Desert 5 Spot

What a fun spot! This was my first night in DC and it was a perfect way to kick off the trip. The mechanical bull was hilarious, and we took some great pics in the photo booth. If you're looking for a lively place with great tequila, this is it! Highly recommend.

I checked out Desert 5 Spot after seeing it on TikTok, and I’m so glad I did! I borrowed some boots and a belt just to get in the spirit 🤠. When we arrived, the line was huge—this place was packed. Luckily, we had reservations. Security gave us a little pushback at first, but eventually let us in. Once inside, the energy was high and the vibe was so fun. Our server was amazing despite the chaos. I wish I caught her name—she was a beautiful African American woman wearing an American flag dress and earrings she made out of the coasters (so creative!). She was super attentive, and we never had to wait long for drinks or food. Speaking of drinks, I had the Jolene, and it was delicious. For food, we tried the wedge salad and wings, both 10/10. The only downside was how hot and crowded it was downstairs—felt like the AC wasn’t working because everyone was sweating 🥵. Upstairs was a little cooler and less packed, and the outdoor area was beautiful. The mechanical bull was such a fun touch, and it was entertaining just watching people ride it. Plus, the live band was incredible, playing a mix of country songs that kept the energy going all night. Overall, Desert 5 Spot was a great new experience in DC—lively, unique, and full of character. I’ll definitely be back once things settle down a bit 😆.

Desert 5 Spot opened in early September and I immediately booked my birthday here without visiting it first…which was risky, but i can confirm that this place is extremely fun. It was a great spot to wrangle the group, grab drinks, line dance and ride the bull. Our reservation was at 7:45 and we stayed until 1 — the staff assisting us were all very kind and attentive to our group of about 17 people. I will mention that there was a line out the door around 11 and it did get pretty packed between 11-12:30. But other than that, everything was such a vibe. I will absolutely be going back.

I heard this was the hottest new spot in DC and now I know why. Every table was full within 30 minutes of opening. Really cool interior design and a mechanical bull! Food and service were amazing and they carry my favorite seltzer, Happy Dad! Live music, great drinks, and good times!

This was a mixed bag for me. The food menu is pretty sparse. While carefully curated, the food lacks and distinct flavors from a region in the South, aiming for more of a generic “comfort food” vibe. A nice helping of fries did come with the burger. I liked the garlic aioli, it actually had the garlicky punch. Very much a bar where it’s mostly focused on drinking. The nice thing is that their NA cocktails are hand crafted and not just from a can. Everyone in my party enjoyed the NA Paloma. Live music is fun, but depending on where you get sat, the view can be obstructed. Also can be loud on the weekends, so having a conversation can be difficult. Would recommend going with people you know, not sure if it’s a great place for a first date for example. If you want fun theming, this is a great place and the vibes are overall positive. But it doesn’t live up to the standards of the now-closed Hill Country in my opinion.

Fun themed establishment! The staff are all very nice and attentive. There are no happy hour specials and the second floor with the mechanical bull is only open on the weekends. The live music is very fun. I think this is a great addition to DC's bar scene.

This is a cute spot! We went on a week night and it wasn’t too crowded. The crowd was pretty young (mostly all in their 20s). The service was good sitting at the bar both downstairs and upstairs. We liked the live band and the DJ! The main downside is how expensive it is! Like $34 for two rail drinks ($16 each + tip). They’re also charging $12 for a cornbread appetizer. A box of Jiffy is .75 cents so what are we doing here y’all..

As a desert girly with serious AZ and TX cred, I was excited to give this a try. The good: The live music was great! Service was very kind. The cornbread was nice and crispy. The bad: Wow the menu is … a complete miss. Nothing Texas about it. No queso, no tacos, no Texas beers, no Mexican beers, no Micheladas, no chilaquiles. My best guess about BBQ is that it was Carolina style. Definitely not a dry smoked Texas beef rib with a spicy baste and dip. It’s like someone from New York heard Texas was cool and made a restaurant about it. The margaritas were made from a MIX(!). Shameful. If the old 1990s Pace Picante commercial (New York CITY?!?!) was brought to life, it would be this restaurant. The TBD: I was there on a Wednesday, so we didn’t get to see the rooftop, upstairs music set-up, or the line dancing. Might give that a shot and skip the food if there’s a next time.

