Riggs Washington DC – Banking on Grandeur
A Gilded-Age landmark reborn for a modern capital
From Vaults to Velvet
Housed in the former Riggs National Bank building, Riggs Washington DC channels a century of financial history into one of the city’s most distinctive boutique hotels. The imposing barrel-vaulted lobby, framed by historic Corinthian columns, ornate ceilings, and classic stonework, sets an immediately dramatic tone—this is history not behind glass, but reimagined for living and lingering.
Dining as Spectacle
The culinary star is Café Riggs, a light-filled space inspired by Europe’s grand brasseries. Custom furniture, statement mirrors, and carefully curated artwork create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary. The menu, like the room, is modern but rooted in tradition—refined seasonal cuisine that plays beautifully with the space’s sense of occasion.
Where Cocktails Meet Curiosity
Below ground, the hotel’s historic vaults house Silver Lyan, the first U.S. outpost from acclaimed mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr Lyan). The vibe? Playful, subversive, and wildly creative. Expect a cocktail menu blending classical technique with cheeky kitsch, all in an intimate subterranean setting that hums with energy and intrigue.
Rooms with a Legacy
Upstairs, the bank’s past becomes personal. In-room minibars and safes cleverly mimic traditional steel bank safes, a subtle nod to the building’s legacy. Suites like the two-bedroom Riggs Suite add a human layer, honoring former First Ladies with unique porcelain collections and musical tributes, combining historic narrative with contemporary comfort.
DNA Hotels Verdict
Riggs Washington DC is a love letter to old-world glamour wrapped in modern hospitality. With its vaulted grandeur, brasserie buzz, and underground cocktail alchemy, it stands as one of DC’s most compelling destinations—a perfect collision of history, design, and imaginative energy.
