Top Downtown Cocktail Party Venues

• Spaces for 200-500 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

In the heart of Washington, DC, the most sophisticated and attractive venue for your next social or corporate event. The National Portrait Gallery, which is a component of the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture, is housed in a magnificently renovated National Historic Landmark building on the National Mall in Washington. The National Portrait Gallery, which is conveniently located in Washington, DC's lively Penn Quarter district, is an excellent venue for your special occasion. The National Portrait Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution chronicles the narrative of America through the portraits of the people who have impacted its culture. The Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists, and other figures whose lives tell the story of the United States through the visual arts, the performing arts, and new media. In order to fulfill its goal, the Portrait Gallery is reliant on the generosity of individuals and organizations. No matter if you are planning a wedding reception, a birthday party, or an anniversary celebration, your event will be one to remember at the National Portrait Gallery. The museum's event staff will be happy to assist you in determining the most effective way to utilize the space. A wide range of event experts are available through the National Portrait Gallery's Special Events office, including caterers, lighting companies, floral designers, event planners, and other knowledgeable individuals.

• Spaces for 20-40 Guests
• 1 Outdoor

HOSPITALITY IS THE INSPIRATIONAL DRIVE. If you're vacationing with us, hosting an event with us, or just having a drink with us, we personalize the experience and anticipate your requirements. It is our goal to make your experience memorable in every way, including going above and beyond the transaction itself. Instead of taking our word for it, TripAdvisor has rated us as one of the top ten hotels in the United States for service quality. THE FIRST MICRO HOTEL IN WASHINGTON, DC We are Hotel Hive, a micro-hotel renowned for offering smaller rooms and larger — and more buzzworthy — experiences in a more intimate setting. Our vibrant space, which is housed in a historic building, is brimming with character. We're establishing a community one guest at a time, and we're delighted to have you as a part of it. Getting closer to heaven by the sip. Visit us and see for yourself – while sipping frozen cocktails and savoring select pizzas, take in the sights (and sunsets) of Washington, DC from the comfort of our rooftop space.

Minibar, a two Michelin-starred restaurant, is a study in avant-garde cooking where each bite is designed to thrill the senses by pushing the limits of what we have come to expect - and what is possible - from food. The creations combine art and science, as well as tradition and technique, to deliver an imaginative and progressive tasting menu, offered at a communal setting.

• Spaces for 47-55 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Farmers & Distillers would like to welcome you. NEW DC MASK POLICY IN EFFECT MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT. Unless you are seated for a meal in our dining room, we require all guests and staff to wear masks indoors in accordance with current local government rules and regulations. Please keep in mind that this applies to both guests and employees who have received vaccinations. North Dakota Farmers Union, led by Mark Watne, has opened Farmers & Distillers, the state's newest and most diverse restaurant. The restaurant is a collaboration between our restaurateurs, Mike Vucurevich and Dan Simons, and the more than 47,000 farmers who make up North Dakota Farmers Union, our farmer-owners. We opened Founding Farmers and Farmers Fishers Bakers because we wanted to bring diners closer to the source of their food, whether that be through geography or through knowledge of the food. Here at Farmers & Distillers, we are continuing the tradition while also raising the bar by shortening the food supply chain, increasing demand, and bringing American family-farm products closer to the plate and the glass. Whether it's the grain that goes into our bread, the barley that goes into our beer, or the dairy that goes into our butter, the stronger the farmer, the better the food, and the tastier the drink is going to be. Farmers & Distillers would like to welcome you. Farmers & Distillers is rooted in George Washington's American industriousness and keen eye for opportunity, which are ingrained in the very foundation of this country and in every aspect of the company. As we navigated our way north, we kept asking ourselves, "What would George do?" in terms of flavor, cooking technique, and atmosphere. President Washington served as our true north. The dishes at Farmers & Distillers showcase his well-documented passions for European cooking techniques as well as pioneering American flavors, and we invite you to join us on a diverse culinary journey that we imagine he would have enjoyed. President Washington's approach to leveraging the lands and water at his beloved estate, Mount Vernon, as well as the skills and abilities of those in his immediate vicinity, directed us to pay homage to our Mt Vernon Square neighborhood, which included the immigrant settlers of yesterday and the Chinatown neighborhood of today, as well as the skills and abilities of those in his immediate vicinity. This incredible journey has led us to the creation of our one-of-a-kind offerings, which we are thrilled to share with you.

