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U St/African-Amer Civil |War Memorial/Cardozo (Green, Yellow)
Mon-Thu. 6:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Fri-Sat. 6:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Sun. 6:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.
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I've been wanting to check out the Gibson for a while now, I just haven't a) called early enough for a reservation and b) ever had the patience to go without a reservation. So, on Tuesday this week, I called and got a Friday 10 pm table.
When I arrived with my four other friends, I was a bit confused. There were people in line, some of whom said they too had a reservation, which they did not. I was able to quickly figure it out. You just tell the guy inside your name and a few minutes later you have your table. Luckily we got to sit in the lower bar towards the back.
I've been to places somewhat similar to the gibson, with great, and very different, mixed drinks. Everyone in our group went in totally different directions with their drinks. Our server was able to answer any questions we had -- we had a few.
The decor inside the gibson is pretty awesome. From the dark, gloomy (in a good way) lighting, to the really cool red booths, so the candles sitting at each table. I don't necessarily feel like it was an old prohibition era speakeasy (which is what I had expected) but I still was not disappointed.
The service, once we got our table, was good. It isn't exactly the place where your server is there every second, but any time we wanted another round or to order some corn dogs, she was there. And yes, they have corn dogs. They are also gluton free for anyone who requires that. They also had various popcorn flavors. A nice treat while you sip on an Old Fashion.
Overall, I enjoyed my night here, and while the drinks are more expensive than your average bar, they are worth it. Aside from the fact that they use high quality alcohol, they also are strong. I will be back here again, probably when I have some friends in town, definitely a place to take guests.
After the Vinoteca experience with my friend from high school, I met my dance partner here for a birthday drink. While I waited for him to arrive, I checked with the Maître d' about the possibility of a booth or table. He thought there would be "something" available.
After we were admitted (we were carded properly) and seated at a cozy candle-lit table, he started with the amazement: how did i know of a spot he didn't? I told him legendary tales of the Gibson (speakeasy stylo) although I'd only been there once before. Since it was his birthday, I ordered: the grames #1 and a gimlet. Both vodka. The grames was originally supposed to be for him; gimlet for me. As it turned out, we swapped cocktails. The lavender water hewn to my taste buds like a well-cut suit. He really enjoyed the first and second gimlets. Wow, two firsts on a birthday.
The Gibson has always let me in and never let me down. Yay, I'm a fan.
What can I add that others wouldn't? I visited in 11/2009.
They shoo'ed us out before we had been there for two hours. I was personally offended at this behavior.
Also, a tip: no need to knock on the door or ring a doorbell. Just open the door and step inside to provide your name to the gatekeeper.
Oh, and I saw no place to hang coats.
This is my favorite place to have a drink, period. Now that they've expanded to two floors, it's easier to get a seat. The upstairs was nice...I liked the decor and it seemed really cozy, but for me the best seat in the house is at the bar on the first floor, having your drinks mixed by Brendan (sp?). He is, by far, one of the best mixologists ever. Went here with The Lady and The Brother, and we stopped by after grabbing some food at Busboys and Poets. Tried the upstairs, and it was nice, but the bar on the first floor is where it's at, so we managed to snag 3 stools there for the night. Had my Horses Neck with a Kick and a Stranger on the Highway, and I was good for the night. The prices are decent (it doesn't seem so bad actually, considering the atmosphere and the people) and I always look forward to stopping by. Good show, GIbson...good show!
Well, they've kept me happy every single time I've gone there....last night was no exception. The… Read more »
Ducked in here after a dinner at Marvins next door with a large group the other night. Good cocktails, though if you have no idea what you like you could really misfire like a few in my group did. The service, like a lot of people have remarked, is slow though friendly. The maitre'de' isn't he brightest, he couldn't seem to figure out that we had two more in our party and we were moving chairs appropriately. Though he gave us nothing more than a quizzical look.
