Inside Washington DC’s First Batch of Michelin-‘Starred’ Hotels
With Michelin Keys, the French tire company is now ranking hotels.
Along with hidden-gem museums and monuments with iconic American views, Washington DC can brag that it’s also home to Michelin-approved hotels.
That’s right, the French tire company best known for sending secret restaurant inspectors to dole out coveted stars is now in the business of ranking hotels in America. Their recently launched guide to top-rated properties recognizes outstanding stays with either one, two, or three Michelin Keys.
Only a few American locations received this top distinction, and we’re proud to say that a total of seven spots in The District made the list, with five one-key hotels, and two, two-key hotels. Read on for a breakdown on each place, and why they bring ultimate luxury to a check-in at the nation’s capital. And for even more cool places to stay, check out these DC hotels where the lobby is the main attraction.
DC Hotels with One Michelin Key
K Street, NW
With a sister property in Hong Kong, this boutique hotel delivers plenty of entertainment and fun from the moment you check-in. The space is also inspired by DC’s historic movements that made the world a better place, from the suffragettes to the Women's March to today’s climate change movement. Eaton’s additional claims to fame include the only hotel in The District with a cinema, radio station, library, holistic wellness center, and coworking space, all rolled into one building.
It’s also home to Allegory, one of the best bars in the world. The speakeasy-inspired cocktail spot recently ranked 23rd in North America’s 50 Best Bars thanks to its “Down the Rabbit” hole menu. Ultimately, Eaton is a vibe and a cultural hub of Washington with special events and artist projects bringing new life to the hotel every day.
Gallery Place/Chinatown
Located in the former Riggs National Bank Building building, this hotel is adjacent to the colorful works of art found at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. But this hotel is a work of art in its own manner. A colorful design palette turns a boring bank into an edgy, modern space with unique rooms, including several First Lady suites. They range from the blue and beautiful Caroline Harrison suite to the pretty-in-pink digs inspired by First Lady Ida McKinley.
You can also descend into the bank’s basement for a reservations-only speakeasy at Dishonesty Bar, or try a world-class, award-winning cocktail from London Silver Lyan. Ryan Chetiyawardana is behind this dark-and-moody lounge—tucked away in one of the original vaults. If you prefer more see-of-be-seen eating, head upstairs to the all-day bar and restaurant, Cafe Riggs. The seats face outward for prime people watchinging and the menu hints of French cuisine, including a perfect omelet, classic escargot, or scallops with sunchokes.
Dupont Circle
Check-in and relax by the wall-to-wall windows offering views of the Dupont Circle fountain. This hotel brings the outdoors in with natural serenity and peace, plus corner rooms with terrace views of this leafy neighborhood. For the ultimate in extravagance, book the Grand Penthouse Suite (but only if you have $5,000 per night to spare). Sure, it’s pricey but this experience is truly massive while boasting two bedrooms, a dining room, a fully stocked wet bar, and jacuzzi soaking tubs (that’s tubs plural).
The Wharf
The views do not disappoint at this hotel on the Potomac River. From the moment of check-in, you must simply go with the flow. That’s because every room is a suite here with waterfront views of the Potomac River.
There’s also an outdoor heated pool that plays host to summertime happy hour, plus a rooftop bar, Moonraker, with 360-degree views of the entire DC and Virginia skyline. For a splash of more fun, opt to involve a boat in your stay with a water taxi to say Georgetown or Alexandria for a day-trip plus some of DC’s best luxury shopping. Or talk with the concierge and charter your own private cruise and toast to a view of the Washington Monument by way of the water. Best of all, its lobby bar, Bar Pendry, does a weekly twist on afternoon tea.
Downtown
This hotel is as close as it gets to sleeping at The White House without, you know... actually knowing the President. As one of Washington’s oldest hotels, the Hay-Adams offers views of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW from practically every window. It’s also played host to prominent people throughout history like Amelia Earhart and Sinclair Lewis.
The hotel is best known for its stunning rooftop, Top of The Hay, with a panoramic view of Lafayette Square. But if you’re more in the mood for a stiff drink and political secrets, then head down to the aptly-named basement bar, Off the Record. It’s a red leather and velvet-laced spot dripping in character and political history. This includes the cartoon character coasters of presidents designed specifically for the bar. And you can steal some as a DC souvenir.
DC Hotels with Two Michelin Keys
Georgetown
Rosewood Washington, D.C. is a hotel retreat with plenty of options to live the suite life. And why bother for just a regular one when you can stay in the Luxury Presidential Suite with a chandelier and fireplace? Or how about an entire row house suite within its Townhouses & Extended Stays to call your own?
The accommodations are definitely spacious and swanky. They are also convenient for those who prefer a bit of privacy, like a private English garden, or rooftop terrace with wrap-around views of the Potomac River. The property’s 57 guestrooms and suites feature contemporary art and spa-like amenities, that’s in addition to a rooftop infinity pool. Guests will also want to linger here for dinner. Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck has one of the best steakhouses in the city, located just off the lobby.
Downtown
The Jefferson Hotel sits within eyeshot of The White House and prides itself for historic charm, discretion (plenty of VIPs stay here), and cozy nooks to easily curl away with a good book or drink to relax from the hustle of The District. This hotel is designed in an ornate Beaux-Arts style with a grand atrium to greet you as you walk in the door. Find just 99 guest rooms and suites, each with city views (some with monumental vistas too).
The main attractions here are the food and beverage options in the lobby. The Greenhouse is the hotel’s marquee restaurant, especially popular for Sunday Brunch. You can also find more discreet dining at either the private wine cellar, with more than 1,300 labels of wine, or at a cozy bar in the corner. Quill Bar & Lounge is where Washington goes to sip some of the best Old Fashioneds in town.