The Alchemist DC

Cocktail bar · U Street

The Alchemist DC

Cocktail bar · U Street

5

1334 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009

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Highlights

Creative cocktails with impressive presentation and infusions  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Eater

1334 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 Get directions

facebook.com
@alchemistbardc

$20–30

Reserve

Information

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1334 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 Get directions

+1 202 319 9700
facebook.com
@alchemistbardc

$20–30

Reserve

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Last updated

Aug 8, 2025

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@onthegrid

On the Grid : The Alchemist

"The Alchemist made me realize that all breakfast sandwiches should come with avocado and a mason jar of iced coffee. Grabbing a quick bite to eat can easily turn into sitting on their porch for an hour and a half. It's a small, local coffee shop that has everything going for it." - Nick Rourke

https://onthegrid.city/ft-lauderdale/ft-lauderdale/the-alchemist
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@eater

The Best Old Fashioneds to Sip On in D.C. | Eater DC

"Tucked away behind a hidden door, this speakeasy is secretly serving up a simple and smooth Old Fashioned with just a hint of pageantry. As the name would suggest, they love to play with fire at the Alchemist and their eponymous Old Fashioned runs with that idea. Served with a blowtorch and a skull head that looks like something out of Indiana Jones, the drink is smoked at the table while sugar and orange rind are charred beforehand. This brings out a real depth of flavor from every ingredient while keeping things quite traditional." - Graham Steinberg

https://dc.eater.com/maps/best-old-fashioneds-dc-bourbon-rye-cocktails
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@infatuation

The Best Bars On U Street

"The Alchemist touts an impressive craft and specialty cocktail menu with drinks that taste as good as they look. There are things like sour apple rum and rosemary whisky on the menu, which you can order to impress your date or just to satisfy your own curiosity. The lighting here is dim, which bodes well for the mysterious, sultry vibe. For a speakeasy, the bar itself isn’t too hard to find. There’s a sign out front that clearly points to the entrance. " - omnia saed

https://www.theinfatuation.com/washington-dc/guides/best-bars-14th-st-u-st-corridor
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@infatuation

The Alchemist - Review - U Street - Washington DC - The Infatuation

"The Alchemist touts an impressive craft and specialty cocktail menu with drinks that taste as good as they look. There are things like sour apple rum and rosemary whisky on the menu, which you can order to impress your date or just to satisfy your own curiosity. The lighting here is dim, which bodes well for the mysterious, sultry vibe. For a speakeasy, the bar itself isn’t too hard to find. There’s a sign out front that clearly points to the entrance." - Tristiaña Hinton & Omnia Saed

https://www.theinfatuation.com/washington-dc/reviews/the-alchemist
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@eater

NYC’s Oprah-Approved Cafe Maman Announces Two New D.C. Outposts - Eater DC

"Alchemist, a replacement for the dive bar Codmother, is a subterranean speakeasy known for its scientific-themed cocktails and food menu featuring burrata, lobster ravioli, sirloin steak, caprese, and skewers." - Tierney Plumb

https://dc.eater.com/2022/6/2/23148360/nycs-oprah-approved-cafe-maman-announces-two-new-d-c-outposts
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Alyssa Graca

Google
I stumbled upon The Alchemist while looking for speakeasy-style bars in DC, and I'm so glad we stopped by! The drinks had very creative names, and the presentation of them made the experience all the better! Not to mention the taste - every drink I tried was delicious! It was such a phenomenal find - highly recommend! An added bonus if you stop in during happy hour on Sundays.

Sridevi B

Google
This is another speakeasy vibe bar with delicious and creative drinks. The place doesn’t serve food but has chips to buy! We went here for Happy hour and stayed on a bit longer to try other drinks on the menu. The menu had creative drinks were a fun treat for the eyes and the palette. I started off by ordering a mocktail and was pleasantly surprised that it came with all the pomp of a regular drink and tasted good as well. So if you have friends who don’t drink, this place has good options. The ambience, the drinks and the bartenders were all really great which makes this place our new recent favorite!

