Multiple locations
Wine Bar
Winner
The Wine House
It’s a place for wine lovers to call home. The Wine House has over 500 wines from around the world, making it no surprise that our readers picked it for the best wine bar in NoVA. The walls are lined with wine bottles, and tastings and education classes make it more than a spot where you can have a nice glass, though it’s great for that, too. 3950 University Dr., Ste. 212, Fairfax
Runner-Up
Parallel Wine & Whiskey Bar
With more than 80 wines by the glass, more than 100 craft beer selections, and over 300 bourbons and whiskeys, Parallel Wine and Whiskey Bar is the perfect adult playground. Its live acoustic music and brunch options make this spot about more than the drinks—but make sure to head in for happy hour. 43135 Broadlands Center Plz., Ste. 121, Broadlands
Feature image courtesy The Auld Shebeen
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
