Betsy
Perched above Belga Café in Washington, DC’s Capitol Hill, Betsy is a rooftop retreat that leans into simplicity, charm, and a distinct gin-forward identity. Accessed via a discreet alley behind Belga (you’ll find the entrance tucked off 8th Street SE), Betsy invites guests to step into a light, airy dining and drinking garden that balances elegance and approachability. Betsy’s menu reflects a hybrid of fresh seasonal fare and cocktails that spotlight gin in inventive ways. You’ll find snacks, share plates, and more substantial dishes — think pork belly buns, smoked salmon toast, crispy wings, lamb kofta — clearly designed to complement the drink program. The cocktail list leans botanical, bright, and refreshing, playing to its garden-rooftop setting. The atmosphere is open and breezy in warm months, with umbrellas, greenery, and views over the neighborhood. In cooler weather, the rooftop is tented and outfitted with heat lamps and blankets to preserve the cozy, rooftop ambiance year round. Service is first-come, first-serve — no reservations — which enhances the casual, garden-party vibe. Betsy also runs a happy hour (weekdays around 4:30–5:30pm) with drink specials and discounts on “bites.” Its positioning as a “gin garden” is intentional: many cocktails are gin based, and the botanical identity is part of its core brand. Though small, Betsy makes the most of its space: light furnishings, open views, and clever design make the rooftop feel expansive yet intimate. It’s ideal for date nights, afterwork drinks, or relaxed weekend evenings soaking in sky and sip.
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