The Public Option

Really, really loved this little neighborhood gem. It’s simple, fun, and charming. The beer is good and the service friendly. Loved the ‘50s style kitsch décor! We’ll definitely be back.

I am very happy to have just gotten back from here tonight. We stopped in for some drinks and a snack. The place was furnished like an 80’s diner furniture-​wise. Definitely a +1 for reduce, reuse, recycle. Even the salt and pepper shakers were old kitschy porcelain hens, pigs, etc.
From what i have heard about Public Option, they are very neighborhood friendly. And I mean like giving back to the community friendly. They seem very socially conscious, so the Public Option name is particularly poignant.
For instance, tonight was a fundraiser for the Rhode Island Avenue Main Street initiative. This is the group that is helping bring businesses to that neighborhood. Anyway, the head of RIA was there (Kyle) and he was the guest chef for his chilli. What a neat concept! The chilli was good and meaty, I think it could have used a little more flavor, but I enjoyed it. We suggested that they carry hot sauce, so it may be there by the time you go. I think they mentioned getting Texas Pete. The cornbread was more like my mom used to make, without all the butter and fancy. The side of honey butter was great though.
The beers were good. I think they had 6 different varieties of their own brews, two guest brews and then the beers that you should never order at a place that brews their own beer (I.e Bud, Bud Light, etc.). The beers seemed a little sweet to me, but all had great flavor, Sam’s stout, American Amber and the Breakfast Porter were our faves from the flight. IPA #6 probably being our least favorite.
The pecan pie was delicious, but could probably have set a bit longer.
The brewer, Bill Perry, came over to us and apologized for the service, which we thought was perfect! We talked some about the neighborhood, the name Public Option, and beer. He’s a very cool guy, and I hope to talk to him soon.
With a purported beer garden in the back for warmer months, I hope this place stays around! I can see that neighborhood growing by leaps and bounds with some of the new businesses in the area.
Certainly check this place out. They’re not open late since they are super respectful of the neighbors. Kudos for that! I highly recommend it and I’m sure I’ll be back!

Super friendly couple, let me try samples of their various brews before settling on one. I don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere with such a mom and pop feel. Used to be an old recording studio, but I don’t get that vibe. Cute cozy, and charming. Only thing it needs is a solid brunch menu or a dinner menu with slightly more variety for the full opening.

Really great laid back neighborhood spot. Not a dive, but no pretension either, which is rare for DC. The flat breads were really good, all the pricing is really fair, and the owners are extremely nice. They are also always asking for feedback and suggestions, and it makes me think they are going to keep improving, so I am really looking forward to seeing the Public Option more in the future. The owner said they will have outdoor seating come the spring too. My one complaint is that they don’t have a TV, which could really bring in a great crowd on Saturdays and Sundays.

Hands down fantastic. I’ve tried all the home brews and loved every one. Brewed right there on the property… doesn’t get any more local than than. It’s a small unpretentious space, perfect for chatting with friends and meeting locals, including the owners who are lovely.

Tiny Brew Pub with Hipster/​Local Tavern Flair. Public Option is a new neighborhood pub café that offers a wonderful selection of local microbrews, including some created by owner Bill Perry. You’ve got to try his Scottish ale– imagine the peaty hints in a fine single malt with a high quality fresh brew, and you’ll have an idea of Public Option’s ale. Atmosphere is charming and low-​key and so inviting. I didn’t try their homemade flatbreads, but they looked tasty. Great addition to the area.