From the moment you walk in, the energy is electric. Literally like you've stumbled into a secret party everyone wishes they were invited to. The live band absolutely kills it with high-energy, insanely talented, and clearly having as much fun as the crowd. It's the kind of vibe that keeps you dancing between sips. And the cocktails? Unreal. Perfectly balanced, creative, and dangerously drinkable. You can tell the bartenders actually care as they mix with flair and know exactly how to match your mood. The space itself strikes that rare balance between cool and comfortable. It's sleek enough for a night out, but still chill enough that you actually want to stay awhile. Whether you're here for a date night, group hang, or just to catch the band, Desert Spot 5 nails it. Honestly, DC's nightlife just leveled up. Desert Spot 5 is where the fun's at. Go now before the rest of the city catches on.

Very fun new spot in Union Market! Really caters to everyone depending on what time you go as it can be fairly laid back early in the evening and then very clubby later on. The band is amazing! Drinks are not the best and service can be slow when they're busy but overall very worth a visit.

I live across the street and was so excited about this place, given the upscale hospitality group that helmed the project & the fact that it seemed like a fun neighborhood addition. I really, really want to love it. Unfortunately, the two times I've been here were pretty lacking. The decor is the real standout - it's very fun and kitschy and not at all "cheap" as another reviewer mentioned. They have real leather saddles as barstools and really paid attention to details. The drinks, however, are not very good. I've now had 3 different "signature cocktails" and all were mediocre at best. The drink recipes themselves are overall not very appealing. Service was slow both times. I was willing to overlook this the first time we went, as it was only a few weeks old. But the second time, around halloween, it was very difficult to get served and we were standing at the upstairs bar. None of the bartenders seemed friendly except for one brunette woman. Another annoying factor is the crowd itself. This bar skews younger than most of the spots in the area, and both times what I can only describe as large packs (8+ people) of 20-somethings acting very obnoxiously basically took over the bar, like physically you had to almost push between people to get a drink. I'm all for bringing new people to the neighborhood, but this was just rude and inconsiderate. You'll also likely be packed in - the downstairs gets so busy that it's unpleasant. Upstairs is more chill before 9 but then also becomes chaotic. I want so much to like this place, but they really need to improve their drinks - the whole point of a bar in the first place - and crowd control.

Best country bar in DMV. Great food - ordered the pork ribs and cauliflower entrees with corn, brussel sprouts, and cabbage slaw. Cocktails are on the sweeter side and the Italian red wine on the menu is actually a rose. The place is extremely busy with lines around the block outside. Make a reservation around 8 pm to catch two live bands. Rooftop is impressive. We will be back!

I honestly had a disappointing experience here. From the overpriced drinks (a vodka cran cost $16) to the mechanical bull being broken for the most of the night, this was not a place I would come back to anytime soon. This place reminded me of my time living in Nashville, and that's why this place didn't get a 1 star rating as the live music was good. Not sure if my review reflects Desert 5 or bars in DC in general, but it seems like I still have yet found a country bar that I like in this city.

I went to the Sunday night line dancing lesson and it was such a good time. I love dancing and had never tried line dancing, would definitely recommend! They taught some line dances at a range of levels. I went kinda by myself and it was a great vibe, friendly people, lots of dancing I could join in. I got a margarita. Only way it could be better is if they turned on the bull riding.

What a fun spot! Nothing in DC like it - I truly felt like I stepped into Nashville. Riding a bull, Photo Booth photos, rooftop cocktails, live music - this bar has it all!! The bartender upstairs made us amazing cocktails. Everything was so aesthetic and clean. I can't wait to return!

Desert 5 Spot is new country bar in dc. The decor was great with a western vine and the outside area had a view. They even have a mechanical bull! That said, it does get very packed we had to wait about 15-30 minutes just to get in. Once inside, the energy is great with classic country songs, but I was surprised they didn't have cranberry juice or Red Bull at the bar (kind of unusual for a place like this). Overall, it's a trendy and unique country bar with a great rooftop, but just be prepared for crowds and limited mixer options.

