The reviews are all true - the staff are there just for you. Â They will help you decide on a drink and laugh at your jokes. Â At the end of the night, they even had our car pulled up with the doors open before we got there.
The food was delicious. Â The decor was traditional, but the food was novel (compared to Chez Francois in Great Falls which is also a great restaurant but not as cutting edge with the menu). I cannot say enough about the sea scallops, which were seared to perfection. Â Although I was less impressed with popcorn as one of the tasting menu items, I gaped at the very healthy quantity of black truffles that were grated on top.
For me, what really makes the Inn different is its quaint location. Â If you're willing to walk a few blocks, you'll stumble on a wood chip path leading to tastefully spaced Adirondack chairs, sheep grazing in a pasture, a beautiful view of the mountains, and an organic vegetable garden. Â As I walked to the veggie garden, I actually met one of the restaurant's chefs who was picking herbs for that evening's desserts. Â Talk about fresh!
I can't place fault with the Inn for a single thing. Â But a nagging thought kept lingering at the back of my mind... Â Did anyone else feel like a terrible person for indulging when so many people are in need?
It is all about you, the diner. The Inn at Little Washington understands that better than anyone. You're greeted at the front entrance by the host with a warm welcome and ushered into the lounge. A series of snacks are brought to you as you enjoy cocktails and bubbles. Your table is ready at your convenience. There won't be anyone here rushing you to make your reservation time. The menu gives you a choice of the pre-fix 4-courses or tasting. More delicious and playful dishes are brought to you as you're looking over the menu. Having trouble deciding between two dishes? They'll be happy to send out both for you. Like I said, it's all about you. At no point will you feel rushed. This is your experience, they're here for you.
I will save myself the embarrassment of trying to put into words how each perfectly-executed course tastes. Check out the pictures I that I posted, and trust that they are as amazing as they look.
Modern service in America stresses the importance of being personable, charming and playful. The staff at The Inn delivers it with a level of class that I haven't seen anywhere else in DC. This is the ultimate pampering experience.
Pro Tip: I didn't have any cellphone reception inside The Inn, which no distractions from the outside world. But it also means I can't check-in on Yelp!
Lastly, I'd like to thank Chef O'Connell and the entire staff at The Inn at Little Washington for a truly unforgettable experience.
Without many words, this place is incredible. Â If you are a foodie, this place must be on your list. Â
Patrick O'Connell has created a unique dining experience that is unmatched. Â From the service, to the food preparation, to the knowledge of the staff, to the hotel stay - this place is very close to perfection.
Washington, Virginia and the surrounding area is also stunning. Â Don't miss an opportunity to visit this special restaurant and see the Shenandoah Valley. Â If you are in the area early for high tea, you can also stop for a wonderful cheese plate at Stonyman Farmer.
I dined here with family from the gastronaut's tasting menu during a graduation celebration. The majority of the dishes were absolutely amazing! My favorites were the truffle dusted popcorn, boat scallop with spring vegetables, and black truffle stuffed breast of pheasant. Â I only have two small complaints, that being the lobster was overcooked in one of the dishes and the morel mushrooms in the gnocchi dish was completely over salted. We probably should have mentioned it to the waiter at the time but we didn't so that is our own fault. If we had, I am sure they would have corrected it immediately. The wait staff could be slightly awkward but they were all very nice and accommodating. The kitchen even stayed open late to specially prepare an entree for someone in our party who arrived very late at the tail end of our meal. We were also invited to visit the kitchen and meet Patrick O'Connell himself which was very cool! Â I am definitely glad I had the chance to experience this once in a life culinary experience. That being said, it really will be once in my lifetime because I do not foresee myself ever spending that much money again on my dinner!
Review Source:Our experience was wonderful and expensive. Â Initial host, Jess, who showed us around and also our waiter, along with Neil were an asset to the Inn. Â Couple of problems which should not have occurred will be listed below.
1. If you have a cell phone, forget it, unless you have Sprint. Â All others do not work at this location.
2. One main switch for all the lights and ELECTRICAL OUTLETS in the room. Â Therefore, if you have a CPap, as I do, it WILL NOT WORK, unless you unscrew all the lights in the room, and leave the switch on.
3. The door going into the bathroom does not close due to expansion of the wood, and the drain in the sink had to be lifted out, so the water would drain out.
The food is delicious, rooms extremely nice, but a little overdone.
One of the nice features is they do things for you when you least expect it, like leaving  two bottled waters  in our car upon our departure.
For first timers, like us, one needs to know something about dinner. Â You have your choice of menu's, left side is basically a four course meal, with a couple of nice treats added to that for $168. Â Right side of menu is the tasting one with about 12-15 courses for $218
You have to have some cheese served by Cameron before you leave. Â That guy is fantastic in his presentation and knowledge of each of the cheeses he serves.
Overall, our experience was a once in a lifetime (Bucket list0, and we enjoyed it very much.
Debated giving it a 3, but rounded up and gave it a 4, simply because it is a destination worth going to at least once, especially since there aren't many of its caliber for miles and miles and milessss away. Â
I advise going at least an hour before your reservation, that way you have plenty of time to roam around the shops and soak in the scenic view. Â It is quite charming. Â
The service is spotty. Â Yes, your assigned server may be attentive and accomodating, Â but they can also be extremely slow in responding, and provide inaccurate information about the dishes. Â Forgiveable at other venues, but shouldn't have happened at this establishment. Â
The food... Â is exceptionably tolerable. Â Everything is beautifully plated. Â I ordered the tasting menu, and there were just a few fantastic dishes, while the rest were simply interesting, a rather polite way of saying it tasted like a culinary experiment not yet perfected.
