Temptations of Temperance Hall

Jan 25, 2006
Lisa Simon
Columbia Heights Resident

For those who haven’t heard about Petworth’s good fortune, the new Temperance Hall bar and restaurant opened January 13th to what seems like uniformly rave reviews.

It’s a highly ambient space with low lights glowing through a pristine row of chandeliers, running the length of the box-car built row.  And these chandeliers (apparently a little something special from the creative minds at Brass Knob in Adams Morgan) capture the essence of Temperance Hall beautifully--traditional, but with a twist.  The bar is themed from the 1920s era, but it’s not the cloying nostalgia of thoughtlessly “themed” places.  Like the un-uniform colors sporadically placed in the chandeliers, Temperance adds a twist to the past—a nod to honor it, but a sure move toward the future.  A bit of history, a bit of whimsy, a lot of sparkle and charm. 

If ambience isn’t reason enough to make Temperance your next place to eat, the food might.  The early menu is what one would expect from a neighborhood pub in the Capitol city—hearty American comfort food you can afford on a Tuesday night out.  Most folks won’t be able to eat here everyday (at least not those of us who cook…I’ve heard tale that some of you don’t, but I don’t understand how it’s possible). I believe most meals were under $10.  They all seemed appealing and included some vegetarian choices. 

Dan, the attentive barkeep and manager, says that he’s soliciting help in shaping bar to the neighborhood’s taste.  Get your dibs in early for wines, microbrews, and booze.  Other temptations of Temperance: a pool table ($2 a game), internet jukebox, 2nd full bar downstairs, and rumored patio with outdoor seating for warmer weather.  This is a place doing everything right to become a neighborhood bar—a come-as-you-are and be who you are authentic pub.  Everyone who respects that effort should try it and then, once smitten, tell your ten closest friends.