Staff Reports
Washington’s restaurant and bar scene is gearing up for some political fireworks as Joe Biden and Donald Trump lock horns once again in the highly anticipated CNN presidential debate. And while the mainstream media will pitch this as a mere rematch from 2020, the fans of these two titans are ready to gather and watch the sparks fly in person this time—no COVID-19 lockdowns to keep them at home.
Johnny Pistolas in Adams Morgan is starting the fiesta early, catering to bar-hopping patriots with $10 drink specials and their signature Mexican dishes. They’ve got three themed drinks lined up for the night: the Filibuster Buzz, the Bipartisan Breeze, and the Swing State Sangria. Make sure to swing by 2333 18th St. NW to catch the action.
Places to go (or avoid) in DC during the Big Debate tomorrow night! (via @washingtonpost)
Where to watch the first Biden-Trump presidential debate in D.C. https://t.co/gVzg6jG23m 🎁— Elizabeth Crisp ⚜️ (@elizabethcrisp) June 26, 2024
Then there’s Union Pub, where the battle gets even more spirited with $6 Red and Blue drinks. The party-goers will even choose a “winner” based on which drink gets ordered the most. Toss in $4 shots and $4-$6 pints, along with a $4 presidential pilsner pint and a $16 pitcher companion, and it’s a patriotic free-for-all. Find your seat early at 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE as the debate kicks off at 9 p.m.
For those who enjoy a mix of activism with their debates, Busboys and Poets is broadcasting the event across all its locations. They’ve teamed up with Make All Votes Count DC and are even throwing a bash for Julian Assange’s freedom. Former Ohio state Sen. Nina Turner will lead a post-debate discussion at their Mount Vernon Square venue. The drink specials—Singing the Blues, Seeing Red, and Shake it Up—will keep the conversation lively. Get your reservation for a free spot, though it’s first-come, first-served starting at 9 p.m.
Shaw’s Tavern is popping bottles—half-price wine bottles, to be exact. Seating starts at 7:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis, but it is available for reservation too, at Shaw’s Tavern at 520 Florida Ave. NW could be the prime spot for a more sophisticated take on debate night.
Sudhouse offers an all-night happy hour with $4 beers and $6 mixed drinks for those who believe in keeping it simple. It’s all happening at 1340 U St. NW. Also, Midlands is stepping into the arena with $5 beers starting at the same time as the debate, holding fort at 3333 Georgia Ave. NW.
Red Derby doesn’t believe in breaking the bank either, featuring $3 beers, $3.50 house tequila or whiskey shots, and half-price grilled cheese sandwiches. Swing by 3718 14th St. NW, and maybe throw down a few debates of your own over how to fix the country’s woes.
Mission Navy Yard is hosting a Blue Drinks Presidential Debate Watch Party, once again proving that not all venues are created equal. Organized by Network for Progress and Virginia Blue Victory, the event is free if you register before 7 p.m., but beware—it starts on the blue side at 1221 Van St. SE.
Side Door Pizza gets an honorary mention for their novelty: the “Pie Divided” pizza. Half “Orange Cheeseburger” and half “Sleepy Joe,” this culinary creation does its best to represent both sides of this political issue. It is located at 909 New Jersey Ave. SE is a must-try for those who like their politics served hot and cheesy.
Washington might be full of debates, but come Thursday night, the bars and restaurants will host the real victories and concessions.
