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Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House
2475 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
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Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House
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Am
Review №1

Went here for a Saleka concert (check out her music) Lovely, intimate venue. Staff was amazing and the food was really good. They have vegan and vegetarian options as well as food for the omnivores. Theyve recently moved to their current location and split the business in two. So there are no records/merch sales at this location however, they have a record store called Brydland Records down the road. Shout out to Chadwick for being an amazing bartender as well. Was a great time

Bi
Review №2

Great music venue. The staff seemed to love being there and it was great fun. Because I am old I would have like to see more seating but it was a great time.

Na
Review №3

It took an hour to get chicken skewers because they dont check receipts and probably gave mine away. The bartender also threw away my receipt when I tried for the 3rd time to get it so I was legit worried about getting scammed. Hope you guys figure out a better system to order food. Food was mediocre. At least, I got it!There were also a lot of sound issues during the performance which really was a disservice to the amazing performer.

Ad
Review №4

I was not aware that this location had moved from Adams Morgan to Northeast DC until yesterday. Very inconvenient location as theres no Metro or bus close by. I tried to get a refund for a show which I was not able to attend and they did not offer it to me. I hope to never deal with this place ever again! I liked the Adams Morgan location better.

Mi
Review №5

Nice atmosphere, bar could use some better selections but I would definitely come back. Easy to find parking as well.

Ma
Review №6

Jackie Vinson was 10 stars the Songbyrd was nice the food needs improvement don’t mind paying 11.00 for a burger but how about chips nothing but a burger, the bartender was great .

Pe
Review №7

The Nascar Aloe show was off the chain! Death proof boi... This place was awesome. Ample space to accommodate everyone. The environment is clean, safe and one of the best places for a good time.

na
Review №8

I miss the 🥥 club.. but this club is good too

Br
Review №9

New location is awesome, great staff, menu, beverages and venue. Shout out to Reemy for being an amazing director of first impressions!We went to see oragami angel they were fantastic, great show, great venue great crowd!Look forward to visitibg again and hopefully running into Frank and Hope!

Ch
Review №10

Really great tight knit venue!

NE
Review №11

Really enjoyed the ambience of this place. Went during the day so it was very quiet. My meal was delicious. Fairly priced and fast service. Loved the records and the seating. Would definitely visit again.

Ca
Review №12

A great place to experience Live local music! Great space. Theres a upstairs & downstairs. The food is delicious. The Fully Loaded Tater Tots & West Coast Mac n Cheese are delicious. If you like whiskey or brandy definitely try the Old Fashion.

An
Review №13

Beautiful inside and delicious food - there’s nothing better for lunch!Reservations recommended. Also, come before your reservation time to try amazing cocktails before food, bartender will create a perfect drink according to your taste!

Wa
Review №14

Exxxxxxxcellent service!!!! Food was superb. They accommodated my group of 50 people. Every order was right, we did not have to wait, and did I say the service was amazing. Cant wait to go back.

To
Review №15

First - credit for bringing Owen to perform. Unbelievable artist and performance. Super nice staff too. But we rushed there for the show to start at 8. There was no opening band advertised so we skipped dinner and planned to eat at songbyrd. But their kitchen was closed which isnt mentioned on their website. So we hungrily watched the worst opening act I have ever seen. How can a music venue put a band that sounds like a dying whale on stage? Im still not sure if it was some sort of joke. I left the venue several times to save my sanity until owen came on. Also beer list is worse than my local gas station.

Do
Review №16

I wish I had known how many amazing vegan options Songbyrd has earlier! I had lived in Adams Morgan for 1.5 years before trying it because I wasnt that interested in the vegan options shown in their online and Google maps menus. Apparently those menus are out of date. They have an INCREDIBLE vegan breakfast burrito filled with faux sausage, tater tots and vegan cheese. Plus bottomless mimosas. (If anyone at Songbyrd see this, update your menus online! You are missing potential new customers who make decisions based on online information!)

