Whether you’re looking to soak in the summer sun at a rooftop bar or need to grab a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up, the region’s favorite drink spots have you covered.
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
Bubble Tea
Winner
One1ea Taiwanese Cafe and Tea House
A favorite bubble tea spot in the DMV thanks to its breadth of interesting options, this Falls Church shop offers fresh fruit tea, milk tea, butterfly pea tea, and more. Try some Taiwanese-style fried popcorn chicken bites if you need something to snack on. 6757 Wilson Blvd., Ste. 10, Falls Church
Runner-Up
TeaDM
This isn’t your average bubble tea shop—you can sip on your drink of choice (both milk and nondairy tea options are available) while EDM plays in the background. The fun, bright neon lights and pumping music make for a bright atmosphere. Multiple locations
Coffeehouse
Winner
The Spot on Mill Street
Located in the Occoquan Historic District, The Spot is beloved for its coffee, and the lattes and cappuccinos contain house espresso, but drinks aren’t all this place has to offer. The charcuterie boards and chef’s specials, like the lobster mac and cheese, set it apart from other cafés in NoVA. 406 Mill St., Occoquan
Runner-Up
Rare Bird Coffee
A comfortable space for those who have a passion for coffee, Rare Bird is a spot where you can get more than a roast. Order a special Birdie Blend and a sweet scone for a perfect pairing that takes full advantage of Rare Bird’s made-to-order drinks and artisan pastries. You can also pick up a grinder or coffee beans here, or attend a class to learn how to make the perfect espresso. 230 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Tea Shop
Winner
Elden Street Tea Shop
Find a traditional teatime experience at Elden Street Tea Shop, complete with tiny cucumber sandwiches and a cozy, whimsical atmosphere. But don’t worry, you’re not limited in your drink options: There are more than 65 teas available. The shop might be small, but it’s built a powerful presence. 714 Pine St., Herndon
Runner-Up
TeaDM
A favorite for bubble tea, TeaDM has more than boba when it comes to drink options—and it’s so popular, it has wins in both the Tea Shop and Boba Tea categories. Specialties include the Taronado, an ice-blended taro smoothie. Utilize the buy four, get one free deal to add a special treat to your visit. Multiple locations
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
Margaritas
Winner
Open Road Grill
The Google reviews don’t lie. Open Road Grill is a place where you can find attentive staff and a stellar atmosphere, whether you’re dining inside in a quirky booth upholstered with recycled jeans or outside on the patio. You’ll get some popcorn as a starter if you’re dining in—and, of course, make sure to try the margarita. 1201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 8100 Lee Hwy., Falls Church
Editor’s pick
Chop Shop Taco
You can choose from a classic, spicy, or mezcal margarita at Chop Shop Taco, which is housed in a 1970s car garage. Head inside the bright pink chop shop to get a pork quesadilla-birria and street corn while you sip your drink. Enjoy your experience inside or outside on the patio—what pairs better with a summer night than a crisp marg? 1008 Madison 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
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.