“The Dead Rabbit Embarks on Further U.S. Expansion with a Washington D.C. Opening Slated for 2024”

photo by Eric P.

Ed. Note: The PR firm would not confirm to the exact location but the Washington Business Journal reported that they’ll be coming to the former Pi Pizzeria space which abruptly closed last month.

From a press release:

“Managing Partner Jack McGarry and The Dead Rabbit team announce 2024 plans for the third location of the world’s most awarded pub in Washington D.C. Situated in Penn Quarter–within blocks of the National Portrait Gallery and Capital One Sports Arena–the 6,200 square-foot two-level space will feature the exceptional Irish beverage, food, and entertainment programming for which The Dead Rabbit is known. McGarry has tapped Crown Creative, the pub’s Belfast-based creative partner, to bring the vision of tradition meets tomorrow to life in the historic D.C. building in the center of the entertainment district.

“We are on a mission to decouple the American-Irish pub from its inaccurate stereotypes, and that can’t be done with one location in New York,” says McGarry. “D.C. as a city represents the convergence of deeply rooted history and vibrant contemporary culture and art, along with a reverence for Irish pubs and the culture more broadly. It’s a fitting locale for The Dead Rabbit to showcase modern Irish distillers, makers, artisans, and performers, through the lens of The Dead Rabbit’s exceptional hospitality.”

Leading the charge alongside McGarry are Director of Operations Laura Torres, Beverage Director Aidan Bowie, and Crown Creative–steadfast in ensuring that each new location reflects the original. Together they set the stage for guests to experience Irish culture and good craic, be it through perfectly poured Guinness pints; innovative cocktails alongside masterfully made Irish Coees; expansive and bespoke Irish whiskey curated by Director of Irish Whiskey Mark McLaughlin; modern Irish playlists and live acts via Music Director Liam Craig; and the enjoyment of a class meal of updated Irish favorites.

The expansion builds upon the team’s new projects and brand development in its 10th year in business, all under the contemporary Irish umbrella, and including the entertainment vehicle, That’s Deadly; annual Paddy’s not Patty’s Festival and holiday extravaganza Jingle Jangle, whereby the pub is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with nostalgic decor and dedicated holiday cocktail menu; ongoing fun and immersive Spirits of Ireland education; new Irish pub experience: The Irish Exit with its first location at Moynihan Train Hall; and a new location of The Dead Rabbit in Austin, TX, opening early 2024. The New Orleans location is currently on hold.

About The Dead Rabbit

The Dead Rabbit, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, was co-founded in 2013 by Managing Partner, Jack McGarry, a Belfast-native. Firmly rooted in the philosophy of tradition meets tomorrow, the pub reflects a modern Irish “third place,” that celebrates Irish makers, artisans, and collaborators–even including in its team a Director of Irish Whiskey and Music Director, both based in Ireland. In recognition of this unending commitment, The Dead Rabbit has received extensive accolades as the world’s most awarded pub, including Tales of The Cocktail Spirited Awards, top honors from World’s 50 Best Bars, and inclusion on the 2023 North America’s 50 Best Bars list. Guests can enjoy varied experiences embedded into each floor of the five-story, 19th-century townhouse, with The Taproom, The Parlor, and The Occasional Room.”