Sports Bar Classic Returning to Washington DC: Buffalo Billiards Returns (2025 Edition)

Introduction Washington DC sports fans, get ready! After a six-year hiatus that left a massive hole in the District's sports bar scene, Buffalo Billiards is making its triumphant return to a new location on 14th Street. I've been covering DC's bar scene for years, and let me tell you, this comeback is huge for a city that bleeds burgundy and gold for the Commanders, red for the Capitals and Nationals, and red, white, and blue for DC United. My friend from George Washington Univ, Stephan, was one of the 1st bartenders here in 1996 and went on to launch many other locations across the US. Always a solid place to watch sports, just hang and drink, and of course play pool in a cool atmosphere With over 25 years of history serving DC sports fans before its closure, Buffalo Billiards wasn't just a bar—it was an institution. The new 8,000 square-foot space promises to bring back everything we loved about the original, plus modern upgrades that'll make it the ultimate game day destination. We're still building our methodology and this is an initial list - please provide comments to help us improve our recommendations! Featured Venue Buffalo Billiards Location: 14th Street Corridor - 1835 14th St., NW, Washington, DC Website: https://www.facebook.com/BuffaloBillDC Phone: TBA Opened: Spring 2025 What Makes It Special: This isn't just another sports bar opening—it's the resurrection of a DC legend. After losing their Dupont Circle lease in 2019, owners Geoff Dawson and Curt Large bought the former Source Theatre building for $4.5 million to bring Buffalo Billiards back to life. The dedication to preserving DC's sports bar culture while adding modern touches shows they understand what the District's fans really want. Sports Setup: The owners promise "the latest and greatest" TV and sound systems specifically designed for sports fans. In an 8,000 square-foot, two-story space, that means you'll have perfect sightlines from anywhere in the venue. The combination of pool hall and sports bar means you can shoot stick during commercials and never miss a play. Food & Drink: The menu keeps it classic with burgers, sandwiches, fries, and salads—exactly what you want during a long Sunday of football. They're bringing in plenty of beer options and cocktails, including non-alcoholic offerings for designated drivers. The owners operate successful bars like Penn Social and Astro Beer Hall, so they know how to keep drinks flowing during packed game days. Atmosphere: Buffalo Billiards is bringing back the original mural and the bronze bear that guarded the entrance—touches that old-timers will appreciate. The two-story layout creates different zones for different moods, whether you want the energy of the main floor or a slightly quieter spot upstairs. With billiards and shuffleboard leagues plus tournaments, this place will have that competitive energy that makes watching sports even better. Special Features:

• Pool tables restored from the 1950s plus shuffleboard, darts, and basketball arcade games
• Century-old Art Deco bar made from burled walnut as centerpiece
• Billiards and shuffleboard leagues and tournaments for competitive spirits
• Potential roof deck in future plans for those perfect DC spring and fall game days

Other DC Sports Bar Alternatives in downtown DC While we wait for Buffalo Billiards to open, here are other established sports bars in the DC area worth checking out: 14th Street/Shaw Area:

• Nanny O'Brien's Irish Pub - 3319 Connecticut Ave NW
• Penn Social - 801 E St NW
• Astro Beer Hall - 1306 G St NW

Dupont Circle:

• The Big Stick - 1737 L St NW
• The Board Room - 1737 Connecticut Ave NW

Capitol Hill:

• Hawk 'n' Dove - 329 Pennsylvania Ave SE
• Pour House - 319 Pennsylvania Ave SE

Georgetown:

• Rhino Bar & Pumphouse - 3295 M St NW
• The Tombs - 1226 36th St NW

Navy Yard:

• The Big Stick - 20 M St SE
• Mission - 1221 Van St SE

Conclusion Buffalo Billiards' return represents more than just another bar opening—it's the revival of a DC institution that understood what sports fans really want. The combination of classic pool hall atmosphere with modern sports viewing technology, all wrapped in the nostalgia of the original venue's best features, promises to create something special on 14th Street. The fact that Dawson and Large purchased the building shows they're committed to the long haul, ensuring DC sports fans won't lose this gathering spot again. When it opens in spring 2025, Buffalo Billiards won't just be competing for the title of best sports bar in DC—it'll be reclaiming its throne. Whether you're a Commanders die-hard, a Caps fanatic, or just someone who appreciates a good game of pool with your sports, this is going to be the place to be. What memories do you have from the original Buffalo Billiards? What are you most excited to see in the new location? Comment to help us improve our lists and share your favorite DC sports bar experiences! Bibliography

1. Washingtonian - "Buffalo Billiards Is Making a Comeback on 14th Street" - Article by Jessica Sidman, September 15, 2025
2. DC.Eater.com - "DC Bar and Restaurant Openings" - https://dc.eater.com/maps/new-restaurants-dc
3. Washington City Paper - "Best Sports Bars in DC" - https://washingtoncitypaper.com
4. PoPville - "DC Sports Bar Guide" - https://www.popville.com
5. DCist - "Where to Watch Sports in DC" - https://dcist.com
6. Barred in DC - "DC Bar Reviews and News" - https://barredindc.com
7. The Washington Post - "Going Out Guide: Sports Bars" - https://www.washingtonpost.com/goingoutguide
8. Thrillist DC - "Best Sports Bars in Washington DC" - https://www.thrillist.com/drink/washington-dc

Source: Jessica Sidman, Washingtonian