As for the atmosphere it was low-key, very mellow, an enjoyable spot to grab an after dinner drink. A +
As of Tuesday evening this past week, the upstairs of The Gibson is open. And as of a few weeks ago, they apparently started offering hot foods, including sammies.
And, as much as I adore the Stranger on a Highway (which I've been enamored with since before it was even on the menu) I think I've found a new lover, and its name is John's Scorched Earth. If you like your peaty whiskies, you're bound to dig this cocktail stirred up with some of my fave ingredients: Benedictine and Domaine de Canton.
Also, this is only the second joint I've ever been to that knows how to throw together a flip drink. And possibly one of a handful that I'd trust to do it without killing me.
Thanks go to Mel for helping the boy and I salvage a disappointing evening of failed Hawt on Yelp pampering... and for surprising me with a shockingly fine time and a stunningly brief wait on a Thursday evening. I don't imagine it'll hold out once folks learn that the upstairs is now open for business.
It's been a long time in coming, but I'd like to revisit my trip to The Gibson from a couple weeks… Read more »
I love this place. Granted, the last time I was here it was a bit warm outside, but nothing a passion fruit hurricane couldn't fix.
Crafted cocktails, friendly staff, and good friends - what else do you need? The Gibson quickly launched itself to the top of my list of places where I don't mind blowing $50 on drinks.
The meat and cheese plate is also done right and can certainly give you something to curb the munchies while you drink and chat the night away. Now to just go with Kevin L. so I can see him toasted...
Finally got to spend the night at this place. 3 things I absolutely loved about it and two things that were just so-so. Let's start with the bad:
1) Austerity of the interior
Maybe it was my expectations - I had somehow thought there was opulent luxury on the scale of a Roman villa behind the crappy door. No there isn't, jsut a functional space packed with tables - usually two-tops and four tops.
2) Paucity of the menu
There was one cocktail on the menu that I fancied - " walk in the park with a stranger " - and it was fantasitc - but I thought the whole dating / engaged / married / golden years structure of the menu was a bit over-wrought - and the offerings did not seem that original.
but moving rapidly on to what I liked:
1) Amazing Service
I told the server that what I wanted was a cocktail that made a fist and then rose up out of the glass and smashed me in the mouth. My God did she deliver. You have to go off menu here and see what they can do for you.
2) Security / Door guys
amazingly tolerant of a bunch of drunk people who showed up without reservations on a Saturday night - somehow we blagged our way in there - in spite of the fact that one of the group told the host that he dressed like an early 1980s high school teacher they gave us a four-top at peak time when we had no reservation. Loved them for that.
3) the vibe.
Everyone is wasted and incredbily friendly in there - it was like going to a bar in my home town, or in college or something - it was truly a different and unique experience.
No smoking, no crowds, no crappy beer, no douchebags hitting on you. Oh yeah, this place rocks.
The ambiance is warm and cozy and swanky, you go by reservation only so you're guaranteed a seat, and the libations are luscious. Even my boyfriend who doesn't drink alcohol enjoyed himself. We'll definitely return.
I'd prefer PX which is near my home - I like their atmosphere and drinks just a bit better - but this is a good downtown alternative.
Oh - the food offered leaves a bit to be desired. You'll definitely want to enjoy a fabulous meal elsewhere either before or after your visit.
Finally someone has done a speakesy bar right.
Enter the Gibson.. or well... better yet... make a reservation days in advance particularly if you have more than 2 people going. At the door plenty of people were turned away, and they only allow seating, there is no standing.
I arrived without a reservation early but was able to be seated in what a real speakeasy and cocktail bar should look like. DARK wood paneling... subdued but lively banter conversations, jazzy period music pumped in... and then finally... the cocktails..
dig those... a Great cricketer that will make your mouth water, to a citrus-y Scoflaw made just fantasticaly... Cocktails range from 10-16 dollars, from savory smooth, to strong punchy ness. We didn't even wait long for them either.
