7. 18th Street Lounge

ESL is not hard to get into. There is no velvet rope, you don't have to be a part of the social elite, a big-wig in Washington, or famous to get in. Whoever wrote the original review hasn't spent any time at the club. Just dress like you're not headed for ESPN Zone, be your friendly self, have a love of great music, and you'll find yourself inside within 30 seconds. ESL might not be the newest club to hit the scene, but it's solid and cool. It's one of those places a woman can go to by herself, chill, and feel totally at ease. And that is saying a lot.

Waaay overpriced for the experience and atmosphere -- nine dollars for a beer? Also the staff are ridiculously bad and have plenty of unnecessary attitude. Worst service since travelling in the former Soviet Union (and not surprising since many of them hail from that region). Crowded because of the poor layout. I'd miss this one.