Jo
Review №17

Songbyrd is a neat little place. On the upper floor you have a seating area to the right where their small selection of records are. Theres sofas against the walls and a few tables. On the left side of the bar/eating area. The staff on both side ls were very polite and the bartender was quick and made my drink well. I overheard one co-worker speaking about records with a customer and he seemed very knowledgeable yet didnt come off as being stuck up.I went there specifically to see a show, which was held downstairs area. This is probably the smallest venue Ive ever been to, personally. The bartender told me their capacity is 200. The area was good for what it was. The stage was very compact and barley 1ft off the ground. This made the experience feel much more personal, which I very much enjoyed. Theres also a few sofas and a bar in the back.To my surprise after the show was over, the right side area was cleared out for a DJ doing a small set. The sound quality in both areas was very good.I will definitely be back to see other artists in the future.

si
Review №18

Very reminiscent of L.P. cafes and bars found overseas, with the variation of splitting the cafe and bar and the addition of selling new vinyl. Unless Ive been missing this experience elsewhere in the District, Songbyrd brings a new example of casual to the area while leaving pretentious outside to stay at other eateries and venues in Adams Morgan.While there around midday, the DJ was running through a mix of 60s and 70s international funk, soul, jazz and pop, which seemed like the perfect sound for the setting and time of day.Our food selection was limited by choice, but if the quality is any indication of rest of the menu we will return to try more. The worst thing I can say about the food so far is the Breakfast Platter, while great for a light, quick meal, it should either be a few dollars less or replace the mini-baguette bites with a couple slices of regular bread.

Co
Review №19

Great little spot to discover in DC. Went with a group of friends and it was perfect for lunch. The music scene seemed amazing although we were there for lunch. Highly recommend.

Se
Review №20

Lots of fun. Was there for a concert. It was in the basement which was a nice intimate space that was really chill. There’s a bar and on the main floor there’s stuff to eat and chill too.

Aj
Review №21

Went to see Baby Rose here. Cool venue. Staff was really cool. Cant wait to see more shows here.

my
Review №22

Great venue decent price on beer

Ja
Review №23

Came to grab a few drinks with friends, got good service from the bar. Cool location linked with the record store/cafe on the opposite side. The best part of the experience by far is the music they play, most of which is available for purchase on Vinyl from the music house. As a bonus they were playing 8 mile on the TV

Al
Review №24

I have been during the day. The coffeeshop itself has the coolest art deco, and it is as promised good music and coffee (and food if you wish). The service was good and everything was clean and tidy. Definitely worth the visit. I found it refreshing.

Jo
Review №25

Went there to see Blood Cultures play and it was great. Venue has a great atmosphere, band was awesome, beers were cheap, staff was friendly.

Ma
Review №26

Good selection of drinks, very cozy space with a pleasant playlist on. Good variety of indie records in their shop. Lots of people working when we stopped in.Update with new location: a very nice space with good acoustics for a warehouse space. Very good layout, bar was accessible and offered food as well. Very cool addition to the union market area

Ro
Review №27

Nice intimate venue for live music. Shows are downstairs ... there’s a support beam in the middle of where the audience stands ... that’s right in the center of the stage ... maybe it’s a nod to the old 930 club 🙃

Ha
Review №28

This was an awesome experience! The staff was incredibly friendly and the selection is remarkable for such a small space. Prices are standard and the catalogue has some unique pieces.

Ga
Review №29

Such a great musical venue and a fun place filled with a lot of cool art!

Su
Review №30

Tiny intimate venue in the heart of Adams Morgan. Good acoustics and the beer isnt too expensive.

Da
Review №31

Very good “café cortado” in DC.

Ch
Review №32

Went to see Khemmis in July. Show was sold out and venue was super hot despite being in the basement. That said, the sound was great and it was a killer show.

Li
Review №33

Best place to sit alone...

Li
Review №34

This is an amazing Saturday into the night spot. Breakfast anytime of the day? What is better?

