The iconic Round Robin bar is a favorite gathering place of Robert Burns aficionados.

Where to Find Whiskey and Haggis on Burns Night

Commemorate poet Robert Burns with food and drink on January 25

by Tim Ebner Updated Jan 23, 2018, 1:01pm EST

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The iconic Round Robin bar is a favorite gathering place of Robert Burns aficionados.

| Photo by Dena R. / Yelp

by Tim Ebner Updated Jan 23, 2018, 1:01pm EST

Local bars and restaurants are breaking out their best Scotch and bagpipes this week to celebrate the life of Scotland's national poet, Robbie Burns.

Thursday, January 25 is the bard's birthday, and it has become one of those excuses-to-drink holidays the world over. Burns Night also happens to be a fun and festive tradition, in which someone of Scottish descent heaps praise on one of the country's dining staples — haggis.

In D.C., restaurants, bars, and cultural groups go out of their way to celebrate Burns Night. While Scottish bars are kind of a rare thing in these parts, there are a number of places that take special liking to Burns this time of year. Here are a few spots marking the occasion this year.

— Updated by Tierney Plumb

Old Line Fine Wine, Spirits, and Bistro

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A four-course dinner with paired Scotch (wine substitutions available) is planned from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 3. Get $95 tickets for the fifth annual birthday bash for the poet here.

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11011 Baltimore Ave, Beltsville, MD 20705

(301) 937-5999

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Jack Rose Dining Saloon

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Jack Rose will be celebrating the same way it does every year, with plenty of Scotch to drink — including two specialty cocktails, the “Bobby” Burns and Penicillin, available for $10 each — alongside a Burns-inspired supper plate ($20) featuring Scotch eggs and smoked halibut. The bar is expected to feature five discounted new Scotch offerings picked by owner Bill Thomas, including the Arran “Robert Burns” bottling.

2007 18th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20009

202-588-7388

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Dram and Grain

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Down at Jack Rose's subterranean speakeasy, the same Scottish food and booze menu will be available. One of its well-known whiskey advisors, 79-year-old Harvey Fry, will also host a poetry reading around 8 p.m.

2007 18th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20009

(202) 607-1572

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Passenger

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Feast on a five-course Scottish menu from chef Matt Almquist featuring guided tastings including Rumbledethumps (potato dish) and Cullen Skink (fish soup) alongside single malt Scotch. Cost: $75 plus tax and gratuity for the paired courses, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Email info@passengerdc.com to snag a seat.

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1539 7th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

(202) 853-3588

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Queen Vic

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Burns night is a multi-day affair at Queen Vic. From Thursday, January 25, to Sunday, January 28, there will be a special menu featuring Scotch eggs, haggis, and cranachan, a traditional Scottish dessert composed of whipped cream, whiskey, honey, and fresh raspberries. Try all three courses for $30. Then, wash it all down with a flight of Scottish beers or Scotch pairings.

1206 H St NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

(202) 396-2001

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Round Robin Bar

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Those hoping to attend the Edinburgh University Alumni Club’s annual Burns Night Supper and Cèilidh at the Willard on Saturday, January 27, better be well connected. The event is already sold out (and tickets are pretty pricey too). But rumor has it, there will be plenty of after-party Scotch available for all to try at the adjoining Round Robin Bar.

1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20004

202-628-9100

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Mad Fox Brewing Company

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Need a dinner with live bagpipers? Head to Mad Fox Brewing Company's Falls Church location. There will also be poetry readings in tribute to Burns. This year the event is free, but reservations are recommended. Scottish-inspired food specials will be paired with Mad Fox beers, such as the 80 Shilling Scottish Ale. Find festivities details here.