We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
Free Newsletter

Interested in Washington DC?

We'll send you updates with the latest deals, reviews and articles for Washington DC each week.

  • Save Shelly's Back Room
  • E-mail this page

Shelly's Back Room


TripAdvisor Traveler Rating:
  • A summary score based on quality, quantity and age of traveler ratings.
5 of 5 stars 15 ratings
15 ratings
5.0 of 5 stars
1
4.0 of 5 stars
2
3.0 of 5 stars
3
2.0 of 5 stars
3
1.0 of 5 stars
6
TripAdvisor Popularity Index:
  • Measures overall traveler satisfaction based on ratings, reviews and other sources.
#960 of 1,149 restaurants in Washington DC
  • Cuisines: American
  • Price range*: $15-$20
  • Neighborhood: Downtown
  • Address: 1331 F Street NW, Washington DC, DC 20004
  • Phone:  202.737.3003
  • Fax:  202-737-3003
Traveler Description:
Familiar with Shelly's Back Room? Write your own description and share what you know with other travelers.

Traveler Reviews

[ Date ] [ Rating ]
Save Review
1 of 5 stars
DCdood 1 contribution
Washington, DC
Mar 20, 2009

As a long time resident of DC, I am accustomed to a certain level of service at restaurants and bars in the area. I went to Shelly's Back Room and was surprised at how not only were they below what I've come to expect, they absolutely are the worst of the worst. Upon entering this place, which actually is nicely... more

Atmosphere
Save Review
3 of 5 stars
GLOMAN 1 contribution
gEORGIA
Dec 28, 2008

Great place to be,good food and drink but the owner or manager needs a lesson in humility. more

Save Review
1 of 5 stars
glennlackey 1 contribution
Washington, DC
Aug 25, 2008

Service was worse than bad, food was on a par with McDonald's. Staffed by former CEO's who can't stand to mingle with common folk. more

Save Review
1 of 5 stars
sixman 1 contribution
washington, dc
Jul 7, 2008
1/1 found this review helpful

It really is unfortunate to see a place with such great atmosphere suffer from terrible service. I can understand a server having a bad night but this included outrageous behavior from the management and several servers. A friend and I arrived at Shelly's on a weeknight to enjoy a cigar, drinks and dinner. Two other people were planning to join... more

Save Review
4 of 5 stars
NixonWashington_DC 1 contribution
Washington, DC
May 5, 2008

Very nice atmosphere. Service is not the best, but nor bad. Didn't have any problems with getting service when we asked. Scatch was right on par. Some places will skimp, but felt as though we got the right amount. A group of friends and I are considering joining/ getting a humidor. more

Save Review
4 of 5 stars
A TripAdvisor Contributor
Apr 7, 2008

This is a cigar bar where you can blaze, watch sports, and drink without a worry. The wait staff leaves plenty to be desired... but who cares. Beautifully decorated with excellent central location in the city. more

Save Review
1 of 5 stars
TTotev 10 contributions
Washington, DC
Apr 3, 2008

One of the worst bar/lounges I have ever been to! I strongly suggest - do not get fooled by the professionally done website. I visited on a Sat evening with 5 friends. I chose it as it was one of the few places in DC where you can smoke cigars. The ambiance and decoration are very nice. It has a... more

Save Review
2 of 5 stars
A TripAdvisor Contributor
Feb 3, 2008

One of my favorite hang outs, I believe it's the only place in DC where one can legally enjoy a smoke with a reasonably extensive and upscale libation menu. The food is good, but woefully overpriced. more

Save Review
5 of 5 stars
Magnum6 1 contribution
Memphis
Sep 6, 2007

The negative reviewer needs to visit again. I go to Shelly's every time I'm in DC, which is quite often. It's a great place, great cigar selection, and I've always had good service, if not great service. more

Save Review
1 of 5 stars
Chordas 1 contribution
Alexandria, VA
Apr 2, 2007
7/11 found this review helpful

Okay, to put the record straight, I'm not a newcomer to dining, or bars, or even cigar bars. This evening, due only to the new DC law prohibiting smoking in restaurants or bars (excluding cigar bars,) a colleague of mine and I stopped into Shelly's for a smoke and a couple shots of single-malt scotch. Even though the establishment was... more

Write Your Own Restaurant Review
Been to Shelly's Back Room? Share your experiences!
Write a Review
Add Photos
Add Videos

Do You Own Shelly's Back Room?

TripAdvisor has free and easy resources to help you enhance your listing and promote your property.

  • Start Here - Visit Your Owner's Page
  • Add Photo
  • Add Video

Shelly's Back Room Address

1331 F Street NW, Washington DC, DC 20004
Tel: 202.737.3003 Fax: 202-737-3003
* Restaurant price information is based on meal cost per person, excluding drinks, tax and tip.