Sa
Review №35

One of my favorite venues to shoot - Ive done media for 5 or 6 different shows here. The greenroom is amazing, the audience is always great, and the drinks are surprisingly tasty. My literal only complaint is that they never have the guest list ready until after doors, which is always inconvenient. Other than that, awesome venue

Li
Review №36

Nice spot for coffee or breakfast Good books and music providing lots of samples to learn about DC subculture

Ma
Review №37

Very friendly and courteous staff. While I only had a meal here, they play host to numerous musical events. The memorabilia and art covers every space of wall and adds to the charm. The food was pretty good, too.

Mo
Review №38

Great spot for live music. Must check their website for the schedule. The management is great and respond really quickly. Food is pretty good too. They have a great variety on their menu. Id definitely go back for another concert there!

Al
Review №39

This place is amazing for brunch. They have a poached avocado dish that is so different and filling. The staff are attentive and friendly. It is out seating but we didnt wait more than 5 or so minutes. Unique spot in AdMo that is worth stopping in.

Jo
Review №40

One of the best venues Ive been to in my life! Everyone is so nice and accommodating. I also stupidly forgot an album and cassette I bought earlier that day at Smash Records down the street outsider and the staff kept it safe for me! Absolutely amazing!

Am
Review №41

Awesome venue with great atmosphere. I saw a few bands with a friend there and it is a great place to hang out for a chill night out. They have a good bar with good beer options.

Co
Review №42

I would describe this venue as a Hippster Deluxe Cafe. The main level is a cafe/bar, there are a few small tables in the front by the entrance and a bar further back. On the left is a stairwell to the basement and a host stand to sell you tickets to the concert. Make your way to the basement through heavy some heavy curtains and discover a space reminiscent of a frat house basement. The room is lit with string lights and a few red lights on the walls. A bar is to the right and to the left a small stage. The crowd is mostly college and some high school students. The mens bathroom looked like someone murdered a unicorn and their glittery blood got EVERYWHERE! The only thing that was very off-putting about the place, to me, was the smell. An odor of a damp, moldy, 100 year old basement that they try to cover up with incense. The food on the main level was pretty good overall. The grill cheese with tomato soup and salad was good. We ordered the Mac and Cheese as well and Id have to say it was disappointing. It was a fun evening out overall.

Ja
Review №43

Have to give this shop an RSD shout-out. They didnt have what I wanted, but they were super kind -- even comped a coffee for me. Ill be back!

Jo
Review №44

Cool place, great vibe, awesome little record selection. Good coffee, small but interesting beer selection. The people I was with loved their house cocktails.Only knocking a star off for a few small reasons: a) I went to a show downstairs and, while a good show, the place smelled like stale urine the whole time and b)the staff always has this aloof, mildly unhelpful attitude... Except the downstairs bartender, he was great. Very welcoming.

Bo
Review №45

What a cool music venue in one of the coolest parts of DC. Staff is friendly and helpful. The sound was great. Will definitely be back!

El
Review №46

Best brunch in Adams Morgan! In addition to being a great music venue and cafe, Songbyrd also has an EXCELLENT brunch. As an Adams Morgan local, I have been coming here for 3 years and have never been disappointed. Everything on the menu is consistently great and well priced, and the staff here gets to know you for a warm local feel.

Le
Review №47

Neat little venue! For music going, its a pretty intimate setting, allowing for a fairly small crowd in their basement. Havent tried much if their food, but it all smelled delicious. Overall I had a pleasant time

Zi
Review №48

Cool venue with a stage and bar in the basement. Didnt spend much time upstairs as we got there at the same time doors opened for the show. The place is much bigger than it looks from the outside. I was there with a group of friends to see Jack Harlow. It was a great show. There were a few trouble makers in the crowd but security was on them swiftly and pulled them out of the crowd. Professional show and good sound quality. I would definitely go again and I recommend it as a venue to see a small show.

Ph
Review №49

Songbyrd gives you that, New York basement/underground vibes. Its the sort of place you go to watch an artist before their big break. Good food and decent drinks.