It must take a lot to manage a venue of such scale, and it shows. Â There were fruit flies all around the dining area. Â
But I guess if it is good enough for Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, it is nice enough for me too.
Out of the several Relaix & Chateau restaurants we've been to (French Laundry, Per Se, Patina, Daniel, Le Gaiac, Gary Danko, etc) Â I would have to say I enjoyed The Inn at Little Washington most. Â Definitely fine dining at its finest. Â And the inn is such an elegant yet charming place to stay in. We will be back!!
Review Source:My wife and I dined here to celebrate her birthday. Other reviewers have gone into (tedious) detail about the food: suffice it to say that it's superb, sublime, almost astounding at every bite. At the price, it had damn well better be, so customers should expect a bill in the range of $600 for two. This is not a quick jaunt for suchi aafter work, this is an event. The critical metric for me was this: my wife was thrilled by it all, and so I can recommend it.
Review Source:All I can say is wow. Â Patrick O'connel is a hero of mine. Â We had the pleasure of having the tasting menu in the kitchen. Â I will not go into detail as to what went down in the kitchen as it was truly a surprise. Â
The place is perfect. The man is a genius, if you are looking for a special blow out meal, I would highly suggest this place to do so. Â In the passed I have been let down by my destination meals. Â This exceeded expectations. Â
Everything was perfect. Â
Patrick stayed and talked to us for over a half hour. Â He is a bigger than life, the man is perfect, his restaurant is perfect. Â An inspiration.
Not a meal, but a sublime experience. Â Anyone who claims any kind of foodie credibility, needs to have a meal here once. Â The ambiance is spectacular, service impeccable, and food amazing. Â Very expensive, but everyone who appreciates food as a culinary skill has to save up some money and go and don't forget to bring your sweetheart, because this is as romantic of a venue as it gets. Â Plan ahead as reservations can be hard to get.
Review Source:When I initially found out exactly how far this little haven was from Washington DC, I blew off my reservation and opted for Komi in the city instead. Not a bad choice...however, once I returned home to Houston I truly began to realize what I had missed out on. Luckily for me, I would be returning to DC in less than 3 months and I had to make another reservation. Lucky for me again, the night I made my reservation for was also their 35 year celebration.
And so began my night...
I rented a car and make the almost 2 hour drive from DC into Little Washington. Scared I would get lost or run into a deer, I eventually found my way (thanks to the amazing directions on the website) before losing cell phone service (the website warns of that as well, unless you are Verizon).
I was early for my reservation, so was treated to a few small bites. I purchased a half bottle of wine and began to relax before taking a tour of the facility. Once the meal began, I opted for the larger 35th anniversary menu (which replaced the typical Gastronauts menu), which recreated some of the chefs classic dishes. However, since I also wanted to try a few of chefs modern selections, I asked if I could pay a little extra for a sampling of some of those items. The answer I received back from the kitchen was "Not tonight! Because it is a special evening...chef will bring anything you want compliments of the chef."
Every dish I tasted was stunning...and simplistic. There are simply no words to describe 90% of what came out of the kitchen that evening...only to groan a few sounds of enjoyment. There just isn't a chef anywhere in America doing what O'Connell is doing, including Achatz in Chicago (their cuisines are just too different).
To be a part of an amazing evening like this is beyond words...but to get treated to it by the Chef himself is simply unimaginable. I was very honored to be a part of this evening...and I hope to be a part of the 40th as well!!!
I'm going to ruffle some feathers here, but that's what Yelp is for - to ruffle feathers and give an honest, forward review. Â Here we go...
My wife and I decided to go for an anniversary dinner, we booked a 5:30 dinner reservation as everything later on a Friday or Saturday evening was booked solid - not a big deal, it must be worth doing a "grandma-time" dinner I said. We got to Washington, VA about 4:30 and wandered around, there are a handful of small galleries and stores, but the town is based around The Inn. The stores are quaint and interesting, upon leaving each store, the employees say "enjoy your dinner" - it's clear that The Inn is this town's driver and everyone else is along for the ride.
We walked to The Inn and we were quickly greeted, our coats (my wife had a coat, I just had a blazer) and umbrella were taken. We were told to step into the next room where there was a fire going and make ourselves comfortable, our table would be ready momentarily. Before we even had a moment to settle into our chairs, we were told our table was ready. My wife and I were escorted to our table which was in a breezeway that faced the courtyard. The seating is essentially one long padded bench with pillows separating diners; it's almost as if you're sitting with the party next to you if you're unfortunate enough to have someone next to you, which I was. My wife's side was free, so she was fine, but it felt as if the couple next to me was part of our group and could hear our conversations. Hardly intimate, which is why a lot of couples come to The Inn.
Now that we've been escorted to our bench and we've walked through the dining room, I realize that all the other gentleman still have their blazers on, meanwhile, I do not as the front desk emphatically suggested I hand them my jacket. Not a huge deal, but with this exclusivity, it's the little details that count and this was one of them. Since we had a 5:30 (grandma-time) dinner, neither my wife nor I were as hungry as we would have been on a normal evening, so we went with the a La Carte menu as opposed to the Gastronaut (10 course?) tasting package which is a premium. Ttalking about grandma, can we discuss the décor? I realize everyone has their own style and I can respect that, but the dining room looks as if it was touched by a floral happy designer in the '80's and hasn't been touched since. The main entrance and waiting room with the fireplace is very nicely decorated in a colonial décor which fits nicely with the style of the building. I digress; we're here for the food, right? Â
To start, I had the Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna Tartare and my wife had the Carpaccio of Herb Crusted Baby Lamb Loin. I can't say that my Tartare was incredible; it was fine, nothing to rave about, but nothing to complain about either. For our second course, I had the Aged Gouda Macaroni and Cheese and my wife had the Olive-Crusted Chesapeake Bay Rockfish with Artichoke Tortellini in an Orange-Pernod Essence. Â We both agreed that the Mac & Cheese was extraordinary; the same could not be said for the Rockfish. The Orange-Pernod was so strong; my wife had to wipe the sauce off the Tortellini - almost inedible. For our main courses I had the Pan Roasted Maine Lobster while my wife had the Juniper Crusted Venison Loin (recommended by the server over the Seared Rare Tuna). The Lobster was good but nothing to rave about and my wife's Venison was tasteless and was all around a disappointment.
