I pride myself in knowing Washington, D.C. well. That means I know all the great places to go. Well, at least I think I do. The fact that Betsy has been in my backyard for THREE years know puts me in my place. Maybe I don't know this city as well as I thought. To help my ego, the bartender did say they try to keep Betsy a secret and don't do tons of marketing so it stays a true hidden gem. The Betsy can only be accessed through the alley behind Belga Cafe. If you're facing the front of Belga, go to the alley to the right of it. Follow the bird feet marks along the rainbow mural and go left. You'll see the small sign. Go up the long stairs to the very top and you're here. Betsy is a small rooftop garden gin bar. There's a small bar and about 12-15 tables. Despite the small setting, it feels bigger and you won't feel cramped. Their menu is large serving cocktails, beer, wine, and other drinks. They also have a dinner menu and appetizers. I ordered the trio mayo French fries platter and it was amazing (especially the saffron mayo). One very cool thing is they have a wall garden of herbs for the cocktails. If you order a drink with herbs in it, they go over to the wall and pick it right there. It's a kid friendly area with high chairs and TVs. We're going here every week. Mark my words.

Betsy is the rooftop bar behind Belga Café. To enter you need to go around the back entrance in the alley and up a staircase. It's technically a gin bar and they have an amazing array of gin and tonics and gin based cocktails. I recommend the Tested Negative off their cocktail list. My partner and I shared the mussel pot and the burrata salad, both were good, the mussels were a bit small and chewy but the sauce was so delicious. They did charge extra for bread. Service was prompt, if not very friendly. They are not following all Covid regulations for restaurants, they are not taking or making reservations, they are not contact tracing, they only have one small hand sanitizer on a side table available for all guests. I saw a woman come into the restaurant completely unmasked and use the restroom and walk out. I'm not sure where she came from or what. Everyone else was masked. The menus are standard, leather bound, which I am not sure how they are cleaned between guests. We were glad we brought our own hand sanitizer and portable disinfectant spray. It is outdoors which is nice.

We came here to grab a drink and food on a Friday. We arrived at the restaurant and were NOT acknowledged or greeted for about 7-9 minutes. Finally, a server arrived, he took our orders and asked for ID. My ID is out of state but up to date. He took a close look and then asked if that was my only ID. I said no. He seemed to be looking for a fake or something wrong. Then he took my friend’s ID and saw it was expired, in July of this year, so last month. He said he had to get it checked. After that the manager came to our table and said he couldn’t accept it, but wasn’t apologetic. The manager knew full well we were far above legal age. While we understand that restaurants have to abide by certain rules, the staff was rude from the start. We got the feeling we would have been received differently if we were perhaps a different complexion. We left and will not return.

We had picked Belga for breakfast with some friends we had not seen for years. My grandpa was Belgian so I was looking forward to experience the food. At the door they asked if we had reservations which we didn't. They asked if we minded the rooftop, which on a beautiful day, of course not. Ok, go thru the alley, to the left and up the stairs. Ummm, ok? Well, we found it, unusual but space is a premium in D.C. We got a table for 5 by the door, which we took turns closing as people came in and left. Omar, our server was great, very attentive and fun. Everyone ordered something different and all really enjoyed their dish. My son just texted us that he went back today with his girlfriend. We will definitely be back the next time we're in town.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

The drinks here are fantastic. I've been here a handful of times, trying different drinks and food each time. I am never disappointed! The drinks are made well and are delicious. The staff is clearly very skilled and is knowledgeable about their selection and product. They've been able to provide great recommendations. The food is great as well. It's made in the Belga kitchen (The restaurant downstairs which is EXCELLENT!) I highly recommend going to Betsy's. They've updated the venue a bit by installing more permanent walls for this windy and rainy days. They also have leat lamps above every table for when it gets cold. Love that we can have more days each year that this cute little place is open!

This used to just be Belga cafe's rooftop, now rebranded as a gin & tonic bar (but still owned by Belga and the prices reflect). I feel like this is one of those places where the food and beverages are good, but not quite as good as the price. Most of the drinks here are $15 and up. Beers are $9-10 and up for a Bavik Pils lol. What can I say? Service was bad. No explanation of the spirits, drinks, food, etc. Server brought our check without asking if we wanted a second round, and we were happy to take a powder. Location is nice, and if you can immediately get a seat, maybe worth ONE visit. edit- I actually thought more about it, and realized that 3 stars was too generous, so I went down to 2.

