Blue Gin

Lonely Planet review

When it opened a few years back it attracted the likes of Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn (in town to shoot the popular movie The Wedding Crashers ), instantly putting this trendy cocktail lounge at the top of Washington's hot list. Its residential location, however, means pretty strict conditions liquor-wise and no one under 25 is allowed. As a result the crowd here is more mellow, less worried about the scene than at some of DC's other hip spots.

This doesn't mean Blue Gin isn't a good place for singles; it is. There are two levels. We like upstairs best - it has lots of good-for-sinking couches, plenty of funky sculptures and two bars. If it's crowded, however, getting past bouncers and the velvet ropes to actually reach the 2nd floor can be difficult. Dress to impress and arrive early. Downstairs isn't shabby either. It's minimalist and dimly lit and there's sometimes dancing.