About Red Room
The Red Room is the legendary dive-style bar and lounge inside the Black Cat music club at 1811 14th St. NW in Washington DC (www.blackcatdc.com ). Opened in the early 1990s and remodeled with the 2001 Black Cat expansion, it’s known for its deep red walls, vintage pinball machines, jukebox, and down-to-earth punk-rock vibe (www.washingtonpost.com ) (www.washingtonpost.com ). The atmosphere is intentionally dark and intimate, with a three-sided central bar and just a handful of stools and tables (www.washingtonpost.com ). Longtime observers describe it as “the venerable cash-only punk-rock dive” that became “an extension of the District’s group houses,” hosting “countless first dates, birthdays…even wedding parties” (www.washingtonpost.com ). In short, the Red Room is a small but storied music bar – a crucible of DC’s alternative scene where locals have gathered for decades to drink, play games, and catch post-concert tunes (www.washingtonpost.com ) (washingtoncitypaper.com ). (The vibe feels like a friendly living room masquerading as a rock club.)
Events and Programming
The Red Room does not have its own regular concert lineup; instead it comes alive around Black Cat shows. In practice, on concert nights the bar is packed with the same crowd waiting or celebrating. For example, a local reviewer noted that “minutes before the opener was set to take the stage, the Cat’s famed Red Room bar…was packed” (washingtoncitypaper.com ). In other words, Friday/Saturday nights are usually booming after the main act. When there’s no scheduled show, the Red Room often stays open as a regular late-night bar (sometimes with DJs mixing rock and dance tunes). Occasionally the space hosts special events (for example, album-release parties or comedy nights) or even touring drag/cabaret performances organized under “The Red Room Series” banner on select weekends. Those themed nights are ticketed separately and often feature well-known performers (tickets typically run in the $30–40 range, depending on the act). Otherwise, the Red Room is essentially freeform – DJs might spin, bands might drop by to jam, and people just hang out with drinks.
Live show after-parties: After a concert upstairs, fans often spill into the Red Room to keep the night going. The in-house DJ or jukebox (with “killer” song selection) keeps people dancing until the early morning (www.washingtonpost.com ).DJ nights and dance parties: Some weekends feature local DJs spinning rock, punk, or ’90s-style playlists. These are usually open bar nights or cheap cover, focusing on getting people moving.Themed parties: Occasionally the bar hosts special gatherings – for example, a holiday costume bash or a band’s album-release party. These typically have a small cover charge and themed decorations.Red Room Series shows: A few times a year, a promoter books drag and cabaret shows in the space. These are ticketed like any concert (often $25–35) and might run multiple nights, but are not the norm most nights.Quiet nights: On slow weekdays, the Red Room simply operates as a casual pub – sometimes with trivia or acoustic music nights. You’ll find locals chatting over beers, no ticket required beyond any event cover.
Ticket prices: Because the Red Room is part of Black Cat, entry is usually free on concert nights (you just buy the main show ticket and then enjoy the bar). Black Cat shows tend to be in the $15–$30 range, paid in advance or at the door. For example, a recent indie show on the Black Cat schedule was $20 in advance and $22 at the door (www.blackcatdc.com ). The Red Room itself never requires a separate ticket; you only pay any cover charge associated with the main concert. (Special drag or comedy events at “The Red Room Series” require their own tickets, which are sold through the promoter well in advance.)
Tickets and Booking
Since the Red Room is a bar attached to the Black Cat venue, you generally don’t buy tickets specifically for it (except for separate Red Room series events). Pull up the Black Cat’s schedule online or call ahead to see what’s playing upstairs. When a big act is announced, tickets typically go on sale at least a few weeks beforehand. You can purchase these through the club’s official channels (box office or authorized vendor). Advance tickets are usually cheaper; as one recent show listing shows, an advance ticket might be $20 and $22 at the door (www.blackcatdc.com ). On the night of a show, tickets can still be available at the door for that higher price (cash or card accepted).
Booking tips: If you plan to catch a Red Room Series event or a major concert, get on the waitlist or newsletter early – these small shows often sell out. Check announcements on local entertainment calendars and book as soon as you can after an event is announced. On the night of a show, the Red Room itself has no separate reservation system; it’s first-come, first-served. Just show your ticket or pay cover for the main act, and then you’re free to come back for the bar.