Jesspaul Nibber

Google
I didn't rate "food" because they only serve drinks. There is a Jumbo Slice pizza not far away, though. I don't drink alcohol often these days. HOWEVER, the drinks here are absolutely S-tier and worth it. Despite the theatrics, of which my cousin was obsessed with, I thoroughly enjoyed the drinks I got. The old-fashioned was dangerously smooth and to die for. Not an ounce of resistance or harshness, in Anything I tasted here. I tried their award winning Elixir of Life, and I was extremely impressed. I WILL be back!

Rose Pim

Google
Such a cute bar!! Drinks were so good! Staff here are so kind. It’s a small bar but they do their best to accommodate ppl as you come in, which I really appreciated. Highly recommend!

Noor Dawodieh

Google
Went today ( a Saturday ) at around 7:00 PM. It was packed with everyone extremely loud & screaming. My husband & I ordered two cocktails that were both watered down. The order took 25 minutes and the bill was $48 just for those two drinks ( there are no prices on the menu ) .. that was such a waste of an evening given that this bar is a “ speakesy “ and should have craft cocktails with cozy vibes. I would recommend to spend that money at Medina, Jane Jane or Lucy bar 5-7 minutes away with good vibes and great cocktails.

Roshuni Samuel

Google
The Alchemist DC is amazing! From the moment you walk in, the vibe is warm and stylish—perfect for a special night out or just hanging with friends. The staff is super friendly and makes sure you feel taken care of. Every detail, from the dishes to the music, adds to the experience. If you're in DC, this spot is a must-visit. I’ll definitely be back!

Hannah Leeds

Google
This is truly a one of a kind bar! The drinks were incredible! Each one was its own experience. The bartenders Francesca and Jessica made our experience so much better. They were so accommodating of my fiancé and I and made our day so special. I cannot recommend this place enough!!!

Philip

Google
Clean, trendy, comfortable, inviting, and private. The drinks are trendy and inviting. Plus, a $10 per cocktail happy hour on Sunday might be the best deal in the city. Kacey and Francesca took awesome care of us, kept it professional, and made sure we had so much fun.
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Andrea A.

Yelp
Can't say enough good things about this place! We went for a 5pm reservation and had to leave within an hour. Our goal was to try as many drinks as we could. And we did! Everything was so good! I'm not even sure where to start... the service was amazing. Our bartender just got back from a trip (literally his luggage was in the back) and he didn't skip a beat! His recommendations were on point. The drinks were so good! The vibe was good - chill and you felt very taken care of. Could not have asked for a better experience.
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Holly M.

Yelp
TOP NOTCH. Made a last minute reservation and they had our seats all reserved. (First ones in so a bit unnecessary but kind!) Bartenders were both AWESOME! Super knowledgeable, incredibly friendly and kind, and also gave us a taste of their NEW cocktail, which was a tequila blood orange that won several competitions. Tried a few different drinks (they're based on GOT and Danerys eggs are on the shelves! :) I know we tried a cherry bloom and a spicy tequila and something with apple but would have to read through the menu. All were excellent. Several tables came in and everyone was quite kind, chatted with a few other people at the bar and was just a good vibe all around. Seems like it would be a great local place. Really cool space, sort of hidden underground! Highly, highly recommended!!
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Keiko C.

Yelp
My friend and I visited on a wintery night. Though we called ahead and were told we didn't need a reservation, when we arrived and tried to sit at the table, we were asked if we had a reservation and were sat at the bar instead. The bartender who served my friend and I only cleared his glasses and not mine. Inside is very dimly lit and gives secluded basement. My favorite bit of decor was the Harry Potter broom on the wall. The three stars are drinks, but because the service was less than desirable, I deducted two stars. It is possible with a different bartender, I would have different feelings
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Michael C.

Yelp
Fair prices, creative and tasty drinks. Nice atmosphere too! Would stop again for a drink or two.
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Sarah H.

Yelp
Lovedddd the drinks here. We stopped by on a little cocktail bar crawl in the area, and decided to stay for a few rounds because the cocktails are very well made and fun! It smells like incense inside and is very cozy/vibey. 10000% recommend the Killer Sally!
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Jenn C.