Mi
Review №50

Great place to catch a show. Never know who might pop up—especially in the basement. Intimate venue for those who like their live music up close and personal. If you have to go to AdMo, then you have to go to Songbyrd. Best music venue on 18th Street. Hands down.

Ni
Review №51

Excellent sound quality throughout the venue, good views from just about anywhere. The immediate turn to the left then down stairs then through the acoustic blankets and coming out side stage was a little jarring at first. This place is well thought out and well taken care of. Staff was all friendly. This is one of the nicest venues of this size Ive been to and I wish it was back home in Minneapolis.

Ad
Review №52

On the island of Java, particularly in its central and eastern provinces, a man is traditionally seen as mature once he has a horse, a traditional dagger and a bird. Coincidentally, Tennessee Williams once wrote a play called Sweet Bird of Youth, a title which seems to contradict this notion, perhaps intentionally, that animals of the aviary persuasion might somehow be connected with adulthood. In the world of ideas, humans can only step back and gaze in awe.As one walks down (or up) 18th Street, one is confronted with the notion of a youth that exists without time. Here and there, college students reenacting the drunken waltz of well vodka and very large slices pizza of previous generations. Hither and thither, alumni now in their 40s doing this same dance, but with an air of wistfulness and nostalgic regret. Time moves in less of a march, more of a fox trot.And from where can we observe this?Well, from the perch of the Songbyrd. It has windows, the eyes of the soul, not something to be underestimated.I had the beer. It was tasty.

Ry
Review №53

This place is dopeeeee. Free music, comedy, okay drinks, and great atmosphere. Definitely great for finding something to do when everything else needs a cover or pretends its better than it is.

De
Review №54

I went to the Songbyrd to see my favorite artist AHI. AHI was wonderful but the Songbyrd has the rudest audience. I have never been so disappointed. I will never attend this venue again. No one in management tried to stop the crowd from talking. People paid good money to hear a great artist who was competing with the audience talking. I am so glad I was right in front of the stage. This helped out a little.

An
Review №55

Super glad to have 18th open for streeteries - songbyrd was great about handling covid precautions and we felt safe, appreciate the time outdoors in fresh air

Br
Review №56

Went to a Classic Album Sundays event featuring Erykah Badhu. The format was great and the soundsystem was just right. The alcoholic drinks were very good. Did not try other items due to the time of day I was there. Would go back for another event.Upon doing a quick scan of the main cafe on the way out, it was a bit too crowded upstairs on a Sunday afternoon for me to meet up and chat with someone. Might be good for solo work with headphones. Also, may be easier to find seating in the adjoining area or during a less crowded time.

Ch
Review №57

This place is amazing for brunch. They have a poached avocado dish that is so different and filling. The staff are attentive and friendly. It is out seating but we didnt wait more than 5 or so minutes. Unique spot in AdMo that is worth stopping in.

Ma
Review №58

Went here for a truly amazing brunch. Excellent and courteous wait staff kept our drinks topped off. The FOOD! The food is simply amazing. The quality and portions cannot be beat for the price. Regardless of price it was the best brunch Ive had in years. The atmosphere is also wonderful to soak in. The local art and eclectic music selection created a fantastic ambience in which to spend 10 minutes for coffee or a couple hours over drinks.

Mi
Review №59

Very cute little spot. Drinks were pretty strong and around $10. Went for a concert (Danger Inc) and definitely enjoyed myself. There is an upstairs and downstairs both with bars. A coat check and extremely limited seating are also available downstairs.

Ni
Review №60

Songbyrd has quickly become one of my favorite spots in DC for music. They are bringing in so many great artists and it is fantastic how good the song is here.

Ro
Review №61

The best venue in DC. Ive seen like 20 shows here and its always a good show.

Br
Review №62

Great food and super cool vibe. I got the In & Not Out burger and it was like the real thing! The space was a little hot and could maybe use some more fans or A/C

Je
Review №63

Nice intimate spot for a concert. Its pretty much standing room only so you will be standing for a long time. The concert I went to I stood for 2.5 hours. There is very limited seating only on the back wall. Its so limited I wouldnt really consider seating. However I did notice an employee brought a seat for an older lady who came to see the Dee-1 concert I went to. That was very nice and speaks to the friendliness of the staff. Your feet and legs may get tired but if you go to concerts you know youre going to be standing. Only thing is its street parking and sometimes its hard to find parking but that isnt the venue fault. Just know limited parking maybe consider uber.