Seating and Layout
The Red Room is very compact and operates strictly on general admission. There are no reserved seats. The main feature is the bar itself: a three-sided counter with roughly a dozen stools around it (www.washingtonpost.com ). Behind the bar, there’s a slight step-down area with a couple of two-top tables and a few cushioned chairs or sofas, but those fill up quickly on a busy night (www.washingtonpost.com ). In practice, most people end up standing at the bar, leaning on high tables, or milling around the Dance floor area. If you want a spot, plan to arrive early – stools and the few seats are never guaranteed once a show finishes.
Acoustically, the Red Room’s new design keeps it intimate. As the Washington Post noted, this “third iteration” of the bar was made intentionally “dark and intimate by design” (www.washingtonpost.com ). The sound level is moderate– lively conversation is easy, and background music (or the tail-end of the band upstairs) can be heard. Because of its size, noise carries easily, so expect a barnstorm of talk and boisterous laughter. Sightlines aren’t an issue (there’s no stage to watch in the bar itself), but if you want to chat privately you can slip to one of the wall tables. Tip: avoid getting trapped right in front of the pinball machines if you want quiet, as they ping loudly on shuffle.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 1811 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009 (Logan Circle/U Street area). The entrance is at street level on 14th Street.
Metro: The easiest access is via Metro. The U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial–Cardozo station (Green/Yellow line) is only about three blocks away (www.blackcatdc.com ). From the station, it’s a short walk north on 14th Street. This is by far the most convenient way to arrive, especially on weekend nights when traffic is heavy. (Note: Metro trains run until around midnight on weeknights and until after 2am on Fridays/Saturdays.)
Bus/Bike: Several city buses serve 14th Street and the U-St corridor. The DC Circulator also stops around U and 14th. Capital Bikeshare stations are nearby as well (for example at 14th & U St or 13th & V St). Bike lanes run along much of 14th St, so riding a bike is another option if you’re local.
Driving/Parking: Street parking in this part of DC is expensive and limited. Meters fill the blocks on 14th and U Streets; they are enforced until about 10pm or so. Pay lots exist a few blocks south near Logan Circle or north near the 9:30 Club, but they fill up quickly on event nights. Ridesharing (Uber/Lyft) is popular: drop-offs are commonly done at the main entrance on 14th Street (some drivers recommend pulling up just past the club’s door). If you plan to drive, allow extra time to find parking, and consider parking a few blocks away (there are some cheaper lots and garages north of Florida Ave).
Inside the Venue
When you enter, expect a casual dive-bar experience. On any night, Black Cat’s staff does a quick ID check at the door (everyone, including under-21 guests, must show a valid ID) (www.blackcatdc.com ). Once inside, the Red Room has minimal decor – exposed brick, band posters, a few neon signs – creating a gritty yet friendly atmosphere. The main counter offers full bar service: bartenders pour a wide selection of draft and bottled beers (often including local craft brews) and mixed drinks (www.blackcatdc.com ). Notably, the bar once served its own “Red Room Ale,” and house beers or specialty cocktails often show up on taps or menus. The jukebox (running on quarters or tokens) stays stocked with everything from punk classics to ’80s pop, so you can pick a song in between sips.
There is no kitchen inside, only a few bar snacks (chips, pretzels) at most. Restrooms are down the hall (they’re usually less crowded than in the main club). The vibe inside is lively: people frequently move between the Red Room, the Backstage room, and the main hall upstairs. On busy nights, guests often dance in the front area if a DJ is playing. Because the space is small and windowless, it can get warm – dressing in layers helps. (The club has ceiling fans, but it still gets packed!) Wi-Fi is not advertised, so assume you’ll need your own data plan if you want net access. In short, expect a relaxed, no-frills drinking environment with friendly bartenders, lots of familiar faces, and the constant hum of live music echoing from the club’s larger stages (www.blackcatdc.com ) (www.washingtonpost.com ).
Nearby Amenities
This part of Logan/Shaw is packed with dining and late-night options. For pre-show meals, the U Street corridor across Florida Ave has dozens of restaurants. Notable picks within a 5–10 minute walk include:
Busboys & Poets: A locally famous café/bookstore on 14th St NW (about a block south). It has a large menu (vegetarian-friendly) and a laid-back vibe, ideal for groups.El Centro Deli: A no-frills spot on 14th St NW known for its fresh Mexican sandwiches (tortas), perfect for a quick bite nearby.Maketto / Weird Duck: Two hip eateries paired together on 7th St NW (a few blocks east). Maketto offers Asian fusion and coffee; next door Weird Duck is a gastro-bar. (They’re a short walk through Logan Circle.)Lincoln Theater area: Just one block north at 13th & V St NW you’ll find Madam’s Organ (blues bar) and several fried-chicken “Party Fowl” bars. Further in that direction are more American gastropubs like the Passenger.