Yelp
As a former bartender I really have a high ranking for cocktails. I do appreciate they put ingredients and the presentation on the menu so people are not guessing how things will be served. I didn't get the espresso martini because I prefer mine with fresh espresso, while I get it is annoying to have to do, if I am paying $22 for a cocktail I would expect fresher espresso. Not the best gin fizz I ever had, but it was up there. Great little speakeasy on U St. if you plan ahead and make reservations. It's small so you can't walk in during busy times and find a table. No food, but good if you want to enjoy a cocktail or two. Super great service that checks in on you when you need something and knows when you are catching up to steer away. It is dark so be ready to bring the table lamp over to read to menu or have your flashlight ready. Very good for date night or the first night out drink for pictures.
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Brent B.

Yelp
5 stars for a great specialty drink bar. I've been to several speakeasys around DC and in general and, while they are often cool or suave, the drinks are usually more about quality than fun. At the Alchemist, located near the intersection of 14th and U, you get a little bit more of that fun to go with the quality. I first checked out the Alchemist with some friends about a year ago because we were in the area. We went down some stairs to a dark and relatively simple bar area. We took a seat and the waiter/bartender immediately said hello and brought us menus. I say it plural because the venue has a more standard menu (including a few snacks like chips) and then generally a speciality menu. While the drinks I've had on subsequent visits show the change is more about theme, the drinks on that menu offer quite a show. What do I mean? Well, as shown in my picture with this review, you can get fire. Other options include a smoke bubble and smoke and lots of other fun options. Unlike other speciality drink bars though, the accompanying drink was actually delicious! Who knew fun could also mention quality? The prices were what you would expect (I think around $20 per), but in line with what you get. Overall, the Alchemist provides a fun and quality drink spot. If you are in the area, definitely consider checking this spot out.
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Elia H.

Yelp
First time in DC and wanted to celebrate with some drinks and a good atmosphere. Our server, V, was absolutely amazing and made our experience 100x better. Highly recommend this place for a small intimate experience. Ordered the Captain Sparrow, Goblet of Fire, Once Upon a Thyme, Santiago's Dream, and Not Like Us. Recommend for first timers in DC
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Lucia B.

Yelp
We came here after a bad dinner elsewhere and this place saved the night. I made reservations ahead of time which was a good idea. We arrived at 7:45 pm and the place wasn't full but by 8:15 pm there were no seats available. The menu was extensive with so many delicious looking cocktails. It was hard to make up our minds. I ordered the dragon tequila drink with passion fruit and it was absolutely delicious!!! Highly recommended. My husband ordered the award winning dandelion elderflower cocktail and thought it was too sweet. We asked the bartender if he could add something to make it a bit less sweet and he very nicely said he would make us another one. We thought that was so nice, my husband honestly would have drink it no problem and we told the bartender a few times he didn't need to make a new one but he did. The new drink was perfect! The ambiance was awesome, moody lighting, brick walls and an intimate place. Can't wait to come back to try more! I would highly recommend sitting by the bar, it's pretty cool to watch them make all the different drinks.
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Lauren C.

Yelp
They have some unique drinks and the staples. I got the banana old fashioned (pictured) and it exceeded my expectations. I also got the house of dragon. The house of dragon was okay, probably wouldn't order again. Lastly, we ordered some green tea shots. Probably the worst green tea shots I've ever had. This place is a hit or miss with its drinks. I think flavor wise they are pretty solid but I didn't think any of my drinks contained enough alcohol. Not a heavy drinker and after finishing 2 drinks and a shot I didn't even feel a buzz. Not drinking to get drunk necessarily but they could be a little more generous with alcohol given each drink was $15-18.
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Nhue G.

