Best Bets
Best bars without televisions
Fritz | Updated 10/20/2009
You want to go out and have a drink and gossip with your friends or meet a date for a cocktail, but most of the places you're thinking of will be packed with people watching sports or, worse, political coverage. Here's where to go instead.
Birreria Paradiso
Washington, DC
Since there's no TV or loud, distracting music, you can focus on the amazing, esoteric beers on draft -- or your date.
Bistrot Lepic
Washington, DC
Located above Georgetown's Bistro Lepic is a cozy, dimly lit wine bar that's perfect for a date, with dozens of choices by the glass or half-bottle.
Black Cat
Washington, DC
Even if you're not going to the night's show, the Red Room bar is a great place to hang out -- pinball, pool, a jukebox and plenty of people-watching.
Pharmacy Bar
Washington, DC
With a fantastic jukebox and a picture window that looks out on the 18th Street action, this Rx-themed bar has no need for a TV. Bored? Go play a couple games of Big Buck Hunter, pal.
Room 11
Washington, DC
A small corner bar offers wines by the glass, charcuterie, desserts and a large patio -- well, a patio with more room than the interior.
The Gibson
Washington, DC
There are no TVs to be found in this retro cocktail destination -- the better to watch the bartenders handcrafting your cocktails.
The Saloon
Washington, DC
No TV. No loud music. No standing at the bar. Just a great beer list, a menu heavy on comfort food and a friendly neighborhood vibe.
The Wonderland Ballroom
Washington, DC
Between the jukebox, DJs, trivia and "Guitar Hero," there's never a lack of real-life entertainment in this Mecca for Columbia Heights hipsters.
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