Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileThe Crown & Crow
Washington, DC · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Crown & Crow is a Victorian-era inspired cocktail bar in Logan Circle, established in 2018, with a restored 19th century oak bar. The beverage program leans heavily on an extensive whiskey selection and a rotating craft beer lineup. Cocktails are creative but limited, and wine is straightforward. No kitchen, so guests are welcome to bring outside food.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Smoking Crow, a whiskey-based cocktail with 5 Spice syrup and orange bitters. For whiskey enthusiasts, explore the deep bourbon and rye lists, including Whistle Pig 15 year. Beer drinkers should check the rotating hazy IPA and Maine Lunch, a 7% East Coast IPA.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Whiskey connoisseurs will appreciate the breadth of the selection, from bourbon to Japanese expressions. Craft beer fans will like the rotating local options and international classics. Cocktail aficionados will find a handful of inventive drinks, though the menu is short.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are best, especially if you want to experience the Victorian-inspired ambiance. The bar is popular on weekends, so a visit on a weeknight might be more relaxed.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $12 to $16. Beers vary widely, from $5 for a basic pour to $40 for larger formats. Whiskey pours can reach $46 for premium selections, with most in the $8-$28 range.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The 19th century restored oak bar and antique furnishings create a unique Victorian-era atmosphere. The whiskey program is impressively deep, with over 100 varieties across multiple categories, and the beer list is thoughtfully curated with local and international options.
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
A short but creative list of six cocktails, featuring unique ingredients like cucumber vodka, mezcal, and cardamom honey. The Smoking Crow and Wasp's Elbow stand out.
Menu strengths
- — Creative use of ingredients such as cucumber vodka and cardamom honey.
- — Reasonable pricing for a cocktail bar in DC.
Standout selections
- — Smoking Crow: Baller whiskey, 5 Spice syrup, orange bitters, $16.
- — Wasp's Elbow: Botanist gin, lemon, cardamom honey, maraschino.
Pricing: Cocktails range from $12 to $16.
Wine
A modest wine list covering sparkling, white, and red styles. Lacks producer details but offers affordable glass and bottle options.
Menu strengths
- — Variety of wine styles including sparkling, white, and red.
Standout selections
- — Brut Prosecco: $9/$36.; Pinot Noir: $13/$50.
Pricing: Wines range from $9 to $50 per glass or bottle.
Beer
An extensive beer list with rotating local craft options and international classics. Includes detailed descriptions for many selections.
Menu strengths
- — Rotating local craft beers and international selections.; Multiple pour sizes and price points.
Standout selections
- — Maine Lunch: 7% East Coast IPA with caramel, orange, and papaya notes, $10/$25/$40.
- — Lindemans Framboise: 2.5% lambic with raspberry and Belgian funk, $12 for 10 oz.
Pricing: Beer prices range from $5 to $40 depending on pour size.
Spirits
An exceptional whiskey selection with over 100 varieties across bourbon, rye, Scotch, Irish, and Japanese categories. Bourbon and rye lists are particularly deep.
Menu strengths
- — Over 100 whiskey varieties including rare finds like Yamazaki 12 and 18 year.
- — Broad price range accommodates both newcomers and enthusiasts.
Standout selections
- — Whistle Pig 15 year: rye from Shoreham, VT, $46.
- — Lagavulin 16 year: Islay single malt, $20.
Pricing: Whiskey prices range from $8 to $60.
How it sits with the food
The bar does not serve food in-house, but guests may bring outside food. The beverage menu is well-suited for pairing with snacks like charcuterie or nuts, which would complement the whiskey and craft beer selections.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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