Trade

Spent a few days in Washington DC and went bar-hopping after dinner. This is a fun spot, pretty chill crowd during our visit, and ended up concluding our evening here. Threw back several vodka + sodas—it was a good time!

Great bar with a patio, good drinks but the place could use a makeover.

A great evening of fun and room to dance! Great wine deals and a ton of nice staff! Will definitely start the evening here next time! And then probably end up here as well!Food: 5/5

Trade is one of the only top three gay bars in my list that makes the cut for not only a gay bar but also an inclusive space for everyone. The rest of the gay bars unfortunately, do not make the list of three but if there is improvement, could potentially earn a spot. Every time I go it’s mostly a diverse crowd. Hopefully they’re able to expand next door! The only downside I would say is some Bartenders not just here but also in other bars as well, please smile more and be more engaging with customers if the venue is not busy. I’m not going to tip you for mediocre or even adequate service - just because you made a drink that took a minute but rather, will tip you if you demonstrate who you are as a Bartender e.g. knowing my name if I’m a regular, asking how I’m doing, etc..

Had an amazing time. Everyone dressed up for Halloween. Good music, vibe, crowded, strong drinks. I loved the whole atmosphere. Bartenders were great and attentive. Clean place for a bar. Amble room to dance/sit/chat. I'd definitely visit again when back in DC.

They are doing an excellent job with Covid guidelines. Fair prices, nice service. Convenient location. You need to make a reservation. Cool ambiance. I recommend this place. Drinks are strong.

Possibly the best gay bar in DC. Unpretentious, very social, down to earth. It is much easier to meet guys here, everyone seems to enjoy the music and friendlier unlike the other gay bars around it. Lighting is perfect. It's not too bright to the point that makes you too self conscious. DJs play mainstream tunes and remixes and of course gays like that. Drinks are better compared to the other bar that I refuse to mention. Bartenders are also quite nice. edit: I always liked this place and I thought that the sketchiness of it is appealing. But when a bartender lost my credit card and they couldn't do anything about it, that makes this place literally sketchy. I never had a problem the lack of furnishing but what happened was so weird. They also don't accept mobile IDs unlike the other gay bars. Even with all valid details.

What is there to say? Trade is best in show, and I am not talking about the drag shows held in their space. The XL happy hour is one the best things. I have had the pleasure to find inspiration for writing with their trance music playing on the background and the exhilarating decor. Their back outdoor patio is spacious with plenty of seating offering the perfect balance for those looking to have a sit to drink or stand while conversing with friends.

Really cute space with a really friendly staff. I loved the fog and lighting and had good dancing space. The music was not ideal for me, think older dua lipa vibe. If that’s for you then it’ll be 5 stars but that did knock it down for me.Food: 3/5

Overall good place to be and nice decent music, some people are a little touchy but it’s not that big of a deal. The only negative experience I had not personally but my friend gave the bartender her card to pay for 2 drinks and 2 shots. One was $35 and I believe the shots where $8. The bartender decided to give himself a tip out her card without her authorization and gave himself a $52 tip. Lucky my friend was able to call her bank and dispute the charge. If you go to this bar do NOT USE CARD! Cause the bartender will over charge your card purposely.