The two couples to my left both had the Gastronaut package and it was evident. The manager stopped by both of their tables and chatted with them multiple times, asking how the meal was, if they were celebrating a special event and offering to take pictures. In addition, they were both offered a tour of the kitchen if they wanted - which they obliged. Now, when the manager came to our "peasant" table (I'll elaborate later), he merely asked if everything was good. We both replied yes and he quickly moved on. I realize we weren't having the more expensive, exclusive, Gastronaut package, but still, any meal that costs $580+ is cause for a special occasion (actually, a $580+ meal IS the special occasion, right?). The manager should realize that dinner at the Inn is a treat for anyone and something someone looks forward to weeks in advance - to be looked over merely because of our order was disappointing. Hence my naming of our table as the "peasant" table. I think this is possibly more telling of where the true motives lie at The Inn, it's not with ensuring a five-star experience, it's with the person's wallet. At this price point, anyone who comes to the Inn to dine should be treated the same.
Conclusion:  For much better food, atmosphere and décor, without the exclusivity, I'll dine at Blue Duck Tavern for a quarter of the cost. I wish I could really applaud Patrick O'Connell, but I think he's resting on his laurels and those have been gathering dust on the shelf for far too long.
We loved celebrating my husbands 25th bday, anniversary here on 03/11. Our main waiter was Landry. The food was amazing and lived up to its expectations!
Service was very accommodating from reservations, to adding little touches and complimentary champagne toast for our anniversary too!
We had the 4 course meal. Don't remember the order! But we tried a lot!
Our favorites were the foie gras hot and cold! Tuna tartare w/ cucumber sorbet! And the tuna w/ foie gras main course. So yummy! One to go down in the books!
Pros: honored military discount of 30%! Wow never heard of a fine dining place doing this! Must know the reason why they're so gracious about this!! :)
Best meal ever! Nice hostess and waiters. They look professional in their suits too.
Con: just one thing, I know don't hate me. I did lots if research prior to dining here. I was so excited to meet chef Patrick O'Connell and to see that kitchen and possibly get his cookbook signed. We weren't even offered a tour.... :( the table next to us with 4 ladies was invited to go back though.... :/ the sommelier made his way around almost every table but us to say something...oh well. One day hopefully ill meet Chef!!!
Best B&B experience too date. Â If you are in B&B business, you should check this place out, but, you might be upset to realize you likely couldn't achieve this. Â
When I get the best, I don't mind paying for service and product that is unique. Â This place is run with military precision. Â We stayed 2 nights. Â Not sure you can appreciate what this place is about without watching the ever present staff attend to thousands of details throughout the day.
From the greeting at the door, the staff addressing you by name, the bags carried to your room, the car parked, flowers and snacks waiting in the room. Â We stayed in the junior suite...really nice, comfortable and well decorated room, fireplace, large bathroom with Jacuzzi tub. Â
The highlight for me was the breakfast. Â Breads and jams, fresh fruit and build your own parfait and flight of juice come with the package...then you can order off the menu. Â I had just an awesome eggs Benedict. Â The egg whites were perfectly formed and then the yolks were bright and oozed all over the plate...sopped up with the toast. Â Locally sourced in-house sausage was light and full of flavor, the bacon...hmmmm bacon. Â Omelettes perfectly folded, light and the lobster and dill just fantastic. Â After this hearty breakfast, the mistake I made was eating lunch in Sperryville. Â It was nice but, I was too full before dinner. Â
We had the $168 per person, 3 course plus dessert. Â $168 per person might be expensive on a normal night out for dinner; but, not out of line at all for top quality restaurants. Â The only thing I thought overpriced were the wines. Â Just a commentary on most restaurants that double or triple the face value. Â I understand restaurants and especially, this place have a lot of labor to cover. Â I appreciate high quality restaurants that don't overcharge for wine...but, that is rare indeed. Â
Highly suggest do your homework on the wine list, it is extensive, I narrowed it down to a dozen or so that I wanted depending upon what they had on the menu that night. Â Most of the wines were above 90pts and a few up to 98pts...sorry, but, if I'm drinking an expensive bottle, I'm not eating dinner with it. Â
I brought a nice Pomerol for the room...for those of you who don't mind paying exorbitant prices you could have a bottle brought to your room. Â They had some pretty decent cheese offerings or picnic baskets available. Â I think it better to hit the local wineries and Sperryville general store for some local cheese. Â They'll set you up with ice and bucket in the room and plates and place setting for your own stuff too.
This is an amazing restaurant that everyone should enjoy at least once in their life. Dining here had been on my bucket list for 10 years and last September I was finally able to enjoy a meal here. Given it was a bit of an adventure involving a flat tire to arrive at the restaurant. We pulled into the parking lot and were having trouble figuring out where the place was and a nice woman was walking by and we asked for directions. She pointed us across the street and we casually mentioned that we had a flat tire en route and were worried we were going to be late for our reservation. She must have known someone at the establishment because we walked across the street and walked inside we were immediately greeted and asked about the tire incident. They offered to call our rental car company to see if a replacement car could be delivered while we dined. WOW! I was floored that less than 2 minutes the mystery woman had somehow notified the restaurant and that they bent over backward to help us out.
