About Public Bar Live
Public Bar Live is a multi-level sports bar and nightlife venue in Dupont Circle (1214 18th St NW) that blends a busy game-viewing atmosphere with a live-music club vibe. Formerly the sports bar “Public Bar” (opened 2009) in this space (barredindc.com ), it closed in early 2019 and was completely redesigned and rebranded. In May 2019 it reopened as “Public Bar Live” under the ownership of the team behind the neighboring Sauf Haus beer garden (dc.eater.com ) (dc.eater.com ). The new design (by Washington’s Swatchroom studio) filled the 8,000-square-foot building with colorful murals and booths (dc.eater.com ). For example, press coverage notes that “the biggest change is a dramatic 24-foot stage that hovers over a newly built bar” (dc.eater.com ) – every concertgoer feels close to the music. In fact, Eater DC quipped that Public Bar Live has a stage literally built “right on top of a bar” (dc.eater.com ). Industry insiders even call Public Bar Live “Sauf Haus’s older sister” (dc.eater.com ), emphasizing the shared ownership and similar high-energy crowd.
The venue spans three indoor levels plus a rooftop deck, with a promotional count of 49 HDTVs and even DC’s largest 240″ HD video screen (dc.eater.com ). According to event-rental listings, it can seat roughly 300 people or hold up to ~1,000 standing (www.tagvenue.com ). Public Bar Live’s layout features five distinct bar areas across its floors (stage bar, back bar, mezzanine lounge, etc.) (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). All of this makes it one of the city’s larger independent live-music/sports venues. The combination of big screens, full bar service, a stage with professional lighting and smoke effects, and a converted rooftop lounge helps Public Bar Live stand out in DC’s nightlife scene (dc.eater.com ) (dc.eater.com ).
Events and Programming
Public Bar Live hosts a wide range of events catering to both sports fans and nightlife crowds. By day or for major games it functions as a sports bar (often showing soccer, NFL, college football, basketball, etc., on dozens of TVs (dc.eater.com )). At night it regularly turns into a nightclub or concert hall. Weekly specialties include Latin dance parties – for example, Salsa Con Candela on Wednesdays and Bachata Brunch on Sundays (publicbarlive.com ). These weekly events feature live DJs and often dance lessons or performances, drawing a dedicated crowd of local dancers. Beyond the regular schedule, Public Bar Live books a wide mix of performers: local rock bands, Latin ensembles, cover bands, DJs playing EDM/hip-hop, and themed costume or throwback nights. The venue also hosts private events and holiday specials (e.g. New Year’s Eve parties). Ticket prices vary by event — many dance nights or sports watch events are free or low-cover (just drink minimums), whereas bigger concerts or headlining acts might have $10–$20 cover charges or advance tickets. (In general, tickets can be purchased online via the venue’s booking links or event platforms, or paid at the door if seats remain.)
Notable past acts include local and regional touring bands and DJs. In its first year after reopening, press noted that Public Bar Live aimed for regional hip-hop and rock acts, with booking through local promoter Sideshow Productions. As one article put it, the bar’s concert capacity is “on par with that at Rock & Roll Hotel,” another famous mid-size DC music club (dc.eater.com ). On sports nights, the atmosphere is rowdy and festive; on concert nights, it turns into a dark, dance-club vibe with lasers and smoke. Throughout 2020–2025, the lineup has spanned college watch parties (e.g. football Saturdays), Latin dance nights, electronic dance clubs, and even comedy open-mic nights on slow evenings. In short, there’s “always something exciting” on tap (publicbarlive.com ), from live DJs and themed parties to championship game watch parties. Event flyers typically list prices from free cover (drink order only) up to about $15–$20 depending on the headliner.
