In a surprising twist on the conventional bar experience, PubKey is set to debut a unique venue focused on Bitcoin culture in the heart of Washington, D.C. Nestled in the former space of Hill Country Barbecue on Seventh Street, the extensive 12,000-square-foot establishment boasts a podcast studio, an event space, and even a think tank named the Bitcoin Policy Institute, which is set to sublet space at the location. This marks the second branch of PubKey, following the original that opened in New York.
Co-founder Thomas Pacchia, a former derivatives lawyer, is excited to create an environment that invites curiosity about Bitcoin. “It’s the most approachable way for somebody to say, ‘I’ve been reading about this thing. I don’t get it, but I’m curious,’” he explains, articulating the venue’s mission to engage newcomers to the cryptocurrency scene. The design aims for a classic dive bar aesthetic, complete with karaoke and trivia nights, and a steakhouse will open in the basement next spring.
PubKey’s launch comes at a time when Washington, D.C., has a notably crypto-friendly administration. Notably, former President Donald Trump recently visited the New York location and made a Bitcoin payment for food. Meanwhile, even high-profile financial figures, such as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, were seen at the D.C. venue’s pre-opening events. However, Pacchia insists that PubKey maintains a nonpartisan stance, noting their open invitations to politicians across the spectrum, including Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden.
The focus of PubKey is decidedly on Bitcoin, distinguishing itself from the broader cryptocurrency landscape. Chief Operating Officer Dan Kablaoui emphasizes that they do not engage with “meme coins” like Dogecoin or other cryptocurrencies often deemed speculative. “Most of us, as Bitcoiners, have been through that phase and realized we were just in a casino,” he remarked. Bitcoin has had a tumultuous year, with sweeping highs and lows, yet the bar aims to be a stable voice for regular Bitcoin users amidst the landscape of lobbying and big finance.
Pacchia’s own journey with Bitcoin began in 2016, hosting events in local bars before the COVID-19 pandemic altered the landscape of social gatherings and venues. His vision for PubKey emerged from a desire to reignite community and conversations regarding Bitcoin and its implications.
Guests at PubKey can expect a menu full of classic bar fare featuring smash burgers, Chicago-style hot dogs, and wings. Chef Alexis Samayoa, who hails from notable culinary backgrounds, will also introduce a more refined “business lunch” menu that includes upscale seafood and steak options. One standout item, the $100 “Orange Phill Whale” cocktail, can only be purchased with Bitcoin and includes an assortment of branded merchandise.
In another layer of intrigue, the soon-to-open basement will be converted into an 85-seat chophouse dubbed “Dimly Lit Chophouse.” This steakhouse will focus on high-quality, dry-aged steaks and other classic dishes, all while adhering to strict culinary practices, like avoiding seed oils in favor of beef tallow.
Despite its Bitcoin roots, PubKey remains open to all patrons. General Manager Kablaoui revealed that a significant portion of their customers may not even recognize the bar as a Bitcoin establishment initially, creating a unique “Truman Show moment” when they notice the Bitcoin ticker or read about its offerings.
As PubKey prepares for its grand opening on December 15, it looks to shape the conversation around Bitcoin while offering an engaging environment for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
