The atmosphere at The Inn at Little Washington is designed to evoke a sense of old-world luxury, with whimsical touches that create a unique, immersive experience. The dining rooms are adorned with plush fabrics, chandeliers, and opulent floral arrangements, providing an intimate and romantic setting. The restaurant’s décor is a mix of classic and playful, with theatrical elements such as a cow on wheels used for tableside cheese service.
Every detail at The Inn is meticulously curated, from the fine china to the custom-made furnishings, and guests are treated to impeccable, white-glove service. The experience is often described as a ‘theatrical’ dining event, where guests feel transported to a different time and place. The rural setting adds to the sense of escape, with the restaurant surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and the quaint charm of the nearby village.
O’Connell, the chef and proprietor of The Inn at Little Washington, is a celebrated figure in the culinary world. A self-taught chef, O’Connell has become known for his ability to blend French haute cuisine with American ingredients, creating a signature style that is both elegant and approachable. His culinary philosophy revolves around creating dining experiences that engage all the senses, with dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful.
O’Connell has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including James Beard Awards, such as Best Chef Mid-Atlantic and Outstanding Chef in America. In 2019, he was awarded the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award and the National Humanities Medal, recognizing his contributions to American cuisine and culture. He was an advocate for sustainability and local sourcing long before these concepts became mainstream, using ingredients from the restaurant’s own farm and local suppliers.
The Inn at Little Washington holds the double distinction of being the only restaurant in the Michelin Guide for Washington DC that is not located within the city limits, and the first and only three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the DC Guide at time of writing, a title it has retained since 2018. It is also the longest-tenured AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star restaurant in the world. In 2021, the restaurant earned a Michelin green Star, an award that highlights its commitment to sustainability, including sourcing from its own farm and reducing food waste. These accolades reflect The Inn’s consistent dedication to excellence in both cuisine and hospitality.