The atmosphere is great and the people are nice but the food is really subpar for the price. My food was served in an iron skillet that was cold and clearly not cooked inside the skillet. It was just for show. You expect things that come in a skillet to be warm but it felt like the grilled pineapple and avocado has been sitting for a while. The apple tart for dessert was really bad.They apples still had the sharp core attached, the inside sauce was like water and very runny, it was cold, and they added a weird sorbet on top that did not complement the tart. If you come here, stop by for a drink on a date, but go eat somewhere else.

This bar has a cool atmosphere and a wide selection of scrumptious gin cocktails. However they provided the worst restaurant service I’ve ever received. After being seated no one came by for 45 minutes. The waiter served the wrong drinks for 2/3 of us despite us correcting him once before leaving the table and then following him to the bar when he repeated it wrong again. He told us our order of potato skins came with three (it came with two) and he didn’t acknowledge it. Additionally, he was flippant when we asked questions about the menu and overall dismissive. Until the service improves I cannot recommend this spot.

The Betsy...wow! This is one of our favorite spots in Barracks Row. Their lemon gin and tonic was delicious and refreshing, but a little light on the gin. We also really enjoyed their gin and tonic with cardamom and ginger, which was a nice way to kick off the holiday season. Our server was delightful and attentive without being annoying. We would love to give it five stars, but the menu was a little tedious and overpriced for the drinks and the setting. That being said, it was a great place for a first date, and we look forward to going back.

Wanted to try out Belga Cafe but it was too full on a Sunday (so get a reservation if you want to try out Belga) but Betsy is a great alternative. Same menu and kitchen, just a different location. It's the rooftop right behind Belga. Service was a little slow but couldn't blame them, it was pretty crowded. My friend got the cornbread waffle dish and absolutely loved it. I was so-so on the chicken and waffles - nothing terribly spectacular so maybe try something else. The chicken was good, the waffle was pretty mediocre.

5 stars! 10! No, 15! This is a gin lover's paradise. It's part of Belga Café which also means they have jenever, which pleases my soul. The signature cocktails are great themselves, and also fun are the gin and tonic simple combos they make with fresh herbs that grow around their walls. It's a small spot in the back alley, so if you're planning to come with a large group come early/as soon as it opens. Otherwise it's perfect for smaller groups. I can't wait to come back here!!

My favorite place to bring people!! The bar staff is so friendly. I brought my dog(which is allowed during all seasons) and it started raining. They had fabric up to protect from rain and came around with an umbrella to take orders and bring food. Currently, during the winter, they have it somewhat inclosed with heaters. Super warm and cozy. Great mixed drinks and so much great Belgian bear. Happy hour food is good, but I like the fries from downstairs.

The place is cute but the service is terrible. We were seated at the bar and the bar tender/owner was very rude. One of us was not drinking and they charged us $22 for two tonic waters, in the receipt said mocktail, was that because they added a piece of lime? We told the bar tender and he said that he couldn’t give us the money back but next time he will charge for a soda. We will not be back. Now I understand the bad reviews. Sad

Super cool little dive. Never seen such a selection of fine gin cocktails. The atmosphere is laid back and bright. They grow their own herbs in containers on the wooden fence, which adds a fantastic splash of green and character. It's also really cool to watch the bartender pluck a few leaves of opal basil from the plant and put them straight into your drink! Highly recommended for a refreshing summer afternoon.

Very creative gin and tonics. Pleasant atmosphere, and friendly waiter. We arrive around 5 pm for happy hour, or a little before, and were able to get seating. By 6 pm, it was standing room only. My only complaint is that their happy hour drinks list is limited, with only one g&t listed. This will not deter me from going back again. It just means that I can't go as often as I would otherwise like to.

If my aesthetic was a place, it would be BETSY! It’s like taking a trip out of DC but not having to leave the city. I’ve only had cocktails and they were superb and refreshing to say the very least. I went for my birthday weekend and the staff was very nice and helped me pick out a drink based on what I liked. I love some vibes and a good gin drink, so I will definitely be back!!

Found this place following the cute chicken feet spray painted on the floor. We were very pleasantly surprised with the amount of space and unique decor. When all other spots were beyond crowded this place had ample space and a mouth watering menu. We were able to keep our bikes safely here as well which is a plus! The food is fantastic, I’m coming back to try more things. Enjoy!