• Spaces for 70-115 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

It is a contemporary Parisian bistro that showcases techniques rooted in France, but influenced by our regionality, sourcing only the freshest and most flavorful ingredients from both the mid-atlantic and international markets. The restaurant Bresca, which draws inspiration from the thriving food scene of Paris's Neo-bistro movement, serves up an invigorating take on French cuisine in a tranquil setting. This allows us to demonstrate our genuine approach to food and hospitality. PREPARE FOR THE OCCASION At Bresca, we believe that everything should be at its absolute best. Our goal is to provide the highest quality ingredients that are sourced ethically and sustainably. Bresca has been awarded one Michelin star in the Michelin guides for the years 2019, 2020, and 2021. RESTAURANT EVENTS, BOTH ENTIRE AND PARTIAL We welcome groups who wish to reserve Bresca exclusively and treat their guests to our exciting approach to modern bistronomy. Please contact us for more information. For standing receptions, we can accommodate up to 115 guests, and our main dining room can accommodate up to 70 guests for seated dinners. Dinner events for large groups are also available in the dining room, with a menu that has been specially curated for your occasion. We will seat groups in our dining room at one table or at multiple adjacent tables, depending on the size of the group. A variety of dining options are available, ranging from a family-style communal feast to a tasting menu that is inspired by the seasons. Please get in touch with us if you require any additional information. We are looking forward to having you as our guest!

• Spaces for 400-2,500 Guests

The only national museum dedicated to the recording of African American life, history, and culture is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Following decades of initiatives to promote and showcase the contributions of African Americans, it was established by an Act of Congress in 2003. Almost 40,000 objects have been acquired by the Museum thus far, and almost 100,000 people have joined as members. The Museum became the 19th museum of the Smithsonian Institution and welcome visitors on September 24, 2016. The Museum building is a visible representation of African American history and culture on the US National Mall. Its setting and design serve as tangible and metaphorical representations of the past, present, and future of the African American experience. Every organization that wants to hold a gathering at the Museum must submit an application for approval to the NMAAHC Office of Special Events. An application may be submitted by the group sponsoring the event or by an event manager working on their behalf.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Are you looking for the ideal party location for your next office celebration? There's no need to look any further! Buca di Beppo has all of your needs covered. Buca can accommodate all types of corporate parties, no matter the size or budget, whether you're celebrating a colleague's well-deserved promotion, hosting a motivational team building dinner, or simply showing appreciation for outstanding employees. Take one look at Buca and you'll realize how much we enjoy a good party. Its charming atmosphere and semi-private dining rooms will put you and your co-workers in a festive mood, thanks to a kitschy combination of Old World charm, authentic décor, and a celebration of literally everything Italian. Buca's charming atmosphere and semi-private dining rooms will put you and your co-workers in a festive mood. Our diverse group menu options are sure to please everyone in your group, and we serve them family-style, which makes them ideal for sharing and sampling among friends and family. So, if you're looking to build a successful team or are celebrating the success of a team you've already assembled, why not allow the best Italian restaurant in town to assist you in making the process even simpler? Get in touch with a Buca group sales manager today and let's get the festivities started! Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant honors the recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation by Italian immigrants in the United States. Every Buca di Beppo location boasts an eclectic setting that is designed to make any occasion a celebration. In addition, we have private and semi-private dining rooms available for your special occasion. So indulge your inner Italian and come to Buca di Beppo today to celebrate the occasion. Ciao! The bride's bridal shower, the wedding rehearsal dinner, and the reception are all special occasions, so why not let Buca assist you in making them even more memorable? In addition to having an eclectic decor that celebrates everything Italian, we also have a helpful and friendly staff and delicious traditional Italian dishes to offer our guests at our unique party venue. Buca offers a variety of group dining and bar packages, as well as an authentic menu that is served family-style, allowing everyone to enjoy and sample our Old World flavors and traditions. Whether you're planning a wedding event dinner for a small group of close family members or your guest list is as long as Tony and Tina's wedding guest list, our party experts can assist you in creating an unforgettable wedding dinner reception.