There is no hint at pretentiousness just people who enjoy good drink. The staff is knowledgeable for suggestions, and also was helpful for when we orded and asked for something that wasn't on the menu (we were hoping for an Aviation with Creme de Violette, but they use something else but still made it).
Great place check it out, it's what a good cocktail bar should be!
Great drinks, but too hip for you.
Heard about it from a review online and we went on a quiet Sunday evening. The host seemed bothered we were there but eventually deigned to seat us. When asked about cocktails with which we weren't familiar, the waitress talked to us like small stupid children. The good news: the cocktails were carefully made with quality ingredients. But with all the great bars in DC, who needs the attitude?
Even with reservations, our party wasn't seated until about 30 minutes later on busy Friday night. No matter; we had some drinks at Marvin's next door and waited for them to text us until our table was ready.
The Gibson is worth the wait. Fantastic drinks, great ambiance, a friendly bar staff.
Just an overall nice place for a memorable evening among friends.
I walked into the Gibson (with a reservation of course) a beer and wine drinker, and walked out a cocktail fan! The staff really know their liquor and the on/off menu options are just great! The small dark venue really defines the place and gives it that speak easy feel.
It's expensive and worth it as other reviewers have mentioned, and is a place to experiment with their drink tastes! I try and go here whenever we have guests in town, just to treat them to something special.
Make sure to book in advance for Thurs - Sat, ie a week in advance otherwise you'll be out of luck.
I finally made it to the Gibson, and it was everything chic and swanky that I had heard about. We had 11:30pm reservations for 6 on a Saturday night. No problem getting the table we had reserved, and we were informed that we could stay until 3am if we wanted to.
I loved my Brunswick Sour, and tasted the Blackbird. Sta-rong and delicious cocktails! You may not recognize much on the drink menu, but tell the waitress or bartender what you like, and they will bring you something similar, but more inventive. It isn't really conducive to big groups. Definitely a great date spot - I'd love to go back with just one person to talk to.
Minus a star for the doucher from L.A. who ate a pink grapefruit from the centerpiece and tried to force it on every girl in the bathroom line whilst he smack-talked DC. Ick.
I thought it was cool that the host offers to text the folks on the waiting list, so they can enjoy a drink at Marvin or Busboys in the meantime. I guess that tactic keeps the line away and maintains the speakeasy vibe.
All you really need to know about the Gibson:
1. Reservations are required (though, now that there's a second floor, that should be easier)
2. Everyone who works there is strangely, bewitchingly attractive, and not because of the strong drinks
3. There's a fun back patio with tiki drinks during the warmer months
4. It's expensive, but it's worth it.
If I'm looking to get some well-made drinks and I'm ok with dropping a ton of money for them, this is where I end up. Nice sexy date locale.
1) no sign
2) awesome drinks
3) Nicole drops knowledge like ghandi.
Seriously, nicole was our waitress that knew exactly what we wanted, without us actually knowing what we wanted. She's awesome and thus place is excellent.
Great place for drinks before going out.
Keep your party small and go during the week for the best experience.
Before I met the Gibson I knew I loved to drink (and have spent a considerable amount of time imbibing large amounts of poor quality brews), but it wasn't until I met the Gibson did I know I could love a drink. I literally think I had dreams about the Salad Days drink after I tried it for the first time.
I am consistently blown away with this gem. The bartenders are genius and always helpful if you are not a connoisseur of alcohol. The wait can be discouraging and sometimes infuriating when you get inside only to find out that the place has not filled every seat, but their policy isn't exclusive or as pretentious as it seems and
as a U Street resident who often gets frustrated with the loss of quiet venues, I absolutely love the space and vibe of this place. The atmosphere is sexy and the drinks are delicious.
My only problem is I can never wait to get back but feel required to space my visits out so I dont seem too eager at such a cool joint, but I guess thats my problem and not the Gibson's.
Absolutely loved the Gibson! The drinks are always very inventive and the staff definitely knows their stuff. I have described what I like in a drink and have gotten several good concoctions in return. I have gotten a seat at the bar every time because I really enjoy watching the bartenders make drinks and asking them questions - which they are always nice about.