So, that gives you an idea of the service at this place. It also sets the tone for the most romantic and beautiful dining experience, complete with customized menus, a box of cookies to go (in the shape of the Inn!) and all sorts of little touches. From removing the wine label and giving it to us in a card to a complementary glass of champagne to help us relax after the tire incident. Not to mention the food was incredible! This place is pricey, very pricey, but incredibly memorable and an amazing dining experience.
First, I think I liked Komi Better. Â I dont want to be to wordy in this review so I will get strait to my point of pro's and cons:
PROS:
- it's a nice drive form DC, must stop in warrrenton for a stroll and pics
- the Inn is pretty inside- bathrooms are 5 stars
- plenty of waitors and service people to attend to your needs
- very personal  attention and greeted at the door
- favorite dishes: the caviar with toast bread; the fish and miso soup; the pumpkin- squash soup;
-waitors dont mind taking photos and they know how to use fancy cameras
CON's
- was seated next to a waitor station
- they OVER-use truffles in many dishes- even the dessert; chef has a truffle fetish
- Gastonom menu not worth the price. Â
- portions are smaller than KOMI
- somelier is too talkative. Â hoever she is knowledgeble. Â but just too talky
I probably would not recommend this place to anyone.
The Inn at Little Washington blew me away. Imaginative dishes, perfectly paired wine... every single detail was perfect, right down to the amuse-bouche.
Presentation, service, texture, flavor... all of it, impeccable. It would take me a week to write a complete review about how the blackened truffles flawlessly complimented the roasted pheasant, or how the mint-chocolate ice cream was so fresh with real mint that I felt as though I were in the garden.
The accommodations are beautiful. The staff is incredibly polite and helpful, but not intrusive. If you get the opportunity, have tea in the tea room or breakfast on the veranda. Tasty house-made granola with creme fraiche, lemon curd, raspberry sauce... melt-in-your-mouth tea savories... absolutely spot-on.
Take a tour of the kitchen, or dine at the chef's table. Patrick O'Connell is a genius. Few places compare.
my favorite restaurant so far (i still have per se, the french laundry, and a few others on my list though). it is hands down the best restaurant in virginia though.
i came here for my birthday this year with my bf and parents. everything was perfection. the decor was tasteful (christmas time), food was delicious, and service was impeccable. i honestly think you get what you pay for. i didn't even mind the drive out there. it is definitely an experience.
since it was our first time here, we all had the gastronaut's tasting menu with wine pairings. seems like a lot but it is just the right amount of food. i heard the gastronaut's menu doesn't change too much so on my next visit, i would just order a la carte. Â
my favorite thing was the truffle popcorn. i wish i could somehow recreate it at home! it was sooooo good.
to top off the meal, they gave us a tour of the kitchen and sent us home with a little goodie bag shaped like the inn. so awesome.
That's gotta be the best truffle popcorn I have ever eaten!
My wife's birthday always brings great planning opportunities for me. Â This year it was our turn at The Inn at Little Washington. Â We had the gastronauts menu and enjoyed everything except the venison. Â The last time I had been to the Inn was about 22 years ago....man saying that I sound really old. Â
Every dish was perfectly prepared the only gripe I had was that you could see the cleanup on the plate (wipe-down from a kitchen towel after plating before service) on every plate it was a little bothersome but we ignored to enjoy our dishes. Â
The apple and rutabaga soup was wonderful I also really enjoyed the dashi that came with our fish it was fragrant and had an umami punch that was so comforting to me and also my wife. Â
This really is a special event restaurant and should be frequented on milestone. Â the food was at the same caliber as Thomas Keller, Eric Ripert, but just on a more mellow level. Â The decorations and details are so distinct and whimsical that you can't help but pay attention to them.
Enjoy and savor this meal.
Cheers and happy eats!
I have eaten here over a dozen times and it just gets better every time. Â Most recently we ate here with the family as a send off to my brother's deployment to Afghanistan. Â They personalized the menus, gave us champagne on the house, twice. Â They also have a military discount.
The black truffle popcorn is what I would request, for my last meal, if I were on death row awaiting the chair. Â Unforgettable.
I could go on and on about each dish, but its all been said before on here. Â Everything on the menu is extraordinary, I've had them all.
Don't complain about the price or be discouraged by it. Â To dine here is an unforgettable experience unlike anything you will find anywhere else. Â Patrick O'Connell has won every award a chef or hotel could ever dream of, but the difference between him and all the others you see on TV, is despite being able to, he has never sold out or expanded an empire past Little Washington for one simple reason, this place, this food is his one true passion and it shows in every detail. Â Thats why this place outshines all the rest. Â This is it, The Everest. Â The summit of culinary and service perfection. Â So, come out and see for yourself; just don't fill up on the bread!
Perfect! Â Easily ranking among the best dining experiences I've ever had. Â I would highly recommend going for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Â My wife made reservations mid-week for us to celebrate my birthday. Â If your driving up from DC, get off 66 at Haymarket and take the extra time to drive along Lee Highway through the beautiful countryside.
I spoke with the sommelier before the meal to discuss our likes / dislikes, and she recommended an excellent wine that was new to us (and reasonable $). We had the tasting menu and enjoyed every course. When the meal was over, we were greeted by name, given our menus to take with us, and our car was outside waiting.