Follow the chicken feet from the Main Street to the back alley entrance! It’s cute covered rooftop spot, the drinks are good and food is hearty homey. Didnt like how the bartender refused to use the gin I already paid for in a cocktail because it was “meant to sip”. I tasted it - and decided I didn’t wanna sip it. Being rude and elitist won’t have me back again.

Follow the chicken feet to a magical little hidden away "green house" gin lounge. Good covid restrictions in place. Exceptionally well balanced gin cocktails, with some options for non gin drinkers. The food is served small plates style and is very delicious. All herbs used as garnishes are grown there. A perfect cute location for a small celebration or a date.

Been here a dozen times and the drinks are great. I came tonight to have a drink and do some work; there were plenty of seats but was told I wasn’t allowed to sit at the bar with my laptop. The bartender was nice about it and everyone is entitled to have their own rules but there are no shortages of places to overpay for a drink in DC so it’s off my list.

Amazing cocktails with impeccable and personable service that has cover from the elements in a hidden lounge (follow chicken feet) atmosphere with comfy chairs and unique accents. They're known for their gin cocktails, but try their spiked hot chocolate or distinct margaritas for variety. Covid restrictions present. ig: @harshaeats

Very cute, hidden spot for great gin drinks! Many different kinds of gin and tonics and cocktails. The bartenders are great, and can help you find something if you know what you want. I’d skip the hot bites as they definitely leave something to be desired, but this spot is worth checking out for the drinks alone.

Best gin and tonic drink I have ever had. And appetizers were out of this world. Attended for a fundraiser, but will definitely be back with the wife. Great start for a date night.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Home Fries, Tartiflette, Slow Cooked Pork Belly Bites

The venue, ultra-casual semiclosed "rooftop" first floor doesn't match the long list of gin cocktails, that I very much enjoyed, and at the price you would expect from refined speakeasy-like drinks. OK social distancing practices, all staff wearing masks, but traditional contact based menus and payment.

Thanks to other Googlers for the assist in finding the BETSY. Nicest staff ever? Possibly. Coolest Gin & Tonic selection ever? Definitely! I really can't say enough about this place. If there was a drawback, it's that I am not cool enough to be at such a cool place. Oh, and my burger was great, too.

Absolutely an amazing great rooftop bar!. Follow the chicken feet. If you like Gin, this is the place to be. The food was Great! The service was good. The atmosphere was incredible. Just go up those short long stairs and it's amazing at the top.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

We literally stubbled into this place and we're so glad we did!! Saturday brunch on the roof top was perfect and our order was so fabulous that we got a second order to go. Cowboys skillet included short ribs slowly cooked for 72hrs! So sooo thankful Ted's Bulletin had a long wait.

the chicken decor is giving belgian cottage core. i absolutely think it’s divine. the drinks are gorgeous. also following the spray paint chicken claw prints to the entrance is genius.
Price per person
$20–30
Recommended dishes
We Were on a Break

Super delicious brunch from Belga and a great ambiance. The bartender/server was super helpful and friendly. The chicken in the chicken and waffles was delicious and the green eggs were light a yummy. We'll definitely be coming back to try more on the menu.

Betsy is always a good time with great drinks. They specialize in gin but have alternative liquors and beer for those that aren't into gin. Love the fact most of their drinks have a unique flavored ice cube. Get there early as tables do fill up quickly.

Ambiance is great. Small and intimate. Ordered the frites. Frites were good but the mayonnaise tri was so so. Still to the regular. Had the pandemic passion and punch both were great. Look forward to exploring more of the menu.

Really cute space inside — go for the vibes. Their made cocktails were a little sweet for my taste so switched to the G&Ts which were great.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

This place is such a hidden gem! Friendly service and excellent cocktails. It’s pricey but the happy hour deals are good (4-5:30pm). Love the little rooftop garden setting and the blankets for breezy days. I’ll be back!!

Cute, funky little open air cocktail bar with great drinks and we ordered the mussels - enjoyed all of it!
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes

Four stars for the food. Minus one star for the arrogant bartender/ waiter with a stupid look on his face. The Latino waiter who stepped in to attend us afterwards was much more well mannered and professional.

Betsy is an awesome little gin bar on an enclosed patio out back. You have to walk around, but if you follow the chicken feet on the ground you will find it. Creative drinks, good snacks, laid back atmosphere.

Terrible customer service. Extremely rude waiter yelled at us across the restaurant to leave by just saying “no space.” Had been wanting to take my girlfriend here for a while, but now we will never be back.

