In a significant indication of a vibe shift in Washington, D.C., a bar that has been a favorite among Republican staffers has officially announced its closure. The establishment, Hill Country, known for its vibrant atmosphere and Texas barbecue, is set to be replaced by a new venue that will only accept cryptocurrency as payment. This development was first reported by local news outlet PoPville on Thursday.
The new bar, named Pubkey, is a D.C. outpost of a similar venue located in Greenwich Village, New York. Pubkey describes itself as a “vibrant bitcoin community.” The bar has taken over the lease of Hill Country, which has been a staple in the Penn Quarter for 14 years. This transition represents a growing trend of crypto-centric social venues emerging across the United States in recent years.
Pubkey first opened its doors in 2022 near the New York University campus, presenting a casual vibe that combines elements of a dive bar with a podcast recording studio. The menu features pub grub crafted by an alumnus of the renowned Eleven Madison Park, and patrons can enjoy their meals as long as they pay using cryptocurrency. A visit to Pubkey reveals its quirky charm, including a stuffed raccoon and a television often playing classic films like “A Christmas Story.”
What sets Pubkey apart from its competitors is its unique connection to the White House. During the 2024 campaign, former President Donald Trump made headlines by visiting Pubkey and using $998.70 worth of bitcoin to purchase smash burgers for everyone present. This event marked a historic moment, as Trump became the first president to complete a bitcoin transaction, symbolizing a notable embrace of the crypto community.
When contacted for comment, Pubkey owner Thomas Pacchia confirmed that the D.C. location is set to open in the coming months, although he did not disclose the specific address. He mentioned that the new venue will feature podcast studios and event spaces. Despite acknowledging the mixed reactions surrounding Trump's visit, Pacchia expressed hope that the establishment would attract a bipartisan crowd. “Anybody that wants to come and talk about Bitcoin is welcome. Literally, anyone,” he stated.
The bar that Pubkey will replace has a completely different atmosphere. Hill Country, located near D.C.'s power lobbying firms, is famed for its loud Texas decor and has been a hot spot for Republican staffers seeking live country music, delicious smoked brisket, and reasonably priced drinks. The venue has also served as a backdrop for notable moments, such as GOP lawmaker Rep. George Santos singing “I Will Survive” during a karaoke night in 2023, all while under investigation for fraud.
The introduction of Pubkey to Washington comes at a pivotal moment in the history of cryptocurrency. Once viewed as a fringe group by lawmakers, the crypto community is now gaining significant influence, particularly within the Trump administration. High-profile supporters of Trump's reelection, like David Sacks and Elon Musk, have shifted the perception of cryptocurrency in political circles. Trump has taken an active role in the crypto space, launching his own memecoin, appointing Sacks as a “crypto czar,” and proposing a potential cryptocurrency strategic reserve.
As Pubkey prepares to open its doors in the nation’s capital, it symbolizes the growing presence and influence of the crypto faction in Washington. Whether it successfully displaces the traditional Republican bar atmosphere remains to be seen, but it is clear that the cryptocurrency movement is making significant inroads into the social and political fabric of D.C.