We were truly made to feel like special guests from the moment we arrived until we left. If only every fine dining experience could be this way!
If there's one place that I REALLY want to check-in at, it's this place. Â And you can't. Â Because there's no cell service here. Â That's how far out it is.
I have to say, reading the few negative reviews here, I was surprised. Â This was bar none the best service I've ever had. Â Here was our experience:
Personal greeting by valet, doorman and maitre' d. Â
A walk around the restaurant so we could pick the table of our choice.
Personalized menus, packaged lateras keepsakes.
Wonderfully presented amuse bouche.
Offers of champagne, and a delicious hand picked red.
Each course better than the last (an impossible feat there)
Incredibly unpretentious, anticipatory (near-psychic) service.
Another yelper called it ninja-like water service...AGREE.
Order the frommage for dessert...and you'll have dinner and a show.
Personal tour of the kitchen and chit-chat with Chef O'Conner.
I'm a firm believer that you get what you pay for. Â The culinary experience here is exquisite, but it's the service that commands that high price tag. Â It was a treat simply to observe other tables and their service experience as well. Â
Neil and Francois made this a singular experience. Â Highly, highly recommended.
Buyer's remorse. Â I have mad respect for chef O'Connor's skills and culinary conceptions, but honestly, I cannot say this is the best meal I have ever experienced. Â While some dishes were prepared well and were quite delicious; not all! Â And when you part with two car payments for a meal, you anticipate exceptional. Â As mentioned by others, our service was really outstanding. Â
To put this all in perspective, I went to Peru about two years ago for about $375 r/t, we had some of the most exceptional meals, service and presentation at near welfare prices at some of their premier restaurants. Â So personally, for my money, I'll take the trip to Peru for $800 Bob.. Lol.
May 10, 2012
Quite simply, the finest restaurant we have ever had the pleasure of dining in! After making a trip to visit relatives in the DC area, we planned an outing to see old friends who live in Flint Hill, VA. Â After discussing restaurants in the area for lunch, she mentioned the Inn at Little Washington in an email to me, as being one of the finest in the country. Â So after researching it, I decided it would be fitting for us to celebrate our 10th anniversary by staying there and reserving the chef's table for dinner. Â
The experience is one we will talk of for the rest of our lives. Â The service and food are the best you will ever have. Â We had high tea in the afternoon in the garden, then was taken on a tour of the grounds at 5 (by Chris Castle, Ring Master) and dined later that evening in the kitchen. Â Robert Mondavi described Chef Patrick O'Connell as the Pope of American Cuisine and rightfully so. Â Chef O'Connell is a self-taught chef with a flair for drama and who has created an atmosphere of beauty and perfection, that I wish everyone could experience just once!
We had breakfast in the morning, again perfection. Â If you have a special occasion, this is the place to do it.
My husband and I couldn't leave Northern Virginia after 33 years without visiting this celebrated, 5 Star restaurant.  So, as a birthday surprise, he invited me to join him for a picture-perfect dinner at this very elegant jewel in the darling little town of Washington, VA.  We were greeted by an efficient valet, who escorted us into the splendid environment that Chef/owner Patrick O'Connell created  to make me (and several others) birthday princess-for-a-day!  Soft lighting, abundant flowers, deep, rich colors, fabrics and finishes drew us into the dining room where we were led to our table at a wine colored velvet banquette complete with tapestry cushions and creamy table linen, lit by a silk sweetheart rose-colored hanging lamp with six inch fringe.
Following distinctive cocktails, we pondered the menu, personalized with my birthday greeting and were served the chef's welcome via a variety of amuse bouche, cold plum soup with pear brandy and crusted caviar appetizers. Â Landry, our polished, attentive waiter brought our indescribable dinner in four courses, each exquisitely fresh and flavorful, creatively arranged on white china, chosen to accentuate the selection. Â Don't miss the "Lunar Eclipse" dessert, a salty chocolate-caramel tart with olive oil ice cream- luxury as I have never known...
The final compliment was our invitation to view the Inn's kitchen, a high end, busy and very chic version of a "Heaven's Kitchen" with a huge fireplace at one end. Â The glass and stainless U-shaped work area is central around cook surfaces based on ceramic tiles and overseen by a huge portrait of Chef O'Connell and two dalmation companions. Â The chef, himself, graciously thanked us for visiting and wished us safe travel.
As we prepared to leave, we were presented with a lovely little "cottage" replica of the Inn, filled with tiny cookies and sweets to be enjoyed later as we reminisced about our rare, gentle retreat to a place where Chef O'Connell and his gracious staff move closer toward cordial perfection than most have ever experienced~
Totally deserving of its consistent ranking as Washingtonian's #1 very best restaurant in the DC area. Â Reservations are needed - and early reservations allow for plenty of time to get home if driving back to DC. Â Plan for a 1.7h trip from DC, plus a 3h dinner. Â Expect to pay no less than $500 for dinner for two (although I did see a couple in there just for desserts - an option I didn't know existed). Â Website is good.
Patrick O'Connell, the chef, designs innovative French/ New American food sourced locally. The menu is customized and food prepared with meticulous detail. Â Cocktails are inventive and custom; simply tell the server what spirit, flavor, and texture you prefer, and a delectable cocktail will appear. Â Service is impeccable; when we asked why the server wiped crumbs from the table with a cloth napkin instead of the rigid tool typically used, the server responded, "Chef doesn't like the sound those things make. Â Using a napkin is more pleasant." Â Little food surprises come occasionally throughout the meal. The food portions are perfect: you feel like you've had enough, yet you're not stuffed when you leave the restaurant.
