One of the best parts about summer is eating and drinking outside. BBQs are great, but far too much work for my taste. Patios and seats in front of restaurants/bars are cool and all, but really, the sidewalk's for suckers. That's why I'm glad DC's weather and building restrictions present an array of roof options.

Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan has its share of roof decks. Among them is The Reef, whose roof is the go-to destination for altitudinal inebriation, so get there early (especially if you're going on a weekend night). Up the street on Columbia Road is Perrys. The bar area is for everybody, but the tables are reserved for those willing to shell out $15 per person in food (which isn't a hard target to hit with their menu). Madams Organ, home to Adams Morgan's famous mural, doesn't exactly have a roof, but it does have a balcony-type thing to look down on the peons. Tom Tom down the street has a roofish back section. A few doors down, Brass Monkey enjoys a small deck that is packed on the weekends. While Lauriol Plaza's sidewalk area is its most prominent feature, it does have a large roof section with tables and a bar.

U Street

While Local 16 once held the title of most popular roof on U Street, Marvin seems to have usurped its title and presumptuous clientele (though not its view). If you're willing to drop some dough on overpriced drinks, Tabaq has one of the best views of the city. This is also a great date spot (once again, if you're willing to spend the money). Keep heading down the street, and you'll find Nellie's Sports Bar at the corner of 9th and U. This straight-friendly establishment keeps its roof packed on weekends, but usually has space on weekdays.

Dupont

18th Street Lounge (aka that place above the mattress store) has a really cool back deck. As much as I like this place, it isn't everyone's cup of tea. There's a cover, they have a door policy that changes with the wind, and the crowd tends to be slightly older. However, the music is usually great, especially on reggae night (Wednesdays).

Georgetown

Sequoia, Tony & Joe's, and the likes on the Georgetown waterfront are so five years ago. Instead, try the roof of Old Glory. Third Edition doesn't exactly have a roof (more of a backyard), but I wouldn't blame them for trying to pass off the deck on the second floor as such.

Other places around town

If you can find an event at The Space (there's one for blind Uzbekistanis on Friday ... no, seriously), their second-floor deck is quite lovely. I'm also going to give props to Cantina Marina for their outdoor bar. While it's not elevated, it's on the water, and I'll take water over pavement any day.

Anyone have any others?