Sick of all the shmoopy hearts and couple talk? Us, too. Whether you’re unlucky in love or just not into Hallmark holidays, you’ll find plenty of cocktails, parties, and other un-Valentine’s activities to keep you busy on Friday. (For more anti-V-Day fun, head to Capital Comment and tell us your worst date story.)
Amaro cocktail at Jack Rose Dining Saloon
When: Now through Monday, February 17
Recovering from a breakup? Nurse your bitter heart back to health with the Cupid’s Last Dance from Jack Rose. The cocktail combines amaro liqueur, grappa, Campari, and orange bitters, and is garnished with a flamed orange peel. Like revenge, this is a drink best served cold.
Anti-Valentine’s Day winter cocktail party at I Ricchi
When: Wednesday, February 12, 5:30 to 7:30
Snack on hors d’oeuvres and sip two specialty cocktails, such as the Bitter Pill and the It’s Not Me, It’s You, at this Dupont Italian spot. Call ahead or register online ($29 per person).
Washingtonian Singles Soiree at Penn Social
When: Friday, February 14, 7 to 9
We’re getting into the anti-holiday spirit by hosting our own bash at the always-lively Penn Social, featuring sweet treats, cocktails, live music, and games. True thrill-seekers can sign up to compete in a dating game show, “Singled Out DC”; winners will receive a date-night package. Tickets for the Singles Soiree are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Ryan Gosling (sort of) at Vendetta
When: Friday, February 14
Hey, girl, ditch your DVR and have your picture taken with a real live cardboard cutout of Ryan Gosling at the H Street bocce bar Vendetta. Ladies get a free glass of Prosecco.
Sloppy joes at Bar Pilar
When: Friday, February 14
Leave the finery at home and head to Bar Pilar’s anti-Valentine’s Day party, featuring messy foods like sloppy joes and brats ($9 each), and bitter drinks such as the potent Malört Bomb, made with Swedish liquor and grapefruit beer ($9).
Happy hour at Black Jack
When: Friday, February 14
This 14th Street favorite offers an extended happy hour from 5 to 8, including half-price drafts, $5 wines, and discounts on pizza, mussels, and oysters. Watch romantic comedies and listen to breakup songs as you decorate a card for Black Jack’s anti-Valentine contest (art supplies provided). The winner will receive a $100 house gift card to be used at a later date.
Comfort food at P.J. Clarke’s
When: Friday, February 14
The K Street saloon is serving up a “heartbreak menu” of oyster shooters, chocolate cake, tater tots, and other treats to console your lonely heart. Plus, tweet your heartbreak story @PJClarkes with the hashtag #PJsLovesMe and you’ll receive a complimentary Valentine’s Day cocktail.
“Unhappy hour” at the Daily Dish
When: Friday, February 14
If this Silver Spring restaurant’s lovey-dovey prix-fixe isn’t your style, head to the bar for twisted cocktails such as the Love on the Rocks, with Grand Marnier, raspberry liqueur, and bitters; the kiss-repellent Love Stinks cheese platter; and a dark-chocolate pot de crème.
Free drinks at Kabin
When: Friday, February 14
Feel like channeling alpine chic? This lodge-themed Dupont nightclub offers single ladies free bubbly from 9 to 11, plus complimentary chocolates and tunes from DJ Heat.