• Spaces for 50-300 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Are you planning a get-together? Are you preparing a meal for a large group? The place to be is Bar Deco. Whether it's a 20-person lunch or an office cocktail hour, we've got you covered. The Bar Deco crew is dedicated to taking simple cuisine and drink to the next level by combining conventional preparation with globally-inspired flavors, inspired by the art deco period and America's industrial history. You'll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Bar Deco, whether you're enjoying cocktails after work with coworkers on our rooftop, meeting friends for dinner, or getting a bite to eat before a game or concert across the street at the Capital One Center. With the inauguration of Bar Deco, Noe brings his experience from Alexandria's Landini Brothers, Fish Market, and Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream to downtown D.C. Chelsea is a Northern Virginia native who has worked in the food industry for over ten years. Chelsea has worked at CXIIIREX in Old Town Alexandria for the past three years, and in 2015, she began managing the Landini Brothers Restaurant in addition to her CXIIIREX position. Since 2008, Jesse has served as the General Manager of both the Fish Market and Pop's Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Maas went to Northern Virginia at the age of 21 after opening his first restaurant in a tiny hamlet south of Buffalo. He began bartending and managing various taverns and restaurants in Old Town Alexandria, Georgetown, and Washington, DC. Maas has previously won the quickest bartender competitions in both DC and Virginia. To raise money for multiple sclerosis, Maas also conducts restaurant deals and annual golf tournaments.

• Spaces for 18-700 Guests
• 7 Restaurants

Carmine’s in Washington DC is the only place to find authentic Southern Italian family-style cuisine in the Penn Quarter. Just south of the Capital One Arena, Carmine’s is easily accessible from multiple metro train stops in the area. Whether you’re visiting the White House, the U.S. Capitol or the Lincoln Memorial, you’re only a short distance away from their friendly service, exquisite event space, robust portions of your favorite Italian dishes, great wine and a an even better time. Carmine’s features seven private dining rooms accommodating 15-700 guests. Serving family style Southern Italian cuisine in abundant portions. Carmine’s is perfect for your next social or business event. Their full service events department will meet all of your private dining needs.

• Spaces for 350-600 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Instead of stuffy corporate event spaces and fussy formal dining rooms, treat yourself to a fun, down-home, authentic slice of Texas right in the heart of Downtown Washington, D.C. Hill Country, with its long sharing tables and electric, fun atmosphere, is a relaxed alternative to stuffy corporate event spaces and fussy formal dining rooms in the city. In order to accommodate large groups, Hill Country offers a variety of service styles, ranging from seated banquets, buffets with carving stations, and family-style meals, to cocktail receptions with stationary and passed hors d'oeuvres, among others. Events of all kinds are our specialty, including corporate holiday parties, charity fundraisers, weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and other celebrations of any kind. Performing live music in the Hill Country has become legendary. If you choose to have live music at your event, the Director of Hill Country Live will assist you in selecting the most appropriate act. We provide full-service catering as well as drop-off catering services to meet your needs. Recreating the Hill Country experience in your own home or venue (or even your own backyard)! Besides providing delicious barbecue, sides, and desserts, our team will collaborate closely with you to plan and coordinate every aspect of your gathering. We'll be there with our warm and gracious team to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch! MAKE AN APPLICATION FOR BARBECUE. Keep it simple and allow our team to assist you in planning your big day! Wedding showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and wedding receptions are some of our favorite events to plan.. We can host at Hill Country, or if you've found the perfect venue elsewhere and want fun, delicious food, we love to travel and will bring the barbecue to you.

