The Sheppard

Cocktail bar · Dupont Circle

The Sheppard

Cocktail bar · Dupont Circle

1337 Connecticut Ave NW 2nd floor, Washington, DC 20036

Highlights

Discover a cozy second-floor speakeasy where expert mixologists craft custom cocktails in a chill, bordello-inspired ambiance.

1337 Connecticut Ave NW 2nd floor, Washington, DC 20036 Get directions

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@afar

"Dupont Circle Hideaway No signs designate this speakeasy-style bar located near Dupont Circle, but rather a green light and a relief of Senator Morris Sheppard, namesake and architect behind the Sheppard Bone-Dry Act of 1917 banning booze in DC. Upon seeing the green light, enter the lobby and take an escorted elevator ride to the second floor where a 35-seat small, sexy, dark place with banquettes, chandeliers, and photos from DC's prohibition era awaits you. While enjoying the bevy of rotating cocktails and snacks like deviled eggs with caviar and key lime pie, honor the following rule: no photography inside."

The Best Bars in Washington, D.C.

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@eater

"When the Sheppard opened in 2014, the hideaway became a word-of-mouth place to drink in a setting that felt pulled from a bygone era, thanks to a jazzy soundtrack, flickering candles, and worn-in wallpaper, all of which added to a dark bordello vibe." - Tierney Plumb

A Beloved D.C. Speakeasy Resurfaces in Mt. Pleasant With (Slightly) Less Pomp - Eater DC

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@eater

"Master mixologist David Strauss has found a location to resurrect the Sheppard, the popular speakeasy that closed in Dupont Circle nearly a year ago. Strauss tells Eater he recently secured a 900-square-foot lease in Mount Pleasant for a second-story space above a dentist’s office (3165 Mt. Pleasant Street NW), and he hopes to open it this year." - Tierney Plumb

Closed Sheppard Speakeasy Bar Will Reopen in Mount Pleasant - Eater DC

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Rebecca

Google

Great place for custom drinks. The mixologists at the Sheppard are amazing! They actively listen to customer wants and needs and magically remember your preferred drink(s). Mixologist Victoria delivered on every single complex drink challenge I presented to her. She meticulously listened and crafted all the drinks I asked for and were all on point and beyond. Wholeheartedly loved this place. I wish we had a Sheppard down in Woodbridge, VA! Update from 3/13: went back to The Sheppard for more drinks and the staff delivered yet again. Even my husband who doesn’t drink highlight impressed. We ordered a Dominicana (Rum), Queen’s Park Sizzle, Monte Carlo, El Guapo(tequila), and a Fitzroy. All of those were delicious. Can’t remember which one is which from the photo! :)

Madison Whittemore

Google

Hands down best cocktail bar I've ever been to! Difficult to find as it embraces the "speak easy" atmosphere, which also means a bit of a wait potentially since they don't allow standing and it's a small space. But once inside, that all goes to your benefit by offering an intimate experience, craft cocktails made to your liking, and a very knowledgeable staff to guide you along the way. 100% a must go if you're a cocktail lover like us. Bathroom wall is plastered with old daily drink menus which shows you how much variety they have through the year.

Mike R

Google

Great place for a cocktail. Kind of a speakeasy, the entrance is really cool, going up an elevator and opening into to the bar. The atmosphere is very chill and relaxed, and the decor is a nice change from most bars. The cocktails are delicious, and the staff is very knowledgeable in catering something to your taste. They are all very friendly, and great people to chat with. Watching them make cocktails is awesome. They only allow enough people for the number of seats, so it's never overcrowded, and they'll text you when a seat is available.

Jon Halperin

Google

I visited the place when it first opened and cocktails were very strong and very expensive. Then in the fall the bar was revamped with new management and the prices were lowered. Its got a really cool vibe and solid cocktails. I wouldn't say they hit the level of the Gibson or Dakiaya, but the atmosphere and privacy of the place are really what make it original. Its one of the few places you can go for a drink and know you will be able to hear the people you came with. Not for those looking to pound drinks.

Matthew Hrinko

Google

One of the best speakeasy's I've been to. There is no menu - the waiter and bartender craft a cocktail from your preference of spirit and flavor preferences. They nailed all the cocktails in my party and introduced me to a new one that's quickly becoming my favorite.

Hector Hart

Google

This is my favorite speakeasy in the DC area. Sit at the bar if there is space. Watching the bartenders is so entertaining. They don't take reservations but you can often show up and get a seat or they can text you when they have an opening. Their menu changes constantly but the staff is great at putting together a cocktail based on your taste preferences.

Uzma Wahhab

Google

Great place in Dupont to get away and enjoy spectacular drinks made for your taste. David is a masterful drink designer and all the staff are highly trained. They will tailor make drinks to suit you. I love that there are no cell phone photos and that the details are well thought out to encourage a positive experience (including making sure everyone has a seat and music that carries a Prohibition era vibe) staff are great, friendly and listen to ensure you get what you want.

Laura Minchew

Google

I have been to this place three times. I have enjoyed each and every visit. The various bartenders have been very attentive. I particularly enjoyed the bartenders choice option which means you tell the bartenders your preferences and they make a drink based on that. They cocktails have been well made and well balanced.