[[HIGHLIGHT]]Worth it. For the views![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But also our server Will was great. Flexible and accommodating. Instantly elevated our experience. Shout out to him and the kitchen staff. read more

I was visiting some friends in DC and made reservations at the Penthouse with the purpose of eating outside in their "igloos". It ended up being too hot for us to enjoy outside but the server was nice enough to move our large party indoors without a wait. I ordered the sangria and it was so fruity and refreshing. Where this place falls flat for me is the food. We went for brunch so I'm not sure what their lunch and dinner menu looked like but I had their chicken and waffles. Typically, I'm used to having this dish with just chicken on top of a waffle with a side of syrup that you can pour over. This dish was drenched with a sauce that wasn't syrup but still sort of sweet? It wasn't necessarily *bad*, it's just that I wasn't expecting it. I didn't end up finishing it and my friends weren't impressed with some of the other dishes. I will say though...that Harissa Shrimp? Give me 14 of them. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Another spot for pictures and aesthetics with bad service and mediocre food.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]On a busy night at the wharf, this was one of the few places I could drop in and sit at the bar.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It took 10 minutes for the bartender to hand me a water and ask what I wanted (though he never gave me a menu). After ordering, no one checked on me until my plates were empty and drink was dry. I ordered the beet salad and truffle fries. The food was good but certainly not worth the price. I'm happy to pay good money but seeing the well done lamb chops beside me, I decided to go with a safe Girl Dinner. I won't be back, even if I need a cute spot for pictures with the girls. This spot isn't worth it, there are too many great places to eat in DC to settle read more

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We originally had reservations for the La Vie but there was a private event and we were moved to the Penthouse. Just fyi, the menus vary. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The view is lovely. We were seated outside which was great![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I thought the decorations inside were fun![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The dining igloos/globes looked cute too![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We started out with drinks. I tried the Purple Blossom. I was hoping for something closer to a Lavender French 75 however it was very overpowered with pineapple and fighting with the berry syrup. The drink could use a little work- it lacked balance. Our waiter was very kind and allowed me to change it to a regular French 75 which was delicious. My friend and I started off with: Shrimp Cesar souvlaki-- this is a smaller appetizer dish which definitely won't fill you up. Very light. We shared the Lamb Chops and Mac and Cheese. The lamb chops were small and tasted alright. Mac and cheese was underwhelming. For the price of our items we weren't impressed. We did not want to stay for dessert. Really curious what our food experience would have been if we had been at La Vie vs. Penthouse. Enjoy the VIEW!! read more

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I'm late to the party! A good one too! But I'm grateful to have finally experienced The Penthouse at La Vie. [[HIGHLIGHT]]La Vie is a favorite of mine and I'm shocked I haven't been here because it's giving prim, proper, and luxurious![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The Igloos outside are absolutely stunning! Whoever decorated them is brilliant![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]All but 3 were occupied so that is telling, they are not cheap. I will say they are absolutely worth every penny you pay! There is a saying you pay for what you get, and the price matches the value.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They have a strict two hour limit and that is merely because guest have reservations immediately after the two hour slots, makes perfect sense. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Our view was beautiful. The extra touch with a speaker in the Igloo was perfect. Such a Vibe![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Service was Excellent! Maria our server was a gem! Ever was outstanding! Jeff the bartender was amazing! Now this is what fine dining should be like! Not your average person is coming here, let that be clear. People who come are told serval times in emails the fees that come with this experience. A 500$ dining experience should be memorable and for me it was! I want to come back and that was my sentiment before even leaving. The complimentary champagne, and dessert was appreciated. They went above and beyond! Standing ovation for this spectacular service. Now I will admit, we were able to order off the regular La Vie menu so that was a plus for our date night. The restaurant is so beautiful we stopped at the bar before leaving! When your guests want to stay, you've done something RIGHT! Date NIGHT worthy! Ladies DRESS UP! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Let's Get Into It! Shrimp Cocktail - Exceeded expectations! Delicious! Grilled Octopus - Exceeded expectations! Full of flavor! YUMMY! Spinach Ravioli- Met Expectations- Delicious Salmon - Met Expectations- Delicious! Lamb Chops - Met Expectations- Good! Brussel Sprouts- Exceeded Expectations- SOOOOO Good! Truffle Frites - Met Expectations! YUMMERS! read more

The Penthouse at La Vie - Lounges Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