Denson is available for purchase in either its entirety or in portions. Our bar, booths, and high tops are the ideal setting for any special occasion. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in developing and implementing the vision for your next event. This real liquor bar offers a pleasant respite from the stresses of the modern world above it. Expect traditional cocktails to be the core of the bar's offerings, as well as a focused spirits list that includes both favorites and new discoveries. Various delicacies, including oysters and shrimp cocktail, light and hearty nibbles, and dessert, are available in the kitchen to accommodate whatever your evening may bring. We accept and encourage reservations for all of our booths and barstools, with the remaining space available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Spaces for 100-400 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Catering to groups of 10 to 320 people (for a full restaurant buyout), Provision No. 14 offers a one-of-a-kind private event space for meetings, private dining, private parties, rehearsal dinners, family reunions, corporate events, holiday parties, and wedding receptions, among other things. Don't forget to ask about our lunchtime buyouts, too! The fundraiser program at Provision No. 14 was established to assist local nonprofit organizations in raising funds and raising awareness for their respective causes. Featured nonprofits will receive a portion of the proceeds from every drink and food item sold during the event's duration, which will be divided among them. In order to maximize fundraising opportunities, nonprofits are permitted to hold silent auctions or drawings, as well as accept donations on the spot. Please see the links below for more information on our menus, pricing, and space availability, or call us at 202-827-4530 for assistance. Its design, which incorporates the nostalgia of early American charm, is highlighted by dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and offers a comprehensive program of libations as well as innovative communal cuisine.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Present Company, a neighborhood pub located in DC's oldest firehouse, is brought to you by the same group that brought you The Pub & The People. We serve excellent pub fare, a diverse beer selection (12 beers on tap and 46 bottles), a wide range of wines (over 20 varieties), and, of course, spirits. We're now open for business at 438 Massachusetts Avenue NW, in the neighborhood between Chinatown and the Mount Vernon Triangle—stop by and say hello! ARRANGEMENTS FOR YOUR NEXT SOCIAL OR CORPORATE EVENT WITH PRESENT COMPANY It is the ideal location for any type of celebration or private function, as this UNIQUE AND HISTORIC CONVERTED FIREHOUSE IN THE HEART OF WASHINGTON, DC, is the perfect setting for any type of event. WHETHER IT'S A SMALL INTIMATE PARTY OF 15, A HAPPY HOUR GATHERING, A COCKTAIL RECEPTION, A SHOWER, OR A FAMILY-STYLE OR PLATED SIT-DOWN DINNER, PRESENT COMPANY IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO HOST YOUR ONE-OF-A-KIND CUSTOMIZED EVENT. PRESENT COMPANY IS THE PLACE TO HOST YOUR ONE This space provides you with complete privacy, including its own private entrance, a full service bar, and even a restroom on its own property. Our Dalmatian Room is the ideal setting for any type of event, from a casual cocktail reception to a formal dining experience. We have a variety of floor plans to choose from to best meet the needs of your event. This space can also be used for corporate meetings and luncheons, if needed. It's the perfect place to gather with friends for dinner and drinks in a semi-private setting. You can have a sit-down dinner or family-style meal with friends without having to pay for a private event space, which is ideal for hosting an anniversary or birthday party or a quaint happy hour. This area is also ideal for hosting a quaint happy hour. Our patio is bathed in sunlight and cooled by gentle breezes. Ideally suited if you're looking for a large, comfortable, neighborhood hangout where you can relax with a group of friends over a drink, dinner, or weekend brunch. This space can be reserved by the hour as semi-private space or for a private event.