Yelp
This was a cool speakeasy bar. The entrance was a brick wall with door handles hidden behind a set of stairs. There was also signage with the bar name on the outside up the stairs. If you're looking, it won't be too hard to find. The bar offered cool drinks with a performative aspect to them. However, those drinks were not sweet, so they didn't taste as good. I like my drinks to taste like desserts lol. I asked the bartender for sweet cocktail recommendations, and they were Blue Crystal, La Passion, Sakura Fizz, Caramel Macchiato, Vanilla Latte, and Lavender Latte. These don't have the pizzaz to them and may not be as Instagramable, but you can be sure to have a good night. I hope the bar will add performances to these drinks in the future. In the back of the menu, there were some mocktails. One of them was a Star Wars inspired drink. * Blue Crystal 5/5 - I loved the beautiful blue color of this drink. We just went to see the Hope diamond so this reminded me of it. It was a tequila cocktail with hints of peach and orange. The taste was sweet and delicious. * Cornelia Street, Manhattan 4/5 - This was a cool drink where the bartender poured the rye bourbon Manhattan into an Erlenmeyer flask. There was smoke and all as if we were conducting a chemistry experiment. Then, he poured it into the drink glass. The taste wasn't great but it was a neat experience.
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Una D.

Yelp
It's actually a pretty good cocktail bar. I really like the vibe and the experience was good. Here's what I imbibed Plus the other thing I like about this place is they put on the menu what gets set on fire, IE flamed, or what comes with a smoke bubble. It's a nice gimmick but it was definitely catchy. Sakura fizz: excellent I even liked the frothy alcoholic stuff they put on it was very cool. Nice pretty color too Old fashioned: meh, not very good but it did have a smokey taste Mezcal sour: probably the best drink I had the entire night. Was simply excellent very good combination of flavors House of dragon: terrible. Extremely sour, the taste didn't match at all Killer Sally: was okay. I wouldn't get this again. I like the ambiance. Service was very good we did have an issue with the AC duct leaking and pouring on us and getting a sweat so they did get us some free drinks to compensate and when I do appreciate that. Parking in this area is extremely tight. So make sure you Uber or come at a time when it's easier to park. The entrance is also pretty neat it kind of looks like a brick wall. There is somebody outside to help you in case you go in circles lol. I think this is a place I could definitely see myself at again.
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Jada C.

Yelp
Well, Well, Wellllll !! This place has been on my radar for at least a year now. It ended up being everything I wished and more. I must admit, I couldn't find the door for an extra 6 seconds, but it worked out. Haha Walked in, and it was aesthetically perfect. It looks just like you would expect "The Alchemist " to look !! Symbols everywhere like art. Larger than most speakeasy's and better lit than most without running the ambiance. I had a reservation, but I was super early. Hubby and I teamed up w another couple and grabbed a table for 6 once it cleared. Aakash initially gave us beverage menus when we entered and assisted us throughout our visit. The menu was quite impressive. I saw the menu online (Yelp), and it was 4 months old. Of course, they still have the same selection. Nope, 25% or more of the menu had already been updated, and the selections were just as great. We ordered an LA Passsion and an Alchemist Old Fashion. Both beverages were amazingly great and full!! AMAZINGLY!! Our guy Aakash made sure we wanted for nothing and provided wonderful customer service. I highly recommend this speakeasy to anyone looking to hang out in a chill environment. They can seat up to 7 comfortably and have the best beverages to date !! THANK YOU The Alchemist for providing such a great experience as hubby and I was celebrating our 22nd Anni.
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N. S.

Yelp
Great concept in a building of really cool conceptual bars. The burning incense at the front door was a little bit intense if you were sitting by the front door where it consistently walked into you and overpowered the scent of the drinks and everything else that was going on. Prices were about average for the location in the perception of value was about average as well.

Gabrielle S.

Yelp
Stopped here for a cocktail before dinner and was really pleased with the menu variety and quality of drinks. We ordered the two on the menu that won awards and they were sooo delicious. We really enjoyed the ambiance of the place and the super friendly service from the bartenders. Recommend sitting up at the bar.
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Catherine M.

Yelp
Cute speakeasy but no food (supposedly you can bring your own?) We sat at the bar and got water quickly but took a bit for our drink orders to be put in. They didn't really ever refill waters which was a bummer. The elixir of life was good but a bit sweet. The old fashion was good too. Everything had a Smokey element which was definitely cool but the drinks themselves weren't life changing. Few points off for slower service (never got a drink refill on the water), and an absolutely flood bathroom which was equal parts unsafe and gross.
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Matthew W.

