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Press Club

Washington DC

New Entry

Both journalism and vinyl culture are saluted by Press Club's cheeky moniker, but this Washington DC lounge is built firmly on elegance. Founder Will Patton's fine dining experience is evident in the graceful service and focus on details. Chic guests fill an intimate space that fuses the omotenashi perfectionism of a Tokyo listening bar with the casual embrace of jamming out in a friend's basement. Blond woods and curated stemware warm the minimalist room in lieu of the usual bottles of a backbar. True to name, typewriters, records and a pair of turntables provide a soundtrack to the experience.

Vinyl also provides the inspiration for Press Club's menus. Custom-designed record covers present cocktails as tracks on an album. Patton's distinct, culinary-inflected style is present across the playlist. Drinks skew dry with an emphasis on balancing understated flavours. Wine is frequently employed as a modifier and the lauded kitchen team delivers unorthodox garnishes to round out the flavours profiles. Consider the Outkast inspired Roses (red gin, aged rum, Thai pepper, rose, pineapple, ginger) or the signature duelling martinis of In A Cadillac (vodka, sake, vermouth, shiso vinegar gin, paolo cortado, vermouth, grapefruit). A second album offers a selection of classics along with Japanese-influenced snacks including an updated chicken katsu and deconstructed handrolls. However, Press Club might be best encapsulated through the option of a cheeseburger eggroll, a dish that channels Japanese hospitality's anticipation of guests' desires – without taking itself too seriously.

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