Under the managing group as Black's Bar and Kitchen, Black Jack is a bar in Washington DC that is owned by Black Restaurant Group. Upstairs from their sister restaurant, Pearl Dive (also owned by Black Restaurant Group), Black Jack is a whimsically goth/retro lounge. The dark wood tables tattooed with red complements the red ambiance lighting. Their main bar has movies projected onto the brick wall behind the liquor, during my time there they had Beetlejuice playing followed by Edward Scissorhands if that gives you any idea of the bar's atmosphere.In the back of the bar the mood changes considerably. There are television playing sports games and two bocce courts for those interested in throwing around some heavy balls after a few drinks and riling up their competitive spirit. The cocktail menu at Black Jack is unique and innovative just like the decor and spirit of the bar. With cocktails like Peep Show and Bull's Blood (pictured to the right) the drinks are as exciting as the bocce ball games. My favorite of the night was The Cigar, a tequila concoction with a huge cube of smoked peach ice and proscuitto to accompany the cocktail. It was the epitome of delicious sweet, smoky and salty all in a cocktail. And honestly, how could I turn down a drink that had meat on a stick? I couldn't.
After a few drinks up front, my friends and I made our way back to the bocce ball courts under the Black Jack sign reminiscent of old Las Vegas. The majority of the crowd was young professional aged 25-35 all looking to have a few drinks and good company. If you're ever in the DC area, check it out because I had a blast. Have a good seafood dinner down stairs at Pearl Dive and make your way upstairs for after dinner drinks.
The Cigar - Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Lemon, Smoked Peach Ice, Charcuterie
