Code Red — Restaurant in Washington

Step Back into the Roaring '20s at Code Red Speakeasy If you’re looking to transport yourself back to the Prohibition Era while enjoying modern twists on classic cocktails, Code Red is the place to be. This trendy speakeasy offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and sophistication, where the drinks are top-notch, the small bites are delightful, and the ambiance is electric. A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight The first thing that will strike you about Code Red is its charming, underground vibe. Despite its modern take on a speakeasy, the venue embraces the Prohibition Era in every detail—from the dapper, sharp-dressed bartenders to the retro decor that instantly transports you to another time. Whether you’re there for happy hour or an evening out with friends, the setting is ideal for a fun, lively night out. Delicious Cocktails & Unique Bites You’ll definitely want to try the signature cocktails, with options like the Kinky Thompson, Southside, and Mary Pickford—each one receiving rave reviews. For those seeking something out of the ordinary, the vegan heart of palm ceviche is surprisingly authentic and delicious. And don’t skip the smoked Gouda arancini—it's a must-have! Code Red also stands out with its selection of absinthe cocktails and inventive drink options like an espresso martini with dulce de leche, which one guest described as “amazing.” The Vibe: Intimate & Fun The vibe here is a 10/10, according to those who’ve visited. Code Red strikes a fine balance between intimate and lively, making it a great spot for both dates and group outings. Whether you’re enjoying the beats from the DJ or chatting with friends over drinks, the atmosphere is just right. Some have even shared their love for the laid-back, sultry music that provides a cool backdrop without overpowering conversation. Service That Makes You Feel at Home What really sets Code Red apart, however, is the service. From the polite staff at the door to the friendly bartenders, every aspect of your visit feels like a personalized experience. One guest even recalled how the gentleman at the door ensured they were seated in the perfect spot at the bar, showing that attention to detail is key here. Perfect for Happy Hour or a Special Night Out Whether you're stopping by for their amazing happy hour (featuring $7 cocktails) or indulging in a night of creativity with unique drinks and upscale small bites, Code Red delivers. Its warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great choice for everything from a casual drink with friends to a memorable night out.

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Went a couple of months ago with my girlfriend and this is such a weird experience.

First and foremost, nothing but nice things to say about the service we received. The doorman (didn’t catch his name) was an absolute delight. Really set the tone immediately. We walked in and the ambiance is incredible. Live music is playing, the lighting is perfect. The decor was quite lovely. Our server was great as well. I believe his name was Max but this was a while ago now.

And that is where the glamour stopped. The food was mediocre at best. The duck fat fries were completely bland and lacking any suggestion that these were cooked in any proximity to duck fat. The octopus was one pathetic tentacle on - three more duck fat fries? I have pulpo literally every week and this was the worst I’ve had in years including sketchy sushi tako nigiri. The presentation and flavor was laughable especially at the price point. The tuna tartare or crudo was the most Sysco crap I’ve ever seen. Literally looked like a food service lunchable with the most artificially colored tuna I’ve seen in a while. The wontons were tasty if I have to say something nice.

The drinks was where we drew the line and cashed out and went to a different establishment. The Negroni was served on hospital ice which completely negated the flavor of the infusion and Campari. It also wasn’t even iced to the top so the dilution is immediate as the cocktail sloshes to your table. The drink I ordered on a big cube was ironically lukewarm, I am 100% confident they have it batched and poured it directly into the glass and plopped in a large cube. No other way to get that cocktail the temperature it was. If you’re going to batch (not mad at it for service) can you at least keep the bottle on ice?

Overall a true shame given how promising the vibe, location and staff interactions we had were. Maybe we chose poorly off the menu for food, but weren’t willing to venture further. The drinks - just don’t. Can do much better for the same price or less almost anywhere in the city.

$130 w/ a 22% tip for 3 drinks and gross food. Wouldn’t recommend...

I used to come here for years when it was Millie & Al’s and it was my absolute favorite place. I had been wanting to check out Code Red for a while because I love speakeasies and the 1920s era & I wanted to see what my favorite bar had become. I came on a recent weekend during Happy Hour and was seated at the bar (you need a reservation to be seated at a table even though it was fairly empty). The bartender welcomed us after a few minutes and gave us waters….and then literally never checked on us again until we were leaving. Another staff member - I believe the bar back - was the one who took our orders and refilled our waters (he was very nice but it wasn’t a full service experience where he checked on us, asked us how we liked our drinks and food, etc). It was odd because the man who welcomed us (though not right away - I felt a little awkward to even begin with) said he would be helping us and then just ignored us. Even when he came near us to use the sink or put drinks for servers next to us, he didn’t ask us how our drinks were or if we needed anything (I had to flag the other guy down to refill my water). I thought maybe he was shy but he was chatting with other patrons at the bar and then just standing against the back of the bar when he wasn’t busy. Again, it wasn’t busy when we came; it was early in the night and the bar wasn’t even at capacity and the restaurant itself was fairly empty.

The appetizers were decent and the drinks were pretty good (especially the flapper) but I wouldn’t come back and pay full price, especially based on the service. My friends and I had been hoping to come back at some point but I told them unless it was during HH, I wouldn’t. I really was hoping to like this place but being ignored by the bartender for no apparent reason didn’t leave me with a great impression. Good service should be across the board and not based on who the bartenders decide they like (or don’t).

If you want to chance the service then go during HH to try it. Their HH menu is pretty good...