I really like the laid back atmosphere of the place. It's not super loud so you can easily have a conversation and its not crowded since there are only as many people as seats permit. I really enjoy the back open area and hope it stays open with heaters somehow during the colder months.
I have been several times (during the week only) and only had to be put on the list once - which took much longer than we were told it would, but it was definitely worth the wait - especially since there are so many other places in the area where you can go to kill time.
After dinner next door at Marvin, my BFF and I wonder over to check out Gibson. She's visiting me from NC, so I want to show her something different. Did we ever get it! We enter, Dave (the door guy -- but let's be honest, he's so much more) shows us to two seats at the bar and we are transformed. The lights are low, it's very low key and people are just chilling out and enjoying their drinks. The atmosphere is nice -- I felt it was just as appropriate to be there with my BFF as it would've been to be there on a date (as many people were -- it was a Friday night, after all).
The amazing bartender, Tiffany, instantly came by and asked what we wanted to drink. My BFF doesn't ever like to taste alcohol and isn't a big drinker so she ordered an amaretto sour. I told Tiffany I liked rum and for her to surprise me. And boy did she. Once she gave me my concoction, she promised it would "knock me off my ass." And um, it did. All in all, the BFF and I had four drinks and a couple of shots between us. While the drinks are expensive, it was well worth it. I will be returning to challenge the amazing Tiffany again :)
The cocktails and atmosphere here are amazing! I've been a few times, the first time I tried to go on a Thursday night around 7 and they said the wait was 2 hours for 2 people which I thought was a little crazy. I was intrigued so I made a late night reservation for the next weekend. If you make a reservation you only get the table for 2 hours, my companion and I were having such a great time that we wanted to snag a spot at the bar so we could stay longer. Our waitress was kind of enough to tell the bartender to leave two spots open at the bar. I've been back a few times since then and enjoyed it every time.
The bartenders are really knowledgable and will make you drinks based on what types of liquors and flavors you like.
I will caution against ordering wine though, definitely stick to the liquor. I was really in the mood for a glass of wine there once and it was one of the worst glasses of wine I've ever had, tasted like Robitussin.
My favorite drinks are the rights of spring (gin, honey, a few other ingredients) and the dirty martini.
They do have a nice size patio and while normally I take advantage of outdoor drinking opportunities I would recommend staying inside, I love the ambience.
I would recommend going here on a date or with your significant other, I think its pretty romantic.
The Gibson is Legit.
Like a Sazerac at Bourbon and Branch (San Francisco), an Aviation at Drink (Boston) or a Vesper at PDT (NYC). This speakeasy-esque cocktail-focused den of deliciousness measures up to some of the best in the biz around the nation. You can order from the menu. But I prefer to place my confidence in their stellar bar staff. The two drinks that came to my table were outstanding, fresh, balanced,and completely different. The first drink was Tiki style and the second was a classic Vesper: gin, vodka and Lillet.
After just those two, it's safe to say that The Gibson has earned a place on several of my lists, including the Eggs & Cocktails list, the Sazerac-Approved list and of course, the Drink, Drank, Drunk list!
Of delightful note: there is patio, which is something you won't find at Death&Co, The Violet Hour or even Teardrop in Portland. Though we hunkered down at table in the dark, sexy, candlelit interior, I imagine on those hot summer nights, sipping crafted cocktails in the open air could be nothing less than refreshing.
I was very disappointed in the service both behind the bar and at the door. I had a reservation for 2, but the host wouldn't seat me until my friend arrived, even though very single table in the front bar was empty.
