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Hardball Hangouts: Where to Go After a Game

Chris Combs/Express
ALTHOUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD directly around Nationals Park isn't quite Wrigleyville yet, the surrounding area provides quite a few food and drink options within a reasonable walk. With Capitol Hill and the vibrant 8th Street corridor just blocks away, we highlight some hangouts to consider if you're looking for something to do before or after a ballgame.

HAWK 'N' DOVE
» This popular political bar attracts Hill interns and staffers most nights, yet appeals locals and tourists alike. The small outoor seating section is perfect for summertime pre-or-post game drinking and socializing. (329 Pennsylvania Avenue SE — 202.543.3300)

BANANA CAFE
» Banana Cafe doubles a Cuban, Mexican and Puerto Rican cafe by day, and a fantastic piano bar by night. Buffet brunch will appeal to those looking to grab a bite before weekend day games. (500 8th Street SE — 202.543.5906)

THE UGLY MUG
» Located across from the Marine Corps barracks, this comfortable pub offers 24 beers on tap, as well as colorful menu items like fried calamari and country fried steak. (723 8th Street SE — 202.547.UGLY)

Chris Combs/ExpressFINN MACCOOL'S
» Housed in a soaring 19th-century structure, this Irish pub on Barracks Row draws longtime Capitol Hill residents and staffers at lunch before a younger crowd moves in at night. Finns' snug upstairs is just big enough for a 20-foot shuffleboard table, a pool table and a foosball table. The menu concentrates on pub favorites such as wings and burgers as well as Irish staples like shepard's pie and fish and chips. (713 8th Street SE — 202.547.7100)

TRUSTY'S
» An intimate neighborhood bar near RFK Stadium, Trusty's, top, has been a favored haunt of D.C. United and Nationals supporters for some time. Although small, the menu offers a range of items off the grill; Cheesesteaks, brats and burgers are the most popular, and chili and veggie burgers are also available. The bar's cozy vibe and the vast array of board games lends itself well to small groups looking have fun. (1420 Pennsylvania Avenue SE — 202.547.1010)

18TH AMENDMENT
» 18th Amendment gives off an art deco vibe and old-school feel with billiards and a solid menu that features a variety of pizzas. Located just a block from Eastern Market metro. (613 Pennsylvania Avenue SE — 202.543.3622)

POUR HOUSE
» The newly renovated sports bar boasts 15-plus TVs on one floor and a 10-foot HD projection screen upstairs. The building is actually home to three bars, with the upstairs being the more uspcale 'Top of the Hill' and downstairs the old world style 'Schiess Haus.' (319 Pennsylvania Avenue SE — 202.546.1001)

MARTY'S
» Marty's is a classic American bar & grill with afamily-friendly environment and a plentiful menu featuring baby back ribs and lasagna. It also offers an extensive wine list. (527 8th Street SE — 202.546.4952)

BULLFEATHERS
» This Capitol Hill watering hole (the conservative counter part to Hawk 'n' Dove) is named after the favorite exclamation of 26th president Teddy Roosevelt. Half price burger night on Mondays should appeal to Nationals fans, and the signature Newport chowder hits the spot on colder nights. (410 First Street SE — 202.543.5005)

20080326-goingout2-300v.jpgTORTILLA COAST
» Known as the Tex-Mex spot on Capitol Hill, this sizeable restaurant across the street from the Capitol South metro will likley be a popular destination for large groups coming to and from Nationals Park. Located around the corner from the Library of Congress, you might even catch a glimpse of a politician or two while dining. Although considered famous for fajitas and margaritas, sandwiches are available, along with a kids menu. (400 First Street SE — 202.546.6768)

Photos by Chris Combs/Express

Posted by Clinton Yates at 12:01 AM on March 26, 2008
Tagged in Nationals , Nationals Park , Sports , Top Stories
Comments (1)

  • I am glad to finally see some useful information concerning the ballpark. Most "journalists" just seem to love complaining about construction or parking. You talk about the great bars on 8th Street and Penn Ave. You also mention that the walk from Capitol South and Eastern Market are quite easy so you don't have to crowd the Navy Yard station. Thank you for sharing these facts so that fans can have a better experience.

    Posted by Bradley | March 26, 2008 6:15 PM
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