Tickets and Booking
For special concerts or ticketed events, check Public Bar Live’s website or social media and sign up for the email list. Tickets often go on sale a few weeks in advance through the venue’s reservation system or Eventbrite links. You can buy online in advance (with will-call pick-up at the door) or pay when you arrive – many acts allow same-night entry if tickets remain. Weekday and casual events (like Salsa nights) typically have no cover charge aside from a drink order. On busier nights and for popular artists, it’s wise to purchase tickets early or arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to ensure entry. Ticket prices are venue-controlled and differ by show: for example, themed dance nights might be free or $5–$10 cover, whereas a national touring act could be $20 or more. Public Bar Live itself sells tickets directly (via its site or event links) and traditionally at the door as needed. There is no separate box office, but the staff will handle will-call. (Tip: If buying in advance, book through the “Book Now” links provided on the official site’s events page. (www.publicbarlive.com ) (publicbarlive.com ))
Seating and Layout
Public Bar Live fills its three floors plus roof with bar areas and viewing zones. The main ground floor is an open space leading up to the stage. The stage is 24 feet high, which actually helps everyone see the performance – even the upper mezzanine seats have a clear view (dc.eater.com ) (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). On the ground floor, you’ll find the primary stage bar (wedged under the stage) and a back bar – in total 12 draft lines (8 at the stage bar, 4 at the rear) (dc.eater.com ). Most guests stand near the stage on big night; along the sides are some booth-style seats and high tables for small groups.
Stage Floor (First Level): This is mostly general admission standing room around the stage, with a full bar underneath. Booths around the perimeter offer some seating, but only the earliest arrivals or reserved table guests will sit here during packed shows. The sound system is powerful, so fans often stand close to the speakers (or even use ear protection) (dc.eater.com ) (dc.eater.com ).Mezzanine/Second Level: A raised balcony wraps around the rear and sides of the first floor. It’s geared toward VIP and bottle service, with stylish blue booths along a glass railing facing the stage (dc.eater.com ) (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). The collapse proves that “the stage was built high so that mezzanine ticket holders have prime sight lines” (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). Mezzanine tables are usually first-come (unless reserved), and a smaller bar on this level serves cocktails and wine (mainly bottles, per the design).Rooftop Patio: An outdoor deck above offers skyline views down Connecticut Avenue. This area has its own bar(s) (2 added in 2019) and lounge seating. It’s open late-night on weekends for dancing or late drinks. The rooftop can hold roughly 150 people (dc.eater.com ) and is a sunny lounge spot earlier in the evening, turning into a loud dance club after dark.
For gig goers, the best spots depend on the experience you want. Front-center on the main floor is ideal for dancing and immersing in the act. For a view of the whole crowd or a break from the crush, the mezzanine or rooftop patio gives a vantage point (both overlook the stage) (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). Beware that downstairs bar staff sometimes quip they need ear plugs down by the powerful subwoofers under the stage (dc.eater.com ) – it really can be deafening near the sound system. Small tables and stools on the mezzanine mean you can sit away from the crowd, but even on a packed night you’ll see each performance quite well thanks to the stage height (dc.eater.com ). Avoid corners hidden from view, and if being close to the TVs for sports is essential, you may need to camp out near a particular screen.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 1214 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. The venue is located just north of Dupont Circle, near the intersection of 18th and M Streets NW. Because it’s in a dense urban spot, plan to arrive by transit or on foot if possible.
Metro & Bus: Public Bar Live is well-served by the Washington Metro Red Line. The closest stops are Farragut North (at 17th & K St NW), about a 6-minute walk away, and Dupont Circle (at 19th & Q St NW), about an 8-minute walk (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). From Farragut, walk northwest up 17th Street N.W. to M St; from Dupont, walk south down Connecticut and then east on M to 18th. Regular DC Circulator buses (the Dupont–Union Station route) stop along 17th Street near L St NW (two blocks east of the bar) if you prefer bus transit. Several Metrobus routes (e.g. the 42, 52 on L St NW) also run nearby.
Driving & Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot for Public Bar Live. Street parking on 18th and surrounding blocks is metered and in high demand (bring quarters or the ParkMobile app for pay stations). Private parking garages are available a short walk away – for example, Colonial Parking at 1800 Massachusetts Ave NW (two blocks south) or a covered lot at 1325 18th St NW. ParkWhiz and SpotHero listings show hourly garage spots roughly $10–$20 per night near Dupont. The venue advises allowing time to find parking, especially on weekends, or use rideshare.