• Spaces for 60 Guests
• 1 Event Space

In our shared wonderspace, work hard and play hard. BUREAU is a members-only, boutique coworking space and event studio for creative entrepreneurs. By cultivating an exclusive community of like-minded Bosses and hosting specialist professionals in monthly WERQshops, meetings, and social events, BUREAU is committed to supporting members and their developing enterprises. Join our community and make yourself at home in our coworking space (which has many bonuses!). We can help with your daily work environment, conferences, business vacations, celebrations, and more. BUREAU is a members-only DC coworking space in NW Washington, DC's Adams Morgan area. BUREAU, which was created with entrepreneurs in mind, is a safe haven for women to network, cooperate, and share ideas. This designer space may also be reserved for events, and it holds monthly gatherings and WERQshops for members and the community. Have you ever wondered who is behind BUREAU's stunning bounty? Meet Kerra Michele, our resident Boss Bish. Kerra Michele is the owner and main designer of her namesake design firm, Kerra Michele Interiors, in addition to being the owner and founder of this lovely DC coworking space. Kerra is noted for her unique ability to adjust her aesthetic to each specific client project and create warm, comfortable rooms, in addition to her regular journeys to remote places in search of one-of-a-kind treasures. Her fluffy puppy, Lunchbox, little Smart vehicle, and bearded boyfriend live three blocks from BUREAU. HGTV, Better Homes & Gardens, The Today Show, The Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine, DC Modern Luxury, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Joss & Main, CNN, and several other local, national, and international magazines have all featured her work.

• Spaces for 110-2,000 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark

The National Building Museum, established in 1980 by an act of Congress, has had a transformative impact on the public's awareness of the impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, construction, planning, and design. In our exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, we welcome visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in tales about the built world and how it has the ability to affect the lives of individuals, communities, and our collective future. The Museum is housed in the historic Pension Building, which boasts one of the most awe-inspiring places in the nation's capital: a towering, wide Great Hall with eight gigantic Corinthian columns, which is one of the nation's most important historical landmarks. terra cotta frieze covers the whole building's facade, stretching 1,200 feet in length. It has been the site of some of Washington, D.C.'s most magnificent events since 1885, when the National Building Museum first opened its doors. Take a look at five spectacular, historic rooms that can be reserved for your seated meal, reception, performance, or business conference. Contact the Special Events Department if you would like additional information about event rental options.

• Spaces for 140 Guests

The Woodrow Wilson House is located in Washington, DC. This historic landmark and National Trust for Historic Preservation site first opened its doors to the public as a museum in 1963. It is now a museum dedicated to President Woodrow Wilson's life and presidency. As stewards of this House, we take our responsibilities seriously. In trying to learn from regressive policies that institutionalized racism and segregation as well as the loss and obstruction of civil liberties, we share Wilson's legacy, which includes the First World War, the League of Nations, and his vision for world peace. As historians, preservationists, and educators, we are committed to sharing the truth about history, even when it is not complimentary to the subjects of the history being discussed. An accurate assessment of history aids in our understanding of ourselves as a nation and as individuals. The timeless home of our 28th President, which has been meticulously restored to its 1920s splendor, provides an unforgettable backdrop for your special event or celebration. Throughout the house, marvellous architectural details and over 8,000 one-of-a-kind historical artifacts lend a distinct charm to the interior, while the expansive garden space serves as a blank canvas for guests to personalize. The Wilson House is the ideal location for any wedding, meeting, dinner reception, or party thanks to its numerous event spaces and packages. Using the entire property, you can host seated dinner receptions for up to 180 people, weddings for up to 120 people, and standing receptions for up to 200 people. For the duration of your rental, you will have exclusive access to the rented spaces as well as tables and chairs, staff, and security for the event. All events are equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. In order to ensure a successful event for our clients, our knowledgeable team is available to answer questions and make recommendations.

