In 1791, Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton proposed an excise tax on domestically produced distilled spirits. The tax was a part of Hamilton’s plan to centralize government and reduce the country’s increasing war debt. Farmers living west of the Appalachian Mountains in the states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, North and South Carolina, and Virginia were veterans and they distilled their excess grain and corn into whiskey and used it as a medium of exchange. For them (like us in DC today), the tax not only seemed too similar to the American Revolution, [taxation without (local) representation], but it was also a personal affront on their ability to make a living. They thought that Hamilton designed the tax, the equivalent to an income tax, to keep them poor and benefit the larger, wealthier distillers who lived east of the Appalachians and didn’t have to pay the tax. As tax officials set out to collect the tax in these areas, the farmers began to voice their defiance of the law and rioted. They rebelled. This Rebellion, which lasted until 1794, is widely regarded as one of the reasons for the birth of American Bourbon in this region.
Welcome to Rebellion...
At Rebellion, we value both American history and our fine cocktails. Given its place in history, we believe that great spirits deserve to be honored. Furthermore, DC’s culture, friendly nature and cocktail history implore us to enjoy great food and great libations. Here at Rebellion, that’s exactly what we intend to do.
While we love our bourbon whiskey, our name only tells half the story. Rebellion is unlike any other establishment in the Dupont Circle corridor. We believe in giving you an upscale dining experience without the price. Our goal is to be your ideal brunch, happy hour, and everyday public house. We have bar, dining room and open air roof top patio seating. Rebellion’s décor is warm, inviting, and comfortable and we embody all of the characteristics of the classic American Tavern, but with a modern, new-age feel.
We know that one of the secrets to success for any establishment lies in the food; it has to make you want to come back for more. Rebellion’s menu offers classic American comfort food with a Southern twist, but we won’t stop there. Every few months we’re going to change the menu to keep things fresh, but don’t worry we’ll keep your favorites.
Rebellion offers over 400 types of bourbon and whiskey selections. Not in the mood for whiskey, try a cocktail off of our signature drink list or try one of our homemade barrel-aged cocktails. We also offer an excellent selection of wine, hand selected by our personal wine consultant. If beer is more your speed, we have the best craft selection in the neighborhood.
We’re not just any new public house; we’re YOUR new neighborhood spot. We believe in family and want to be a part of yours. So come on, what are you waiting for? Come join the Rebellion.