Yelp
The Alchemist was my first DC speakeasy that I have been to and man was I impressed. You can't beat the dark ambiance and the ability to grab a high quality drink. I recommend coming in during their HH to score some pretty good deals. Our bartender, Akash provided some baller service and even made my date and I some custom off menu shots. Akash was a great conversationalist and even told us the story of how the bar came to be. I will be returning here many times and heard later at night the bar gets even more fun. My favorite drinks were the go fig or go home, clarified New York sour and the chocolate chip cookie dough whiskey shots.
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Dawn A.

Yelp
Fun menu with delicious drinks that is constantly be updated. Bartenders are attentive and drinks are perfect. I prefer weekdays for a more lowkey vibe but any day is a great time to stop by.
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Angel P.

Yelp
My partner and I came on a weekend night, and it was quite busy. The only available spot was a long table so we sat on one end. We ordered the clock & dagger and killer sally. Both drinks come with a "show" with the clock & dagger having the bubble(s), and killer sally with the fire. For presentation, they were both great. However, for the drink itself, they were only ok so we were a bit disappointed. Drinks are roughly $18 each. We had to move down the table as a party made reservations, however they were unable to find the reservation. We didn't mind, however I would hope my reservations would go through at any establishment. Staff were friendly, however service got quite slow once it got busier. The bar is not exactly hidden, and it's dimly lit. It can get loud at times.
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Tania A.

Yelp
The Alchemist is a trendy speakeasy tucked away somewhat along the U Street corridor. As busy and frantic as U Street may get - the minute you walk into The Alchemist, you are whisked away to a swanky Whiskey Bar with great craft cocktails. The venue has a very intimate feeling and vibe, and the decor is all reminiscent of molecular cocktail chemistry!! I LOVEEEEE cocktails with drama... And so I was ecstatic with the cocktails my friend and I ordered... Killer Sally & House of Dragon!! Looking forward to going back for more cocktails and cheer.

Kimberly O.

Yelp
The place was empty and the customer service was terrible. My daughter wasn't drinking and they wouldn't serve a mocktail without ID so she had water. They took my credit card as soon as we sat down at a table. I ordered the drinks for the other patron in my group. Then after 2 drinks they kicked us out because not everyone was drinking and told us they have my cc on file and they will charge that. I was double charged and also charged a separate $20 fee as another transaction. I have no receipt even though I asked for one so no recourse. We were treated so rudely. We were quietly talking enjoying the "science" behind the gimmicky drinks and they shooed us out so abruptly.
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Brandi B.

Yelp
This was a cute speakeasy off of U street. Small, more lit than a traditional speakeasy and nice cocktails! The service was quick as well!
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Jacky C.

Yelp
Amazing Harry Potter themed cocktails. I ordered the Goblet of Fire, which is their Apple Cinnamon Mule. They light this drink of fire, which is quite the presentation. My friend ordered the Old Fashioned and this was served with a skull where they also light something on fire to get that smokey taste for the drink, also pretty with its presentation. Drinks were approximately $18 a glass, which is pretty reasonable for cocktails, especially with the work that they're putting into them. The place is super crowded and there was only one server taking orders for the entire space with two mixologist. They could hire a few more servers to make things more efficient.
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Kate R.

Yelp
Came in on Saturday night- highly recommend a reservation. There is no posted prices but we did the math and the cocktails were $18 each- which for the quality is fair, though a bit pricey and there is no indication until you get your bill- fair warning. The lavender latte was the star of the show! So good! The server gave good recommendations and was friendly. We also tried the Kentucky derby drink (I don't do dark liquor but my Friend really enjoyed it) and I had the colada drink and was not a fan at all- stick to the martinis for sure! It is definitely a cool vibe and there are drinks I'd definitely come back to try, go on a Sunday all drinks are just $9! Which is a fantastic deal! My other complaint is it's incredibly loud, fun for a group but not great for a one on one conversation. Could have just been the time I was there though. Overall I had a good experience and recommend you to come in and try it!
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K B.

