Doyle — Restaurant in Washington

DONT GO HERE IF YOU WANT TO STAY SOBER

I went there last night (11/11/23) for anniversary mocktails and an appetizer. The tuna tartare was overpriced and extremely sparse on the tuna. The server came over so infrequently that requests or orders would take 30ish minutes to come through.

But far worse than any of that, the servers casual indifference to our sobriety was appalling. They gave me a Diet Coke with vodka in it. They came back to the table after a minute or so and said “you don’t drink, right? Well the coke has vodka in it. So it’s free if you want it, but otherwise I’ll get you a new one!” We still got charged for it.

Compounding things, my fiancé ordered one mocktail and they brought the wrong one over. We then asked our server if he was confident they didn’t add alcohol to her drink. He was not empathetic, he was not kind, he did not care when he responded: “I don’t know, that’s sort of one you — did you taste it?” That drink was also not comped.

There was no apology, there was no “oh I’m so sorry for screwing up in such a impactful way, how could we be so inconsiderate and careless?” Just… nothing.

I have never drank for personal reasons, so I don’t really care on a deep level about their screw up, but my fiance is two years sober. That sort of thing never should have happened. And once it did, they should have shown basic human kindness, empathy, and been apologetic.

Do not go to this bar (that has non-alcoholic options, so it’s not like they aren’t appealing to folks who don’t drink!) if you are hoping to remain sober. And if you must, watch them pour...

Nestled within the elegant DuPont Circle Hotel, the Doyle Bar offers a delightful escape that perfectly embodies upscale charm with a cozy Irish twist. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by an inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern sophistication with classic Irish warmth. The decor is a harmonious mix of rich woods, plush seating, and vibrant artwork, creating a space that feels both intimate and lively.

One of the standout features of Doyle Bar is its impressive cocktail menu, showcasing a selection of well-crafted drinks that cater to discerning palates. Each cocktail is a testament to the skill and creativity of the bartenders, who take pride in using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Irish whiskey cocktail or something more adventurous, you're sure to find a drink that tantalizes your taste buds. The attention to detail in every sip truly elevates the experience.

The cool vibes of the Doyle Bar are further enhanced by the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always ready to recommend a drink or share insights about the menu. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic night out. With its Irish theme, expertly crafted cocktails, and upscale ambiance, the Doyle Bar is a must-visit destination in DuPont Circle, inviting you to unwind and savor...

The atmosphere is fantastic. Until you get the menus. Really uninspired bar menu. Really basic food menu that does not pair with the ambiance at all. I got the Red Lady. It was too sweet. I sent it back and asked for a recommendation for something less sweet. I was told “all the drinks are sweet except for the Cupán Tae which is basically a Manhattan”. My husband had ordered that drink already, so I figured that was better than nothing. Drink came with no cherry in it while my husband’s did. We ordered a tuna tostada which never came. Server never came to check on us to make sure we got it or to take our substitute order for the steak frites they were out of. We finally got someone to put in the fried chicken sandwich which came out raw on the inside. We asked to speak to management and while a manager spoke with one of our servers (we never knew who was actually serving us), they never approached the table to apologize for our experience or offer to assist us. I am really shocked this place is on DCist and other lists. Aside from the decor, there is nothing special here. If you want fantastic service, amazing balanced specialty cocktails, and a good fried chicken sandwich - go to Service Bar. This place just reminded me why I don’t go to DuPont Circle anymore. Overpriced and...