Back in August, we learned that a second Caucus Room and a Latin-themed “speakeasy-style” bar called Boveda were quietly in the works at the Westin Georgetown. Both projects—which belong to Larry Work’s Longboard Hospitality Group and are overseen by chef Brian Wolken—are now open and serving.
The light-filled Caucus Room looks out on the hotel’s enclosed patio, where Work says he hopes to do an ice bar come winter. There’s a long marble-topped bar for cocktails and a snack (guests can order off the menu from both new restaurants here). It’s also a nice perch for a solo breakfast with French press service—Caucus Room is serving Counter Culture coffees and teas from Art of Tea in San Francisco. Fresh juices and house-made sodas are also on offer.
The word “boveda” means “vault” in Spanish, and that plus the descriptor “speakeasy” may make you think of a cave-like underground bar. The space is, in fact, pretty airy, and decorated with reclaimed wood, bright orange banquettes, and low-slung lounge tables and stools. (Check out a photo on Thrillist.) The menu is full of small and shared plates featuring pan-Latin influences—a head-on, deep-fried snapper; crisp tostones with guacamole; a skirt steak with chili marinade. Cocktails combine Latin flavors with classic cocktail recipes—think jalapeño garnishes, smoky mezcals, and tropical juices. Staying at the hotel soon? Both menus are available via room service, too—in case you prefer eating your deep-fried snapper under the covers.
Work’s other Caucus Room, at 401 Ninth Street, Northwest, in Penn Quarter, has been taken over by his more casual concept Social Reform. Former Bistrot Le Zinc chef Janis McLean helms that kitchen. The steakhouse menu is still available for private events and meetings.
The Caucus Room Brasserie Steakhouse and Boveda. 2350 M St., NW; 202-429-0100.
