"Finding sanctuary—and a sophisticated one, at that—anywhere near the stress-inducing capital sounds like a pipe dream; but the Omni Shoreham Hotel, located in the quieter, more residential neighborhood of Woodley Park, has time and again proven itself an urban oasis. It's little wonder society heavyweights have been flocking to the mammoth, Renaissance palazzo-inspired Omni Shoreham Hotel since it opened in 1930, including Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who hosted his first inaugural ball here; and in 1941, the New York Yankees Manager Joe McCarthy and teammates of Joe DiMaggio surprised the Yankee Clipper with a celebration in honor of the slugger’s 56-game hitting streak. But what's the draw? Politicians and partiers alike can't seem to resist the draw of the estate-like hotel's 11 surrounding acres of calm, or its sprawling, resort-style pool, flanked by lounge chairs and expertly-manicured shrubbery. Robert's Restaurant, too, hearkens back to the glamorous days of old, with its grand chandeliers and ruched curtains. If you're lucky enough to dine here, order the house special, dating all the back to 1956—the Shoreham Crab Cake—served with a sweet remoulade."
