While its name may sound a bit antiquated, Sign of the Whale is an award-winning DC bar that's most definitely anchored in the 21st century. The bar turns out local microbrews and trendy, hand-crafted cocktails, while the kitchen serves locally sourced American comfort fare.

The menu at Sign of the Whale includes plenty of standard single-person entrees ranging from burgers and fried chicken to hearty bowls of chili. Regulars at this hip hotspot suggest that first timers try one of the kitchen's unique "platters," which are designed to be shared by 3 to 5 people. Order a single Barge platter for your whole table and try the great selection of bar snacks, including hot wings, mozzarella sticks, tater tots, and more. If you'd prefer something a bit more health conscious, you might go for the Dip platter, which includes hummus, artichoke dip, and guacamole. Everything pairs well with one of Sign of the Whale's signature libations, and its comfortable atmosphere makes it a great place to meet for a drink near Residences on the Avenue.

Sign of the Whale
1825 M Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 785-1110
www.signofthewhaledc.com

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr amsfrank