Let me just start by saying: yes, I came here because of The West Wing.
There’s a line (brief, almost throwaway) where Donna mentions Hawk ‘n’ Dove, and my brain went “Oh, that’s real?!” Cue me immediately deciding that I, too, must channel my inner political operative and grab a cocktail in a place where fictional White House staffers might’ve argued about filibusters and friendship.
Spoiler: it was absolutely worth it.
🥚 Deviled Eggs Three Ways
I ordered the deviled eggs because, let’s be so for real, if they’re on a menu, they’re basically an edible personality test. Hawk ‘n’ Dove’s version came as a trio of flavor archetypes:
- Classic with herbs – the “I’m just happy to be here” egg. Fresh, balanced, like it has health insurance and a Roth IRA.
- Smoky with bacon – chaotic good. Crunchy, salty, and carrying the weight of everyone else’s bland choices.
- Spicy with sriracha – that coworker who shows up late but brings donuts, so you can’t stay mad.
Every bite was rich, punchy, and perfectly cold. A small victory for egg-based diplomacy.
🫓 The Dip Situation (aka the Mediterranean Platter)
Then came the pita platter: lightly toasted triangles that I’m convinced were engineered for maximum scoopage. The spread lineup included:
- Olive tapenade that was bold and briny enough to slap your taste buds into attention.
- Creamy crab dip that whispered, “You’re still in D.C., but maybe also by the Chesapeake.”
- Baba ghanoush so smooth and roasted it felt like it could give a TED Talk on resilience.
This dish was like a bipartisan agreement: unexpected, cooperative, and ultimately delicious.
🍸 Atmosphere Check
Hawk ‘n’ Dove somehow manages to feel both historic and chill, like if a Georgetown policy wonk and a laid-back bartender co-owned a time machine. It’s dimly lit, wood-heavy, and humming with the exact level of conversation that lets you pretend you’re part of something slightly important.
💬 The Quick & Dirty Summary
Vibe: political nostalgia meets gastropub comfort
Food: elevated classics that don’t take themselves too seriously
Best bite: the bacon deviled egg, obviously
Would I go back? Absolutely, preferably during happy hour with a friend who will debate fictional government policy with me
TL;DR:
Came for The West Wing reference, stayed for the deviled eggs.
Hawk ‘n’ Dove is the kind of place that makes you feel like you could change the world…at least until your second cocktail hits and you remember you still have laundry at home.