I compare this restaurant with Komi (I've eaten there also in 2012). Â At The Inn, I felt like I am having a delightful meal. Â At Komi, I felt like I'm getting bites - and it's more about what the chef will do next than actually enjoying a meal that doesn't compete with engagement with my dining partner. Â Two very different experiences, and I greatly prefer the Inn.
I've been twice now to the Inn, and both times, the meal (and entire experience) was among the best of my life. Â Yes, it is very expensive, but if you are prepared for the price-tag, it is worth every penny.
Wow.
WOW.
And in case you need one more for emphasis: WOW.
I want to go back to all the 5-star reviews I've written and bring them down at least one star, because nothing (and I mean NOTHING) I have EVER eaten has compared to the dinner I had at The Inn At Little Washington.
My S.O. treated me to a dinner here as an early birthday gift, as I've been wanting to come to The Inn for quite some time. He made reservations for 5:15PM on a Sunday evening (which, not to get sidetracked, was a great time to make reservations for - we spent 3 1/2 hours in the restaurant, so it wasn't too late when we were done). We opted for the Gastronaut menu, which is the 10-course menu. We thought it would be more fun to try several different things rather than pick something and wonder if we made the right choice (I don't think we realized at the time that there probably wasn't a wrong choice). The exact selections are seasonal and thus, vary (see my photos for the selections we were treated to), but every single item we had was simply divine. We should have counted how many times we said "ohmygosh, this is sooo amazing!"
I skimmed some reviews here and people reviewed it as "stuffy" and "expensive". You'll need deep pockets, I'll give you that, but just plan ahead for it and know what you're getting yourself into (spoiler alert: it's awesome). Our meal for two (Gastronaut menu + one bottle of wine + after dinner drinks + tip) was well over $600. As long as you know this going in, I think you'll be happy. As for stuffy, well... I have to respectfully disagree. If impeccable service is "stuffy", I'll take stuffy any day of the week.
Yelp lists the attire as Formal (Jacket Required), which is what my S.O. and I went with (S.O. in jacket and tie, myself in a knee-length formal dress) and we were comfortable and not overdressed. Anything less than that (and we did see some people dressed quite casually) admittedly looked extremely awkward and out-of-place (though the employees weren't phased - they didn't make anyone feel uncomfortable because of that).
The bottom line: Before I came to The Inn at Little Washington, I didn't realize food could taste so amazing. I don't know how else to explain it, and there really are no words to describe it. Every meal I've previously had simply pales in comparison. Foods I would have never tried and foods I absolutely hate were all amazing, fantastic, unbelievable, wonderful. Now I understand how food SHOULD be, and if you try The Inn, you'll understand too.
I've been dreaming about coming to the Inn at Little Washington for as long as I can remember. I was apprehensive that it wouldn't live up to the hype, or that it would be self-important.
I finally got to go and it was amazing. I ordered off the a la carte menu. Everything I ate was a work of art. The entire time I was there the service was impeccable. Everyone was warm and inviting in every possible way. Everything we desired was provided and we were treated as if we were the most important people there.
The food was innovative and beautifully presented. I ordered the macaroni and cheese for one of my courses. It didn't sound interesting, but my friend had sworn by it so I wanted to try it. When they brought it, I didn't even think it was what I'd ordered, it was that beautiful and unlike what I expected. It was also delicious.
I liked the ambiance because it is quite different than what you typically experience in DC. It's more like a country house with different rooms. Someday I'll go back and take more time in the different parts of the Inn, like having a drink in the courtyard or at the bar. We also walked to the vegetable garden and even the gardner was very friendly.
Was it expensive? Â Yes, it was ridiculously expensive. But, this was arguably the best meal I have ever had. And sometimes you just have to throw down that kind of money to get this kind of experience.
There are two options when it comes to ordering the food. Â Option1: An a la carte menu where you choose a 1st course, 2nd course, main course, and a dessert. Â Option 2: a 10 course tasting menu (called the Gastronaut's Menu). We got the 10 course tasting menu and every course was awesome.
Let's not forget the service. I didn't keep track of how many different people were serving us, but the coreography between all the servers was quite impressive and kind of entertaining to watch.
I don't care what the Washingtonian says. I've had both Komi and Inn at Little Washington now, and Komi's got nothing on the Inn.
I grew up in this town and first went here for my brother's high school graduation. Since then, I've been here ten times for various family celebrations. It's funny, a place this great and so famous, you wouldn't think it could get any better. However, each time I come back here I'm blown away. I do not know how they do it.
Patrick O'Connell and his highly trained staff orchestrate an impeccable performance both with service and cuisine.
It's not just the food here... it's the service. They treat you like royalty... really! And I don't think I've ever even noticed the servers filling up my water glass. It just happens. They're like Ninjas!
Don't complain about the price, which for what you get is a steal! It's an experience, not just dinner.
This place was.......FABULOUS. Â
From the reservation process it was so professional and easy that I really had a good feeling going into this. Â You see, I had a party of 12. Â It was for a very special occasion. Â Their biggest table seats only 10, but the reservations staff gave me alternatives and we found the best one. Â They emailed us to confirm when we asked them to, they called us to confirm and make sure of the special occasion, if they had questions for us, they'd call us before the date so we weren't scrambling.....they really knew what they were doing.
The interior is quite ornate and I wish we had toured the place more! Â We were running a little late for our reservation because of unexpected circumstances (the car service didn't show up) and traffic - they were gracious about it when we called to let them know. Â
The individual we were celebrating was mentioned on the top front of the menu and I'm not sure how many staff members were serving us but they ALL knew what they were doing. Â This isn't the runner that doesn't speak english know what to do if you ask for water type thing.....this was everyone working as a team. Â And then when there were toasts, they left us alone without interrupting. Â One member of our party thought his beer was supposed to be 22 oz instead of 16 oz, so they just brought it anyway without having to ask for it.
