Aura Lounge and the Bar and Lounge Experience That Keeps DC Talking
But understanding what is behind that experience is useful before you visit, because it helps you make the most of it.
Atlas Grace The best bars and lounges in any city do not need to explain themselves at length. The space does the work. The drinks do the rest. Aura Lounge on Wisconsin Avenue NW in Washington, DC falls into that category because the quality of what you experience there is self evident from the first round. But understanding what is behind that experience is useful before you visit, because it helps you make the most of it.
The Lounge That Sets the Standard
Aura lounge is described as a premier destination for nightlife in Washington, DC, offering a vibrant atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and a diverse selection of wines and spirits. It is also described as a space that is inviting for social gatherings, special events, or a relaxing evening out. Each of those three options represents a different kind of visit, and the venue handles all three.
A relaxing evening at Aura means settling into the lounge seating with a well made cocktail and food from a kitchen that takes its output seriously. A social gathering at Aura means a group arriving for happy hour, staying through dinner, and continuing into the late evening with the dance floor and the bar as the focus. A special event at Aura means a private booking for up to 240 guests with a customised menu and a team that handles the coordination.
The Bar and Lounge Drinks Programme
Aura bar and lounge runs a drinks programme that covers twelve house cocktails, eleven draft beers, fifteen bottle beers, and a wine and spirits selection that spans the full range of preferences. The cocktail list includes the Cosmopolitan, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Aperol Spritz, Pina Colada, Tequila Sunrise, Spicy Margarita, Tropical Whiskey, Peach Blossom Martini, Blue Island Ice Rum, Twist Bells, and Orgasmo, all at $14.00.
The draft board adds Samuel Adams, Stella Artois, Dos Equis, Bell's Two Hearted, DC Brau, Blue Moon, Dogfish Head 60 Min, Miller Lite, Silent Neighbor, Elysian Space Dust, Guinness, and Capitale Devils Back Bone as options ranging from $7.00 to $10.00.
The Happy Hour That Earns Its Name
Every day, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Cocktails at $9.00, beers at $5.00, draft beers at $6.00. Bar bites at prices from $8.95 to $12.95. This is a happy hour that gives guests a genuine reason to arrive at 4:00 PM rather than just pop in for a single drink before moving on.
The Food That Keeps People at the Lounge
The kitchen at Aura produces a full dining menu from 11:00 AM through to closing. The Aura Signature Smash Burger at $20.00, the Ribeye at $37.00, the Grilled Salmon Avocado Salad at $21.00, the Seafood Nachos at $19.00, and the Penne Alla Vodka at $16.00 are strong representative dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available across multiple menu categories.
Guest Reviews as Evidence
Five star reviews at Aura mention excellent food, great atmosphere, good vibes, late night dancing, a lovely patio, and specific dishes by name. These are individual assessments from different guests that collectively confirm a consistent quality experience across the lounge and bar.
Events at Aura Lounge
Memorial Day on May 25th, 11:00 AM to 11:59 PM. National Rum Day August 16th through 2:00 AM. Private events for up to 240 guests. Catering for outside occasions.
Location and Hours
5247 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20015. Open daily from 11:00 AM. Weeknights close at 2:00 AM, Fridays and Saturdays close at 3:00 AM. Online reservations available.
Closing Note
Aura lounge and the full bar and lounge experience behind it represents a consistent, high quality option for Washington, DC nightlife. The drinks, the food, the space, and the events all contribute to an experience that earns the guest reviews it receives and the repeat visits it generates.
