Jackie Lee's

Jackie Lee’s is the kind of neighborhood bar you wish every neighborhood had. Super chill, unpretentious, and full of good energy. The drinks are solid (and fairly priced!), the bartenders are always friendly, and the vibe strikes that perfect balance between divey and welcoming. They’ve also got a second floor that’s perfect for hosting a private party, live DJ, or special event—it’s a hidden gem if you’re planning something fun with friends. Whether you’re stopping by for a low-key drink or looking for a cool space to celebrate, Jackie Lee’s always feels like a good idea.

This was a fun dive bar. Great drink specials, awesome staff and fun vibes. Theres outdoor seating and plenty of seating inside for small groups. My friends and I stopped by for their dice roll combo. Its around $11 for a shot and beer. Cant find a better deal in the city. We also had their wings, ribs, fries and hush puppies. The house made mumbo and hush puppy sauce were delicious. We had a great time here. Theres plenty of street parking in the front and neighborhood parking a block away

Definitely one of the best bars in D.C. consistently tasty food and solid drinks. Good vibes and even better staff. A true staple in this neighborhood and in the city.

Ft Totten isn't really an area that people think of as having good bars, but this is definitely a new favorite. All around good prices, options, and food make this a clear slam-dunk. The dice-rolling gimmick to choose a drink is great fun.

I can't believe I've never left a review! Best bar in DC! Best humans in DC! I literally dream about the food. :'-)

Fun neighborhood bar for trivia and just catching up with friends. Or shenanigans. The chicken tenders with fries are incredible. The dice roll combo is always a fun surprise. Definitely a way to elevate the night. Staff are chill. Feel a bit like a regular when I go. Check their Instagram and or site for details about trivia.

Great bar! Makes me miss DC! An actual in the neighborhood hang spot! Awesome beer, great ambiance, good prices, friendly staff and an amazing VEGETARIAN Bánh Mi w/ collard greens front and center!!! Just go and enjoy 👌

The BEST bar in DC. We stumbled onto Jackie Lees when we moved to the neighborhood and I can’t believe I ever lived without it. The food is great - BBQ and “vegan junk food” vibes, and the drink selection is top. Bartenders / owners / friends - you cannot beat them. It’s the type of place I would go to alone just to hang out, or bring out of town friends to. Somehow, it also manages to be “parent friendly” where my boomer parents feel right at home, too. Lots of familiar faces every time we go - so I know I’m not alone in my opinions. Be nice. Tip well. Come back often.

Went here on a Tuesday for their taco Tuesday pop up. Very unassuming spot with lowkey vibes. If you know, you know. Has a neighborhood/locals bar feel; which is a rarity in DC these days. They also have a retro N64 game station with about 15 games to choose from. Played some goldeneye and NFL blitz while there. Very nostalgic! The food was outstanding. I ordered the Crunchwrap superior and a couple tacos. Honestly the tacos were just ok, not a whole lot of flare or anything special done to them. The Crunchwrap was indeed superior. Very tasty and a generous portion. Would definitely get again. The service was superior as well. Had a seat at the bar and the bartenders provided great convo, great suggestions, and made quality drinks. Will definitely make a return trip!

Jackie Lee's is a dope spot to grab a drink or food. The service is very welcoming and friendly. I stumbled upon the establishment looking for dive bars in my area. The ambiance is a level above a dive bar, with the neighborhood feel of a dive bar. Unfortunately, I haven't ordered food, but I've seen the dishes being pushed out of the kitchen, and I would recommend the food. And I recommend you buy some merch. The t-shirts and hoodies are dope.