Rideshare & Taxis: As with any DC venue, ride-hailing and taxis are easy. The most convenient drop-off is on 18th Street directly in front of the bar (between L and M). Late at night, 18th Street NW is still well-lit but keep track of your ride app status. A taxi stand is also nearby at Dupont Circle. If traveling from areas south of downtown, a taxi or Uber to Farragut North metro plus a short walk is often fastest.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Public Bar Live, expect a lively, crowded nightclub atmosphere. Security will check IDs (it’s a 21+ venue after dark) and may do bag checks or wand scans. The main door opens into a color-splashed foyer (the entry features a cityscape mural and bright blue-yellow brick wall design (dc.eater.com )). Staff will have you sign a cover and might stamp your hand if there’s a door charge. Note the dress code is casual clubwear or smart-casual (T-shirts and jeans are fine, but flip-flops and workwear might draw attention). Women often wear club dresses or heels for Late-night events; men tend toward neat casual shirts. Overall the vibe is trendy but not overly formal.
Once inside, you’ll see four main bar areas (as noted above) serving beer, wine, and cocktails. The drink menu is extensive (50+ beer styles on tap and bottle). Indeed, Eater DC reported 12 draft lines (8 at the main stage bar and 4 at the back) (dc.eater.com ). Common pours include domestic drafts in plastic 16-oz cups (to avoid breakage) (dc.eater.com ) – it’s a busy scene like the 9:30 Club style. Bartenders can whip you craft cocktails; signboards or the hostess can point out the night’s drink specials. Pro tip: even when busy, the lines move quickly with multiple bartenders on shift. Bar stools at the counters fill up fast, so if you want a seat at one of the bars, arrive early.
The kitchen serves typical American bar grub. The menu was kept simple on purpose: lots of shareable snacks and hearty finger foods. Stick to bar-friendly items – Eater highlighted “tacos, wings, fries, nachos, quesadillas, and tequeños” (Venezuelan cheese sticks) as the core offerings (dc.eater.com ). There aren’t exotic entrees, just straightforward bites that pair with beer. The chicken nachos and beer-battered fries are among the most-ordered menu items. Barring late-night crowds, you can always order a plate at the bars or a quick service counter near the kitchen (open till closing). Reservations are not accepted for regular dining, but large groups can pre-arrange a private party in the back room if needed.
Amenity-wise, there is one large mens and one ladies restroom on the first floor (off the main area). The entrance is at ground level (no elevator), so note that wheelchairs or strollers cannot reach the upper decks under current layout. (If your party includes someone with mobility needs, they can enjoy the ground floor area and big screen TVs there.) Coat checks are usually available on coat-check nights in winter, but not guaranteed – space is tight, so carry small or clear bags. There is probably a fee for coat service on very busy nights. For connectivity, the venue does not generally advertise public Wi-Fi, so mobile data is best. Charging stations are not available, so keep phones charged beforehand.
A final heads-up: the sound can be very loud. Even press coverage joked that bartenders working directly under the stage “wear ear plugs” to handle the volume (dc.eater.com ). If you‘re sensitive to noise, consider grabbing seats toward the back or on the mezzanine, and allow your ears a break. Overall, though, the vibe is fun and high-energy: across the crowded dance floor you’ll feel the bass thumping through your feet. The lights can be strobing at night, so bring sunglasses for the roof if the sun is out. Last call is generally at or before closing (2 a.m. on weeknights, 3 a.m. on Fridays/Saturdays), so plan your exit/wrap-up accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
In Dupont Circle you’re spoiled for amenities. For food and pre-show dining, there are plenty of solid options within a block or two:
Cafe Du Parc: A classic French-American brasserie right on K St at the Dupont Circle fountain. (Good for a formal dinner or cocktail before a show.)Pisco y Nazca: A trendy Peruvian gastropub located just across 18th St in the building next door – great for ceviche and pisco cocktails. (dc.eater.com )Hank’s Oyster Bar: A laid-back seafood spot about one block south on M St – famous for East Coast oysters and comfort seafood dishes.Sushi Taro: (Advanced reservation) upscale Japanese on 17th St NW, if you want high-end sushi before the show.Bistro du Coin: A cozy French bistro on Connecticut Ave, popular for brunch/brunch or late snacks into the afternoon.
