Gazuza is another cool lounge by Latin Concepts, the company responsible for bringing Chi Cha and Mate to DC. Located north of the circle, Gazuza normally doesn’t have the long waits and hassles of some of the other Dupont establishments which suits me just fine. I don’t always think of coming to this spot, but after smoking a hookah and a couple of cocktails, I am usually glad I did.

Cost – $$

Service – B
The service here is consistently good. The bartenders and wait staff are pretty quick with the drinks and sociable. The doormen are also pretty friendly and do a good job of getting people through without acting like they are doing you a favor.

Food – B
I am picky when it comes to sushi so I would rate it decent but some have commented that it’s actually on the good side, especially for a lounge. The other menu offerings are pretty good including the specialty drinks. Who doesn’t like mojitos?

Decor – A-
The dim lights, red walls and low leather chairs, stools and tables creates a hip intimate setting. The deck overlooking Connecticut Ave. is all-weather so take advantage if hanging outdoors is your thing.

Feel – A-
Aside from the modern feel, one of my favorite things about this place is that the DJs play deep funk so the music keeps things energetic. Gazuza also attracts a very diverse crowd which helps to keep things interesting.

Gazuza is located at 1629 Connecticut Ave. NW. They can be reached at (202) 667-5500.

What’s the Buzz:

February 2005 – Gazuza (The Washington Post) – Shortly after Gazuza opened in the middle of May 2001, the patio overlooking Connecticut Avenue became Dupont Circle’s latest see-and-be-seen location. Although there are more than a dozen tables, it’s such a hotly contested spot for socializing that we heard customers were taking tables inside with a view of the patio – in order to move in and grab a table as soon as it became available. Full article…

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