Then the food. Â Outside of the main course, there was of course, delicious bread, but also a canape - "chips and dip" which was delicious and then a pork belly. Â Both worked wonderfully as that first bite. Â Then came a chilled pea soup and a herbed puff (I was at the restroom and exploring the restaurant when they brought it by) - both delicious. Â I haven't even received my first course yet and I have a big smile on my face (and a sigh of relief after one failure of an experience at another "fancy" restaurant in DC).
The dishes were all AMAZING. Â I could go on and on and on about my ahi tuna tartare or the lamb carpaccio or the foie gras (hot/cold) or the caviar or the sweetbreads. Â Nothing overpowered another ingredient or enhanced it (sauternes jelly for the foie gras? Oh My GOD.)
Then the desserts. Â I ordered the "7 deadly sins" because I'm indecisive - there was mint ice cream with chocolate ribbons. Â The mint was SO fresh I expected the mint leaves to be sprouting out of the ice cream. Â It was all so very very very good.
Then they had someone come by to give us a short tour of the kitchen. Â THE KITCHEN! Â We got to meet the chef and they all graciously allowed us to take photos and watch. Â The guy even took a group photo for us.
I really want to come back to The Inn to explore the grounds, eat here and try their tasting menu, and experience it all over again. Â The drive is so worth it. Â Well....just don't get stuck on 495 when they've closed the roads down to one lane....that was painful.
Words  will not be able to explain the experience, but even more so, the food at the Inn at Little Washington...
Patrick O'Connell is a true culinary artist... I don't know how he does it, but it is PERFECTION...
Truly, a foodies' heaven.
If it's your first time, my recommendation is to do The Gastronaut's Menu, but make sure you go there hungry because it is filling! Just a note, if you order that menu, your entire party will need to order it, but no biggie. The staff was kind enough to make certain substitutions based on some of my likes from the ala carte menu... so on top of the gastronauts, I was able to sample the soft shell crab tempura (absolutely amazing!) and the bone marrow custard (so good, you could feel the build-up in your arteries!). Overall, everything, and I mean EVERYTHING was delicious and titillating to the palate... the blends of flavors was one that only a true culinary artist is able to achieve... each plate had it's own character and it made me want more.... Â
They have a sommelier on staff that does wonderful pairings with the menu... Well worth it for your wine-o's!
For dessert, though the meal came with an absolutely delightful miniature strawberry-rhubarb cobbler, limoncello pudding cake & rhubarb frozen yogurt (best cobbler I've ever tasted), I substituted one of the desserts with their Seven Deadly Sins, and I tell you, it was absolutely gluttonous!
I would love, love, love to come here again... It is not for the faint-hearted nor for the shallow-pockets ($$$-$$$$ pp)... and it is a prerequisite to have an appreciation of good food (I'm not much of a reviewer and have abstained from writing reviews , but I have had my share of excellent restaurants around the country and the world). Â Last thing... I recommend staying at one of B&B's after because you will NOT want to drive it back home (in my case about 1 1/2 half) after such a wonderful meal.
The most absurdly lavish dinner I've ever had was in the kitchen at the Inn at Little Washington. Â
When you eat in the kitchen, you go through a special door that is comprised mostly of mirrors. Â You walk in, and Gregorian chants are playing. Â There is a guy - I am not making this up - wearing robes, swinging a censer. Â This man will not look you in the eye. Â The chef and staff are assembled to welcome you. Â
First they bring you popcorn with shaved black truffles. Â Subsequent to this, you will stop eating popcorn. Â They also bring a few amuse-bouche, the flavors of which linger and change in your mouth. Â You can choose four courses from the menu, or you can do a chef's menu. Â Each time I have been (I feel like a Rockefeller saying this), we have ordered courses instead of doing the set chef's menu.
If you go, set aside any ethical, nutritional, or gastronomical rules you have. Â Now is the time to eat lamb, order the foie gras, taste raw beef, or try organ meat. Â None of these are things that I typically do, but on my last trip I did them all. Â The menus change, but most exceptional dish I had was the very rare tuna topped with foie gras. The juxtaposition was unreal. Â
Normally I don't care at all about service, unless it is at one extremity. Â The Inn is at one extreme. Â It is as if they are born to prepare and serve food. Â
Eating here is more like a pilgrimage than a dinner, but if you find yourself in the company of a few hundred dollars (per person) that needs spending, you could do much, much, much worse than coming here.
I'm one of the few reviewers not to give this place a top rating, but I firmly stand by my rating! It's not that the food was bad, it was very good, it was just the whole experience was, well, a bit off-putting. Read on....
First of all, you will need to take out a second mortgage to eat here; even a dinner for two will cost you a few hundred. The only reason I agreed to eat here was because it was my birthday, and a big one (okay, I was turning 40, but a youthful 40!). It's a long drive to get to this very out-of-the-way place, but I figured this would be a night to remember. It was, just not in such a good way....
When we arrived, my wife, my mother and I were escorted to a waiting room and seated on some couches by a tiny little table. Why? They offered no explanation. After a short wait, someone came to us and asked if we would like anything. What do I want, I asked myself, a game of tennis, a new pair of pants, a winning lottery ticket, peace on earth? I assumed he was asking for something more mundane, like drinks, although we were given no wine menu or drink menu or any clue what he might be asking. In a fit of pique, I asked for water. Hold on, make that Perrier water, after all, this is a classy joint, right?