Yelp
Our first adult night out in DC after the big move led us to The Alchemist--a cocktail bar so cool, even the entry feels like you're stepping into a secret. Friends from Atlanta, visiting on their daughter's recommendation, joined us at this hidden gem. From the outside, it's unassuming, but once inside, you're greeted by a dimly lit, intimate space with a speakeasy vibe that makes you forget you're just a stone's throw from the bustling streets. The atmosphere was almost perfect, though a small stage for live music would have completed the speakeasy feel. Note to self: if you're over 40 like me, bring your readers and utilize your phone's flashlight. The menu, while stylishly crafted, is a bit of a challenge to decipher in the dark ambiance, unless you've got a flashlight handy. I eventually decided on a cocktail (wish I remembered its name) that tasted as magical as it cost--nearly $20, but every sip was worth it. My fiancé's drink was equally delightful, though its name escapes us now. Though crafty cocktails are The Alchemist's specialty, they don't offer food, the creative concoctions alone make this place a must-visit. Our wallets whispered that one round was enough (we were hungry for more than cocktails), but the experience itself was a satisfying adventure. We'll definitely be back, with friends in tow, for another round in this enchanting underground hideaway!
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Xandrea J.

Yelp
Ok so, I'm a bit of a cocktail snob and this place definitely passes the sniff test. All of the drinks are A+. Even on a crowded night the staff is extremely attentive. I am really impressed. Our waitress Veronica was also like the literally the best ever. She handled our large group like a pro. Dc needs more servers like her.
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Stephen- Phillip I.

Yelp
Ok, so we got to the alchemist which inside seemed to be buzzing with a good vibe but instead we were invited to their sister bar upstairs, "The Craft" as the bar was at capacity. Honestly, this was more of a step sister as it was nothing compared to what was happening downstairs, it was dull without laughter and chatter and the menu seemed a bit more to theme, morbid. The name of the drink I got speaks volumes Mask of death. However it tasted great and I'll give them 5 stars as at least they had an alternative if their main spot was too full and from what I saw I could assume the alchemist is a watering hole of a good time.

Artisan K.

Yelp
Looked pretty cool from pictures and (most) reviews but was extremely underwhelming in reality, to say the very least. The staff was very, very friendly but the cocktails certainly didn't warrant their price (which was a surprise since no prices are listed in the menu). Also, most of their "craft" in many of their "artisanal craft cocktails" is just using a smoke bubble gun from the vape shop down the street to plop a bubble on your drink after they drop it off at the table/bar. And the last mention from the list of disappointment was that the tiny basement vibe was a bit ruined by the pervasive smell of dinginess and mold. ...all topped off by an automatic 20% gratuity, a prohibition on paying in cash, and the requirement of a card to open a tab right from walking in (even in a very sleepy Sunday).

Raul Jesus C.

Yelp
The service was great and the drinks were delicious! The presentation was beautiful and lots of fun. I'll be back next time I'm in DC.
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Maria L.

Yelp
The Alchemist for the win-- great place to escape the heat, have some awesome drinks and have some witty banter of JT. He creates some incredible cocktails. Be prepared to be amazed! I enjoyed Hagrid's Secret which is gin based then the Goblet of Fire which is like a cinnamon mule!
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Joanne L.

Yelp
LOVE this place! We walked in on a Friday night at 10:30 pm. The entrance is so unassuming that I walked right pass the first time. The place was busy but not overly crowded. All the tables and bar seats were taken but the server came and let us know that we could order at the bar and hang around and they would serve us as usual. Luckily the turnaround time was pretty fast and we were able to get a high top very soon. I was thrilled to see all the Game of Thrones themed drinks so we ordered the House of Dragon and Red Wedding Mojito. The mojito was delicious, light and fruity. But House of Dragon literally blew us away. The house-infused tequila was smoky and spicy, with a hint of sweetness and tang from the passionfruit - so delicious, haven't been able to stop thinking about it!! Both drinks were $16, not cheap but very reasonable for the location and quality. Although it was a busy time, the service was super friendly and our drinks came quite fast. I can't wait to come back again!!
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Priya D.