Do y'all want to know something about me? When I'm not Schlim'n, I real live go to Taco Bell...judge me!! Guess what? This spot I just went to...is the Bell on 1000!! Check out Chef Jaren Morrow's creations...TRUST ME!! . Where I'm at: @kennedystreettacos . Location Reviewed: 116 Kennedy St., N.W. Washington D.C. inside of @jackielees.dc . Menu Includes: *See Website* https://www.jackieleesdc.com/kennedy-street-tacos . Items Reviewed: Their Mexican Pizza (2 flour tortillas, onion, tomatoes, house made hot sauce, a cheese blend, & shrimp $22). STAMP!! Perfectly seasoned, cheesy, mildly spicy, with the crunch of that flour tortilla...YES!! Their Sauces (their Housemade hot sauce, fire sauce, AND avocado mousse). STAMP ALL 3!! My absolute favorite was the avocado mousse...GET THAT!! Their Fiesta Potato (with l.t.o, cilantro, chicken, an aioli, a fried potato, & sage cheese $13). DELICIOUS!! I needed a little bit more seasoning on the chicken, but the potatoes were well fried!! Their Yuca Fries ($5). STAMP STAMP!! The BEST YUCA FRIES I'VE EVER HAD!! Crispy, garlicky, salted, just perfectly seasoned DELICIOUSNESS!! Their Sweet Plantains ($5). STAMP!! Mannn I tasted vanilla, a tip of cinnamon, caramelized sugar...tasty!! Their Crunchwrap Superior (with beef, lettuce, tomato, cheese, & avocado mousse in a grilled flour tortilla $13). STAMP!! This wasn't ground beef, more like brisket, or flank!! Thick, convenient, brilliant, and delectable!! Their "Big Schlim" Mocktail (with pineapple juice, lemon juice, ginger beer, & sweetened ginger $8). STAMP!! . Customer Service: On Point . Online Navigation: Easy . Parking: DECENT. . Recommendations: Get that wrap, Yuca, Pizza, Plantains, & sauces!! . Music: YouTube-Backyard Band James Brown Pocket 5 Stars=STAMP 4 1/2 Stars=LIKE THAT 4 Stars=DELICIOUS 3 Stars=DECENT 2 Stars=PASS 1 Star=NAH #Bigschlimsreviews

I love Jackie Lee's so much. What is not to love?? The food is great (and truly incredible during taco Tuesdays), the drinks are cheap, the staff is friendly, they have trivia on Thursdays and the atmosphere is chill. It feels like the last cool, unpretentious bar in DC. Also stellar bathroom graffiti. They've got something for everyone: free board games, patio seating, and great grub (with vegan options too). I keep saying "I need to stop telling people about Jackie Lee's or it'll get too overcrowded." Oops!!

This was a fun dive bar. Great drink specials, awesome staff and fun vibes. Theres outdoor seating and plenty of seating inside for small groups. My friends and I stopped by for their dice roll combo. Its around $11 for a shot and beer. Cant find a better deal in the city. We also had their wings, ribs, fries and hush puppies. The house made mumbo and hush puppy sauce were delicious. We had a great time here. Theres plenty of street parking in the front and neighborhood parking a block away

Ft Totten isn't really an area that people think of as having good bars, but this is definitely a new favorite. It's a clear slam dunk with good prices, options, and food all around.

Not great food. Basic drinks. Vegan options are more expensive than usual. But customer service is good.

Jason, the bartender has a very stale attitude like he doesn't even like his local customers not a very welcoming customer service oriented business. if you want a dry boring, non-enthusiastic bartender or service go here. if you like being ignored and not welcomed, this place is for you.

Great place for delish drinks, even better food and a neighborhood friendly vibe! The espresso martini is to die for here!!! Try it out of your ever in the neighborhood visiting! Bartenders are friendly and fun, always providing great service!

Cool scene, solid beer list, better than average food menu for dive bar. The music is eclectic and anti-pop (which I appreciate). Dark inside. Don't recommend with children.

Fantastic place with terrific people and great food. I wish I lived closer to it! Smart beer list that picks the best of the area. Fun vibe, like a place I would go with old college buddies if they're in town - tho we are 20 years past college now!

They smoke their own meats (pork shoulder and brisket) in house, my old fashion was perfectly made. And the honey pepper sauce on the brussel sprouts was amazing. Great food Great drinks Great prices Great vibes Great bartender 5 stars

Great service. Feel at home atmosphere. Food taste good as always from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to Washington DC.

Ummm this place is a dump... the 3 stars is for having an old Nintendo system so I wouldn't be bored out my mind while my friends we're outside painting. The bartender... girl was boring...even in my younger days when I bartend, i made everyone feel welcome. She had no people skills whatsoever. Her drinks were weak!! I ordered smoked wings and they looked and tasted like ... im don't sure if I can say it on Yelp, but the next I wasnt feeling well. The ambiance is dull and too dark . Theres no way Ill return... not even for the nintendo... I shouldve gotten a refund for them wings and that lazy bartender needs a new career.

