Old Ebbitt grill is an institution but also a tourist spot, so be wary. Brickskellar has lost its luster and there?s a lot more beer cars in DC that do it better (Church Key in Logan, Meridian Pint in Columbia heights). The tune inn near the capitol is the greatest dive bar in DC, with a lot of members of congress hanging out there.
What's the name of the place about a block from the arena? It's a brew pub. I can't remember the name but LOVE the beer!
I think you're referring to Capitol City Brewing. There's also a great beer bar down the street from the arena called RFD (Regional Food and Drink). It's the smaller sister bar of the Brickskeller.
The "idea" of the jumbo slice pizza is a pretty good institution. There are tons of places that serve jumbo slice pizza in Adams Morgan. Check 'em out!