Dan M.
Yelp
OKPB is definitely a unique gem. Let me count the ways.
(1) It's an actual speakeasy, not a faux-speakeasy. Get the address and push the doorbell for entrance. Word to the wise, the place is tiny, so unless you have the luck of a thousand genies on your side, you will be waiting. We came around 5:30 on a Saturday and waited about 90 minutes before we got the text to come back. You can't go far because once your table is ready, you've got 10 minutes to get back. One last note on the tiny-ness of the space - they pack you in tight. Uncomfortably tight. We were literally touching thighs with the people on either side of us, a situation that is never comfortable, especially if one of them gets a bit antsy, and who doesn't after a couple cocktails?
(2) Their bathroom doors are fake bookcases. I was confused at first, but then I pushed in and felt like I was in a Scooby Doo episode searching for a villain dressed like a ghost, or maybe in a knight costume. But in this version, you take off the mask to reveal it's actually a suspender-clad bartender mixing up something delicious.
(3) The menus are always changing and quite small, but they can go off menu easily. For our first round, we went on menu, but the second, we went off. My wife asked if they could make a brandy alexander, and it was one of the best she's ever had. I asked for something bourbon or rye based and bitter, and he brought back a tasty Toronto. The only complaint I have about the menu is I wish they would post their old menus on their website like Copycat Co. does. I believe the waiter told us they change it daily, so who knows how many great concoctions will go undiscovered.
(4) Energetic vibe and great music.
(5) Top notch service.
It's a killer combo, you really should give them a try if you enjoy cocktails. With Martha Dear making some stellar pizza across the street, and Suns Cinema offering the funkiest cinema/bar vibes in DC down the way, plus Raven Grill a few doors down, Mount Pleasant has suddenly become a solid weekend destination.