I really liked this place. Location was a little meh but the inside is beautiful. The staff were nice and I loved the food and drinks. I was the first person there for the day. Go figures b/c that's usually never me. The sectional couch seats were comfy. A darker bar atmosphere but also warm and welcoming. Because it was dark I didn't get great shots of the decor but i'll be back! I recommend this place for a chill relaxing atmosphere. The drink selection and prices were great. Although the meal I got was simple it was yummy. Cooked perfectly and the fries were nice and amusement park crunchy. Highly recommend if your in the area. Casual dress, chill music, and I did see a tv and lots of alcohol options. It's spacious enough for a large reserved gathering as they had a dinner party after I left

Strangely -- strangely! -- great service. I don't mean to say I expected them to have bad service and it surprised me - its that their services is strangely better than most others. And, a tamale pop-up on the weekends?! Amazing. Watch out for that tamale hot sauce. It will take your tongue off.

Jackie Lees is the best bar in DC. I've never ordered a drink, though. Roll the dice, let fate decide.

Jackie Lee's is my favorite neighborhood bar, of all the bars in all the places I've ever lived. Great food. Great drinks. Great atmosphere. And they have fun, kind, and engaging staff. At first it might appear a dive, but the turkey wrap, wings, and house-smoked brisket make it clear they are doing more than just throwing together a beer and a shot (although they have some great combos of quirky craft beers and varied --and often local -- liquors). And the space, if offbeat, is truly and unapologetically welcoming to all. I have met people here from every place and every background -- some local and some visiting -- and the exchange of ideas and experience makes for a beautiful environment. I rarely (almost never) bother to write reviews. But I have had food and drink in hundreds of places around DC, and around the world, from Michelin-starred to hole-in-the-wall (with love to any good place from either end of the spectrum). Jackie Lee's is a gem. It's worth stopping by this neighborhood watering hole for drinks, for food, for conversation... It also has an interesting and important history in this part of the city (look it up!) Absolutely worth a visit.

Exactly what you want and need from a bar. Dice roll combo = iconic. N64, bartenders, music = also iconic. Go here plz.

This is like a vast from my childhood with the old movies and cartoons playing. They have games you can play and a Nintendo 64 DOPE!! All of the bartenders are nice and the drinks are good. And the food it good too. It's a nice place to hang out at. I get my nails done at wonder nailz and the wait is super long so it's a nice place to spend time at. During the day is pretty quite at night is when the party starts! It is self seating but they do offer table service. Ample bar seating along with 8-10 tables on the terrace. They welcome your furry friends on the terrace. I love this place they have REAL vegetarian options btw!!! I recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a good time!!

Great time! Wanted to find a nice place to eat and this was it. Great music and environment. They had some great board games to play while waiting for the food. We got the baby back ribs which were cooked wonderfully. Liz was an excellent bartender and server. Highly recommend!

Been meaning to try this neighborhood bar ever since it opened a while back but never got around to it until post-COVID. I was recently having cravings for comfort food, so I ordered a pick-up meal of chicken fingers and fries with a side of vegetarian collard greens (because you need something healthy-ish to balance out the rest of the meal, amirite?). The food was ready very quickly -- much earlier than the estimated pick-up window stated in my delivery app, making me think the chicken fingers might have been already cooked and sitting under a heat lamp. So when I got the early notification that my food was ready, I had to drop everything, hop in my car, and race over so that my food wasn't sitting in hot plastic for too, too long. When I arrived, street parking was full -- so that was one other little wrinkle I hadn't counted on. Now onto the food! 1) The fries were good, and not too soggy even though they had apparently been boxed and ready even before I left my house. 2) The chicken was a tad dried out, but it was still edible and the portion size was generous. I have never heard of a place that doesn't have honey mustard sauce to go with its chicken fingers (read: ranch and BBQ sauces are the only two options), so I had to mix up my own desired sauce at home. 3) The greens were "decent" but had a distinctive flavor that I couldn't quite put my finger on. They weren't the best I've ever had, but I noticed that they did taste better when reheated second day. As for overall taste, I think this meal was just three stars. But the affordable price and friendly customer service bumps this entire review up to 3.5 stars. I'd try this place again in the future, though I'd probably order something different on the next go 'round.

The food is ok. Thhe staff seem nice enough, but this is not a safe place to sit on the patio and relax. A gang was hanging out right accross the street drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana in public. It was real uncomfortable to sit there as the cops just drove by did nothing. Cars parked illegally all over. It was very scketchy.

If you're looking for a small, no frills, friendly neighborhood bar, look no further. The non-descript interior aside, this bar is actually pretty great. The staff is welcoming and friendly and the drinks are pretty good as well. Never appears to get too crowded and I always meet someone new when I go there (even if I go by myself). Best of all, they serve vegan corndogs and riblets! :)

This is literally the best neighborhood bar you can find. Food? Amazing. Drinks? Phenomenal. Atmosphere? Y'all better forget about finding a better place!

