By Nicole Hopmans and Danica Serena Stockton By Nicole Hopmans and Danica Serena Stockton | July 18, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guide, Guides,
From frozen cocktails to stunning views, these chic rooftop bars and restaurants elevate dining alfresco.Summit Rooftop at the Conrad Hotel Washington DC
Summit The Rooftop at The Conrad
Centrally located between The White House and Union Market, Conrad Hotel Washington DC is in the middle of all the action. The stunning Summit Rooftop on the 11th floor has unparalleled views of national buildings, including the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument. Enjoy Champagne bottle service, dinner and breathtaking views with someone special for a romantic evening or with friends for a memorable dining experience. 950 New York Ave. NW, conradwashingtondc.com
The Betsy
Tucked in an alley off Barrack’s Row, The Betsy is one of DC’s most unique rooftop bars. This rooftop gin garden on Capitol Hill boasts eccentric cocktails of every variety. Whether guests choose to indulge in the ‘And Yet, I Never Run Into Beyonce’ gin cocktail or a classic vodka martini, there is something for everyone. 514 8th St. SE, thebetsyusa.com
Ciel Social Club
Ciel Social Club
Ciel Social Club’s indoor-outdoor rooftop is a must for summer cocktails, thanks to retractable, accordion-style walls, lounge seating and lush greenery adorning the space from every angle. Guests can indulge in fresh bites like the Atlantic salmon with lemon caper vinaigrette and unique sips like the Amarga Caliente with smoked paprika syrup. 601 K St., cielsocialclub.com
Lucha Rosa
Step into a Southern Mexico-inspired escape at Lucha Rosa’s indoor-outdoor rooftop bar. Foodies can indulge in chips and guacamole or tacos while enjoying the colorful decor and panoramic views of the city through glass ceilings and walls. 1011 K St. NW, moxydcdining.com
Moonraker
Indulge in Japanese bites and sips with a side of panoramic waterfront views at Moonraker. Set atop the Pendry Washington D.C., this restaurant and bar boasts an impressive selection of Japanese whisky, curated cocktails, sushi and more. Guests can elevate their happy hour with Moonraker’s signature weeknight social hour from 4 to 6 p.m. and Thursday night Sunset Sips & Sounds featuring new DJs weekly. 655 Water St. SW, pendry.com
Perry’s
Nestled in Adams Morgan, this spot has been a local favorite for over 40 years—and after a visit to their rooftop, you’ll understand why. While taking in panoramic views of the city, guests can indulge in delectable Japanese-inspired bites like uni mac and cheese and creative cocktails like the Lycheetini. 1811 Columbia Road NW, perrysam.com
Smoke & Mirrors Rooftop Bar
Enjoy a decadent rooftop experience at Smoke & Mirrors, where divine bites like oysters with caviar delight. Situated between Navy Yard and Capitol Hill, Smoke & Mirrors boasts gorgeous golden hour views—just picture the sunset illuminating The Capitol and The White House as a purple and blue-hued sky fades into dusk.867 New Jersey Ave. SE, smokeandmirrorsrooftop.com
Thompson Washington D.C.
Elevate your cocktail hour (literally) at the Rooftop at the Thompson. Guests can indulge in light bites and creative cocktails with 360 views of the gorgeous Navy Yard waterfront. Sip the signature espresso martini and snack on mini lobster rolls while taking in the vistas from the bar’s showstopping floor-to-ceiling windows. 221 Tingey St. SE, hyatt.com
Treehouse Rooftop at the Union Market Hotel
Escape the city to a serene jungle elevated in the sky at Treehouse Rooftop at the Union Market Hotel. This tropical escape boasts earthy bites and sips, including How the Leopard Got its Spot cocktail featuring Ilegal Mezcal Joven, ancho reyes green, luxardo, cantaloupe cordial, golden beet, pineapple, lime and basil. Guests can pair fresh flavors with fresh beats thanks to weekly DJ sets. 411 New York Ave. NE, treehouserooftopdc.com
Top of the Gate at The Watergate Hotel
Skip the city tour and head to the Top of the Gate rooftop bar, where guests can take in 360-degree views of the Kennedy Center, the Potomac River, the Key and Arlington bridges and the Washington Monument. Pair the astounding setting with Mediterranean-inspired light bites and handcrafted cocktails. 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, thewatergatehotel.com
Vue Rooftop
Above Hotel Washington, Vue Rooftop attracts some of the city’s finest to mingle and admire the DC skyline while enjoying seasonal cocktails and upscale plates. Treat your tastebuds to the 18-ounce flame-grilled ribeye, jumbo scallops, masala lamb rack or one of the many other delectable dishes. 515 15th St. NW, vuerooftopdc.com
Photography by: By Mynor Ventura (Ciel); By Charlotte Thomsen/Atlas Restaurant Group (Lucha); Courtesy of the Conrad Hotel