For drinks or late-night bar-hopping, you’re in a famous nightlife zone. A few popular nearby bars include McClellan’s Retreat (an Irish pub a block south at 18th & L NW) and Bars like Golden Age (dark cocktail lounge on E Street) or the colorful rooftop bar at Press Club (vinyl-themed, newly opened in 2024) within walking distance. Of course, Sauf Haus (the German beer garden next door) is literally steps away if you want a big beer and outdoor space, and it stays open very late. Dupont Pub Crawl routes pass right through 18th St on most weekends – so the area stays lively after Public Bar Live closes.
Neighborhood hotels are also within a short walk, which is convenient for out-of-towners. The Aloft Washington DC (corner of 18th & M) is just 1 block south – you can hear music faintly there when the club is packed. A few blocks away are The Dupont Circle Hotel (16th & Q St NW), Marriott or Embassy Suites on Connecticut Ave, and boutique inns at 15th & N Street. If you plan to stay over, arriving early to bag-check and access rooms (the downtown hotels tend to fill up fast on weekends) is wise. In general, most guests will arrive after check-in, and most hotels close their own bars by midnight, so Public Bar Live becomes the late-night option for hotel guests.
What Makes This Venue Special
Public Bar Live is special because it combined a traditional sports bar with a modern concert club, right in the heart of DC. Its dramatic renovations and multi-function layout are unique: a stage with a bar underneath, multiple levels, and a rooftop lounge – all in one spot. As Eater DC put it, it even boasts a 24-foot floating stage over a tiled bar (dc.eater.com ). This creates an intimate concert feel; even the furthest spot on the floor isn’t far from the music. The stylish Swatchroom redesign added eye-catching cityscape murals and bold colors inside (dc.eater.com ), so it feels more like a trendy lounge than a grungy bar. Despite the fancy looks, it remains casual and fun – a place where die-hard sports fans and college alumni can mingle with dance-crowd regulars.
Another special feature is its connection to local beer culture: being run by the owners of Sauf Haus means it has big-tank German beers on tap alongside American craft. They even market Public Bar Live as Sauf Haus’s “older sister” (dc.eater.com ). On game days you’ll often find college alumni meetups (e.g. for University of Georgia fans on Saturdays), plus local supporters of soccer and rugby. When no games are on, the venue seamlessly transforms into a club scene every week. This dual identity – big-screen sports by day, dancefloor/dancefloor by night – is unlike most DC venues. The trip from one vibe to the other is smooth: after the last goal or TV timeout, lights just switch to glow sticks and DJs.
Public Bar Live has also enjoyed some notable cultural moments. Its 2019 relaunch party (after a year of renovations) featured local bands and was covered as a big “surprise comeback.” Since then it has hosted indie DC bands and Latin music showcases that enriched the city’s club calendar. For the city’s nightlife, it helped pioneer the concept of a “hybrid entertainment venue” – combining features of a sports bar, taproom, and concert hall. Its large screens and state-of-the-art sound system mean even die-hard sports fans can feel at home here, while the high energy of the live-music production appeals to younger crowds. In short, Public Bar Live matters to the local scene because it brought new energy into an old Dupont space and gave DC a new place where any night out – from watching a World Cup game to dancing salsa – can live under one (24-foot-high) roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, here are some quick tips to enhance your Public Bar Live experience: Always carry a valid photo ID (21+) – this place strictly checks IDs for drinks and entry. Dress code is casual but club-friendly (no sports jerseys or baggy pants needed – just be neat). Bags are usually allowed but subject to a quick security check on entry; clear bags are faster to handle. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider seating yourself on the upstairs mezzanine or rooftop or bring ear protection – the sound is very loud (even bartenders near the subwoofers wear ear plugs under the stage (dc.eater.com )). Check the event schedule ahead of time: for sold-out shows or popular game screenings, arrive early (30–60 minutes ahead) to secure a good spot and avoid lines. Doors often open ~1 hour before showtime or early for big sports games.