This is such a fun addition to the neighborhood! Everyone is so friendly and provides the best service and all the food is fantastic! Go enjoy their music, a drink, and don't miss out on the brisket sandwich and the cornbread sticks!

Howdy baby! A honky tonk in Union Market - we have landed the plane! I've been 3 times at this point and I just can't get enough. Saddle up for some amazing energy whether it's on the first level with live bands (literally every night) or upstairs for some rooftop action, Yellowstone lounge vibes or bull riding action. Drinks are delicious too - I recommend any of the tequila concoctions. Big tip - make a reso if you're coming after 6pm on a weekend night. Bonus - they have karaoke Wednesday nights. Yes, I was the one belching "I've got friends in low places" last night....yee haw! Locked in on Desert 5.

Welcome to DC, Desert 5! If you're into country/disco, this is the spot - they have table packages in which you can reserve for (6+), which includes assorted alcoholic beverages (beers, margaritas, etc.). They feature live performances, so we wanted to check them out - they are pretty good in posting the schedule, so you could pick-and-choose. Their menu offers various apps and shareables - we ordered the Cowboy Nachos, the Cherry Wood-Smoked Pork Spare Ribs, and the Black Pepper-Crusted Brisket Sandwich. If you're into bull-riding (requires a signed waiver) or line dancing, they have it! Staff were pleasant and attentive! The space is well-decorated, with the snakeskin wallpaper and whiskey barrels for seating. Plenty of parking in the Union District area! +shareable apps +friendly staff +reservations accepted +ample parking

Came here on a Friday night just for the bar - arrived before 9 so there was no line to enter. Very elaborate western decor, lots of different areas to explore - upstairs bar + dj, outdoor area, downstairs had live music. It did get very busy - had friends show up around 10/11 and the line wrapped around the street. They also have a deal on Wednesdays for 20002 residents, will have to check that out!

This place is great for dinner or a night out. We went on a Friday and they had live music all night. Upstairs they have a mechanical bull which was fun. The chicken sandwich was delicious, it had a little heat and a lot of flavor. The service was a little hard to track down at points.

Line dancing on Sunday's is the most fun I have all week. Multiple lessons with a lot that are easy to catch onto in the moment. The dances get more advanced as the night goes on, but by the time you can't keep up a rest at the bar and watching really talented people dance is a great way to wrap up the night! Wednesday karaoke is legit too! Live band playing with you really makes you feel like there's singer of the band dude.

Kinda like if Cracker Barrel had a bar.... This is a western themed bar, decor like a cheap restaurant pretending to be something it is not. Bar stools way too low for the bar (which itself is a cheap wood). I would not return.

Decided to try something different for our anniversary, so we dusted off our cowboy boots and headed to Desert 5 Spot, a self-proclaimed slice of "NashVegas." What a blast! We grabbed seats at the upstairs bar--complete with adorable saddle seats--and listened to all our favorite country hits. Our bartender, Karen, was a gem: friendly, funny, and attentive--she clearly loves her job. On her advice, we shared the hot chicken sandwich (huge and delicious) and paired it with perfectly mixed margaritas. We even caught a bit of the mechanical bull action before calling it a night. Next time, we plan to come back on a Wednesday for live band Karaoke. This place is a ton of fun--highly recommended.

Not one to write bad reviews but I have had 2 bad experiences at this bar. 1. The first time, I was shoved and elbowed by a woman, alongside others around me, and she then threw her entire drink on me in an attempt to get me to hold it before she started SWINGING on the male bouncer while upstairs. Punching, screaming, hitting, cussing. She was slurring her words and visibly intoxicated. It was very uncomfortable in the already packed bar and she was allowed to STAY! And keep ordering drinks. It was a visible assault against a staff member and guests and they did nothing to remove her. Clear dram shop violation not in accordance with DC law. Yikes. 2. We decide to give it another shot another weekend on a warm weather night because we just love country music. Every male who was wearing shorts was turned away from the door, with the explanation that on Fridays and Saturdays men wearing shorts will not be let in. Such an odd and not well advertised rule for a bar. On the website, it says ATHLETIC shorts or SWEATPANTS. Nothing about khaki shorts or formal shorts. They were just turning people alway for no reason and lying about it. Who would even look at the website for a dress code at a non-upscale rodeo bar? Even if we did, people in our group were still in compliance with the no "athletic" shorts rule. Guess they wanted a better ratio or something. The bouncer even acknowledged they didn't advertise it well. Just weird. Not to mention, I think I could have died at the downstairs bar before being served. The drinks are overpriced and the staff is not kind. Very disappointing.

