Washington, D.C.
Eat, Stay, Play
by Jen Pinkston
When I first began dating my husband, the fact that he was from Washington, D.C., went into the pros column. As an Austin native, this east coast city had a cosmopolitan allure. We’ve been married now for almost 14 years and, after many adventures to our nation’s capital, I still feel the same way! Keep reading for all of my favorite places to eat, stay, and play in this one-of-a-kind city!
EAT
Where to begin? Our favorite coffee and pastries are at Baked and Wired in Georgetown. Ben’s Chili Bowl is a pillar of the Washington D.C., community. The chili dog we had there after the inauguration did not disappoint! Old Ebbitt Grill is as much a historic landmark as it is a dinner destination. It’s also our favorite place in the city for oysters and one of the icons in our Washington D.C., toile (link). Off The Record at Hay Adams is, in my humble opinion, the D.C. equivalent to Paris’ Hemingway Bar at the Ritz. For a great dinner, you can’t go wrong with Grazie Nonna, Kappo, or Anju. A meal at Rose’s is particularly special.
STAY
Walking distance to our favorite shopping, coffee shop, and Dumbarton Oaks Garden, the Rosewood is a true luxury retreat in Georgetown. The local feeling of Dupont Circle coupled with the beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture and Victorian row houses make the Dupont Circle Hotel and its more budget-friendly neighbor The Darcy Hotel great choices. Near downtown, the White House, and the National Mall, the storied Hay Adams hotel is steeped in history and its luxury suites are steeped in beautiful design. Similarly located and well-appointed is the Riggs Hotel.
PLAY
Designed by a French city planner, Washington D.C., was designed in all of her glory with grand boulevards, parks, and squares that are reminiscent of a European city. Spend time on the National Mall, popping into any number of the museums. My personal favorite is the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum. Spend a day in Georgetown shopping and make a point to wander through Dumbarton Oaks– a true secret garden in the middle of the city. On a pretty day, paddle boating around the Tidal Basin doesn’t disappoint. If you have an extra day, say hi to the pandas at the National Zoo.