Age and policy notes: This is primarily a 21-and-up venue after dark (curfew or early-evening events may allow teens with ID). Children are generally not admitted, especially on rowdy nights. No outside alcohol or food is allowed, and absolutely no smoking inside (by DC law). Photography is allowed (people often snap pics of the stage and crowd), but professional cameras or video rigs usually require permission – in practice you’ll mostly see phone pics. There is no public Wi-Fi (save battery for social media and ride apps). All major credit cards are accepted at the bars, and venues like this rarely have on-site ATMs, so bring some cash for tips or minor purchases.
Arrival & Departure: Plan your transportation. Weeknights (Mon–Thu) the Metro closes at 11:30 p.m., Fri/Sat at 3 a.m. Public Bar Live closes by 2 a.m. on school nights and 3 a.m. on weekends. Late-night rideshares or cabs are plentiful in Dupont Circle, but during big events expect a short wait. Don’t leave belongings unattended – the crowd is friendly, but overcrowded venues anywhere can get pickpocketing if you aren’t careful. Lastly, enjoy the free water – bartenders will gladly give you a cup of ice water if you need one.
How many people can Public Bar Live hold?
The whole venue is large – roughly 8,000 sq ft – and can accommodate around 300 seated guests or up to about 1,000 standing (dc.eater.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). Practically speaking, capacity is often limited by fire codes (around four hundred people inside at once). The venue breaks this up across three floors plus the rooftop deck, so occupancy builds gradually through the space.
What kind of shows and events are hosted at Public Bar Live?
Expect a mix of sports watch parties, dance nights, and live music. They run weekly Latin dance events (e.g. Salsa Con Candela on Wednesdays, Bachata Brunch on Sundays (publicbarlive.com )), plus themed DJ parties and open decks. On game days, big-screen broadcasts (NFL, soccer, college football, etc.) draw the crowd. The venue also books local/regional bands and DJs – everything from rock, funk, maybe reggae or soul, to Top 40/hip-hop. In the past few years they’ve included cover bands, tribute acts, and occasional touring artists. Ticket prices vary: many social events are free (with drink orders), and bigger concerts may cost $10–$20.
How can I buy tickets for events at Public Bar Live?
Public Bar Live sells show tickets directly. Watch their official site or social media for online links (events often use Eventbrite or the venue’s reservation page). You can also pay at the door if tickets are still available. For recurring parties (like Salsa nights) check for “Book Now” event pages listing any cover charge. It's best to get advance tickets for big concerts, but for regular weekly events and sports watch parties you can usually just walk in. If you’re buying online, tickets will often list at a few dollars or just cover charge – again, it depends on the act.
Where are the best seats to see the stage?
Because the stage is built 24 feet high (dc.eater.com ), even the back of the venue has a clear line of sight. Front-floor center (near the stage) is ideal for dancing up close. The mezzanine level offers an elevated birds-eye view – it has booths and tables behind a glass railing, so you won’t have obstructed sight (sturgeon-bluebird-s5ja.squarespace.com ). Roof deck patrons see only part of the show (the overhang can block some view), but they enjoy an open-air atmosphere. Large screens fill the wall behind the stage, so any spot near a TV is good for watching sports. Avoid standing too far in the back corner if you want the full concert experience; try to move closer or up to the rail when possible.
What are the door policies and dress code?
Guests must be 21+ to drink. After dark it’s a 21+ venue, so expect strict ID checks at the door (bring a government-issued ID). The bar has a casual club vibe; most people wear jeans and shirts, or nicer casual dresses. Athletic jerseys are fine on sports nights. There is no formal dress code beyond being neat and presentable – it’s definitely more nightclub than dive. Prohibited items: large backpacks, prohibited drinks/food, outside alcohol. The bar reserves the right to refuse entry for anyone too intoxicated or wearing overly bulky outfits. Women often wear heels or stylish flats, men stick to sneakers or casual shoes. During holiday events or special nights you might see themed costumes or more formal attire, but in general dress comfortably for a fun (and crowded) evening.
Is Public Bar Live accessible?
The venue is on three levels connected by stairs, and we have not seen mention of an elevator. The ground floor/entry area is accessible by a street-level entrance, but the upstairs mezzanine and rooftop likely aren’t wheelchair-accessible. Anyone with mobility needs should know the restrooms and main viewing area are on the first floor. It’s best to call ahead if you need special accommodation. Otherwise, seating is first-come at tables; the crew does try to be helpful, but physically the building is an older structure.
