Poste Moderne Brasserie: Happy Hour Heaven

This time of year in Washington D.C., the hours after work and before dark are a magical time to be outside. Tucked inside one of the District's imposing historic buildings, the original 1841 General Post Office, the garden bar at Poste Moderne Brasserie is an idyllic place to spend these witching hours. Poste is a calm oasis amidst the bustle of Metro Center and Chinatown, far more relaxing than other popular bars nearby. Even at happy hour, however, Poste is an expensive choice. Limited drink and food specials include house beer and wine, Ketel One and Maker's Mark cocktails, and upscale bar snacks such as truffle fries and Old Bay-spiced popcorn. Selections from the Poste dinner menu are also available at the outdoor bar. I tried the Onion Soup burger: Virginia grass fed beef, comté cheese, and caramelized onion soup served on an onion bun. I would easily call it the fanciest burger I've ever had, more akin to dressed-up steak tartare than a ground beef sandwich – appropriate, considering its seventeen dollar price tag. The portions are very generous, perfect for sharing in the unexpectedly laid-back and social environment at Poste. My advice: forget the happy hour specials and come to Poste on pay day ready to splurge. This is a place to enjoy fine food and classic cocktails in a beautiful, quiet urban setting.