By Julia Bischoff By Julia Bischoff | September 18, 2024 | Lifestyle, Travel, Guide, Guides,
Where To Eat
1226 36th St. NW, 1789restaurant.com
Tucked in a redone Federal house adorned with antiques, 1789 Restaurant draws heavy inspiration from the neighborhood, right down to its namesake (the year Georgetown University was founded). Incorporating locally sourced ingredients in their recipes gives a succulent, fresh taste to each bite, but to truly take in the grandeur of their menu, try the perfectly prepared Ossetra caviar or grilled lamb tasting.
2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, bourbonsteakdc.com
In a delectable blend of traditional American cuisine and flavors from all over the world, chef Michael Mina creates a dining experience that is refined and luxurious. Dine on the decadent porterhouse or, for a more exotic flavor, try a variety of different Japanese wagyu striploin.
3251 Prospect St. NW, cafemilano.com
Escape to Italy while dining on classic Italian cuisine from chef Domenico Cornacchia at Cafe Milano. For over 30 years, this cozy spot has been the first dining choice of many notable guests. Take a look through their extensive wine list and pair a glass of red with costine di manzo wagyu, slow-cooked wagyu beef short ribs with mashed potatoes and gremolada.
3050 K St. NW, fiolamaredc.com
Reeling in your attention and the freshest catches, Fiola Mare brings visitors right to Italy’s shores to enjoy the best cuisine from the sea. Octopus, scallops, branzino and more are all expertly prepared by Fabio Trabocchi and his exceptional team of chefs. We recommend their seafood tower, which serves as a tableside monument to their expertise, piled high with a wide selection of any seafood you could want.
Where To Stay
2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, fourseasons.com
With a national brand known for its excellent service and accommodations, the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC is unsurprisingly no exception. Try their delectable in house dining options, overlook the city from your room’s terrace or even treat yourself to a visit at their exclusive spa for the full Four Seasons experience.
1075 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, thegrahamgeorgetown.com
Stylish and sophisticated on the bank of the Potomac River sits a boutique hotel, The Graham. Doze off in one of their 57 luxurious rooms and wake up ready to explore the historic estates and landmarks just outside the hotel's doors. After a long day of exploration, ride up to the Rooftop at the Graham for a cocktail, or two.
1050 31st St. NW, rosewoodhotels.com
Standing over the winding C&O Canal sits the Rosewood Washington, D.C.—a perfect location for soaking in all of the history, culture and sights of the city. Take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool while surveying the monuments that dot the DC skyline before retiring in one of their comfy rooms, or even one of the six townhouses.
Where To Relax
3233 P St. NW, adrienneshostak.com
Elevate your skin routine and take a trip to Adrienne Shostak’s Bespoke Aesthetics. Her custom treatments are much more than just facials and combine science, relaxation and art to create the perfect combo for your skin. Book an appointment with one of Bespoke’s many master estheticians and let all your worries fall away as you begin your skincare journey.
2800 Pennsylvania Ave., fourseasons.com
Take a break from exploring what the area has to offer for some R&R back at the Four Seasons. A relaxing, zen experience awaits with the Georgetown Polish treatment, which involves a full body scrub and a butter-soft whipped body creme to finish. However, for less intense treatments, spoil yourself with the gentle Cherry Blossom Facial which rejuvenates the skin in 50 minutes.
1658 33rd St. NW, cohealthspagt.com
Going beyond average levels of relaxation, Coco Health Spa strives to make guests feel absolutely serene with deep tissue massages, cupping treatments and aromatherapy. Each specialist at the spa has at least 10 years of experience, so they can provide top-of-the-line service.
1054 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, unwindwellness.com
Unwind at Unwind and trust the experts at this spa that has been a Georgetown gem for over 25 years. With calming lighting, fresh aromas and elegant decor, it is no wonder that Unwind is an award-winning spa. Offering specialty services such as diamond peel facials and the Unwind signature massage, Unwind is sure to leave clients refreshed and relaxed.
2440 M St. NW, Suite 510, somenekpittmanmd.com
Ignore your skin no longer at S+P MedSpa, who pride themselves on their attention to detail when it comes to making clients glow. Feel like a star with the Diamond Glow Dermal Infusion, which effectively removes toxins and dirt through intense cleansing and exfoliation, leaving visitors radiant. Or, for a hydrating boost, try their IV Therapy, which infuses much-needed vitamins and nourishments back into your system.
Where To Shop
1061 31 St. NW, boathouseapparel.com
This woman-owned small business wants its customers to live that lake lifestyle of relaxation and good times. Curated clothing collections, like the Georgetown collection, include the softest tees and pullovers unique to the area with the cutest graphics. Pop in and grab your very own item from their Georgetown collection or their lottie navy embroidered headband.
3231 P St. NW, ella-rue.com
The sisters at Ella-Rue combine designers of the past and present to create a store overflowing with distinct pieces that can be combined to make show-stopping looks. Flip through the racks to find diamonds from designers like Alexander McQueen, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. If consignment isn’t your thing, they also have a selection of luxurious ready-to-wear lines.
