Washington DC - St Arnold's Mussel Bar

Like most American cities, Washington DC is exploding with new and exciting beer venues.  When your visit is only for a long weekend, it’s difficult to choose where to go.  Fortunately, on my recent trip, I had some locals help out, and I came upon two blog worthy establishments that offered great beer and tasty food in a fun-filled environment. 

One of two St. Arnold's locations in the district. 

St. Arnold's Mussel Bar is a lively place located on a side street near Dupont Circle. On the night we visited, the dark, atmospheric, boisterous bar/restaurant was filled with mostly young professionals enjoying a drink and a bite after work.  Fortunately, we had a reservation and a table was waiting for our party of four, including my close friend Debby, her daughter and future son-in-law. 

Although there are other items on the menu, when you go to a mussels bar, I recommend you order the mussels.  There are twenty different choices, everything from classic mussels with white wine, or the more adventurous chipolte, curry or even blue cheese and bacon. They all come with frites, delicious Belgian style fries, and are served traditionally in cast iron pots. Although not quite as tasty as the mussels we had in Belgium, these were pretty darn close.

If you love Belgium style beer, this is your place. 

The draft beer selection featured mostly Belgian and German style ales, and since I’m a big fan, I was very happy.  The challenge was which one to select?  I decided on the Hofbrau Dunkel, a German Dark Lager.  Others had the Hofbrau Original and the Ommegang Witte, a Belgian style white made in Cooperstown, NY.   St. Arnold's also serves wine and cocktails, but great beer pairs so well with mussels, why choose anything else?  

Toasting the happy couple!

If you’re looking for a fun place to enjoy Belgian style beer, tasty mussels and an environment filled with  lively movers and shakers, then St. Arnold's is worth the trip.