Washington may be an ocean away from Germany, but the area has an impressive roster of outdoor drinking spots fit for enjoying a pint — or a liter — with friends and neighbors. And although these spaces are best when they’re communal and convivial, they’re also poised to adapt to physical distancing and health protocols. The region’s beer gardens aren’t one-size fits all. Bars like Sauf Haus and Biergarten Haus feature a classic Bavarian-style vibe, leaning heavily on light bodied, refreshing European favorites like pilsners and hefeweizens, along with sides of soft pretzels and sausages. Establishments like Owen’s Ordinary and the Berliner dedicate draft lines to some of the best local brews around.
Whether the day calls for sipping IPAs along 14th Street or knocking back lagers by the water, these 15 beer gardens are the places to be.
A number of D.C. area restaurants have resumed dine-in service. However, this should not be taken as endorsement for dining in, as there are still safety concerns. The Washington Post is tracking coronavirus cases and deaths in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. More information can be found at coronavirus.dc.gov. Studies indicate that there is a lower exposure risk when outdoors, but the level of risk involved with patio dining is contingent on restaurants following strict social distancing and other safety guidelines.
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