Washington DC (Page 2)

I work in DC, so haven't really done the night life thing.  Just my plain humble opinion, but Old Ebbit is overrated.  Don't want to discourage you though... lots of people love it, and I actually know a (very large) man who eats there every weekday!

x2 on chippy - Matchbox is my current fav local restaurant.  Going to have to look at more of her suggestions, since she obviously has made the rounds.

For a really cool experience, have drinks at the top of the Hotel Washington, overlooking the White House.  My mom took me there on my 21st birthday for my first "official" drink.

I grew up in Alexandria, and would add a vote for an evening in Old Town.  Always fun to wander King Street, check out the funky shops (your GF might enjoy the Silver Parrot) and pop into the various bars.  For a cool sports bar, check out the Penalty Box (on King Street, about 2 bloks up from the river).  It was/is owned by a former pro hockey player who held the record for most time spent in the penalty box.  Fish Market is a good time (with good clam chowder, btw).  One of my favorite places for dinner is Southside 815, on the GW Parkway, probably a mile past King Street if you're driving from DC--the Mason-Dixon mashed potatoes are heavenly.  Another great meal near the King Street strip is King Street Blues--I recommend the meatloaf (no joke).