On 3/15, I've been dating my honey for a year, so she decided to do something special to celebrate since we eat out all the time. Well, we've never dined inside an "igloo", so let's do it..LOL!! We've both eaten at La Vie in the past, but this was our first time dining at the "Penthouse" level, which has a full indoor area which could pass for a florist it had so much greenery and of course, Igloos set up on the terrace which overlooks the Potomac River. [[HIGHLIGHT]]As soon as we arrived, we received VIP treatment. We were escorted to our Igloo which was beautifully decorated and warm from the electric heater that was on full blast.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our server was delightful and explained the two menus along with informing us that the bluetooth speaker can easily connect to our phone for music. That was a game changer, having your favorite songs playing in the background while you eat.. DOPE!! Our food was definitely up to La Vie's standards. For starters we had the grilled octopus and jumbo shrimp cocktail and for entrees, we had lamb chops and salmon. The brussel sprouts and truffle fries rounded out our meal....delicious! Knowing the occasion, The Penthouse was out to impress. They spoiled us with complementary champagne and of course, cake with a sparkler :)) If you're looking for exclusive treatment at a super cool venue, check out "The Penthouse at La Vie" and act like an Eskimo.. Rent yourself an "Igloo", you'll love it..LOL!!! read more

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This was our version of a belated "Friendsgiving" ...and The Penthouse at La Vie certainly delivered! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The customer service, the ambiance, the food, and the attentiveness were all spectacular.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The igloo is super cute, and I absolutely loved it from the moment I stepped in. We were assigned the purple theme (my favorite color), and it was smooth sailing from there.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our food was overall served in a timely manner, but since there's a strict 2 hour limit, I was a bit concerned that we would pushed out prematurely to finishing our courses...but the staff worked overtime to keep everything on schedule. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space heater was perfect for our igloo since it was just me and the bestie..but I could see things getting kinda toasty if there are more than 2 ppl. present in your party. So plan accordingly in how you dress.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The mini bluetooth speaker is a nice added bonus..and the chairs and table offered plenty of strategic space. There is a main center table and 2 end tables.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] James, the manager, was gracious and amiable throughout our visit, and he asked how our dining experience was going and encouraged any and all feedback. And Maria (our server) was fantastic! She's a gem when it comes to customer service..she gave great meal recommendations without me asking, and consistently checked on us throughout our meal without being intrusive or overbearing. Im already planning to return and hope my subsequent experiences are just as good (or better) as the amazing one we had here. [[HIGHLIGHT]]yelp pro tip-getting to the bathroom is a bit of a pain, especially if you're in an igloo. You have to take a side hallway behind the kitchen area..a bit awkward, and I think there's only 2 stalls. positive note-the bathroom is clean and cutely decorated.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall, Highly recommend! and get there before 10-15 mins prior to your reservation time, so you can maximize all of your time in the igloo. read more

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As you can tell by the pics! [[HIGHLIGHT]]This place is sooooo cute! We were in the Winter Wonderland Igloo; there were 6 of us.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We had unlimited mimosas-different flavors of juice and mockaritas for the non-drinkers. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The Igloo sat 6 people which also included a littlest sound bar for music to connect to your phone.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] This was a brunch birthday celebration and they actually let us stay an hour over time as the Igloos are portioned out at 3 hour time limits. The food was delicious overall: turkey bacon, french toast, potatoes is what I ordered and I had enough to carry home as leftovers. Other orders included steak and eggs, hummas, salad, pancakes which were had a more of an apple taste. The presentation of the food had a contemporary feel. Our server, Ever ensured that we had everything that we needed and provided excellent care. The manager, James, was great in ensuring that our experience was great! We paid about a little over $100 per person and well worth it! Overall, this was an experience! From walking in at the lower level, going up to the main restaurant and having to get a special escort to the penthouse rooftop where the Igloos were situated! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The decor of the main floor was exquisite and unique. Very demure...lol! Full of character.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The weather was a beautiful 70 degrees so we did not need the igloo heated.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The overlook view of DC was breathtaking![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The only thing that I would suggest is to add larger tables if possible. We had so much food and mimosas coming that we ran out of space....lol[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] There's a paid parking garage outside of the restaurant and be sure to park in the yellow section if you can as this puts you closer to the restaurant since parking is for the restaurants at the entire Wharf. I'll certainly return! read more