At night, the entire neighborhood buzzes. On 9th and U St to the south you’ll find karaoke bars and pool halls; on 14th St the nightlife continues into clubland (the 9:30 Club and Shadow Room are just north of the Red Room). If you venture a few blocks, one can discover craft breweries (e.g. DC Brau on New York Ave, about a mile east) or even late-night coffee shops and diners along 18th St.
For lodging, there are many hotels within a mile. The boutique Line Hotel (Indigo) at 14th & Randolph is a few blocks north of the U-St Metro; closer in is the Washington Hilton on Connecticut Ave (about 0.6 mile west). Less expensive inns and midrange hotels line California Ave and 13th St NW. Many concertgoers also stay in nearby Adams Morgan or downtown DC and taxi/Metro over, since rideshares run 24/7 from those areas.FAQs
What Makes This Venue Special
The Red Room’s reputation is its number-one draw. Unlike a generic nightclub, it carries decades of DC music history. It’s literally one of the last old-school punk dives in town, and that’s rare nowadays (washingtoncitypaper.com ). Every corner of the bar is marked by memories: weathered posters, graffiti, and memorabilia from countless underground shows. The Washington Post even called it the “third iteration” of the bar, noting that despite renovations it still kept its character – including its classic pinball and jukebox (www.washingtonpost.com ) (www.washingtonpost.com ). Owner Dante Ferrando himself made sure to preserve the vibe: as he put it, the Red Room “was great when we had a big night…but it didn’t work so well on a slow Tuesday… We want it to be a good bar on its own” (www.washingtonpost.com ). In short, Red Room is special for its authenticity: fans love that it feels unchanged by gentrification. It’s small, communal, and embraces everyone. Visiting artists often remark that it’s fun to perform there because they can mingle with the crowd after their set – the distance between stage and audience is literally a barstool away. Culturally, it’s a touchstone of Washington nightlife – recognized by local press as a bar “that can connect me to the music my dad made” (washingtoncitypaper.com ). (That article was about the main club, but people say the same about the Red Room.) In essence, the Red Room matters because it’s a living piece of DC music lore where generations of fans and musicians have socialized. Its quirks – the red accent walls, accordion-style divider, local beer taps, and always-familiar staff – give it a warm, distinct personality that draws people back year after year。
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate ticket or cover to enter the Red Room bar?
No. The Red Room bar is free to enter as long as you’ve paid any cover for the Black Cat show that night. In other words, once you buy your ticket for the main concert upstairs (or show a guest list pass), you can come down to the Red Room at no extra charge. The bar itself doesn’t sell tickets.
Where and how do I buy tickets for shows that feature the Red Room?
All ticketed events (concerts, comedy, drag shows, etc.) are booked through the Black Cat’s official outlets. Watch for announcements on the venue’s website or social media. Tickets typically go on sale weeks before a show and can be purchased via the club’s box office or authorized sellers. Popular shows often sell out, so buy early if possible.
What are typical ticket prices for shows at this venue?
Prices vary by event, but many headliners run about $15–$25 in advance. Day-of-show tickets are often a few dollars more (for example, many acts are $20 online, $22 at the door (www.blackcatdc.com )). Special drag or comedy nights can be higher (often $25–$40). The Red Room bar itself has no admission charge beyond any show you’ve paid for.
How do I get to the Red Room? What’s the nearest Metro station?
The Red Room is inside the Black Cat at 1811 14th St NW. The nearest Metro is U Street/African-Amer Civ War Memorial–Cardozo (Green/Yellow lines), about three blocks south (www.blackcatdc.com ). From there, walk north on 14th St to reach the bar. Multiple DC buses also serve 14th Street and U Street. If driving, note that street parking is scarce and usually metered (consider arriving early or parking a few blocks away). Uber/Lyft drop-offs are typically done at the main Black Cat entrance on 14th St.
Is there street parking or a parking garage nearby?
