The best rooftop bars in Washington, DC

Named for the multicultural neighborhood in South London, this three-story lounge in Shaw is a prime spot for pub quiz and pre-show drinks (the 9:30 Club is one block away). It’s a big, friendly place with a sizeable rooftop patio that overlooks the booming U Street corridor. Belly up to either bar or perch around the wrought iron railing with a Pimm’s Cup or a shandy in hand—just keep within cooling distance of the fans (a thoughtful touch). The soundtrack is always on point, if loud. Look south as you toast your good fortune: Views of the city include the top of the Washington Monument. 

Home to Latin-Asian flavors and plenty of South American-inspired cocktails, Masa 14 is a top choice if you’re with a big group. It stands to reason: Richard Sandoval serves a small plates menu, and promos include all-night happy hour (Tues), half-price sushi (Wed), and bottomless weekend brunch. The cocktail list contains margaritas, caipirinhas, mojitos, palomas, Pisco sours and more. The space frequently hosts DJs, at which point the rooftop morphs into a club. When it does, lines can get really, really long; only early birds get the (tequila) worm. If the crush is too much, head next door to El Centro D.F., Sandoval’s taqueria with, you guessed it, a rooftop deck.

Simply put: Welcome to the gay Cheers. Nellie’s is a lively sports bar geared toward men and the men who love them—although everyone’s welcome. The first floor has a long bar and a games room, where themed events are hosted nightly (bingo, poker, trivia). The rooftop deck has a small bar and a DJ station. It’s not much of a dance spot with the exception of Sunday’s Guil-Tea parties throughout the summer. Thanks to a retractable roof, it can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you come to flirt or just the shoot the breeze while enjoying one, Nellie’s deck is a high-energy neighborhood spot.

Bring your eagle-eyed out-of-towners to POV. They’ll spot secret service on the rooftop of the president’s home—it’s practically across the street—as well as political and Hollywood celebs in nearby booths. The views are jaw-dropping: The White House, the Treasury, the Washington Monument and National Mall. The late 2014 refresh only served to make this popular place more user friendly: Stadium-style seating provides uninterrupted views. That said, what arrives at the table is well worth a double-take. POV offers weekend brunch, after-work cocktails and late-night parties. Try the Marion Berry (gin, blackberries, blackberry foam). Reservations are a must: Be sure to ask for seats in “Monument Corner.” It’s often cordoned off for VIPs and bottle service ballers on Friday and Saturday nights, but it’s worth a try early in the week. Skip the valet parking if you can. It’ll set you back $30.