From what I am led to believe, waiters at "The Inn" are trained for a full year or two before they become part of the wait staff there. What exactly did they learn, obsequiousness, how to be a snob? Our waiter certainly had the air of someone who could just barely condescend to serve us, even though we were all well dressed for the occasion. Indeed, one got the distinct feeling that he felt he was the superior one, and we were lowly inferiors that were being tolerated. Not exactly the celebration that I had hoped for.
When it came time to order, I had to order delicately -- my mother is a vegetarian, and can be outspoken about it at times, although she tolerates my carnivorous appetite to a point. However, if I was going to pay the outrageous prices that were the norm there, I was going to get what I thought would taste the best, which happened to be the tenderloins of veal. There being no other menu item that said "tenderloins" and to mask my choice from my mother, I tactfully asked the waiter for the tenderloins as my main course. "You mean the veal??" he practically shouted at me while my mother shot me a stern, disapproving look. Oh great, I was caught ordering baby cows. Can this get any worse?
I stuck with my meal choice, although my guilt prevented me from fully enjoying it. It was now time for dessert. I had heard of a much-heralded dessert choice called "The Seven Deadly Sins" which piqued my interest. I told him that I had heard The Seven Deadly Sins was quite good, although I didn't know what it was. Â He replied stiffly "very good" and wrote it down, without any recognition of my broad hint that I desired a description. His arrogance so annoyed me, that I was unable to enjoy what was probably a very good dessert (by the way, the seven deadly sins is so named because there are seven small versions of other items on the dessert menu, such as cake and tarts).
Finally, after our dessert, he gave two baskets of candies to my wife and mother, who were a little confused over what to do -- do they eat the candies here, are they supposed to take the baskets home with them? Of course, no explanation was given. And meanwhile, despite that the waiter had been told it was my 40th birthday, and the menus were printed with "Happy 40th Birthday Kelly," I got nothing and had to sit and watch them eat their additional sweets. I couldn't even save the menus as a memento, they were whisked away earlier with a mention of me keeping one.
The final bill came to nearly $800, for just three people. A lesson learned. Next time I want to celebrate my birthday, I'll blow $40 for appetizers, meal and dessert at Red Robins and will have a LOT more fun!!!
Wow! I consider myself a tough customer, but wow!
Prepare yourself (and your wallet) for a world-class experience. This has redefined my understanding of 5 stars. We had the wine tasting dinner. From beginning to end, the service was over-the-top and the food quickly exhausted my supply of superlatives.
But beware - this place is not for the feint of heart ! Â Dinner will set you back $400-500 per couple. If you stay the night, the economy rooms are about the same. Still, the experience is so beyond what I've had before, I would do it again, and highly recommend it to anyone who can swing it.
Be our guest!
Be our guest!
Put our service to the test
Tie your napkin 'round your neck, cherie
And we provide the rest
Soup du jour
Hot hors d'oeuvres
Why, we only live to serve
Try the grey stuff
It's delicious!
You don't believe me? Ask the dishes
^
That's actually exactly what you can expect here. Youtube the song, and you'll have a nice video of what you'll experience at The Inn At Little Washington. You will be treated like Belle, and your servers will all be Lumiere. No Cogsworth in sight!
You may however feel like you're going to run into a pack of wolves on your way home. Because yes, this place is in the middle of nowhere. Luckily, once you leave The Inn, the Disney fantasy ends and you're back in the real world. You'll safely make it home. Unless food coma strikes, in which case I recommend you book a room at The Inn for the night.
It's been awhile......but finally I will write my take about the Inn.
It's bunch of woo haaa in reality nothing special.
My lady friend and I walked in - no one asked about our name just took us to the table. My lady friend had a nice view but I was facing the wall. I requested to move.....they took us to another table ended up in the middle of room.
I truly liked their wine selection but not sure why it ends up 1,000 times expensive. Small example: $37 bottle of wine was listed for $350.
Food was good but there was NO "wow factor".
I ordered Tuna dish---exact same dish can be found in their cook book but the presentation wasn't as nice as the picture.
The best part for us was when we were moved outside for dessert. Truly loved it.
After spending $4,000 we agreed that it wasn't worth even $500. Washington DC is filled with GREAT restaurants and a trip to New York is worth every penny. GREAT Chef's, food, wine and the location is worth every penny. I am talking about New York not The Inn. LoL
With respect, most people who visit The Inn are blown away long before their visits because of the hype---not because what they are getting for their $$$$$$$
The Inn at Little Washington makes me wish that I was a part of the 1%.
Amazing food -- not a single misstep throughout our ten course meal. The concepts of the dishes are imaginative and sophisticated; the texture, the flavors, the balance are all perfect. They are also visually beautiful and, sometimes, even a bit playful. Wine pairings are carefully chosen. Â For at least seven of the courses, I couldn't stop saying: this is the best [insert food] I've ever tasted!
Sumptuous yet intimate atmosphere -- the inn is very tastefully decorated. The dining room is layered with elaborate wall papers and tapestries; the tables are covered with luxurious damask fabrics, sparkling silverware, and gorgeous china. In a lesser hand, it might have become over-the-top, a ridiculous caricature; but not so here. Everything works together to add, but not over-shine, the dining experience.
Thoughtful service from the entire staff. They are never in your way, but they show up and anticipate your needs just before you realize it.
It is not a bargain, no. Some say it's overpriced, and I don't think they're wrong. Nonetheless, The Inn's unique blend of world class cuisine, luxurious accommodation, and faultless service in a quaint, charming rustic setting is a rare find -- possibly the definition of "as good as it gets."
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