As an Adams Morgan resident over 30, finding a neighborhood joint with no Fireball on the menu can be a challenge. Enter Maison Bar à Vins, a neighborhood hang for grown-ups, and my new go to spot. From the team behind Lutèce and Lapis, this new Parisian-inspired wine bar opening on Sept. 13 strikes the perfect balance between unfussy hangout and elevated eats.
Like a Dinner Party You Don’t Have To Host
Owner Omar Popal describes Maison Bar à Vins as if you’re walking into a dinner party at somebody’s home, and that’s exactly what it feels like. Upon entering you’re met by a cozy wooden bar, restored fireplaces, chevron floors, and all the classic architectural elements of an old D.C. row home. The front is dominated by a walk-in only bar space while the back has small tables for dining and reservations.
Pliny’s Martini at Maison Bar à Vins. (Photo by Deb Lindsey)
What’s On the Menu?
The menu at Maison Bar à Vins is for the snackers. While there are full entrees available, like a brioche stuffed chicken and homemade seasonal pasta, the majority will be small plates made for sharing or having alongside a glass of wine. Think oysters with coconut curry, seaweed choux buns, croquettes with local smoked eel, and lamb tartar with bone marrow aioli. “Dishes that are really comforting with a glass of wine after work, like what I want to eat,” says Chef Matt Conroy.
They will also have a consolidated late-night menu after 10 p.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m. on weekends with drinking snacks like escargot, garlicky mushrooms, and toasted brioche.
Wine Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
Boasting a wine cellar of over 1,000 bottles, Maison Bar à Vins has all the depth and knowledge of a top-tier wine bar without any of the pretentiousness. “We don't like to take ourselves too seriously,” says Conroy, “If you want to nerd out about a specific grape we have the people to help you, but if you just wanna to have a glass of rosé and chat with friends, that's great too.”
Suzy Critchlow, who leads the Popal Restaurant group’s bar program, is also curating a full cocktail menu with French liqueurs, creative wine-based cocktails, and elevated no-proof drinks.
Bar area at Maison Bar à Vins. (Photo by Deb Lindsey)
More On the Way
Later this year, the team plans to open the second floor for more dining space and to host live music and DJ sets. Next year, the third floor will open for private diners and community events.
Hours
- Wed, Thurs, Sun: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m..
- Fri, Sat: 5 p.m. - 1 a.m. The kitchen closes at 12 a.m.
😋 Inside Scoop: Where In DC Is Chef Conroy Eating?
On his days off, Conroy says he often finds himself seated at a cozy table at Izakaya Seki, and particularly recommends their wine program. “It’s a little hidden gem for wine. I often end up at their wine nights they do on Tuesday,” said Conroy.