Food and cocktails are great. Walking through the kitchen to get to the public bathroom seems a little....health code curious. Neat little rooftop spot, rear alley walk to entrance is urban experience chic.

LOVE The Betsy. Great outdoor bar, particularly when it's warm. Drinks are (almost) always on point. A little out of the way, which keeps the vibe a little more DC and a little less touristy. Love it.

Got charged a 2% wellness fee for “taking care of our employees”. The owners should be taking care of the employees already. This is just another made up charge to add into the owners profits.

The gin and tonics are on point and there's dozens to try!! I especially love the fancy ice cubes but beware... The open air upstairs gets HOT So you'll need those ice cubes lol …

Excellent rooftop bar in DC! Large menu of gin drinks. Pretty small space which makes it feel cozy and not overwhelming. Food is good too. Definitely add to your bucket list of DC bars.

I had such a lovely time here.They actually care when its your birthday and they made sure to make us feel welcomed and loved. Arslan is the best! Definitely worth the drive!

This place was kitschy and cute vibes! Have to be honest, the drink menu wasn't my style, lots of fancy things but nothing up my alley. Probably won't be back for drinks.

Belgian brunch/outdoor speakeasy/gin garden! Follow the chicken feet markings to one of the best brunches on this Eastern Market rooftop. Recommend the cornbread waffle.

Erslam was amazing. Very attentive. Food was great. Ambience was intimate. Not too crowded. Warm and inviting. Would definitely recommend and will be back soon.

Great cocktails, small but cute patio spot. Yummy food. We pregamed here for a concert! 10/10 in the row.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

The cutest gin bar in the city. G&Ts are all wonderful, thoughtful, and varied, and there are a handful of truly excellent cocktails available. A+

It was a cute atmosphere. However we had terrible service. The food was disappointing and the cocktails where nothing to write home about.

Great spot! Good drink/cocktail selection, good food, and always incredible service that takes good care of us. Definitely worth a visit!

Love this beautiful and quaint place. I am not a big fan of gin, but the gin cocktail was very pleasing and fresh. Highly recommend. More

Pretty good cocktails, nice rooftop, overpriced apps and terrible music though. Room for improvement, but I’d give it a chance again.

Incredible atmosphere that really feels like vacation. Drinks were only ok and got slightly weird/unfriendly vibes from our server

Great cocktails near Capitol Hill! Cozy little place off the beaten path.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Awesome service! It's a Gin bar and the food is great! YOu can have a real feel of Belgium ... try the famous "moules frites"!

The couple times I've visited, I've had great drinks, delicious food, and enjoyed a very cozy hidden garden type atmosphere.

Delicious drinks, fun food, and friendly bartender. They also provide cozy blankets in the cold weather! Highly recommend.

One of my favorite places in DC. They have the best drinks and the food is great. The staff is amazing and very attentive!

It's a bit pricey for breakfast/ brunch, it just seems to be a weekend overflow space for the Cafe Belga. Will not return.

Cute idea, but decorated like my mom decorated her kitchen. Food is mediocre. Service was lovely, which saved it for me!

Quaint, cozy space. Lovely selection of gin and tasty cocktails! Beer list from Belga downstairs is extensive.

It’s a cute bar. But the owner and bar tender have bad vibes. They kill the mood and are not very friendly.

Cute restaurant with great food! Had the chicken & waffles and scrambled egg breakfast. Loved both of them!

The best hangout place in DC. Arslan is the best!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Love this Place, Gin Bar is exceptional, Service is just Good, Atmosphere is vibrant and Food is Great!

Perfect atmosphere and great drinks
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Mediocre drinks for almost $20 and average bar food. Better options in the neighborhood

Everything was served ice cold. Servers were hostile. A terrible experience.

Brie waffle sandwich and chocolate mousse. Pretty good. Drinks just alright.

The owner/manager was quite obnoxious and rude. Poor service and quality.

Wonderful hidden gem in barracks row. Amazing cocktails and dog friendly

Delicious, great service, amazing menu, eclectic irreverent yet cozy

Great drinks, good music, fun atmosphere, awesome service

Service was mediocre, however the cocktails were divine

Great place, a little hidden but perfect for a brunch

Great gin cocktails, and delicious brunch from Belga.

One of a kind. Great drinks. Great location.

Best brunch I've ever had. Friendly staff.

Amazing food and has a great atmosphere!

Amazing gin cocktails