The Fireplace
Video Bar · Dive Bars · Washington, DC
About
The Fireplace sets itself apart from other Dupont gay bars with a real fireplace and a split-level setup: music videos play downstairs while DJ music fills the upstairs. It opened in 1990 and draws a loyal crowd of regulars, mostly men in their 30s and 40s, who gather around the cozy bar for strong drinks and reasonable prices.
The place is divey and unassuming, but consistently friendly. Sunday afternoons bring a football-watching crowd with plenty of TVs. It's known as the convenient jumping-off point for the nearby nightclub Apex.
The Fireplace is in Dupont, a historic LGBTQ+ hub in Washington, DC, within walking distance of other gay bars and clubs.
Features
- ✓Real fireplace at the downstairs bar
- ✓Video bar playing music videos
- ✓Strong drinks at reasonable prices
- ✓DJ music upstairs
- ✓Established 1990 neighborhood institution
Good for
Practical
What people say
Rated from 63 reviews. 89 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“TIRED”
The place could use some fresh paint, glass cleaner, and better mood lighting.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“has not changed”
I hadn't been in a long time, and the bar looked about the same. Prices are okay, staff was nice as always, and the usual drunks were still around.
A guest · Over a year ago
“Classic gay Washington”
I dropped by The Fireplace for playoff football on a Sunday afternoon; it works well as a sports bar with many screens and a crowd enthusiastic about the game. The patrons are mostly older but represent a diverse mix of DC men. Lots of regulars! The staff member behind the bar is excellent, drink costs are fair, and I didn't feel as alone as I do at some other places.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
“Drinks are strong!!!”
This place is a total mess. It reeks of urine and bleach, but the cocktails are quite potent. Watch out for the fruit tray that holds garnishes for your drink, bugs are crawling all over it. Skip the lime and just order straight liquor.
A local visitor · Over a year ago
“hi”
This was my second time returning.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Fireplace have a full bar? +
Yes, it has a full bar and the drinks are known to be strong.
What kind of crowd goes to The Fireplace? +
Mostly men in their 30s and 40s, including many regulars. It's a mixed LGBTQ+ crowd with an after-work vibe.
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