Reviewed: Pendry D.C. - The Wharf
Hotel: Pendy D.C. - The Wharf
Stars: 5
Address: 655 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States
Phone: +1 202-843-1111
Prior to my flight to Riyadh via Washington Dulles International Airport (ahead of the Saudi Arabia familiarization trip I attended in December 2022), I had the pleasure of staying at the Pendry Washington D.C. – The Wharf on the eve before my departure. Having not been to the D.C. area in decades, you can imagine my surprise when the Uber driver made a right turn/headed towards the harbor. “This is The Wharf,” he said, “arguably the hottest new area in town. And your hotel is right in the heart of it.”
What was your first impression of the hotel? Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by one of the bell staff associates who led me (and my luggage) to the lobby. I was offered a glass of Champagne and directed to a desk for check-in. I’d like to add that this wasn’t your traditional check-in counter; it was a literal desk, like the kind in which you sit when your boss calls you to his/her office. I had never experienced this (level of hotel check-in) before; it was so personal, intimate, and seamless.
When I made my way through the lobby to the elevator bank, I noted that the space was purposeful in its size and not overwhelmingly large. I appreciated the floor-to-ceiling windows throughout and the warm color palette.
Which room category were you assigned? Tell us about the space! My River View King with a Peloton bike (!) became a sanctuary in which I never wanted to leave. Upon entering the space, I was led to the bedroom via an entryway appointed with coat hooks on the wall, a plush velvet bench in which to rest my handbag, and a bar cart/amenities chest that had an in-room espresso/coffee machine. I noted herringbone hardwood flooring throughout, a similarly warm color scheme, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the harbor and the property’s large outdoor pool. There were two nooks, one for the Peloton and the other for a cozy spot in which to dine or work, all while being able to admire the stunning view and sailboats. The sizable bathroom had separate stalls for both the toilet and the shower, and the dual vanity was complete with lovely products from MiN NY, plus a makeup mirror with illumination that rivaled anything at the Chanel counter. I appreciated the ledge in the shower, plus the sheer size of it all. Coming from Manhattan, square footage and good use of space is something that I do not take lightly!
How were the facilities? You simply cannot appreciate the hotel in its entirety until you exit the building via the gym and onto the pool deck. Look up! The façade is a truly spectacular and modern glass castle! And, while I didn’t utilize them during my short stay, I made a few mental notes as to the huge gym and spa that overlooked the outdoor pool and harbor just beyond. This is a true urban sanctuary and retreat and one that I, personally, would visit again on a long spring or summer weekend to escape NYC. Not that the outdoor temperature really matters, as the pool remains heated!
Did you eat or drink onsite? Although I had offsite dinner plans, I made sure to have a nightcap at Bar Pendry, located just off the lobby, prior to retiring for the evening. I sat next to a nice gentleman who advised that he was in town for business, and we quickly became friends. “I love the Pendry brand and concept, and I’ve stayed here a few times,” he said. “I appreciate that it’s not stuffy like some of the older hotels near the White House.” As a foodie, he gave me some of his favorite D.C. restaurant recommendations. I later learned that the person I was sitting next to was none other than Brian Cornell, the Chair and CEO of Target Corporation (!!!!!).
Prior to my departure, I took a packing break to order some room service for lunch. Being that I was in ‘blue crab country,’ I chose a glass of Sancerre and the crab cakes. My meal arrived within the estimated time frame and was served with a smile. Both my crisp, chilled glass of white wine and my entrée were excellent; lord knows I still dream about those delectable ‘cakes. Regretfully, I dug into my food so fast that I didn’t snap a photo!
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Pendry Washington D.C. – The Wharf. It is a property that truly sells itself in a multitude of facets; from ladies enjoying a spa and pool weekend to a businessperson wanting respite from the “stuffy,” this hotel is a one-stop shop for the ages.