So, I sat at the bar, and happened to run into a friend who wasn't drinking. The bartender ignored me for several minutes, then when she finally asked me if I wanted a drink, her excuse was that since the person I was next to wasn't drinking, she thought that I wasn't either. I described what I liked in a drink and when I tasted what she made, I told her that I didn't dislike it so much that I would send it back, but I wouldn't order another one. She then told me that "drinks were like relationships, you have to be in it for a while before you know if it's good for you"
My friend finally arrived (admittedly 40 minutes late) when we wanted to take a table (by this time only two tables were occupied), the host said "well, it's 7:40 and we only reserve tables for two hours" I said "So, we have a reservation and there are empty tables but we can't sit?" He said "did I say that?" to my friend who replied "that's certainly the impression I got"
We were only there for a drink before dinner, so I finished my drink. The bartender asked if I liked it, I told her that I hadn't. She just looked at me and said "oh" and gave me my check.
I was really disappointed with the treatment that I received. If it had been busy or crowded, I could understand, but not with the situation as it was. Plus, the music was too loud.
If I had to come up with a single word to describe this little jewel called the Gibson, I'd have to say swanky. This speakeasy-style bar exudes a certain level of sexiness and allure that can make any bar the epitome of cool. It's very dim, posh and at the same time, quite laid back. All crucial elements that can lead to a fine evening of libations.
Speaking of libations, that is where the Gibson excels. The uber friendly and knowledgeable bartenders have mastered their craft absolutely brilliantly, mixing up such unique and tasty marvels. Most notable were the Libertine (refreshingly sweet & sour); Aviation (a gin concoction that's almost as classic to look out as it was it to drink); dirty martini that was surprisingly mixed with cynar, an Italian artichoke liquor (yes, artichoke), that was astoundingly good; and a strange yet smooth grapefruit mix that was similar to a greyhound but was topped with absinthe (huh? what? yes!). The last drink that definitely comes to mind was the Ramos Gin Fizz, apparently one of the most elaborate and equally dreadful drinks to make. For $18, it had better be. Fortunately, I was the recipient of a sampling, and not the one who ordered the despised cocktail. But you know what, it's damn delicious.
Service is a tad slow, but this is not the type of establishment where you should be knocking back your drink. This is a place to sip and fully appreciate your finely made cocktail. Prices reflect the quality of ingredients and bartender's artistry. So get ready shell out, big boy.
Getting in is a bit iffy. Reservations are normally recommended for both the bar and tables/booths. I heard about the long wait times sans reservations but we came on a Sunday night and got the last two seats at the bar with no problems. Whatever the case, this is not the kind of place where you can just walk into. You gotta be seated since there's no standing room. I dig.
Could the Gibson be considered the best bar in DC? Oh yes, mon petit choux, oh yes.
Unique great drinks. SUPER romantic atmosphere. You'll have a girl all giddy after a date here. Staff are cool and helpful. Drinks are pricey ($10-12), but not terrible considering mixed drinks at a club in DC are around $8 anyways. Pay a couple more bucks for a waaaay better drink.
Came here recently with a friend and accidently spilled a drink, shattering the glass. Not only did they replace the drink lickity split, but they didn't make us feel any worse than we already did. It was late and we could have easily gotten the "wrap it up" stares but the server was totally cool. Big up!
This place is totally rad. The doorman was really cool and not like most most bouncer-types were are… Read more »
I think this place is fantastic. And rather than repeat the sentiments of all the other reviewers (if they gave 4 stars or more, then I am in total agreement) I just want to add my 2 cents.
This is a pretty amazing group of bartenders. My favorite thing is to try to get a seat at the bar and watch them meticulously make each drink like they are dressing their kids for the first day of school (ha, I can't believe that is the metaphor I am going with but it is so true - there's a lot of love and detail going into these drinks). There is one bartender in particular, Tiffany, she is like a drink jeanie; tell her your drink preferences and she'll put together something you will happily cough up your last dollar for.
And lastly, I just want to say that the wait to get into this place can be nuts, but the doormen/hosts are so cute and polite about it. These guys have mastered the art of telling folks "it'll be a 4 hour wait," without making the potential patron want to kick them in the jaw. A job well done, gentlemen.
