Reliable Tavern

Comedy night on Thursday was just fantastic! Every single comic gave some laughs. It was great energy and I really enjoyed my visit. Arrived just before 8 and easily got a great seat but it filled up later. The bar is nice, pricey drinks but I suppose that is to be expected in a big city. Would come back if I lived here!

I went for the free Thursday night underground stand-up with my girlfriend. It was our first time there, and we were warmly welcomed at the door by the bouncer who also said we were welcome to bring in our own food! There were 15-20 comics each with 5 minutes. Most of the jokes/bits are new material they’re trying out for the first time or smoothing out the rough edges of for paid shows, but they were still very solid for the most part. They were naturally funny and could read the room well which made their jokes land. Some were hilarious, some were meh, most were definitely funny. I’d love to go back, and I recommend checking it out!

Forgive my photo-less review. We honestly were having too much fun talking with Kevin the bartender and patrons at the bar. This is not my first rodeo. This is my 5th visit. Also I’ve sampled many DC cocktail hot spots. Each visit validates my opinion that Reliable is one on DC’s best bars. Order a New Fashioned Spritz (served exclusively here) and see if you can disagree. Knowledgeable staff. Chummy patrons. Delicious drinks. Relaxed atmosphere. Love it!!

Kevin is a phenomenal bartender. He whipped up a delicious paper plane with rye instead of bourbon. Super refreshing in a hot DC June night. Ditto for my husband’s spot on mezzo & mezzo Cynar/Campari spritz. Finished off with my new favorite drink, the new fashioned spritz. We’ve been a couple of times & Kevin always delivers. We’ll be back. Cute vibe as the bar is an old hardware store. Go go go Have opinions; Will share