• Spaces for 420-700 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark

The United States Institute of Peace, one of Washington's newest venues, offers panoramic views of the National Mall and the surrounding landscape. Offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape and a domed roof that is a landmark in the city, the United States Institute of Peace is an ideal location for your next business, non-profit, or government event. Our five-story headquarters offers a one-of-a-kind setting for receptions, seated meals, film screenings, business meetings, and conferences, among other things. Among the convenient features are on-site food, state-of-the-art technology, and valet parking for evening event requests, among other options. Choose from a variety of available event spaces. The event is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Special events are held from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday events are only available by request. Federal holidays are observed by the closure of the building. The United States Institute of Peace has received the Energy (LEED) Gold certification from the United States Green Building Council, demonstrating that it is a leader in adopting sustainable and cost-effective design. We regret that the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) is unable to accommodate events that are primarily political or fundraising in character. All social events, with the exception of weddings, are prohibited. Events may not charge entry fees, collect donations, or solicit contributions; award door prizes, hold auctions, or host raffles; be sponsored by organizations that practice discrimination; advertise or promote a product or service; or be sponsored by organizations that practice discrimination.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

An aperitif (cocktail) bar, a wine and cocktail bar, and a French restaurant owned and operated by a sommelier Located at 2622 P St NW in the heart of historic Georgetown, it offers a neighborhood vibe along a quiet street lined with row homes and colonial era architecture. It offers barista service weekdays, evening dinner service, and weekend brunch service on the weekends. For an intimate dinner or a drink and a snack, this is the ideal location. With dishes like sustainably farmed caviar, accoutrement, and waffles, as well as Seabass en pappillote, the culinary team is led by consulting Chef Paul Stearman. The overarching mission of Apéro is to create a space that fosters joy and a sense of belonging for everyone who enters the building. Owner Elli Benchimol believes that acts of service are the most effective way to express how much you care. 'Hospitality' is defined as the act of making others feel welcome, at ease, and familiar. As an Advanced Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, Elli is also a skilled mixologist with a diverse range of experience. An expertly crafted fusion of the two specialties in one package! Benchimol has more than 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry to his credit.. Alexa Jaenicke is a model and actress who was born in the United Kingdom. Following her undergraduate studies in the arts at Boston University, Alexa discovered her true passion in the wine, spirits, and hospitality sectors. At George Washington University, she graduated first in her class, worked at some of the city's most prestigious museums, and realized that her side jobs were their own form of art.

From business lunches to family dinners, Executive Chef Drew Adams sets the stage for an unforgettable steakhouse-dining experience, with a dramatic take on the new American cuisine.

• Spaces for 50-100 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Capo Backroom is a restaurant in Washington, District of Columbia that hosts weddings. As they break bread together and raise a glass to love, couples and their guests can anticipate exquisite food and attentive service. The restaurant is a fashionable and affluent location for a celebration, and it is sure to wow the guests of the soon-to-be-weds. It is conveniently located in downtown Washington, DC, with easy access to the city's lodging alternatives and near proximity to the city's world-famous cultural attractions. Capo Backroom provides a clean and modern location for those exchanging vows to gather their loved ones. The venue is cleverly concealed behind a deli freezer door in typical speakeasy style. When it is opened, it unveils a world of elegance, sophistication, and class. Dark materials meet metallic finishes throughout the bar and restaurant, giving it a subtle homage to the 1920s. In a cocktail reception style, comfortable booths enable visitors to have a seat and get lost in conversation as good food is provided around them. The venue's furniture, such as tables and chairs, is included. The property has on-site parking and is well-connected to Washington DC's world-class transportation network. Capo Backroom's team is proud of the venue and works hard to give excellent customer service at every event they host. This involves setting things up for the newlyweds and tidying up afterwards, allowing them to rest. They can also provide event equipment such as lighting, a sound system, and more. The kitchen crew at Capo Backroom provides on-site and off-site catering services to those walking down the aisle. Delicious deli-style bites created with the finest ingredients may be found on their menus. Lasagna, baked ziti, ricotta-stuffed pasta shells, and a variety of other classic Italian dishes are available. A range of top-notch drinks produced by the bar's inventive mixologists are served alongside these. The bar's well-known Fauci Pouchys are among them.