This three-story brownstone in Adams Morgan houses a moody new wine bar filled with Victorian fixtures covered in melted candles and soft rock music. Chef Matt Conroy’s casual offshoot from neo-bistro Lutèce was created for diners craving a relaxing snack and a drink, but you can easily build a whole meal out of the French-inclined dishes at Maison Bar à Vins (1834 Columbia Road NW).
It already feels like late night at 6 p.m. in this candle-lit spot, with diners easily making friends with strangers over the central green marble bar, and huddling over round tables in the black floral-lined dining room. You lose track of time here, perusing the armagnac- and amaro-stacked bar shelves and gem-filled wine list.
A sumptuous date night, an upscale nightcap featuring dark chocolate cake and cherries, or a fantastic glass of wine and over-the-top appetizer for under $35.
Don’t miss out on the cocktails at this wine bar. The cocktail list shines with inventive ingredients made behind the bar, like the butter-washed gin martini served with bleu cheese-stuffed olives or the tomato-honey infused Mild Drama that really smells (and tastes) like tomato leaves.
Dining and Cooking