Mandarin Oriental DC in a Nutshell:
"Is there anything I can do to make you more happy?" asked Theint, who was on duty in Tai Pan, the concierge-level lounge. It wasn't likely. The serene, elegant Mandarin Oriental DC has mastered the art of hospitality, and our needs were well met in this bastion of luxury. The suite itself was spacious, with a balcony that provided views of the Washington Tidal Basin Marina and Ronald Reagan Airport beyond. Dinner at Sou'Wester was flawless. And the service made us feel like potentates of a not-yet-overthrown autocracy.
Guest Rooms at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
We checked into suite 919 on the top floor of the hotel. Views from the balcony are a transportation diorama: Reagan National Airport ahead, rail lines to the right, and the marina below. With a separate living room, two bathrooms, and three TVs, it's spacious, quiet, and comfortable. Tasteful Chinese design elements — a black-lacquered chair, a dynastic design on draperies, a subtle pattern on the bed linens, a healthful bedside wish left at turndown — underscore the brand's provenance. Couples ought to request a room with a tri-cornered bathtub; many standard rooms feature this sexy amenity. Pack bubble bath.
Dining at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
Sou'Wester's menu interprets classic American recipes with sophistication, delivering dishes that combine a medley of complementary flavors. At a romantic table for two with a view we began dinner with mid-Atlantic oysters raw, grilled, and pan-fried. Buttery rockfish from the Chesapeake Bay was next. The house Champagne, a pinkish pinot noir, served as a lively libation. A sweet Asti Moscat complemented dessert apple pie. Then, to ensure we staved off night starvation, we were presented with a goodie bag filled with homemade cookies to go. The hotel is also home to the five-star CityZen restaurant.
Weddings at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
The hotel hosts some 25 weddings a year, each customized to a couple's taste and wishes. Escalators lead down to the ballroom floor, where a variety of rooms can be employed for dinner and dance receptions. Given the choice, we'd want an outdoor ceremony: There's a grassy area right off the lobby lounge surrounded by landscaping and views of the Tidal Basin marina. And if you have a small group of guests, you can entertain them for dinner at the semi-private room off of CityZen. One side faces the kitchen; two walls are lined to the rafters with fine wines.
Honeymoons and Romance at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
Honeymoon couples can expect an in-room treat such as strawberries jacketed in chocolate, chilled Veuve Cliquot Champagne, and a memorable keepsake (we refuse to spoil that surprise). And romantics will find many places to cuddle around the hotel, from a window table in Sou'Wester that overlooks the Jefferson Memorial to cocoon-like loungers beside the swimming pool. INSIDER TIPS: Opt for use of Tai-Pan, the hotel's private lounge, open 7 am to 11 pm daily. You can have breakfast, snacks, and drinks there (fee). If you need a local ride, reserve the house Mercedes and driver to drop you. It's complimentary.
Activities at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
The Mandarin Oriental DC features a 50-foot glassed-in and heated swimming pool with views. Personal training is available in the fitness room as well as at the pool. Spa aficionados can use the Zen-like urban spa. From the moment you enter and smell the aromatherapy candles' scent, you may start to relax. Although there was no dedicated couples room when we visited, one may be in the works and open by the time you visit.
Nearby the Mandarin Oriental DC:
My colleagues at Washington, DC Local & Washington, DC Travel do an outstanding job of covering the city's attractions and events. If you only have a short time to visit, I recommend the Newseum, a marvel of a modern museum dedicated to America's freedom of the press. In six floors it conveys the importance of this freedom, covers major events of our lifetime (e.g. 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina), features an interactive ethics quiz, an even helps visitors record their own news broadcast. FYI: The closest DC attractions within walking distance of the hotel are the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the Holocaust Museum.
Drawbacks at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
This is a luxury hotel, and its rooms, food, and services are not inexpensive. Budget an additional forty-two dollars a day for parking and fifteen for wi-fi.
Vibe at the Mandarin Oriental DC:
About half the guests who stay in the Mandarin Oriental DC come for a meeting. Another quarter visit on individual business, and the remainder are on vacation. Although there are babysitting services and treats for for children, this is a sophisticated city hotel that would make an idea perch for lovebirds. So plan to flock to Washington, DC for the history, the grandeur, the art and architecture, and the wealth of attractions that await you in the nation's Capitol.
Mandarin Oriental DC Info and Reservations:
Mandarin Oriental DC
1330 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20024
Phone: 202-554 8588
Official Hotel Web Site
1330 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20024
Phone: 202-554 8588
Official Hotel Web Site
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As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodations and meals for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.
