The 'Congress of Cool' Could Chill on W Washington's Roof Terrace

May 28, 2009 at 10:39 AM | by KatieK | Comments (0)

Cheesy �Congress of Cool� tagline aside, we�d be out of order to understate the anticipation surrounding the summer opening of DC�s first W Hotel. It�s a bubbling-under-the-surface buzz, mind you, but the nation�s capital has waited a long time to welcome a W � er, a W Hotel, that is.

Perhaps most of all, Washingtonians are eager to see what Starwood has done with the old Hotel Washington�s iconic Sky Terrace, a roof spot unrivaled for its views of the White House, Washington Monument, and, well, pretty much the rest of DC. Though beloved for its incredible views, the Sky Terrace always seemed to ooze with mediocrity previously (i.e. overpriced-but-underwhelming drinks and a touristy vibe).

The W is reinterpreting the roof terrace as a mod Moroccan-inspired bar, as pictured above, which will serve small plates � la chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten�s Spice Market. We recently got a chance to take a peek at the still-under-construction site, and rest assured: It�s stylish but still retains some classic charm.

Though part of the bar will, yes, sit behind glass walls, purists should be happy to hear that there�s also plenty of open-air space for up-close spying on White House snipers (or, you know, the opposite of that). Raised awnings show off even bigger panoramas than previously. In fact, word has it that when trees aren�t in bloom, you can even see the Obama girls� play-set. And keep in mind: a glassed-in bar means the place doesn�t have to shut down during winter months.

The W Washington is set to open July 8 and is taking reservations starting July 16.

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