So glad we finally made it over to Side Door for drinks. They definitely nail the "grandpa's basement" vibe, and it's hard not to chuckle a bit when you first enter. If you have the time, take a moment to walk around in the space a bit to appreciate the decor - you might find some amusing additions to shelves/bottles.
It's kind of impressive how little attention this place has gotten since opening - it's very much one of those "if you know, you know" types of places at the moment. I'm guessing this is partly due to the area formerly being a bit of a cocktail desert, and the limited hours (just Fri/Sat during the summer).
After spending several hours here on a rainy Saturday, I understand why those in the know keep coming back. The menu is expansive for a one-man show, and the drinks are creative to boot. Don't see something you like, talk to Ulf to figure out if there's something else that he can whip up for you that fits the flavor profile you're looking for.
Some logistical tips for your first time in: 1) you can make reservations on Resy ahead of time (located on The Pub & The People's Resy page), 2) to access Side door, you have to walk through the patio that runs along North Capitol. Look for the retro stripe running down the ivy-covered wall, and you will see a set of stairs. Your destination awaits you at the bottom! If you want to scope it out ahead of time, you can actually walk through the patio area on Street View within Google Maps!, and 3) you can order food from TP&TP downstairs, so don't worry about scrambling to figure out food beforehand if you arrive hungry (or when you realize you need to order some snacks halfway through your third drink).
Price per person
$30–50
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Fantastic cocktail bar! Easily the best in the neighborhood! The menu is creative, the cocktails were great, and the ambience is very laid back and welcoming. The bartender is super knowledgeable, friendly, and has a great music selection! Best Ramos Gin Fizz I ever had!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Superb Experience! This was recommended to me by a friend that lives local. I made the visit and was happy that I did! After entering, the atmosphere took me back! I had read on eater that it was like visiting your grandpa's basement. It was vibrant without being glaring, and felt very cozy. The bartender (Olf?) there seemed super well educated in the drinks and spirits. He was asking me questions about what I liked, but not like the usual questions you often hear in DC. It wasn't about whether I liked fruity drinks, he was really trying to find the right fit. Which was wild, in a basement bar?? My friend and I had come after dinner so we didn't stop by for food upstairs, but we still got a lovely visit from the owner of the place. 5 Stars for the full speakeasy experience and excellent cocktails. I mean, mine had Matcha, can you ask for more?
Cool speakeasy with a good selection of cocktails. They have a set of standard cocktails and then a monthly theme based cocktails. Enjoyed a couple of delicious tequila cocktails on this trip.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Awesome place!! Was definitely kinda hard to find though. I didn't realize it was below the restaurant The Pub and the People. So if you're wondering, I'll give you the heads up. Go to their outdoor patio at the restaurant, you'll see a set of stairs. Go down the stairs, I promise, it's a real door LOL. Now from the moment I walked in I thought I was entering a library, just turns out there are cool records all around. I’ve never been to a place like this in DC. It's just super relaxed and casual. I met Ulf the bartender who was just a super personality and very attentive. I highly recommend this place for that extra special neighborhood hangout. Thanks for a great night!
Really fun, cozy spot. Nice bartenders and patrons. Had a great cocktail, a beer, and the tasty macaroni and cheese. Wish I lived closer - I could see myself becoming a regular here. Though it looked like there were plenty of regulars holding down the fort. Would love to see the staff put the record player and ample vinyl collection to use! Just being around that stuff is fun.
Truly a hot mess of a debut...
Intimate, limited seating makes reservations a must. A few interesting drinks, but many duds. The atmosphere is "Grandpa's basement" to a T, but the music was mismatched to the retro vibes, creating an awkward atmosphere.
Staff complained about being rushed to print the drink menu and not receiving training on creating the cocktails listed. Our Swedish bartender claimed to have been bartending for ~15 years but couldn't remember our drink orders to save his own life... It all made sense when he shared with nearby guests that he'd dropped acid the day before.
Perhaps we'll give it another go on our next visit, if it's still around.
Some of the best drinks in the city, great drinks and still can order from pub and the people's Greta menu. Intimate decor and super friendly bartender