Atmosphere: cluttered, dirty, and cheap Staff: Rude, slow, and sloppy Drinks: watered down and expensive This is just your typical cliche hipster bar. Amateur hour on full display.

So happy this place finally opened. What a great evening! Fantastic decor and great ambiance. Friendly and helpful staff and Nick, Amanda and Jason are ... bar none (ha ha ha) really the best. It's a neighborhood friendly bar where you can go and just let go of the world and well... you know DC.. go. We got the daiquiri, Moscow mule, Negroni and an Old Fashioned... cause I'm that sort of a girl. Opening night and even so the service was great and everyone smiling and doing a great job. I have no doubt this will become a favourite not just for me but for many others! Much needed in this neck of the wood... 'cause you know .."sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name and they're always glad you came"..im a fan!

Super exited about this bar opening in my neighborhood. For me it is about a 15 minute walk, but considering there is not much else around within walking distance, it is just fine. Besides, walking is good for you! I have visited Jackie Lee's 3 times since it has opened. This is definitely will be my go to bar! The bartenders are all super nice and make you feel welcome. If you live in Brightwood, North Petworth, or Manor Park, this could be your go to spot too!

This was the best and most surprisingly local bar close to my home. I was expecting a mediocre and typical menu of bar fare, only to discover that this place is extraordinary. I decided to try the veggie corn dog and was SHOCKED by how much I loved it!! Less salty than typical hotdogs but with all the flavor one would expect at a county fair or on a boardwalk. The cornmeal crust around the dog was perfection on a stick. In addition, I had the pulled pork sandwich with fries, and again--my expectations were shattered. The pork and coleslaw were served in a toasted hotdog bun (a perfect portion), and the fries (crinkle cut) were crisp on the outside and piping hot and fresh on the inside. Nick was welcoming and made us feel like returning. And we will be back--often.

Love this spot. Best veggie corn dog I've ever had. Great fries, beer-shot combo, and people. Rare gem in DC!!

Best veteran bartenders in DC, hands down. The menu is incredible and the food is delicious. The drink selection is perfect and boy do these folks know their way around a cocktail. The design of the place is gorgeous and I love the GIGANTIC bar. You'd be remissed to not check the novelties in the vending machine and there's a TV set up with original nintendo games and DUCKHUNT. Can't wait to watch this place boom.

Looking for a neighborhood bar with a laid back casual vibe? Look no farther. Jackie Lee's is the spot! 3 dollar PBR'S. Their own smoker out back for ribs and brisket. There's no way to go wrong! Grooving to Nick's playlist and just chillin. Welcome to the neighborhood Jackie Lee's. And don't forget brunch on Sundays and Happy Hour every day from 5-7.

For today was awesome brunch good old fashions and dog friendly patio awesome and food was awesome 2 but the best off all service our server was so lovely sorry the I forgot her name but she was the best

Good neighborhood bar. Lots of local brews available...though if they had tap beer, it wasn't readily apparent. Cocktails were well done. The bar food is interesting--some BBQ options...good, not great. Hush puppies are excellent (simple, but some places screw them up). A nice place to hang in the neighborhood.

I ordered their veggie "chicken" strips while I was there. Let me tell you.... you won't regret it! So tender. You can't even tell a difference. I've only been there once but I plan on going back soon whenever I am in DC.

My husband wanted barbecue for his birthday and when I searched for places in the area, Jackie Lee's came up. It turned out to be a little neighborhood dive bar, but we figured we'd try it out because the menu online looked good. The crowd had a very... "new" local feel. Pretty good, eclectic music. Our server was great. We had a couple of Moscow mules, husband had the ribs and fries, and I had the bacon wrapped jalepenos with hush puppies. Everything was delicious. Not really our scene, but who knows, may pop for a good drink and a quick bite some other time.

Great bar! Makes me miss DC! An actual in the neighborhood hang spot! Awesome beer, great ambiance, good prices, friendly staff and an amazing VEGETARIAN Bánh Mi w/ collard greens front and center!!! Just go and enjoy

