Birch & Barley

When you want a good beer, but don’t want to have it with a side of fried nachos or next to a bunch of drunk Wizards fans, go to Birch & Barley. The Logan Circle spot has one of the biggest draft lists in the city, and Italian/American food that’s much more edible than the selection at your local watering hole.

You can’t go wrong with the flatbreads, burgers, or pasta (insider tip: the conchiglie bolognese is worth all the embarrassment of trying to pronounce it), and the space is nice too. The dim lighting, exposed brick, and cozy booths are good for a low-key date night, or a group dinner where you actually want to hear the people next to you. If you decide you want to continue drinking after finishing your meal, head upstairs to its sister bar, ChurchKey. They also have a $30 boozy brunch on weekends.