What's a 'dueling piano bar,' you ask? Well, it's exactly what it sounds like. At Bobby McKey's (172 Fleet St.National Harbor, MD 20745), two to four piano players take your song requests and turn them into some of the best live entertainment you'll find. And I'm not just talking about moderately okay singing. I was seriously wowed at how talented these guys were. They turned Eminem's 'Forgot About Dre' into a classic show tune. If that's not talent, I don't know what is.
I recently visited Bobby McKey's and had a wonderful girl's night with my friend, Candice. We arrived a little late (and by late I mean by 15 minutes), and the place was already packed to capacity. However, because we made reservations, our seats were saved and we sat next to one group celebrating a birthday on one side and a group of friends enjoying a night out on the other. We quickly made friends with our neighbors and they showed us the ropes for surviving a night at Bobby McKey's.
In order to hear a song we liked, we were to write our request on a piece of paper, walk up to and place it on the piano and include a tip (which increases the likelihood your song is played). There's also a way for you to let your waiter/waitress know when you're ready for another drink, which is always a plus in my book. Seating was a little tight so it's best not to get up unless you really need to.
I'm not Sarah J.
After one of the piano players hit on a girl celebrating her 21st birthday with her parents AND grandparents in tow, I knew I was in the right place.
I didn't have cash to tip so my request - Back That Ass Up by Juvenile - wasn't honored (but would have been hilarious to hear). But that didn't mean I didn't enjoy the variety of songs played. From Whitney Houston to Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift to Eminem, there was something sang for everyone's musical taste. And when crass jokes are made between songs (in a good way), it makes the night that much more enjoyable.
I had a hilariously good time at Bobby McKey's, which is why I'm giving away a $200 gift card for you and your friends! Enter to win by following two simple steps:
- Subscribe to Will Drink For Travel's YouTube channel; and
- Follow Bobby McKey's on Instagram.
That's it! Are you celebrating a birthday? St. Patrick's Day? Bachelorette party? Or just want to do something fun with your friends? This is the perfect gift to do just that.
Tips for having fun at Bobby McKey's:
- Make reservations and be on time.
- Become fast friends with your neighbors.
- Take advantage of the drink specials.
- Come with cash so you can tip to hear your favorite songs.
- Have a sense of humor.
The giveaway will end next Thursday, March 16th, at 5 p.m. EST, just in time for St. Patricks Day. Good luck and may the odds be ever in your favor!