This place is wonderful as far as drinks go. My favorite journalist and I dropped by last Monday to check out the scene. I got a drink called the Rites of Spring. Ingredients included gin, chartreuse, a sprig of thyme and maybe one or two other flavors. I would describe it as a delicious first cousin of the traditional gin and tonic. As for the food provided to accompany the wine, there were only 3 protein options - goat cheese, spreadable cheddar cheese and some brie type cheese - on the menu, along with a plate of water crackers and a serving of olives. I am sure that all these options would have been just fine but I was looking for more than "fine." How about at least offering Humoldt Fog and a nice stilton? And water crackers? C'mon Gibson, you can do better.
As for the place itself, the atmosphere was subdued but maybe that was due to it being a Monday night. We did arrive with a reservation but as half the tables were empty, I imagine we could have just walked in off the street. The lighting was low so I'd also suggest making the Gibson a date-night kind of place. I liked the overall decor much better than say, PX, another good drink spot in the area. The Gibson has soul, not to mention a good decorator.
Dark and Stormy
This is a great place for drinks. Went with a couple friends and had a great time exploring the drink menu. The drinks are the food at Gibson. I had one of the spicy, frozen drinks and it was fantastic on a hot summer night. I went again for a romantic evening and it was even better. Had a Manhattan and let me tell you, it was delicious but it was so strong it was the only drink I needed. Very dark, candle-lit and cool. Thank god this is in DC.
We went to Gibsons last Sat nt. It was my first time there and I won't ever go back. Besides the point that it's just another pretentious bar where you wait for a text message before you can come in - once inside the service is awful. The waitress spilled a drink all over the table, the popcorn, and down my friends leg and never bothered to apologize. She was completely lethargic and forgot half of our order. We waited 30 min for the bill and had to ask 3 times before she could be bothered to bring it and she was only socializing with the bar staff - NOT waiting on other patrons. On top of it all, she charged us for food which we didn't receive because they ran out of it. It was awful and I won't ever go back. At least say you're sorry if you spill things.
So, putting aside the fact that the speakeasy thing has way jumped the shark, I like the Gibson. Here's my reasons why:
1. The door dude is a unique-to-DC hipster geek. He could sort of be a mission guy in SF, but for the fact that he's not a asinine jackass. He could sort of be a hipster in NYC, but for the fact that he's not a prick. In other words, he's vaguely nerdy, vaguely hip and actually has manners. Me likey.
2. They have kold draft ice. Which if you know ice, you know it makes the difference.
3. It's hella dark. And for me, at least, dark rooms in DC are the best rooms in the world. I guess that's 'cause they remind me of my youth.
4. The help is actually. . . helpful. Some other yelpers complained about the servers being pretentious, and perhaps if they think you don't know what you're doing cocktail-wise they are. Our server, however, was great. She answered my questions on types of ice (K-D, check), types of vodka (Hangar One, check), types of syrups/bitters (small hands--thank goodness, check or housemade, check), demerara rum (they don't have) and egg whites, all quite patiently even though I'm pretty sure it was abundantly clear I was just asking the questions to be an intense pain-in-the-ass and to see what this bar was really made of.
5. The menu, while not extensive, is very reasonable. And they're totally capable of making off-menu classic cocktails. I was served both an excellent pisco sour, and a well made clover club off menu.
6. "Harvard on the Pike" is the name of a house cocktail, which is the source of never-ending amusement to those of us from D.C. Kudos to whomever on staff who picked that name.
7. The prices are totally reasonable given the quality of spirits, mixers and ingredients. Seriously, people, if a drink isn't at least $9 it isn't worth drinking. If you're looking for $2 PBRs to follow your Jager shots, just go elsewhere and leave those of us over 30 alone.
8. The patio is HUGE. And awesome. Go outside and enjoy the heat.
The Gibson isn't breaking any major ground (except that it's in my beloved DC, a place not known for its cocktail prowess), but it's a very solid bar with good cocktails, quality ingredients, informed employees and an attractive space.
