Licht Cafe

Always on the hunt to support queer establishments, this small second story cafe/bar was such a cute find! The staff was so welcoming and the bar guests felt like they were straight out of Cheers- you can sit at the bar, in their cozy living room set up, against the wall seats, or their table nook, however you feel most comfortable. Drinks were superb, and light bites consist of chips or a cheese board (which was so good!) definitely have to go back next time I’m in town.

This charming boutique LGBT bar in Washington DC truly stands out. The servers greeted us warmly, and the atmosphere buzzed with delight. The seating area was exquisite, complemented by a lovely bar. During the Valentine's season, the decor was tastefully adorned, enhancing the experience. The cocktails were expertly crafted, boasting a unique and potent flavor profile that set them apart. I wholeheartedly suggest giving them a try; the drinks are truly exceptional. Alongside a selection of chips, nuts, and a delightful cheeseboard, they offer a range of food options that align perfectly with the bar's boutique theme. The prices were fair, reflecting the high quality and generous quantities of the drinks. We visited this gem twice during our brief stay in DC, and it was a delightful experience each time.

Bar Licht is such a hidden gem—cozy vibes, great drinks, and even better service. But the real standout? Angel, the bartender. Seriously one of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Angel was not only super knowledgeable about the cocktails but also incredibly warm, welcoming, and attentive the whole night. Their recommendations were on point, and they made the experience feel personal and memorable. If you’re lucky enough to catch Angel behind the bar, you’re in for a great night. Can’t wait to go back!

This place is a gem in Washington DC. The bartender makes excellent cocktails, the place is super cool, and the bathroom is always clean. The prices are very good, especially on Sundays and Mondays.

The place is very welcoming. I come here all the time and sit at the bar. I know all the bartenders by name now and they know mine. They work very hard pouring those drinks but they make it look effortless. It’s got ambient lighting and lots of framed art/photos. If you get hungry they have mixed nuts, potato chips, or a cheese board. You can also go to a nearby restaurant and eat then come back as there’s never a line to get in. Come check it out!

Always a great place to visit. Chill vibes on certain nights while other nights it can be busy. People are social, bartenders are fun and knowledgeable. Highly recommend stopping by for a cocktail (or two or three) before dinner or a show.

Amazing spot to grab a cocktail, relax and chat! We especially loved YoVan! He was amazing, made us feel right at home and made the most amazing Espresso Martini! We kept asking for more. That good! One of if not the best Espresso Martini compared to other LGBTQ+ Bar!

How nice to have a pleasant gay cocktail bar for a nice conversation. Good cocktails and friendly service. I personally would not have TVs there as they do not fit with the decor and 'make it look cheap' when I think the vibe intends to be between cozy and sophisticated.

I love this little cafe! The staff is phenomenal! The drinks are made to puuuurfection by a gorgeous bartender. It's decor & environment are very welcoming & cozy! So bring your date or catch up with some friends here! And if you haven't figured it out already, it is LGBTQ+ friendly duuuhhh. This lounge is #BarbieApproved #BarbieInTheCity

My friend and I stopped in at Licht Cafe for a drink before a movie when we were in DC for a day a month or so ago (I forgot to review it earlier)! Licht Cafe is an LGBTQ+ cafe and bar (there's some great art and decor), and we had a great time. When we walked in, we were the only people at the bar (it was earlier in the day - even for day drinking). The service was excellent. Our bartender was so friendly and very helpful. Licht Cafe offers classic cocktails, crafted cocktails, coffee, and a few snacks (like nuts, chips, and a cheese board). We both enjoyed our cocktails, but the overall experience was really great. l'd happily return.

Stopped in here on free comic book day( they are above the comic book store in U st) and not only did they have themed drinks in honor of comic book day but also Star Wars! ( it was may 4.... If you don't get the reference I can't help you) I believe this is a new venture but loved the vibes and was so lively. Bartenders were great and making drinks fast for the amount in there. Would def come back to hang out and has sexy speakeasy vibes above ground and for a fluid/LGBTQ crowd

Not enough mocktails :/ It was a cute place with good vibes, but the bartenders were not friendly and only offered Tropicana cranberry juice. I would go back and get a club soda

Honestly, the vibe was café meets bookstore meets upscale bar. The drinks were amazing; our last two rounds we just told the (almost problematically attractive) bartender, Marco, to bring us whatever... and they were the best two drinks. Lovely place to spend an afternoon getting a little boozy and waiting for the rain to stop.

What a great find. Chill and low key. Great place to relax and get to chat during a date without the typical distractions. Drinks on point.

A very cute spot with good vibes, cute decor, and great service. Definitely worth stopping by for a drink or a bite during happy hour.

Licht is one of my favorite spots in town. The service is always great and the people are lovely. The space feels cozy, like you're in a friend's living room. The gin martini "Life is a Mystery" is to die for!

Intimate, well-lit, very strong drinks, super nice bartender. Worth the visit if you're in the DC area, especially for the kind of queer person who isn't comfortable with your standard bar scene.

Really wonderful atmosphere, Ulsa was a wonderful bartender, and Edgar cheated at Jenga all night. Visiting from NYC and was recommended to come here by a friend, definitely worth a trip and will come back next time I'm in the city.

I've been coming to Licht consistently for over a year. The drinks are specially curated and delicious. Marco, the bartender, is friendly, kind, and always remembers his regulars. The ambiance is a chill place to hang out with friends and enjoy a great cocktail or sit and read. A unique queer space in DC, I highly recommend this spot to all my friends.

I love this amazing hidden gem. It is the laidback crowd and classy place. The bartenders are very friendly and highly recommend to try this cocktail place.