Yelp
One of my new fav bars on U street!! Really enjoyed my time here for a girls night out! It was PACKED on a Saturday night but luckily we had a reservation (high recommend). The craft cocktails were delicious and so much fun! Some of them were lit on fire or had a smoke bubble! They really took their time to create this menu and make it fun and exciting! Our waiter was attentive and checked on us multiple times despite it being busy which was super nice. Highly recommend checking this place out if you're out on U street!

Jenn B.

Yelp
Delicious craft cocktails, excellent setting, and kind knowledgeable bartenders. Veronica was our server/bartender and she was fabulous. Beautiful cocktail presentation with smoke bubbles or smoked. Excellent infused alcohols. Highly recommend. Every drink our group of 4 tried was fantastic! Try the marshmallow infused whiskey!
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Kelly M.

Yelp
I've been twice and I love this random speakeasy! The prices are reasonable and the drinks are awesome! You can bring in your own food such as ordering pizza from We the Pizza across the street.
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Maria S.

Yelp
The taste of the drinks is actually just ok, but the presentation is absolutely stunning. Service and ambiance are great, too - I'd try something new to give it another chance. The cloak and dagger and alchemist old fashioned are pictured.
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Katie W.

Yelp
We were excited to try out Alchemist - a new speak easy style bar on 14th & U. It is super small and intimate - it's a basement bar without any windows. Cool cocktail ideas, the drinks were fine but nothing out of this world. It didn't seem like there was a food menu if you wanted to order a snack with your cocktails. I love a foamy shaken espresso martini - so this one wasn't on I would reorder. Unfortunately there was a really off putting smell that definitely discouraged guests from sticking around for another round. Hoping with more time they can iron out some of these issues!
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Samantha T.

Yelp
Cozy basement speakeasy with craft cocktails. They have a wide variety of options and you can tell they put a lot of thought in ingredients combinations and making the drinks. We went on a Saturday night and it was pretty busy so the service was slower but still good.
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Ryan C.

Yelp
I was looking for a nice spot to get a drink after dinner and I saw that the place was pretty quiet (speakeasy), in walking distance, and took reservations and the Alchemist checked all these boxes. We made our way over on a rainy Saturday night around 8PM. It was hard to find at first and we almost missed it (also because of the rain). When we got in someone came over immediately and offered us a table for us and brought us a bunch of paper towels to dry ourselves off which was much appreciated. They were super patient with us while we tried to get all the rain off us. It's pretty dim so keep that in mind (unless you sit under the disco ball like we did). Prices were on par for DC ($15-18) so we couldn't be too mad at that but the menu also didn't show prices now that I think of it. Each of us only grabbed one drink but they were all pretty solid (some much stronger than others). I got the Hagrid's Secret which was a Gin Fizz with a special secret (they told me what it was but I forgot) and it was really good. I didn't get to try the other ones but we also got the Nine and Three Quarters, La Passion, and the Apple Fool as well. The place wasn't super big but it was perfect place for an after dinner drink. Worth checking out for the drinks but you won't be disappointed by the service.
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Andrew P.

Yelp
The Alchemist isn't all that hidden, though its door doesn't look like you can open it, and there are no windows! I love how the sign from U Street spells the name with periodic table element boxes! As soon as you step inside, there's a nice tall water fountain to the left, and a table nestled in a corner under a disco ball. There are tables all around, but omg they're so dimly lit! My party initially sat at one the only open table at the time for our party size, and we had to use our flashlights to see the menu. Luckily, the bar simultaneously cleared up and someone had a reservation for our table so we moved! Now, the bar is nice and lit, and you see a display of a bunch of cool infused spirits. I'm talking apple pie whiskey, peanut butter whiskey, sour apple rum, rosemary butterfly gin... cool stuff! There is also a menu of cool cocktails -- some are Game of Thrones-themed (eww) lol. The Frostbite I got was a frothy baby blue, but it tasted like a dessert... I liked it! The peanut butter whiskey shot I had 'might' have been better than Skrewball. As we enjoyed our drinks, I noticed that the place completely filled up. Yet, there was only one bartender the entire time. Despite this, somehow we didn't have an obnoxious wait time. And I loved how the bartender was calm and collected the entire time -- he didn't act flustered or rushed around. He perfected every drink he made. I appreciated that attitude and I don't think I've ever experienced that in a full house before. Aside from the dim lighting at the tables, one other thing was that everyone's voices completely drowned out the music. I'm used to more of a balance between the two. I'd return though.
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Claire R.

