The Fireplace, located at 2161 P St NW in Washington, DC, is a beloved gay bar that has captured the hearts of many patrons. Customers often rave about its welcoming atmosphere and friendly community. Gregory Hill describes it as a "laid-back Cheers type bar," where visitors can feel at home with the supportive regulars and attentive staff. Bill, the bartender, receives special mention for his cool demeanor. For those who appreciate a vibrant atmosphere, Findlay Hilchie highlights the bar's unique appeal as a gay black venue, describing it as a paradise for individuals seeking connection. The lively music and spirited crowd amplify the experience, creating a joyful environment where patrons can unwind and socialize. Malik Allen and Harlan Harris reflect on the bar’s exceptional drinks and strong sense of community. Harris, a former regular, notes that the drinks remain spectacular despite a temporary decline in crowd size due to COVID-19. Tab Ballis emphasizes The Fireplace's legacy as the oldest existing gay bar in D.C., paired with its fantastic location in Dupont Circle. Overall, The Fireplace stands out not just for its offerings but for its commitment to being a welcoming space where everyone can feel included and enjoy a great time.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Cash only
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Photos
Reviews For The Fireplace
Gregory Hill
Jun 4,2025
This place is so welcoming and friendly! I love The Fireplace! I stopped in here because it was raining and had the best time. Looking for a laid-back Cheers type bar? This is it! Bill the bartender is super cool and there are lots of regulars who are so nice and willing to help a visitor find some cool stuff to do! Coming here was the best choice I made today!
Findlay Hilchie
May 8,2025
This is the only gay, black bar I've ever been to. I'm not saying that to make a statement or piss anyone off but if you are a gay black man, this is basically paradise. The rooms up and downstairs are a little full of vape smoke, the music is loud, up best and fits the crowd and in every way this is one of the most welcoming places I have been to in a long time. The patrons are friendly, hanging out and having a fantastic time, the drinks are low cost and strong as any drink I've ever had. The odds of the bartender calling you "girl" is 100% and it is a hoot of a time. This is a bar built by a community of awesome folks.
Malik Allen
Apr 27,2025
Good spot for drinks and meeting good people's
Harlan Harris
Apr 23,2025
A great homecoming! First time in six years when I was a 5 times a week regular. Recognized by two, fooled three. The drinks are still spectacular...I doubt if anyone serves better. The crowd was 1/10th of what it was--COVID related I'm sure. I had a good time and returned the next day--July 4th. I told a friend I'll be back this Sunday. In the days of old, Sundays were the absolute, extreme best.
Tab Ballis
Apr 6,2025
The oldest existing gay bar in DCbdoes not disappoint, with it's prime location in Dupont Circle and friendly staff!
Harry Christian
Apr 3,2025
Horrible aroma however, the drinks are extremely cheap and does the job when you are trying to pregame. It gets extremely packed on the second level, everyone always seems to be having a good time by dancing and socializing with one another. The music typically sucks, but after all it is a bar not a club.
Topher January
Mar 14,2025
Great atmosphere.
Ava Rose
Feb 21,2025
AMAZING! best bar i went to in the DC area. it’s a little small but there’s two floors so don’t worry about that! the community here is tight-knit, strong, but WELCOMING. i felt right at home a thousand miles away from home. Ricky and Ed are the best bartenders in town and even if you show up just for happy hour, the regulars are the kindest people you’ll meet. no complaints- it’s what a gay dive bar should be. (DC Swamp Water pictured- get you one!)
Reviews For The Fireplace