[mappress]

With the requisite amount of flat screen TVs and local flavor, Ventnor Sports Bar in Adams Morgan definitely makes the short list of good bars in DC to catch a game. I am always partial to neighborhood spots because naturally, they tend to have more of a friendly and laid back vibe. Some of the bigger venues in DC are also frequented by locals, but also seem to attract a fair amount of the non-metro DC crowd. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing or a knock at non-locals, but the feel at those places sometimes is a bit diffuse for my taste.

Cost – $$

Food – B
The menu offers an abundance of choices so there seems to be something for everyone. Overall, Ventnor food is better than the typical bar which is a big plus in my book since I like to gorge myself when watching sports. In short, the wings are tasty, the burgers have thick patties, but best of all, you can choose tater tots as a side. Enough said – just kidding but not really – tater tots are awesome. They also have little baggies of popcorn which makes you thirsty for more beer lol.

Service – A-
Like most other popular places, you have to be a little patient during big games but overall, the service has always been solid. Also worth noting is that they offer all you can drink Mimosas and Bloody Marys during Sunday brunch and they are very quick on the refills.

Décor – C+
Ventnor’s has the typical amount of sports memorabilia and nothing really stands out, except that it is less of a dive than some of the other AM bars. What I am trying to say is that it’s cleaner and more put together than some of it’s neighbors.

Feel – B
Back to the neighborhoody theme I touched on earlier, the feel is comfortable and genuine. During football season, there are always fans pulling for their home teams which makes for lively afternoons on Saturdays and Sundays. The space in the downstairs area isn’t that wide so it can get crowded quickly for popular games and at night, but the upstairs is much roomier and can accommodate larger groups.

Ventnor Sports Cafe is located at 2411 18th St NW.  They can be reached at (202) 234-3070 or on the Web at www.ventnorsportscafe.com.