In the past, I've had great experiences with the Gibson. The service has always been good and the bartenders are wonderful. However, this time was MUCH different. I went to the Gibson to celebrate my birthday. I ordered a martini with vanilla bean, but the Gibson was out of vanilla bean. Fine. The waiter suggested another drink, only to return a few minutes later to let me know that they were also out of that ingredient. At this point, the 5 other people in my party had their drinks. The waiter noticed it was my birthday, and offered to bring me a birthday shot while I waited for my cocktail. Of course, I said yes. After they didn't have the proper ingredients for two drinks AND it was my birthday, I didn't expect to be charged $8 for a shot that was offered and selected by my waiter. But I was.
It took over ten minutes for my drink to arrive. No apologies whatsoever. By that time, the rest of the drinks were warm.
At the end of the night, we checked our bill--not only were we charged for a drink that we didn't order but we were also charged for the birthday shot. Despite mentioning both of these drinks to the waiter, he took only one off the bill. Nothing was comped for the long wait for my drink, nor was the birthday shot free. Really, you mess up the birthday girl's order, offer a shot, then charge her for it? You can do better, Gibson.
"I'm going to make something you don't even know you like."
I really, really enjoy The Gibson. Do yourself a favor and don't look at the menu. Don't order your old stand-by, because there is a good shot that it will taint your drinking experience at lesser bars...unless you plan on becoming a regular here.
DO tell the bartender what you like. Let the bartender guide you. It's part of what The Gibson is all about. Arrive early and you'll be quickly seated. Go alone if you want, you can meet some very interesting people at the bar.
This place has the best bar concept in DC
I've always been fascinated with the speakeasy, a hidden location for those cool enough to be in the know of the best places to booze.
Although very small and very expensive, it is an experience every avid drinker should try at least once. In other cities, actual speakeasies from the 20s are being remodeled and reopened, and I hope this trend continues on in DC
This is no milk & honey, or even PDT, but because this is the closest thing that DC has to offer in form of a speakeasy, I am going to suck it up and try not be be such a cocktail snob.
First of all I advise anyone who plans on going here to make a reservation at least a few days in advance. There is no secret number, or text scheme, just call between 9-5. Secondly, I would not recommend going with more then 4 people, The Gibson is a dark intimate bar which sets the scene perfectly for scandalous detail ridden conversation, not a place to throw a party. Also I would suggest sitting inside, as opposed to the outside patio, in order to really submerse yourself in the speakeasy atmosphere.
While the cocktails were on point for the most part, I specifically asked for my first cocktail to be on the rocks, and my waitress brought me (a 1/2 hour later) a straight up martini. For a place that charges upwards of 16 dollars a cocktail and prides themselves on having the most unique and personalized concoctions, this was just unacceptable. Also the ice was standard, the straws were plastic and there was a terribly ugly and misplaced chalk mural on the wall of Adam and Eve. What is that all about it?
But all in all The Gibson is trying, (I'll admit it was fun to ring the door bell), and I appreciate them for bringing a little bit of the NYC speakeasy craze to my new hometown of DC.
Xx.
The bottom line: Good drinks, cool dark candlelit atmosphere, good service.
I have to give the Gibson props for getting me into the Sazerac (I'm not sure if it was ahead or behind the curve but I really don't care too much) I love that drink.
The wife and I visited last winter. We had a mid-week reservation (not too hard to get). We had no wait at the door and were shown to a small table between two others. (The only annoying bit was our loud neighbors and lack of sufficient space between us).
The service was great and happy to explain and suggest.
Unfortunately, the only drink I can remember right now is my sazerac...I will be back to taste more.
Well ... the night began with the host. I have to admit that with any place that prompts a wait its certainly a turnoff; however.... it has to be said that the Gibson's approach was certainly inviting. Get a reservation if you can otherwise spend your wait next door at Marvin... definitely not a bad alternative.