Ja
Review №64

As an owner of a carefully curated collection of music, this shop was well worth checking out. Happy to see my favorite nashville 615 represented! Take a look at their schedule of live shows in the afternoons/evenings

Br
Review №65

As a coffee shop, this is pretty bare bones. The food is edible but nothing to write home about. Very hip decor and a grungy vibe are the standouts for this café.

Ti
Review №66

Dope spot. Was there for the 1st time for Joe Clair album release party. The drink prices were too high for the portions and the beer selection was poor. Other that good deal. Congrats Joe

A
Review №67

A great place to chill with a couple friends and listen to vinyls like other Adams Morgan hipsters. The tator tots are the bomb, and most other things are pretty good as well. They have several table games like Connect-4 and Banana Grams, and you can bring your drinks to the records shop side and listen to records, or watch a weird movie at the main bar.

Sc
Review №68

Ive been here a couple of times - the food and drinks are worth the visit. I wish the service was a little more attentive but maybe it was my luck. The basement is great for music events. Good selection of records in the back.

Gr
Review №69

Downstairs offers an intimate venue to catch bands before they make it big. Great sound for the space, cool staff, and a good selection of local beers. Ive enjoyed some solid cocktails at the main bar as well.

Jo
Review №70

Bruno Major was trying to sing an emotional song that was dedicated to his uncle who passed away before ever hearing it live... Only I couldnt hear it because the bartender was too busy trying to mack on some lady. This continued for the entirety of his show. Its moments like this that I dont question why artists never return to specific venues or cities. Hopefully other artists get more respect from the staff than Bruno did. For shame.

Ho
Review №71

Today I stoped in for coffee as I sometimes do on break from work.. I always enjoy the music and coffee. Today I left my wallet on the counter, I relized hours later there was all my ID, credit bank cards, $50 in cash and a very large cashiers check .. I ran back and they had it and everything was in it. I’m so grateful to the wonderful staff that has such integrity. Thank you so much! I’ll be back soon.

Fe
Review №72

Nice atmosphere and music

Sa
Review №73

Cute and colorful little venue/cafe/record shop. The basement performance area is small but has a nice DIY vibe. Tickets are always cheap and the shows are very intimate. The food is also great!!

El
Review №74

I was leaving work in Farragut North and really wanted a good sandwich and amazing cup of coffee. Songbyrd delivered on both in spades. The music was just as delicious, the decor relaxing and the staff welcoming. Perfect place to refuel before a night out or anytime youre hungry!

Ad
Review №75

Pretty good spot. Decent bar, decent cafe, decent vinyl shop, and pretty rad small stage downstairs. You should stop here often just because its a cool place to support the music scene.

Ni
Review №76

Just saw puma blue live and it was amazing. They are very open to photography which is great when trying to shoot at shows also the place itself is very comfy!!

De
Review №77

Great national and international touring bands as well as the best of local talent. Good food. Excellent events such as classic album listening parties. A great time for one and all.

Ly
Review №78

Everything is spot on about this place. Sandwiches are delicious. People are nice. Music is funky and fun, decor is hip without being annoying. Cool music listening stations. And they have pie! Come check it out. I want them to succeed - this is a perfect AdMo spot.

Ja
Review №79

I come here for Agua night and they always do a great job. Lots of fun and the drinks keep flowing.

Ja
Review №80

A hole in the wall but the best kind of hole! Always the hippest music and a super chill scene with good vibes and decent restrooms.

