Neighbourhood Feature: Dupont Circle
Located in the Old City of Washington, D.C., Dupont Circle is rich in history while offering a vibrant social scene. A gathering spot for both locals and travellers, you haven’t truly experienced Washington until you explore Dupont Circle.
For the ultimate Dupont Circle experience, make sure to add the following spots to your itinerary.
Stay
The Wink Hotel
1143 New Hampshire Ave., NW; thewinkhoteldc.com
Giving its guests a fresh perspective on travelling, The Wink Hotel stands out for its contemporary style, friendly staff, and convenient location. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, The Wink’s philosophy is all the same – loosen up and live a little. Then again, if you’ve had a long day, The Wink is also your sanctuary for relaxing – offering you the finest amenities like in-room service, plush bedding and a swanky bar ready to serve you up a mean cocktail.
Eat
Brasserie Wink
1143 New Hampshire Ave. NW
Conveniently located inside The Wink Hotel, Brasserie Wink is the perfect spot for brunch. The culinary team pays close attention to sustainability, and sources menu ingredients from local and regional growers, giving you the ultimate farm-to-table experience. And don’t be afraid to make a request – the staff is personable and quick to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Must Try: Cinnamon Raisin French Toast, Smoked Salmon Flatbread, Wild Berry Crisp
City Tap Dupont
1250 Connecticut Ave. NW; dupont.citytap.com
If you’re in the mood for pub food, and looking for something different to pair your craft beer with than the typical order of wings, drop by this neighbourhood favourite. To say that everything on this elevated gastropub menu is to die for is an understatement. The service is impeccable, the ambience is rustic yet modern, and it’s a guarantee you’ll want to come back for more.
Must Try: Elote “Street Corn” Dip, Baked Brie, Classic Margherita
Teddy & the Bully Bar
1200 19th, St. NW; teddyandthebullybar.com
For locally-sourced comfort food, head over to Teddy & The Bully Bar. Paying tribute to iconic president, Teddy Roosevelt, this elegant spot serves dishes that are not only impeccable in presentation but also delicious. Take a bite out of the crowd-pleasing mac and cheese, and five-spice carrot cake, which, let’s be honest, you won’t want to share.
Must Try: Mac & Cheese, Prosciutto Ratatouille Flatbread, Moroccan Spiced Lamb Chops.
Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café
1517 Connecticut Ave. NW; kramers.com
Since opening its doors in 1976, Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café (also known as Kramer’s), has been defined as the city’s most beloved independent bookstore. This bookstore/café will ignite your interest for all things literary and redefine your love for Contemporary American dishes. With its lively ambience, and full-service bar and restaurant, Kramer’s is possibly the most unique bookstore you will ever step foot in.
Must Try: Fettuccine New Orleans, Veggie Lasagna, the Sun & Her Flowers cocktail
PLAY
Walking tour of Embassy Row & Dupont Circle
freetoursbyfoot.com/washington-dc-tours/
In Dupont Circle, every building has a story. Take a guided walking tour of Embassy Row & Dupont Circle to learn about the scandalous details of how this once millionaire-exclusive neighbourhood turned into the home of more than 170 embassies.
DC by Foot offers name-your-own-price walking tours daily, and if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, or prefer exploring at your own pace, self-guided tours are also available.
Get Inspired at The Phillips Collection
1600 21st St. NW; phillipscollection.org
Known as America’s first museum of modern art, The Phillips Collection opened its doors in 1921 and houses masterpieces like Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party and Van Gogh’s Entrance to the Public Gardens at Arles. Unlike other galleries, The Phillips Collection has an intimate setup that allows you to get up close and personal with some of these masterpieces.
Shop at Made in DC
1330 19th St. NW; shopmadeindc.com
Even though Dupont Circle’s Connecticut Avenue is a retail line-up of quirky shops and swanky boutiques, our favourite is Made in DC. Here you’ll find a well-curated selection of over 100 locally-made items to shop from, like apparel, apothecary and jewellery. The shop is dedicated to helping DC artisans and makers grow their own small businesses. If you’re in the mood for a little pick-me-up, it also has its own coffee shop, featuring a rotating selection of local coffee and pastries.
