Photos: Deb Lindsey
Skydome has reopened atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Crystal City Hotel, giving diners an amazing 360-degree view of the D.C. skyline and Potomac River. The unique rotating restaurant is bathed in natural light during the day and sparkles with evening energy, offering fresh, flavorful presentations from newly appointed Executive Chef Klaus Happel.
Chef Happel has worked in over 10 cities around the world throughout his 30-year career. He has created an inspired menu to match the impressive view from Skydome, showcasing American fare through a Mediterranean lens. Guests start with delectable options including Grilled Octopus with potato chorizo corn hash and aji amarillo aioli; Green Curry Hummus – a blend of tangy chimichurri glazed chickpeas, feta, toasted almonds and pistachios, served with an artisanal bread selection; or Truffle Mushroom Pizza loaded with roasted portabella, shiitake, cremini and yellow oyster mushrooms, then dotted with truffle cream, mozzarella and truffle pecorino. Hearty seasonal entrees include a 16 oz Grilled Pork Chop Tomahawk with a honey-garlic glaze made from Chef’s rooftop apiary; a mouthwatering Wagyu Burger with cheddar, balsamic marmalade and candied bacon; or delicate Sautéed Gnocchi alla Vodka with jumbo shrimp and asparagus.
Credit: Deb Lindsey
The Skydome management team spent a great deal of time developing an elevated beverage program. Led by Beverage Director Haley Stone, the bar is now turning out stunning cocktails and a focused range of local beer and perfectly paired wines. The Evening Thyme is smoked with cherry wood and presented tableside to order, stirred with honey harvested from the rooftop apiary. For a drink with a bit of a kick, the Sunset Sipper is a go-to with Casamigos mezcal, fresh strawberry and lime, agave, finished with a Tajin rim. Or guests can opt for a drink that truly shines – the Nectar of the Gods, made with Absolut pear vodka, pear nectar, fresh lemon, agave and sprinkled 24k gold flakes. Zero proof options include the Pineapple Storm with dark cane syrup, lime, pineapple ginger beer and topped with a smoked pineapple.
Credit: Deb Lindsey
The space lends itself perfectly to a romantic date night, dinner to catch up with friends or an office happy hour. The dining room has a capacity of 100 with flexible seating options, allowing for private or semi-private events for up to 125 standing. The space can be configured in a variety of ways with different serving styles based on preference. Chef and his team curate personalized menus for a range of receptions, buffets, or plated multi-course meals. The center of the restaurant, under the glass dome, can be used as a dance floor or performance space as well. For those looking to book events contact [email protected].
Reservations can be made for dinner Tuesday through Saturday evenings on OpenTable. Reservations are not required and walk-ins are welcome based on availability. Dinner is served from 5pm-10pm.
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