With sweeping views of the Washington Channel, DC’s multi-billion dollar development, The Wharf, has it all. The Southwest Waterfront neighborhood boasts luxurious, modern restaurants, hotels, music venues, shops and more—check out our guide below to this rapidly growing community.
Where To Eat
View this post on Instagram
1346 4th St., SE, albidc.com
Looking for a new date night spot? Book a table at Albi, which translates to “my heart” in Arabic. The Levantine restaurant specializes in ancient culinary traditions of the region and local ingredients. It’s impossible to turn down bites like Maryland crab hummus and spiced duck shish. Just be sure to leave room for one of their decadent desserts: Brown Butter Knafeh or the frozen Halva Bar.
791 Wharf St. SW, delmardc.com
Take a trip to Spain when dining at Del Mar—a Spanish artisan-designed gem tucked away on the streets of The Wharf. Delectable Spanish seafood and wine are sure to have your tastebuds dancing all night long. Our favorite item? The paella de pescado y mariscos on the sunset menu, which is sure to transport guests to the streets of Spain.
751 Wharf St. SW, kaliwadc.com
Experience the perfect trifecta of flavors at Kaliwa, an elegant yet rustic eatery that highlights Southeast Asian flavors. A medley of Thai, Korean and Filipino cuisine, the menu wows with bites like peanut and chicken satay from Thailand and Korean grilled marinated short ribs.
801 Wharf St. SW moonrabbitdc.com
Serving up modern takes on regional Vietnamese dishes, Moon Rabbit takes diners on a journey of honoring history and memories all without leaving the waterfront. The menu, dedicated to chef Kevin Tien’s family recipes, talks guests through their entire experience from the ‘Welcome’ and ‘Get to Know Us’ small plates to the ‘Stay A While’ meals to share. Savor the flavors of the Bánh Cam appetizer with sesame mochi, sate mushroom duxelles with the Wildest Dreams signature Moon Rabbit cocktail in hand.
360 Water St. SE, shillingcanning.com
For a taste of modern mid-Atlantic cuisine, stop by the historical Shilling Canning Company. Originally a farming and butcher business turned canning company, this Chesapeake-centered restaurant stays true to its values of serving the community—local and seasonal flavors are at the core of their brunch, three-course dinner and seven-course tasting menu.
Where To Stay
View this post on Instagram
801 Wharf St. SW, wharfintercontinentaldc.com
At The Wharf’s newest stay, luxe dining and over-the-top views are a top priority. Make the almost-impossible choice of relaxing on the rooftop surrounded by monumental views with a cocktail in hand or spending evenings on-property at one of their award-winning restaurants.
655 Water St. SW, pendry.com/washington-dc
In a striking synthesis of european-inspired ambiance and Pendry’s trademark hospitality, Pendry Washington DC has it all. Once you can tear yourself away from the waterfront vistas, stop into one of their three top-of-the-line restaurants or plunge into a state of deep relaxation in their in-house spa.
Where To Relax
View this post on Instagram
40 District Square SW #215, glo30.com
How many skincare products have you cycled through with no luck? GLO30 is here to help with their two principles: immediate results while crafting the best unique plan for you and consistent care to fight environmental and seasonal impacts on your skin. Join their monthly subscription to receive the perfect facial crafted just for you, every 30 days, right on the Wharf.
801 Wharf St SW thespaatthewharf.com
After a long day of visiting monuments and museums around town, book an appointment with The Spa at the Wharf for a serene and rejuvenating reprieve. The extensive list of services is sure to meet you every need, offering custom massages with enhancements like aromatherapy and the premium facial.
Where To Shop
View this post on Instagram
35 Sutton Square SW cordialwharf.com
Whether you’re on the hunt for a hostess gift or new addition to your cellar, a visit to Cordial at the Wharf is imperative. An array of wines, spirits and brews from small, local vineyards and producers ensures there’s something for everyone.
10 District Square SW, shopmadeindc.com
Help support local artists and makers by stopping into Shop Made in DC. Customers can peruse over 5,000 products: Think one-of-a-kind jewelry, soothing candles and even the cutest pet apparel.
For Pre-Dinner Drinks
View this post on Instagram
655 Water St. SW, pendry.com/washington-dc
Featuring dark wood and gold details, Bar Pendry offers an Old World, intimate cocktail experience. Whether you succumb to their signature cocktails like A Rose by Another Name or their luxurious bites like caviar deviled eggs, the dim candlelight and waterfront views promise an unforgettable evening.
1120 Maine Ave SW officinadc.com
This three-story Italian outpost beckons with a variety of offerings on each level, but we’re most interested in the top floor. Before dinner, share a couple cocktails and small bites at the year-round oasis as dazzling views of the Potomac wow from every angle.
1130 Maine Ave SW tikitnt.com
Say Aloha to handcrafted cocktails at Tiki TNT—the perfect spot to overcome your winter blues. Their Passion Fruit Daiquiri or, for those willing to share, Thrasher's Rum Punch Bowl will undoubtedly transport visitors to the beaches of Maui before bundling back up for the cold.
Where To Hit The Town
View this post on Instagram
975 7th St. SW, whiskeycharliewharf.com
Who said rooftop season has to be over? At Whiskey Charlie, visitors can enjoy sips from the indoor lounge while taking in uninterrupted views of the waterfront and the monuments beyond. Fresh juices and house-made ingredients take these cocktails to the next level—bourbon fans will love the Old Scalawag, topped off with Grand Mariner, orange and walnut bitters.
33 Pearl St. SW, pearlstreetwarehouse.com
This intimate venues’ bold pledge is a rare treasure—every guest is promised to be within 25 feet of the performers. From local to national musicians, comedians and more, Pearl Street Warehouse is the ideal spot to connect with your favorite artists. Check out Tophouse, The Q-Tip Bandits and others this winter.
Cultural Experiences
View this post on Instagram
901 Wharf St. SW, theanthemdc.com
Serving as a premiere music and performance venue since 2017, The Anthem continues to secure shows from top national and international artists. This winter is sure to excite, with performers like Jerry Seinfeld, Lewis Capaldi and Lady A, to name a few.
60 District Square SW, marthaspakgallery.com
With a constant refresh of displays, owner and curator Martha Spak presents work from local, emerging and established artists. The wide variety of works ensure every designer, private collector and corporate client can find the perfect piece—check out the Dance Party series through January 2023.
Hidden Gem
The Wharf Boathouse
680 Water St. SW, boatingindc.com
Afternoons on the water will be here sooner than we think. As you plan new ways to beat the heat this coming summer, be sure to add The Wharf Boathouse to your list. From private water sculling lessons to kayak monument tours, stand-up paddleboarding and sunset tours, there is no better way to see the neighborhood.
Photography by: Claire Rowlett/UNSPLASH