De
Review №81

Beautiful place lovely employees everyone was spritually uplifting very high positive energy

Qu
Review №82

I am so happy I tried this place out. It has a great ambiance, a very authentic feel... Like you are in someones home who knows exactly what they are passionate about! The decor is unique, with a lot of personality. The staff (Rene) is extremely friendly. The food is delicious, DELICIOUS. The coffee is excellent. Ive been back once a week since my first visit. I think this place will be my new go to hang out, work remotely, or for just a simple, yet delicious meal. Its a keeper! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Ms
Review №83

Tight, intimate space, upstairs area cozy w a bar and small concert held in the basement ( standing room only) There is a bar downstairs. Cool spot, may return to dine.

Ap
Review №84

Mid size venue, large venue down stairs for concerts and or shows. Good food. Easy to get to, from. Red line metro

D
Review №85

Very cool atmosphere. Huge selection of vinyl. Really good coffee as well.

Ti
Review №86

Fresh ingredients, great music, the best staff.

Ma
Review №87

I saw the best set ever by Chris Farren. Amazing. Life changing. I sobbed.

Da
Review №88

...nice café/bar; quaint basement level made for special events, only the floor needs to be remodeled...

ju
Review №89

Nice place to chill and have a late breakfast and brunch. Mostly a young people kind of scene. The food was ok. Half the people were on their laptops

Ka
Review №90

Great music, great food, great service. I enjoyed being here, cheers!!

Ja
Review №91

The place has a ton of character and is an awesome harbor of culture in DC. I wish the sound quality/engineering in the venue was a bit better.

Se
Review №92

Good drink selection, a bit crowded but good service

Mr
Review №93

Great location with a vibrant vibe. And plenty events from local artist that make you feel welcome.

Ma
Review №94

This is a great spot to go for indie talent. The GM is a really awesome guy. Staff is friendly.

Ro
Review №95

Decent coffee, decent food (though overprised), decent space, free wifi, etc.

De
Review №96

Songbyrd has Wifi and Tryst does not. Pretty much could stop there. However, the people were more polite and personable. In addition, the Chai Latte was better that Trysts as well. This is coming from someone who does not live in DC and who literally tried both places within an hour apart.

Mi
Review №97

Very nice bar and they had great food. The crowd was nice and friendly.

ha
Review №98

Staff was super nice. place smelled like gentrification and patchouli. good place to hang out if youre waiting for friends or something

Ra
Review №99

Drop in for an expensive cup of coffee. Let me clarify, youll want to buy everything in this pace for your personal collection. Records are reasonably priced and the coffee is damn tasty. Cant wait to go back!

Ia
Review №100

Good music and great beer! I had a great time with some friends last weekend. Definitely take a chance on the bartenders choice shooters, its a lot of fun.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:2475 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States
  • Site:http://songbyrddc.com/
  • Phone:+1 202-450-2917
Categories
  • Coffee shop
  • American restaurant
  • Bar
  • Cafe
  • Live music venue
  • Record store
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:5–9PM
  • Thursday:5–11PM
  • Friday:11AM–11PM
  • Saturday:11AM–9PM
  • Sunday:Closed
From the business
  • Identifies as women-led:Yes
Service options
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • No-contact delivery:Yes
  • Delivery:Yes
  • Takeout:Yes
  • Dine-in:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great beer selection:Yes
  • Great coffee:Yes
  • Great tea selection:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
  • Live performances:Yes
Popular for
  • Breakfast:Yes
  • Lunch:Yes
  • Dinner:Yes
  • Solo dining:Yes
  • Good for working on laptop:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Coffee:Yes
  • Comfort food:Yes
  • Happy hour drinks:Yes
  • Happy hour food:Yes
  • Hard liquor:Yes
  • Late-night food:Yes
  • Organic dishes:Yes
  • Prepared foods:Yes
  • Quick bite:Yes
  • Vegetarian options:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Breakfast:Yes
  • Lunch:Yes
  • Dinner:Yes
  • Dessert:Yes
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Bar onsite:Yes
  • Wi-Fi:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Cozy:Yes
Crowd
  • College students:Yes
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
Planning
  • Transgender safespace:Yes
  • LGBTQ friendly:Yes
Payments
  • Debit cards:Yes
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