Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileSolset Bar
Arlington, VA · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Solset Bar's rooftop perch leans into bright, citrus-driven cocktails with a Mediterranean beach vibe. The list, crafted by Glendon Hartley (Service Bar, Amazonia), spans playful numbers like Cream Soda Spritz and bold ones like Clarendon on Sunset. Golden Hour weekdays bring $10 frozen margaritas and espresso martinis. A compact wine and beer list rounds out the program, with sake as a niche flourish.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Cream Soda Spritz—Aperol, Jamaican cream soda, grapefruit bitters, and sparkling wine—for a light, effervescent opener. For something bolder, the Clarendon on Sunset (vodka or tequila, pineapple, pomegranate, date, lemon) is a fruit-forward choice.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts looking for inventive, beach-inspired drinks will find plenty to like. The rooftop setting and Golden Hour specials also appeal to those seeking a casual after-work spot or a lively pre-dinner meetup.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are likely to be busier, so an earlier arrival secures a spot.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails run $15–$17, with sake from $15–$23. Wine by the glass is $12–$17, bottles $48–$68. Beers are $7–$10. Golden Hour specials cut costs significantly: $10 cocktails, $8 wine, and $2 off beer.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The program's Mediterranean-inspired, citrus-forward cocktail identity sets it apart, with unusual ingredients like Jamaican cream soda and matcha. Drinks are crafted by a well-known mixologist, and the rooftop setting amplifies the vacation-like vibe. The dedicated sake list adds a refined touch rarely seen in cocktail bars.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Creative, well-priced cocktail list with bright, citrus-driven flavors and Mediterranean inspiration. Standouts include Cream Soda Spritz, Clarendon on Sunset, Matcha Coco, and Margarita Sandia. Drinks by Glendon Hartley, who has a strong track record.
Menu strengths
- — Innovative ingredients like Jamaican cream soda and matcha add distinctiveness.
- — Experienced mixologist Glendon Hartley lends credibility to the program.
- — Golden Hour specials provide strong value without sacrificing quality.
Standout selections
- — Cream Soda Spritz – Aperol, Jamaican cream soda, grapefruit bitters, sparkling wine ($15)
- — Clarendon on Sunset – vodka or tequila, pineapple, pomegranate, date, lemon ($15)
- — Matcha Coco – blanco tequila, Cointreau, matcha, coconut, lime ($15)
- — Jasmin – sake, jasmine tea, aloe, lime ($17)
Pricing: $15-$17 per cocktail; Golden Hour $10 frozen margaritas and espresso martinis
Wine
A compact but serviceable wine list with familiar varietals from California, Oregon, Argentina, France, and Italy. Offers both glass and bottle formats. No community feedback on wine quality, and the list lacks depth compared to dedicated wine bars.
Menu strengths
- — Reasonable pricing, especially during Golden Hour at $8 per glass.
- — Covers major varietals and regions, including Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Malbec, Pinot Noir, Rosé, and Prosecco.
Standout selections
- — A to Z Pinot Noir – Oregon, $13 glass / $52 bottle
- — Château St. Cyrgues Rosé – Rhone Valley, France, $12 glass / $48 bottle
Pricing: $12-$17 per glass; $48-$68 per bottle; $8 during Golden Hour
Beer
A straightforward beer list with a few craft and domestic options across draft, bottles, and cans. Includes local brews like DC Brau and Virginia Beer Co. No community feedback on beer quality, and the selection is not extensive.
Menu strengths
- — Offers variety in format: draft, bottle, and can.
Standout selections
- — New Realm IPA – draft, $9
- — Virginia Beer Co. – can (price not specified)
Pricing: $7-$10; $2 off during Golden Hour
Nonalcoholic
Basic non-alcoholic options include one zero-proof cocktail (Watermelon Paloma), a non-alcoholic beer (Athletic), and standard soft drinks and seltzers. Limited selection, but the zero-proof option is thoughtfully made.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated zero-proof cocktail available at a fair price.
- — Includes non-alcoholic beer, broadening appeal for designated drivers.
Standout selections
- — Watermelon Paloma – watermelon, grapefruit soda, lime ($13)
Pricing: $4-$13
Spirits
No dedicated spirits list was available, but the cocktail program demonstrates a thoughtful use of spirits including vodka, tequila, Aperol, Cointreau, and sake. A separate sake menu offers three distinct options, adding depth.
Menu strengths
- — Sake selection is curated with three distinct styles.
- — Spirits are integral to the signature cocktails, indicating careful selection.
Standout selections
- — Kikusui Funaguchi – rich, sweet, and full-bodied sake ($15)
- — Tenmei Bear Cup – junmai sake, fruit-driven, fresh texture ($16)
- — Hakushika Snow – junmai nigori, sweet and creamy with coconut notes ($23)
Pricing: Sake $15-$23
How it sits with the food
No specific food pairing details were provided, but the citrus-driven cocktails likely complement light, fresh dishes. The menu's Mediterranean inspiration suggests seafood or grilled vegetables would pair well, though no specific recommendations can be made.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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