Once you get in..there is nothing that compares in the district. Great drinks and amazing service. Our table of 4 had the pleasure of being watched over by Nicole... All of us could not have had anything less than rave reviews. If you decide to spend a few hours at the Gisbon as part of your evening, you should consider yourself as having a great night if you get to be at one her tables..... Not only does she do a thorough explanation, she simply makes you feel like you're a Gibson regular. Highly recommended for a solid start to the evening. Cheers
I went to The Gibson for the first time last Sunday night. Fortuitously, my boyfriend and I got into an argument en route, so I really needed that drink by the time I got there. It was the perfect storm of events, really.
Compared to Pegu and Milk and Honey in New York, one could say that The Gibson tries a little too hard. But any place that has such soft toilet paper and a bartender that trots out to your table, complete with hand-wringing, to ask about your every sip wins major points in my jaded, world-weary book.
As long as The GIbson is working this whole speakeasy angle, I wish they would consider asking potential customers at the door if they (a) know what a Gibson is, and (b) could list two ingredients in it. I think that would go a long ways towards weeding out the jean short & GAP flip-flops crowd. (Sorry, jean short and GAP flip-flop crowd!)
Anyway, back to the drinks. I was feeling saucy, so I asked for a Brandy Alexander. No creme de cacao to be had in the house. The bartender informed me that they were all out of their housemade creme de cacao, since apparently everyone and their mom had been going on Brandy Alexander benders all weekend long.
Instead, he conjured up something that he said was inspired by Nestle's Quick Strawberry milk. I think the last time I had Nestle's Quick Strawberry was maybe 15 years ago, and there is a damn good reason for that. His intentions were pure, but that drink, oy vey. It did nothing to diffuse the escalating tension at our table.
My boyfriend had a fantastic Moscow Mule, and my second drink redeemed itself by being a great take on a fresh grapefruit gimlet. Steve M, you totally called it with the whole burnt orange thing! But I liked it.
In sum: I was not seduced by the drink menu, but had a great drink off the menu (with one unintentional miss). The atmosphere is relaxed, but pretty dark. That makes it hard to read body language, which is key when you are fighting, as anyone can tell you. All in all, a solid three stars.
It's a little pricey, but the quality is superb. And since I don't have much a of an alcohol tolerance anyway, it's not like I'm breaking the bank...
1) Don't go expecting food... unless your ok with noshing on cheese and fruit, be a responsible grown-up and have dinner beforehand.
2) Try to get a spot at the bar. You don't have to mess with the two hour time limits or the reservation nonsense. (And they have pegs for your purse!) Also, one of the best parts about The Gibson is watching. The bartenders put on a show as they conjure up cocktails, and they and are super friendly and fun! Tiffany Amber (if that's your real name) you light up my life, as well as my fruit slice!
3) Unlike Pegu (or any meat market bar in Arlington for that matter), they only allow enough people in as they have seats for, which means you get your drinks in a timely manner, you can actually have a conversation, and there isn't any crowding. And frankly, I'm just too old for that sort of nonsense.
4) I loves me some gin, and I was impressed with their menu options for it... I did ask for the bartender to whip something up off menu, and she did a pretty job for having very little input on my likes and dislikes "I'm less boozy, but not super juicy!" It was a little bit sour for my liking, but still tasty overall. And she did not seem irritated when I gave her my honest opinion... in fact, she offered to make something else for me (though I declined).
5) Oh, the atmosphere! My only complaint is that the music didn't seem to fit the overall concept and vibe of the place. But otherwise, it's dark, cozy, inviting... Go with a friend, especially go with a date... But it's probably best not to go with a crowd. Just enjoy it as an experience...
Unmarked door: HOT
Polite doorman rather than snarly bouncer: HOT
Friendly, knowledgeable bartenders: HOT
Sexy, low lighting, dark interior, serious speakeasy vibe: HOT
Awesome, classic cocktails: HOT & HOTTER
Price: Not so hot, but I'll deal with it
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