The Gibson

I feel bad writing about this bar that is supposed to be a “speakeasy”, but I can’t let the awesomeness of this place go unnoticed by my fellow fly girls.

A speakeasy was an establishment, which illegally sold alcoholic beverages during the Prohibition. During this period (1920-1933), the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol was illegal. The term “speakeasy” comes from a patron’s manner of ordering alcohol without raising suspicion — a bartender would tell a patron to be quiet and "speak easy. ”

I don’t understand the overly dramatic incognito theme, since alcohol is legal but the effect is cool. Located next to Marvin on 14th and U at 2009 14th St. NW, this no sign, ring doorbell and enter quickly bar is in short, fly.

Named after a D.C. local whom the owners of The Gibson, known and missed, this spot abides by some strict rules. For example, there is no standing at the bar; there must be room inside for you to enjoy your drink. If there is no space open, then you can give your number to one of the staff who will call you when space opens up and you get 8 minutes to truck back from Marvin to claim it. Space is so limited that it is suggested to make reservation between 6-10 p.m. and secure a table for up to 2 hours.

If The Gibson seems a little pretentious, it is! But the drinks and the décor and the friendliness of staff make up for it. This is not the place to order vodka and cranberry, this is a place where you order a handcrafted cocktail made by a mixologist- not a bartender. I ordered The Golden Child, a rum cocktail made with peanut butter liqueur and cream and I felt like I was living my life like it was golden while slipping on this delicious drink.

Try out The Gibson, just don’t tell them the Fly Girl sent you and remember to speak easy.

The Gibson
2009 14th St. NWWashington, DC 20009
202-232-2156