Look for the line on the sidewalk in front of the glass garage door and you’ve found Birch & Barley and its raucous upstairs beer bar Churchkey. (The line is for the latter, though you’ll need a reservation for the dining room many nights.) Inside, a massive copper beer "organ" funnels some 500 choices, all served at the proper temperature and in the correct glassware, to thirsty patrons. The kitchen here turns out rustic yet elegant dishes such as risotto with cuttlefish, marinated white asparagus, tarragon and squid ink, and flatbreads topped with figs and prosciutto. Do not skip dessert—you’ll find clever renditions of all-American sweets like peanut butter cheesecake and an updated hostess cupcake. Then head upstairs to the casual Churchkey, with low lighting and its own beer-friendly menu (think grilled cheese, wings and poutine).
Review
Birch & Barley
Time Out says
Details
- Address
- 1337 14th Street, NW
- Between N Street & Rhode Island Avenue
- Washington, DC
- Transport:
- Dupont Circle, U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo Metro
- Price:
- Main courses $14–$29
- Opening hours:
- 5.30–10pm Tue–Thur; 5.30–11pm Fri, Sat; 11am–8pm Sun (all-day brunch)
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