Yelp
Tourist trap- avoid at all costs if you like actual craft cocktails. Don't be fooled by the name and ambience of when you first walk in. For some reasons, 3 out of the 4 drinks we ordered were neon blue and looked like kool aid. I ordered elixir of life, mainly because it claimed to be "best cocktail of DC". All I'll I say is that's very hard to believe or they were the only participants. It also said smoke bubble- I wanted to see the actual bubble! It came already smoking- womp womp. Service was awkward, the bartender kind of just stood around waiting for all of us to be ready rather than starting to make our drinks, now realize that's because the base of the drinks are premade. Then it became obvious we didn't like our drinks (I was the only one who could tolerate it), but pretty bad service if you ask me to not comment, or say anything or offer something else on the menu (especially since they're premade). To cap it off, 20% gratuity is included on all checks, which one cocktail came to $23.. this is more than NY, or any cocktail bar where you can get a legit craft cocktail. Unforgivable. Moral of the story - ITS AN OVERPRICED TOURIST TRAP/ NOT A REAL COCKTAIL BAR
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Eva A.

Yelp
Very easy to find, I would say it's not a full speakeasy because of the sign out front. Pretty dark inside but a waiter attended to us immediately, gave us menus (prices unmarked, about $16) and waters. However I expected the drinks to come out quickly because it wasn't crowded at all (maybe ~15 people) and we waited 10+ minutes. Regardless the drinks were good! Not very strong though. I got the frostbite (frothy blue tequila, orange and chocolate hints) and it was unlike anything I've had before- would recommend. Friend got a cosmo (pink) also not bad, another got a passion fruit cocktail (orange)- easily the best of the three. Overall, would recommend this place!
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Christine J.

Yelp
What a hidden gem. This place has really tasty cocktails with the works! Would highly recommend. I've heard that they have a very good happy hour special as well which I'll definitely be checking out!
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Radhika G.

Yelp
i'd recommend this as a starting point for a date night! we loved all of our drinks and had a wonderful time
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Andrew-Brian N.

Yelp
Came here on a Sunday evening and thought they were closed, but fortunately they weren't! Pretty wild that this is right by 14th and U and it's so calm inside. Was looking for cocktails and this spot delivered. Each drink was made meticulously and they were so delicious! I got the drams and dreams, which sounds really sweet, but it was well balanced and delicious. I only had one drink tonight after dinner, but I can feel the liquor in me--that's the mark of a great bartender Space wasn't particularly special and walls had the typical wood paneling. It's fairly intimate, but next time I'll probably sit at the bar. They also take reservations for tables, so def do that! Service was friendly and I'll definitely be returning Oh, and that door that doesn't look like the right door? That's it! Ha ha
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Connie L.

Yelp
The drinks were really good! The Ramos gin fizz was amazing! Definitely recommend Probably one of the best Ramos gin fizz I have had in a while!
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Allie P.

Yelp
We had a lovely experience with the expert bartender ( forgot her name but she's from NYC). She served some creative and delicious cocktails in an intimate and jazzy space.
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Puneet G.

Yelp
Its reallly a 4.5 but worth a visit. The drinks are well crafted and I love the ambiance. I would love a little more innovation of the cocktails and am not a fan of high top tables in a craft cocktail setting, but their menu is strong and the skill is there
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Sydney G.

Yelp
What a cool cocktail bar! We came for Happy Hour where cocktails are just $9. Each one is a work of art. I got the Killer Sally, which came with a flaming orange and was as tasty to drink as it was beautiful to look at. They do a number of house infusions, so I also tried some of their hibiscus infused gin. They change regularly, so there's always something new to discover. I also love that a lot of the drinks are Harry Potter themed! We sat at the bar and so it felt like we had front row seats to the show. JT was super friendly and very fun to watch put drinks together.
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Teddy M.

Yelp
Ambiance was great, very cozy. Perfect for a date night. Was very quiet the night we went. Good selection of drinks