It's about time DC got a Honky Tonk! Overall the atmosphere and staff were amazing! The spinach artichoke dip was a favorite and came with chips and some assorted veggies. The drinks were a bit of a miss as they were all overly strong with the taste of cheap alcohol. Even the drinks with Malibu didn't taste like Malibu. After two drinks a piece we all switched to beer.

TLDR: country-themed bar with decent music and expensive beer. I think managed expectations is the key here - this is not a "country" bar - it's a "country-themed" bar. Meaning they play country music early, later it's a mix of party classics with some country throw in. The music is fun. They clearly put a lot of money into the place and it seems well run. The staff are dressed country but the crowd was very much not - it was a pretty standard young DC / Nova crowd similar to what you'd see at Saufhaus. Crowd wasn't friendly - everyone just kept to themselves, staff weren't friendly either. It was fun for what it is, but I personally consider a country bar to be friendly, unpretentious, cheap beer and country music all night - this isn't that. The music is also uncomfortably loud for the style of music they are playing. A Miller Light was $8 which is ridiculous lol

As a desert girly with serious AZ and TX cred, I was excited to give this a try. The good: The live music was great! Service was very kind. The cornbread was nice and crispy. The bad: Wow the menu is ... a complete miss. Nothing Texas about it. No queso, no tacos, no Texas beers, no Mexican beers, no Micheladas, no chilaquiles. My best guess about BBQ is that it was Carolina style. Definitely not a dry smoked Texas beef rib with a spicy baste and dip. It's like someone from New York heard Texas was cool and made a restaurant about it. The margaritas were made from a MIX(!). Shameful. If the old 1990s Pace Picante commercial (New York CITY?!?!) was brought to life, it would be this restaurant. The TBD: I was there on a Wednesday, so we didn't get to see the rooftop, upstairs music set-up, or the line dancing. Might give that a shot and skip the food if there's a next time.

It was such a treat listening to live music while enjoying our food, it was great ambiance. The performers on 10/1/25 were amazing! The star of our evening was an employee named Mohammad. He was a kind gentleman who provided exceptional service, checking in on us more than any other employee there. He was extremely attentive, quick, warm, and a joy to have servicing us. Thank you Mohammad for making our night extra special, you were the best staff member we interacted with during our visit!

1st time. Went to see a friend's band. Arrived solo, ordered a drink at the bar, privided a card to run a tab, had not decided where I was sitting. Bartender said, instead somebody would serve me at my seat. I asked him for the drink I ordered, left my tab open, then sat at a table near the stage. A friend joined me. For the rest of the evening (6-9 pm), the one waitress would not look at us and would not serve us. So I went to the bar for drinks and food. The place was almost empty. It made no sense to ignore my table. Is a not possible to start a tab at the bar and get service at my table for the next three hours? Additionally, mixed drinks are very expensive.

Definition of trying to hard. This bar doesnt do anything well. Saddles instead of bar stools? Dimly lit so you cant see anyone. Too loud so you cant hear anyone.

if you're looking for a country bar this is not the spot. staff is rude, vibes are off, mechanical bull wasn't on, employees paid to dance are snooty. Don't waste your time or money

Firstly, I would like to add that I attended this bar in the hopes of supporting a new business. I had a good time until I was accosted by a large grown man. I understand the bar is crowded but shoving people is never okay. The man attempted to put his hands on me again and out came the owner who instead of asking if I was okay told my friends and I to leave her bar. The owner proudly supports men putting their hands on women and for that, I can no longer support this business. The food was also subpar.

lexi is the goat bartender we love her shes so beauty queen also jts rly cutesy aesthetic men are kinda mid tho but women look great as usual