Initial Visitors Say New Gay Bar Orchid Is a Welcome Addition to D.C.

Barracks Row’s newest gay bar, Orchid, burst onto the scene last month with late-night happy hour, seasonal snacks, and a roaring 1920s vibe.

The recent addition (520 Eighth Street SE), replacing now-defunct Senart’s Oyster and Grille Room, comes from the team at Hill Restaurant Group (Finn McCool’s, Hawk ‘n’ Dove).

Seasonal fare ($8-$19) includes shrimp cocktail, grilled lamb chops, avocado gazpacho, cheese plates, crab cakes, and seared sea scallops. Cocktails ($10) include a Blue Orchid featuring Jameson whiskey and blueberry syrup, while beers ($5-$6) include Pacifico and DC Brau. There’s also a handful of wines for $5 each.

Read on to see what locals are saying about Orchid so far:

The Give It A Minute News: Facebook user David Revilla calls Orchid a “great place” with “good drinks,” but acknowledges it’s very much a work in progress. “They’re still tweaking and improving. Def worth checking out.” And “despite growing pains,” Facebooker Andre Hopfer concurs. “There are still some growing pains. However it is a beautiful bar,” he writes. “The food is great and the atmosphere is awesome. A great addition to the DC gay community.” [Facebook]

The So Very Artful News: Instagram user @dannyc85 notes that the bar — and the new rainbow mural along the side of the building — are “just in time for Pride!” Fellow Instagram user @brockindc couldn’t agree more, calling it “a great new mural at a great new gay bar.” [Instagram]

The What Took So Long News: Facebook user Jamie S. Sycamore says Orchid is “exactly what DC Gay scene needs!” And Yelper Josh W. writes, “It’s so nice to have a decent gay bar on the Hill. Its been a few years since Remmingtons closed down and the trek to Dupont / U street is getting old.” [Facebook, Yelp]

The Raring to Return News: Facebook user Aron Schultz is already a fan. “Great atmosphere, laid back vibes, perfect place for any engagement. Look forward to visiting again soon,” he writes. And Instagrammer @chrisjonesdc calls it an “awesome new cocktail/wine bar!” [Facebook, Instagram]

• New Gay Bar Orchid Is Here [EDC]