Aside from a sandwich board sign, there isn’t much going on to let you know this place exists inside the Residence Inn, which would lead one to believe this bar is meant only for hotel guests, except that it’s not. It’s meant for all the passers-by to enjoy. Hence the sign on the sidewalk.
Positioning themselves nicely on the corner of 15th & L, they’re walking distance from the after-hours Capitol workers, making this is a decent place to visit at the just-after-five-o’clock hour. Stop on in for a little bit of that Happy Hour loving, we all love to have make us Happy. It’s the usual discounted beer, wine, and commonly made mixed-drinks you’d find at any Happy Hour setting, but what sets 3 Fires Lounge apart from the rest is its Happy Hour menu; small plates going for three to five dollars, offering a variety of salty treats to tantalize your taste buds. I’m a fan of the Cilantro Ceasar Salad, which is regularly priced at $8 but goes for $5 during Happy Hour. Unfortunately, my favorite small plate, the Frizzled Squash Blossoms (loaded with cheese and chorizo then deep fried), did not make it to the Happy Hour party, but still well worth the time if you’re willing to pay full price.
It’s a two-sided bar with one side facing the hotel lobby, so sitting on the west side is a good idea and makes it easy to forget you’re in a hotel. The ambiance and decor are what you would expect in a lounge that sells a nine dollar Jameson. Quiet atmosphere, comfortable sofa-chairs, plenty of low lighting, four televisions (which seem to host a little too much Larry King Live), local art work for 2nd Saturday Art Walk participartory actions, free coffee, and a wonderful serving staff. The bartenders are friendly and patient, which is an absolute must when encountering the loudness that is our laughter and commentary while seated at the bench reviewing the surroundings.
Definitely consider 3 Fires Lounge for a few snacks before making your way East to enjoy the rest of your night — It’s a nice place to meet your friends after work.
New Hotel Bar — 3 Fires Lounge was first posted to justinll.com on July 21, 2008.