Art DC
333 G St., NW
Cranes chef Pepe Moncayo developed the menu at this indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and lounge atop the new Arlo hotel. While his downstairs restaurant Arrels focuses on Spanish cuisine, the rooftop draws inspiration from Japan with hand rolls, yakitori, dumplings, and more. Try a sakura rickey or sake-infused cocktail with views of the Capitol. Look out for DJ sets, day parties, art activations, plus late-night happy hour deals. Sorry, the rooftop pool is just for hotel guests!
La’ Shukran
417 Morse St., NE (alley entrance)
Having trouble getting a res at chef Michael Rafidi’s red-hot French-Middle Eastern bistro and bar? The 40-seat rooftop garden is for walk-ins only. With views overlooking Union Market, sip on wine, arak, and cocktails infused with za’atar or pomegranate molasses. The limited al fresco menu includes honey-glazed crispy sweet breads, lamb kibbeh naya (tartare) with pickled-mango mustard, and citrus-and-serrano-dressed oysters.
Sly
222 M St., NE
Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is bringing three new concepts to the Morrow Hotel in Noma, beginning with this rooftop bar featuring 360-views of the Washington skyline. The globally inspired menu spans from doro wat empanadas to yellowfin-tuna tostadas to fried-chicken sandwiches with mumbo sauce. To drink, try the tequila-and-mezcal-based “Electric Sly” with chili and passionfruit. Coming soon to the hotel from Samuelsson: a seafood-centric brassierie and cocktail lounge.
Good Fortune
699 Prince St., Alexandria
Located atop Old Town’s boutique Hotel Heron, this rooftop bar offers morning yoga sessions and evening DJ sets—all with views of the Potomac. Sip on Miami Vice slushies and “Sunset Spritzes” while snacking on mini crab rolls and “sheet tray” sandos.
Syn Rooftop Bar & Lounge
1975 Opportunity Way, Reston
This year-round newcomer with panoramic views atop the 16th floor of the AC Hotel & Residence Inn by Marriott claims to be the first rooftop bar with outdoor seating in Reston Town Center. The name Syn comes from the Greek word for “together,” and the globally inspired food menu certainly brings together an eclectic mix—from shrimp tempura to croquetas de jamon to lamb-and-beef kefta with tzatziki. Cocktails are focused on classics, whether a gin and tonic or smoked old fashioned, and wine flights are also available.
Jessica Sidman covers the people and trends behind D.C.’s food and drink scene. Before joining Washingtonian in July 2016, she was Food Editor and Young & Hungry columnist at Washington City Paper. She is a Colorado native and University of Pennsylvania grad.
