New, Notable, No Longer

Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar
Let’s get something straight about Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar, the new hot spot that opened in the National Harbor development late last year and the only establishment of its kind in the D.C. metro area: If you’re picturing a quiet, smoky, candle-lit bar with red vinyl booths and an aging crooner spitting out standards for dollar tips slipped into an oversized brandy snifter, think again. Bobby McKey’s is a rocking, rollicking, high-energy good time more akin to a nightclub – or maybe a circus. This is certainly not your granddad’s piano bar.

The players are the emphasis at Bobby McKey’s. Each evening features four pianists, two playing at a time in hour-long sets. When one pair’s set is winding up, the next pair joins them on stage for a foursome, often joined by a number of the attractive waitresses who dance and sometimes sing. The piano players can play most any tune thrown their way of the thousands they claim to know. You’ll hear most everything, from “Piano Man” to Journey. Audience requests with tips attached get priority. Jokes abound, and the music virtually never stops.

The players have been brought in from all over, including popular spots such as Crocodile Rock in Myrtle Beach, S.C. They are more entertainers and performers than piano virtuosos, and that’s a good thing in entertaining the age-diverse crowd.

The new two-level building has the atmosphere of an old warehouse with exposed brick. Seating can be limited, and reservations for tables are necessary on Fridays and Saturdays. There’s plenty of space to stand, and there really isn’t a bad spot in the house. Beer and cocktails are plentiful, and food options include dip-able fare, sliders, sandwiches and personal pizzas. Bobby McKey’s is not a chain,but locally owned and operated.

Bobby McKey’s is in the heart of the new National Harbor complex right near the Wilson Bridge in Prince Georges County. If you haven’t been to the new development since it opened last year, or you haven’t visit in a few months, you’ll be surprised by its growth. A recent Saturday evening was busy, with people also heading to Cadillac Ranch or dinner at Grace’s Mandarin, Rosa Mexicano’s or the Old Hickory Steakhouse, among others.

With a nightclub atmosphere and killer entertainment in a unique setting, Bobby McKey’s can be summed up simply as fun.

Bobby McKey’s is open Monday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. $10 cover, recommended reservations for tables. Dress cool casual. – Robert Fulton
Bobby McKey’s: 172 Fleet St., National Harbor, MD; 301-567-1488; www.bobbymckeys.com