DC Vegan, the plant-based deli and caterer for private events and gatherings, launched the first vegan bar — Botanical Bar — in the District on Saturday, May 28.
Located in the bustling Dupont Circle, the botanical-themed bar is located on the floor above DC Vegan’s deli.
“We wanted to stop eating animals but didn’t want to give up our culture and the traditional foods we grew up eating, so we spent years finessing my Italian grandmother’s recipes maintaining the flavors and textures while making them vegan,” Leah Curran Moon — who co-founded the business alongside her husband, Michael Jantz Moon — said in a press release.
The bar features not only local craft beers and vegan wines but, much like the founding couple’s well-known plant-based Italian American delicatessen, utilizes the same creativity and finesse to craft gorgeous vegan cocktails rooted in Italian American fare. Cocktails are crafted by swapping mainstay animal product ingredients such as egg whites and gelatin with things like aquafaba (chickpea water) and oat milk.
Patrons can revel in the bar’s whimsical take on the classic Negroni with the Strawberry-infused Negroni. Carefully crafted with gin, strawberry Campari, and sweet vermouth, it’s made picture-perfect with a delicate orange peel and a strawberry garnish.
The bar’s atmosphere also reflects this whimsy and botanical-rooted vibe. “Lush flora and earthly delights were the inspiration for the bar,” said Leah. “I started by sourcing this dark, sexy floral wallpaper from Transylvania and then filled the space with rich inviting colors, twinkly lights, and dreamy textures.”
With its Instagram-worthy atmosphere, one-of-a-kind cocktails, and unique inspiration, Botanical Bar is a must-visit!
Location: 1633 P Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20036