Beyond the No-Phones Policy, Hush Harbor Is Big on Building Community | Eater DC

"A month-old, phone-free bar in H Street’s former Hill Prince space, this cozy watering hole channels the spirit of its namesake hush harbors to foster connection through an intentionally unplugged atmosphere: every guest and staffer tucks their device into a Yondr pouch that unlocks only at the entrance. Owner-chef Rock Harper has redesigned the warm, low-lit room to feel “reminiscent of grandma’s house,” with vintage rugs, green plants, pastoral paintings, an oyster shell–covered mantelpiece, dark wood bookcases, antique silver, velvet couches and sink-in chairs, plus books, playing cards, and board games to spark conversation. The affordable, Southern-leaning menu draws on Harper’s roots, with popular braised kale in pot likker ($6) and Cajun red beans and rice with smoked turkey and cornbread ($9); Mother Carole’s “angel eggs” ($10, rebranded from deviled eggs) can be topped with lump crab, and shrimp remoulade comes with poached Gulf shrimp and crispy garlic. Drinks stay classic with clever spins—like a mezcal margarita with peach bitters or a mole-flavored Old Fashioned (both $15)—alongside local beers including a black lager from Soul Mega, and a daily 5–7 p.m. happy hour (weekends, too) featuring $5 beer and wine and $10 cocktails. With intentionally approachable pricing and more meat-free options on the way, the bar is building a true community hub that’s drawing regulars and visitors from Baltimore and Richmond, with book clubs, singles nights, game nights, live music, trivia, and events for the nearby deaf community in the works." - Emily Venezky