"A few steps away is a retro-glam, midcentury-modern lounge adorned with Americana artwork and floor-to-ceiling wood paneling; guests can enter through a back door connected to the hotel or through its own separate entrance on 18th Street NW. The drinks program leans heavily into martinis: "We lean into the martini in a very meaningful way," Harji says, and the lengthy opening cocktail menu is organized into sections for martinis, forgotten classics, seasonal affairs, and large-format options like a French "750." There are classic iterations and more adventurous choices, including a savory pesto-washed tequila and tomatillo brine martini known as Nightshade. (Across the hotel program, playful-but-traditional examples include the Pepperoncini-tini, a dirty martini featuring Grey Goose vodka and a pepperoncini brine finished with a feta-stuffed olive.) A selection of snazzy bar bites includes lobster rolls, poutine, grilled cheese, truffle popcorn, and caviar dip-and-dill chips. The lounge aims for a snazzy, retro-glam vibe and will be open six days a week from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. (closed on Tuesdays)." - Mekita Rivas