A classic needing a 21st century update

This was my first time checking out the DC strip club scene - having last gone to a strip club in Atlanta years ago, so I was not really sure what to expect. I went to Camelot and Mpire on the same night after doing some research on what to expect and the rules of the DC scene.

My initial reaction to the club was mixed - this definitely has the feel of a DC staple, very relaxed atmosphere, courteous staff, and decent (but dated) decor. The drinks were reasonably priced, if maybe a little heavy on the ice. My server (Kate) was kind, but was clearly rushed off her feet as she also had to deal with another table which had bottle service. I would have preferred better attentiveness as service was painfully slow at times.

As for the dancers? They were VERY hit and miss. Some of the dancers were very much phoning it in, which made the proper strip club etiquette of tipping them after the dance very irritable. Perversely, this made those dancers who seemed to be enjoying themselves far more attractive, and so I tipped them more heavily than their performance might have otherwise demanded. The dancers were generally good looking and imaginatively dressed, but could have done with greater ethnic diversity. Variety is the spice of life! Also note that the dancers choose their own songs at this place, so the playlist may not be to your liking in every case. The one dancer I would recommend is Milan, who definitely seemed like she was enjoying herself and was very much into the performance.