Willowsong, the new modern American concept led by nationally acclaimed Chef Jeffrey Williams, has opened its doors today, February 12. Willowsong honors Washington, D.C.’s globally influenced, hyper-seasonal cuisine by bringing house-made pastas, locally sourced meat and seafood and fresh vegetables to the city’s waterfront neighborhood. Located on the ground floor of the luxury InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf, the hotel’s flagship restaurant provides overnight guests and D.C. locals alike a distinct taste of place.
Willowsong’s menu is anchored by Chef Williams’ community-driven ethos and relationships with local DMV purveyors like Family Cow, Ovoka Farm and Miller Farms. Starters and small plates like the Hamachi Tartare and Crispy Prawn & Calamari evoke flavors of the Chesapeake Bay, while entrees like the Red Wine Dry-Aged Striploin and Braised Pork Shank celebrate farms of Virginia and Maryland. Freshly made pastas like the Cresto di Gallo with crispy oxtail and Squid Ink Orecchiette take center stage on the inaugural dinner lineup. Not to be missed is the Milk Bread, served alongside brown honey miso butter and salmon roe for an elevated bread service course.
“Willowsong is an homage to the rich bounty of ingredients that this region has to offer, showcasing those sourced from three exceptional farms within a 150-mile radius of our restaurant,” said Chef Williams. “Every dish is a tribute to the land that surrounds us, and we’re beyond excited to establish this space as one of the freshest, most vibrant culinary experiences on the Wharf.”
In the coming months, Chef Williams will continue to enrich these flourishing relationships with new programming at the restaurant. An ongoing dinner series, set to debut this spring, will showcase the partnerships with these purveyors and illustrate the region’s abundance.
Inspired by the elegance of the willow trees found throughout the DMV area, from the banks of the Potomac to the pond at Constitution Gardens, Willowsong’s name is a tribute to the land and water that create new growth. The 152-seat concept’s sun-washed ambiance is complemented by natural textures and live greenery throughout, with luxurious accents like leather banquettes and brass finishes. Guests can also enjoy the quaint patio in fair weather, basking in the lively Wharf boardwalk and views of the Washington Channel. The centerpiece of the dining room is a mural by Maryland-based artist Irene Pantelis, whose works have been featured in galleries across the country.
The beverage menu invites guests to explore the region’s robust offerings of wine and craft beer, with brews from nearby makers like DC Brau and Right Proper, along with bottles from old-world makers like Barons de Rothschild and E. Guigal. Along with wine and beer, a roster of cocktails crafted by restaurant general manager Hakan Alagoz includes highlights like the Lost Count with coconut-infused bourbon, rum, Amaro and Cointreau, along with the Delayed Flight, comprised of vodka, Aperol, grapefruit and lime. Guests can also enjoy a limited beverage menu during happy hour at the 20-seat bar.
Willowsong is located at 801 Wharf Street SW within InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf and is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made via Resy, and more information on the restaurant, including operating hours, can be found at Willowsongdc.com.
