Located in Washington, D.C.’s Shaw area, Segreto is an Eritrean-owned speakeasy with offerings unlike anywhere else in the country.
You reach Segreto by walking to the back of Minya’s Pizza, providing the speakeasy’s password, and heading through a fridge door. Once you’re downstairs in the unique, intimate hideaway, you’re surrounded by its dark royal blue interior with yellow and golden accents. A multisensory experience, the speakeasy grabs visitors’ attention with its mixology-driven cocktails and slices incorporating Eritrean cuisine. While you sip your drink, you’ll have your choice of the day’s hand-tossed pizza options, which can include pies with derho (including flavorfully marinated grilled chicken), awaze tibs (with berbere-spiced ground beef, onions, and jalapeno), and amatere (including a spicy tomato sauce, tilapia, onions, garlic, jalapeno, bird’s eye chili, and honey buffalo sauce).
What To Expect At Segreto In Washington, D.C.
Owner Yosief Aradom is behind both Minya’s Pizza and Segreto. The basement bar has 17 seats, so you might want to make a reservation. Since it’s cozy, plan to stop by either at the beginning or end of your evening. It’s the type of place that’s great for incorporating into a date night, catching up with a friend, or enjoying a worthwhile happy hour. The latter is Monday through Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Zero-proof cocktails are available too, so don’t sweat it if you’re not into the hard stuff. Also, the drink menu is seasonal.
You’ll need to scan a QR code and send out a text for the password, but your cell service may be spotty once you’re in the basement.
Former visitors rave about Segreto’s mixologists, noting their mastery of crafting delicious alcoholic drinks and mocktails. People love that it truly feels like a speakeasy, even when it’s packed and busy. Online reviews note that the music is good, the vibes are low-key, and the pizza hits every time.