3314 M St. NW, cadysalley.com
A marvel of design and architecture, Cady’s alley has become a hub for fashion trends and exclusive brands. Brilliant Earth, which has gorgeous jewels to bedazzle yourself with, Intermix and even shops outfit your home's interiors are hosted within the outlet. Get hungry while shopping? The scrumptious District Doughnut’s doors are wide open for you to try their twists on classic treats.
1259 Wisconsin Ave. NW, curatedbycecilia.com
Find the perfect fit from the talented team of stylists at Curated by Cecilia. Owner Cecilia Cassini’s reputation in the fashion world is reason enough alone to make a visit to her new bubble-gum pink boutique. With over 40 high-end luxury brands, you will be dressed-to-impress after a shopping spree at Curated by Cecilia.
3312 Cady’s Alley NW, relishdc.com
For over 20 years, r e l i s h has been pulling the most sophisticated looks and designs for their customers to try every season. With cooperation from creative designers like Sacai, Rokh and more, clients can curate a wardrobe for themselves that is truly unique.
1053 Wisconsin Ave. NW, nuck.com
This quaint spot flaunts classic American apparel, home decorum, accessories and more. With hand-picked items, Tuckernuck leaves each customer with unique and well-crafted pieces. Check out all of the different designers Tuckernuck caries, from those who are well-established to the up-and-coming.
1264 Wisconsin Ave. NW, martinstavern.com
Family owned and operated, Martin’s is a Georgetown staple. The upscale menu full of house specials like lobster risotto and slow-roasted prime rib with au jus will leave every taste bud delighted. Sit back, relax and take in the authentic ambiance while sipping on a Smokey Paloma cocktail, made with mezcal, agave, grapefruit juice, St. Germain and topped with soda.
2917 M St. NW, lannexe-bar.com
On the intersection of European sophistication and Georgetown’s elevated atmosphere sits the cocktail bar, L’Annexe. Set in a cozy library lounge, this spot serves visitors mouthwatering concoctions and equally eye-catching drinks. Sip the lovely, Newton’s Law, filled to the brim with Green apple infused gin, Italicus, dry vermouth, apple cider vinegar, bay leaf, vanilla and absinthe rinse.
2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, fourseasons.com
Before heading to dinner, sip lead bartender Engidawork Alebachew’s signature cocktail—his take on the classic Manhattan—or any of the Lounge’s other tasty drinks. Plush booths and chairs under glowing golden lights line the dark brown walls of the space, creating a cozy, moody atmosphere that is perfect for kicking off any evening on the town.
1206 Wisconsin Ave. NW, thesovereigndc.com
In a gorgeous medley of Belgium, French, Dutch and German cuisine in true Belgian style, there are 50 different drafts for visitors to choose from at The Sovereign. Plus, an equally staggering 350 bottles have been curated to make a funky range of cocktails. From the boozy Amsterdam Espresso Martini featuring Vodka, Cold Brew, Espresso Liqueur and Underberg, to their selection of sparkling Rosés, there’s something to satisfy every guest.
Where To Hit The Town:
1050 31st St. NW, rosewoodhotels.com
Overlook the glittering lights of Georgetown after sundown at the elevated rooftop bar, CUT Above at the Rosewood Hotel. Here, guests can enjoy classy cocktails, like the Georgetown Gem which features tanqueray, chareau and a combination of watermelon and lemon, against the backdrop of the nation’s striking national monuments and the winding Potomac River.
1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW, bluesalley.com
Groove the night away at this jazz club nestled inside a 1700s brick carriage house. Blues Alley has been around since 1965, hosting talented musicians and serving up scrumptious Creole cuisine. New performers are constantly rolling into the club’s doors, almost as much as the crowds, to enjoy the scene reminiscent of a 1920s night out.
Cultural Experiences
1644 31st St. NW, tudorplace.org
Once owned by the step-granddaughter of George Washington, Martha Curtis and her husband Thomas Peter, the estate serves as a monument to America’s long and rich past—four generations lived through revolutionary times in this home. The story continues outside elaborate rooms and flows into the garden, which still reflects its roots while also presenting colorful blooms with different seasons.
3270 M St. NW, georgetowndc.com
Winding behind the glamorous stores and attractions of Georgetown is the Chesapeake and Ohio, or C&O. The canal was constructed in 1828 as a means to connect the Allegheny Mountains to power Washington DC, but now, you can find visitors strolling along its trails, stopping for picnics or entering the yummy cafes and eateries that dot the banks. Recently, the area has reopened for boat tours, where guests can hear about the area’s interesting history while enjoying scenic views.
Hidden Gem
1703 32nd St. NW, doaks.org
Just beyond the busy streets and bustling shoppers are the quaint collections of Dumbarton Oaks Museum. Within the impressive estate is an accumulation of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art, creating a wide range of styles and expressions. Before leaving, stroll through the gorgeously maintained garden, designed in 1920 by the original owners, Mildred and Robert Woods Bliss.
Photography by: Ana Lanza/Unsplash
