Right off U Street, Takoda has a nice (but small) rooftop and some good bar food options. We like it for a day drinking session or even a casual date.

There are a few floors to DC9, but we prefer the rooftop that has a good view of U Street.

Head to American Ice Co. on V Street for some of the city's best nachos and a nice patio to eat them on.

Churchkey is a reliable spot around Logan Circle for good beer and some light bites. If you’re with a group, be prepared to stand.

There's a full dining room at Jack Rose, but we like this U Street Corridor spot more for the enclosed rooftop. Get a whiskey cocktail.

Martin's is one of the oldest restaurants in Georgetown. And while the American/pub food is fine, you're really here for the history lesson.

Calico has one of our favorite patios in Shaw, as well as cocktails in Capri Sun-style pouches and shareable small plates.

It gets crowded on the weekends, but El Rey is a reliable spot for after work drinks and Mexican food around U Street.

Yes, Cuba Libre is cheesy. But it’s also fun. Take a date or a group to the Metro Center spot for something different than your basic Italian go-to's.

Lyon Hall can solve most of your eating dilemmas in Arlington. The German food and multiple levels work for a date, group drink, or catch-up dinner.

The tiki theme at Clare and Don's is mildly cheesy, but the drinks and Mexican food are great. Head to the Falls Church spot for your next Happy Hour.

Despite being in the middle of Adams Morgan craziness, Roofers Union is a great restaurant/bar/rooftop for a casual drink or dinner.

For a casual beer with some food in Georgetown, head to The Sovereign.

Baba is a cocktail bar with some food that's a reliable spot for a first date in Clarendon.

Sotto is one of the more low-key bars around 14th Street, and the live jazz and good cocktails make it a good place to end the night.

Denson Liquor is a 1920’s-style lounge that’s perfect for a quality cocktail before or after a show at Capital One Arena.