Red Derby

My new favorite after work bar. Derby has two levels, both with dim red lighting (which feels more calming than it sounds). I always go for the $3.50 shot of whiskey and the $3.50 lucky pick beer (which is always miller, Tecate or Natty Boh). Tax is not included in that price so the combo is more like $10 with tax and tip, which is still not bad.

They have food. I've only ever tried the grilled cheese, which was OK. Not great, but good to soak up the booze when it's half-off on Thursdays.

My favorite aspect of this bar is that you can smoke on the second floor. It's not a patio, its just a regular bar and tables. And you can smoke. Right there at the bar. It's the only bar I've found in DC where I can sit at a relatively quiet bar with a friend after work and have a beer, a shot and a smoke.

Website:

https://redderby.com/