What should I bring or know for a concert or watch party?
Bring a valid photo ID and credit/debit card or cash (the bar accepts cards for drinks). Clear or small bags are best for faster security checks. If you’re sensitive to loud music, pack earplugs – the venue is very loud during concerts (press coverage even notes bartenders under the stage wear ear plugs (dc.eater.com )). On hot days, it can get packed and warm inside; dress in layers so you can stay comfortable. Try to arrive at least 30 minutes early for big events. Finally, check the weather: the rooftop is outside, so late-night rain or cool weather will affect the open-air floor. On winter nights they may close off (ask staff). And always tip your bartenders – the bar moves fast but appreciates a dollar or two on checks if service was quick.
What transportation options are recommended to get home late at night?
If you stay until late (after midnight on weekdays or 3 am on weekends), Metro is limited or closed (the Red Line shuts down around midnight). For the latest trains, note that on weekends the subway runs live until 3 am from Dupont/Farragut north. Otherwise, rideshare and taxis are the safest bet. The Dupont Circle area is busy with cabs at night. Plan your pick-up spot at the main entrance on 18th St NW. If you must park, remember garages close by 2 am so you’ll need to pay by card and move your car. A common strategy: take the Metro up to Farragut or Dupont and then walk (so you have a shorter cab ride home).
Does Public Bar Live have any signature food or drink?
The menu leans on comfort food. The most famous items are the chicken nachos and large tortilla dishes – but Eater noted the menu “is heavy on tacos” and other shareables (dc.eater.com ). They also do wings and burgers, but nothing too gourmet. On drinks, there’s no single house cocktail, but the bars pour a range of local draft beers and classic cocktails. Because its sibling Sauf Haus is a beer hall, Public Bar Live’s taps offer German imports as well as American brews. Their happy hour specials (weekdays 5–7 pm) can be a good deal on beers and shots.
Are there coat checks or storage lockers?
When it’s cold outside, Public Bar Live sometimes provides a coat check (usually for a few dollars). They typically set up a staffed cloakroom near the bar, but it may have limited slots. During warm seasons or on nights with heavy traffic, there may be no formal coat-check, so consider wearing a vest/pack or leave bulky coats in your car. The venue does not provide lockers, so valuables should stay with you. Security will scan bags, but it’s generally safe if you keep belongings at your feet or by your side in crowds.
Is there an age restriction for this venue?
Yes. Public Bar Live is 21+ after 7 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. It’s a bar/club environment, so minors are generally not allowed. If you see sports events advertised, understand that even those are for adult faces only (no one under 21). Staff check IDs at the door; anyone without valid ID will be refused entry. Plan accordingly: if you have younger guests, they will need to stay home or find a family-friendly venue instead.
What is the coat check policy at Public Bar Live?
Coat check is available during colder months or very busy nights. They usually charge a small fee (around $2–$5) to check coats and large bags at the entrance. It’s not guaranteed year-round, so do not rely on it on random dates. If there is no coat check you’ll need to keep personal items with you at your booth or send them to the car. Note that handbags and small daypacks are allowed after a security scan, just keep them under seat when crowded.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to Public Bar Live?
No – typical bar policy. Public Bar Live does not allow outside food or beverages. All drinks must be purchased from the bar upstairs or on the ground floor. If you bring in your own snacks, security will confiscate them. They want you to enjoy the on-site drink and food menu: tacos, nachos, wings, and bar cocktails. Feel free to bring a small snack for children (though kids aren’t allowed after dusk, so likely irrelevant), but adult beverages must be their craft beers, cocktails or sold by the house.
Does Public Bar Live offer happy hour specials?
Yes, Public Bar Live has weekday happy hours. Typically from 5–7 pm (check for current times), they discount certain drinks. For example, they often offer $3 off draft beer, liquor bottles, and cocktails early in the evening (dc.eater.com ). Late-night munchies (fries, wings) might also be cheaper during happy hour. Keep an eye on their website or social media for-updated promotions. (After 9pm, it usually switches to regular pricing.)