Street parking is limited and metered along U, 14th, and side streets; meters are enforced until evening. A few commercial lots exist in the neighborhood (especially near Rhode Island Avenue and Logan Circle), but they can fill up when events let out. Taxis and rideshares are often the easiest option after late-night shows. If you drive, allow extra time to find an open spot.
What is the seating or standing arrangement inside the Red Room?
The Red Room is mainly standing-room. It has a central bar with about a dozen stools (www.washingtonpost.com ), plus a couple of small tables and couches off to one side. There is no fixed stage and no reserved seating. On a busy night you’ll most likely be standing at the bar or around the edges. If you want a seat, arrive early to grab a stool or couch before it fills up.
Is the Red Room accessible for wheelchair users or people with disabilities?
The Red Room is on the second level of the Black Cat complex. The venue was renovated fairly recently, so there is an elevator in the building. Wheelchair users can enter through the main Black Cat entrance and use the elevator to reach the Red Room. Once inside, the space is compact but has some open floor area; note that the bar has a few steps leading down to couches, so ask staff for assistance if needed.
What are the bag and security policies?
On event nights there is usually a brief security check at the entrance (bags may be looked in). There’s no strict size limit on small bags or purses, but oversized luggage or non-essentials will likely be discouraged. It’s best to keep your belongings minimal and carry-on only ethics – this is a dive bar, not a cloakroom. Always lock up valuables or leave them behind.
Is there a dress code to enter?
No formal dress code is enforced. The Red Room is very casual – you’ll fit in wearing jeans, band t-shirts, sneakers or any everyday attire. Costumes or themed outfits are fine on special event nights. Just avoid overly revealing or offensive clothing. Essentially, wear what’s comfortable for a club/dive bar. (Leave bulky coats or backpacks in your car, as space is tight.)
Can I bring a camera or take photos and videos?
Casual photography is allowed – many patrons take cellphone snaps or short videos. There is no strict no-photo policy when there is no formal performance happening. Be mindful of others; avoid flash or tripods that block walkways. If a formal show or DJ is happening, they may ask you to refrain from blocking the view with a big camera. Personal smartphone pictures for social media are generally fine.
Are children or pets allowed in the Red Room?
Children (under 21) are allowed inside as long as they are with an adult, but they must always carry and show ID, and they cannot purchase or consume alcohol (www.blackcatdc.com ). The venue does not have a specifically “kid-friendly” environment (it’s a bar), so use your best judgment. Pets are not permitted inside nightclub areas; leave animals at home for everyone’s safety.
Does the Red Room have food service or a menu?
The Red Room itself does not serve full meals. There are usually only bar snacks (nuts, chips) available. For food, your best bet is to eat before you arrive (or step out to nearby restaurants). The Black Cat’s main building used to have the Food For Thought café (vegan/vegetarian bar menu) near the entrance, but it’s best to check current hours. Otherwise, plan to grab dinner at one of the neighborhood eateries listed above before the show.
Does the Red Room have a coat check or lockers?
There is no formal coat check counter in the Red Room itself. Black Cat sometimes offers a check service during very busy shows, but it’s not guaranteed or advertised. In practice, most patrons keep jackets on or drape them over seats. If you have valuable items, it’s safest to leave them in your car or locker at home. Carry just a small purse or pocket items.
What is the capacity or size of the Red Room?
It’s quite small – widely reported to be around 75–100 people maximum when full. The official fire code capacity is likely in that range. Practically speaking, on a packed night you’ll see roughly a dozen people at the bar and a few more at small tables, with others standing. It feels very cozy; many regulars say it’s tight but charming.
What are the Red Room’s hours of operation?
The Red Room does not have a fixed daily schedule. It typically opens in the evening when the Black Cat does concerts (around 8–9pm) and closes around midnight (or later on weekends) (www.blackcatdc.com ). On nights with no scheduled show, the bar may or may not open at all. Your best bet is to check the Black Cat’s calendar: it lists showtimes (doors around 8pm, music ends by 11-11:30pm), and the Red Room will be active after those hours. It usually shuts down by 12–1am.
Why is it called the “Red Room”?
It’s simply a nickname that stuck because of the décor: the (new) bar area is painted deep red and even uses a folding red divider wall (www.washingtonpost.com ). The name reflects the room’s look as much as a theme. (It’s not related to any illicit “red room” story or anything; it’s just a play on its color and dive atmosphere.)
