PubKey’s Bitcoin Mission Expands: From NYC to Washington, DC’s Crypto Frontier

Introduction

Nestled in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, PubKey has become a vibrant hub for New York City’s Bitcoin community, blending craft beers, gourmet pub fare, and a passion for “orange-pilling” newcomers to cryptocurrency. On June 19, 2025, the bar announced plans to bring its unique blend of dive-bar charm and Bitcoin advocacy to Washington, DC, strategically positioning itself near the heart of U.S. crypto policy-making. This article explores PubKey’s cultural impact, its expansion plans, and its role in fostering bipartisan dialogue about Bitcoin’s future.

A Bitcoin Haven in the Heart of NYC

Since opening in 2022 at 85 Washington Place, PubKey has transformed from a basement dive bar into a cultural landmark for Bitcoin enthusiasts. Co-owner Thomas Pacchia, a former Fidelity blockchain incubator, estimates that 80% of patrons are unaware of the bar’s crypto focus, drawn instead by its welcoming vibe and menu crafted by Eleven Madison Park alum Greg Proechel. Subtle nods to Bitcoin, like a “Buy ₿itcoin” sign from the famed Bitcoin Sign Guy, adorn the space, while weekly meetups attract a 50/50 mix of seasoned Bitcoiners and curious newcomers. The bar’s inclusive approach—accepting Bitcoin via the Lightning Network alongside cash and credit—makes it a gateway for crypto-curious “normies.”

Why Washington, DC? A Strategic Move

PubKey’s expansion to Washington, DC, is no coincidence. With its proximity to policymakers shaping crypto legislation, the new location aims to serve as a “Bitcoin embassy” in the nation’s capital. Pacchia has hinted at a “huge” venue with podcast studios and event spaces, designed to foster curated conversations about Bitcoin’s potential. The bar has already engaged bipartisan figures, including Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and gained attention after former President Donald Trump’s high-profile 2024 visit, where he spent $998.70 in BTC on burgers, marking the first presidential Bitcoin transaction. The DC outpost, potentially replacing the Republican-favored Hill Country bar, signals crypto’s growing political clout.

Fostering Community and Education

PubKey’s mission transcends serving drinks; it’s about building real-world connections in a digital age. Pacchia emphasizes the importance of in-person interactions, noting, “People are inherently social, and we’re not meant to be social exclusively online.” Regular events, such as talks by SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce or Bitcoin evangelists Max Keiser and Stacy Herbert, draw crowds eager to learn. Patrons like Isaac, a meetup regular, value the “warm environment” for brainstorming with like-minded individuals, while others bring non-crypto friends to introduce them to Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network, which only 5–7% of customers use daily. These efforts aim to “orange-pill” newcomers gently, sparking curiosity without overwhelming them.

Challenges and Opportunities in DC

Opening in Washington, DC, presents both opportunities and challenges. The city’s political landscape, coupled with recent legislative moves like the Senate’s passage of the GENIUS Act on June 17, 2025, underscores crypto’s rising influence. However, replacing a beloved GOP hangout like Hill Country, known for its Texas-themed karaoke nights, risks alienating some locals. Pacchia’s bipartisan vision aims to bridge this gap, welcoming “literally anyone” to discuss Bitcoin. The bar’s success will depend on replicating NYC’s inclusive vibe while navigating DC’s polarized environment. Posts on X reflect excitement, with users like @maddopemadic praising PubKey’s unique appeal, but skepticism about crypto’s mainstream acceptance persists.

Conclusion

PubKey’s expansion from a Greenwich Village dive bar to a Washington, DC, “Bitcoin embassy” marks a bold step in bringing crypto culture to the heart of U.S. policymaking. By blending hospitality with education, PubKey fosters a community where Bitcoin enthusiasts and newcomers alike can connect, learn, and explore the future of decentralized finance. As crypto gains traction in political discourse, PubKey’s DC outpost could become a pivotal space for bipartisan dialogue, challenging stereotypes and “orange-pilling” a new audience. While challenges like local resistance and regulatory scrutiny loom, PubKey’s inclusive approach and vibrant community spirit position it to shape Bitcoin’s narrative in the nation’s capital.