Wow, the food here is really really good and I highly recommend. I'm a carnivore and my husband is a vegetarian and we both like BBQ and comfort food, so this place is perfect for us. Tonight we ordered: -Hush Puppies - So good, just enough spice and dipping sauce was very nice. -BYOPlatter - I really liked being able to put together a platter of apps and meat to sample a little of everything. The Pulled pork was very tender and really good BBQ. Corn Muffin was very nice I should have ordered 3, coleslaw was creamy and tangy and really good. -Corndogs for my daughter - perfectly cooked and a really nice vegetarian option. -Fries - crinkle fries - so classic we loved these. -Jackfruit pulled BBQ sandwich - my husband ordered this and really liked it and said he'd get it again next time. It was sweet and spicy and well-balanced. A Very large sandwich too. I've tried BBQ all over DC and I think the pulled pork here was better than Rocklands or Hill Country and the price was way better. The customer service was excellent. The bartender took our order over the phone and she was so pleasant to talk to. She included cups of ice separate from our sodas so they wouldn't get watered down, and lots of sauce, ketchup and napkins. It was a larger order that my husband picked up and they put all the bags in a box which made it really easy to carry and he really appreciated that. They offered to do curbside delivery but he went inside to pick up and said everything was super clean and safe and everyone was masked and following COVID protocols very carefully. They said they offer free delivery to us too since we're in the neighborhood. We're going to order from here again soon and probably will get delivery. The food was still hot when he got home and we ate a ton and still have some pulled pork leftovers for tomorrow. Very happy with the food and service and next time I'll try the brisket.

Generous drinks, good prices, delicious brisket, hot not-greasy fries, charming bartender (Robin), friendly patrons and good music. Does one need anything more?

Awesome small dive bar. They have a great beer and cocktail list. Good BBQ and comfort food options

Love this bar and the awesome people that run it! If you are looking for a great place to hang for a fun time, delicious drinks at reasonable prices, and yummy BBQ options, this is the spot! Also, love playing a lil' Mario Kart on N64! Amanda, Nick and Jason, you guys are the best!

Very friendly service. Welcoming. Its Taco tuesday and in our opinion $6 for one taco is a bit much. It wasn't tiny but it's not large either. Six tostones for $3. Not bad. Drinks were ok but over priced IMO. Its obvious there are new owners. Music is lacking and I just miss the old neighborhood vibe BUT....it is what it is.

Really cool spot. Cheese fries were killer and the beer was cold. Staff was very friendly and the music was at perfect volume to hold a conversation or enjoy listening to it.

Food is good. I had the bbq sandwich with slaw. I'd order it again. The flavors were a little unexpected but in a good way. The slaw was solid and fresh. The hushpuppies were disappointing. I won't do that again. Hard, not much flavor. The kind they served in school cafeterias. The dipping sauce was nice. The drinks were well made and reasonably priced. As long as the menu expands over time and the price point stays the same this may become a once or twice a week habit. Very solid.

I got tetanus from a mickey's cap, thanks Jason! My hand had to be amputated and I will never play badminton again. It's ok though cause their food is excellent and this is totally the best bar in the city. They have the sweetest tunes and the best people ever.

Alright, have now stopped in a few times and definitely growing on me! Friendly neighborhood hipster bar in a bit of a food and drink desert. Barbecue (pork, turkey, brisket all pulled) they smoke out back is good but only one choice of sauce. Service is friendly but not the fastest... don't sweat it and you will like it! Can get a little smoky on patio (tobacco and other varieties from dudes hanging out across the street at apartments. If you are this way, check it out!

Do you want to chill and vibe with chill people, to be yourself? Do you want to drink and/or eat great BBQ? Do you want attentive/amazing bartenders that care?... Then come here. In DC you will not find this.. Unless you come to Jackie Lee's. I would give it 7 stars if I could.. You are missing out the fun, if you don't feel the feel. All staff will make you feel like a king or Queen. That is their way. The way you should feel.

Really a fantastic bar. Dinner here is absolutely delicious and so are the drinks. I would go out of my way to get BBQ here. It's really one of the best BBQ spots in DC. Both dinner and drinks are also probably one of the most reasonably priced in all of D.C. This place is so much more than just a neighborhood bar. Kennedy street is an up and coming neighborhood in D.C. with an awesome vibe. You will be glad you checked this place out.

I recently had an amazing experience hosting a birthday party at Jackie Lee's. The bar has been beautifully renovated, with long luxurious velvet booths that were perfect for our big crowd! The owners were so helpful and very communicative as I was prepping for the party. Their food is great (many of our guests ordered snacks as the night went on) and the drinks menu is perfect -- especially enjoy the Tecate & tequila shot combo. Our server Darniesha did an incredible job managing a large number of separate checks and tabs, and was generally just super friendly, fun, and efficient! Everyone had a great time thanks to the awesome space, the friendly staff, and the owners, who stuck around for the night to help with anything we might need. Will absolutely come back often, especially for future events!