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Two stars because the staff was fairly friendly and genuinely seemed to want to give us a good experience. However, I received probably the worst cocktail I've ever had. We came here on a whim because the other place we wanted to grab a drink at was closed. It turned out that the main dining area at La Vie was closed for a private event too so we were directed towards the Penthouse instead. [[HIGHLIGHT]]First of all, it was pouring rain on this particular evening and the inside was FREEZING. It was very uncomfortable since we were literally soaked from walking from our car to the door.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The interior is very colorful and, while I think that's part of the draw at a place like this, I found the cheap looking pink furniture and superfluous amount of fake flowers to be extremely tacky. It all just looked so cheap.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]And for a place charging premium prices, I'd expect something a little more elegant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I ordered the Purple Blossom cocktail because it closely resembled a French 75 which I usually enjoy. The description notes "Bluebutterfly infused ford's gin, fresh lemon, fresh pineapple, berry syrup, and prosecco". As expected the drink came out a vibrant purple hue - very pretty. But unexpectedly, the drink came with a giant ice cube. Super odd since French 75s are never served on rocks. The prosecco tasted extremely flat even though the bartender had seemingly just opened the bottle and that was probably due to the ice cube watering it down. The pineapple and berry syrup either didn't have any flavor, or there wasn't enough mixed in. The drink was so strong, disgusting, and unbalanced - and this is coming from someone who usually loves gin and can handle a dirty martini or a strong French 75. It's actually one of the first drinks in recent memory that I just couldn't finish. It was so bad. We asked for more pineapple juice but it still didn't help. My boyfriend got the Fire on the Penthouse cocktail which is mezcal based and that actually tasted so much better than mine and I don't even like mezcal. [[HIGHLIGHT]]All in all, I won't be back. This seems like your typical DC bar where you're paying for ugly decorations and a nice view rather than quality menu items.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Finally, I got to experience the Igloos! It's perfect for a date night or girls night out! When I saw on IG that they were waiving the fees for opening weekend, my fellow foodie and I decided right away to make a reservation. There's a $150 deposit required to make a reservation (it goes toward your final bill). If you need to cancel or reschedule, a 96-hour notice via email is required, and only for a 50% cancellation refund. It's not that many igloos and they're in high demand. We chose Sunday, November 5th, 5:00 slot. We had initially requested the front view portico, but it wasn't ready (they called in advance to let me know). We ended up at the side view, which was fine as we still got great views of the wharf and, of course, amazing pics. The reservations have a strict time of 2 hours. DO NOT be late! There's a 15-minute grace period! We chose the 5:00 slot! There's a minimum spend of $89/person. There's a 20% and a small "surcharge" (not sure what that's for). Our server, Maria, was great! She was very friendly and attentive. The menu is mezza style - small plates. We chose the lamb, chicken croquettes and we shared sides of mac n cheese, potato bravas, and brussels. The food was tasty and surprisingly filling. The drinks were good. We tried the Fire on the Penthouse and La View Espresso cocktails. They're good but not cheap! The igloos were beautifully decorated. Some were more aesthetically pleasing than others. I felt our igloo was the least "attractive." It was green with some hints of orange with a hideous heater on the table (see my pics). I asked to have it moved but they said there was no room to place it. I just felt it took away from the ambiance and not great for pics. There's an option to connect to the Bluetooth speaker. Overall, I still had a good experience. Luckily, it wasn't freezing cold, and I got to try a new and fun experience. read more

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This restaurant was amazing. The service was exceptional. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The igloo was beautiful, overlooking the Wharf.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The heater and Bluetooth speaker added an extra touch.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our service also provided throw blankets. They are very attentive. The food was delicious. I cannot wait to return. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Went there for an event that at its busiest time only had about 5 people there.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Not my main complaint, I don't mind an open dance floor and personal DJ. We head to the bar and bartender informs us there is no drink menu. I proceed to order two rail drinks, whiskey pineapple, and am faced with a $50 charge. Considering their cocktails seem to range $18-22, I would really expect their rails to sit around $16, considering the simplicity of such a drink. Would've been nice to know I was signing myself up for two rail drinks, in a plastic cup, for $50. Just don't think the drinks are worth the price. Of course if you have the money and awareness to spend, enjoy. read more

Went there for a night out with my daughters. We rent a penthouse igloo. The rental was pricey but worth every penny. Each person is required to spend at least $95 each. Each igloo is decorated with flowers or leaves and each has it own theme. You can play your own music and let your hair down. The food was excellent! I had lamb chops, one daughter had crab cakes and the other had a huge ribeye steak. We had its signature drink "all smoke no fire" but I would be remiss if I didn't speak on the crown jewel it's Baked Alaska. I cannot tell you how delicious it was and the presentation. Top shelf read more

The Penthouse at La Vie - Lounges Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The entire experience was amazing. The food was great, the service was fast and [[HIGHLIGHT]]the igloos were warm and visually spectacular![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Great service and food! The appetizers, mains, sides, and desserts were amazing. The drinks were excellent. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The eclectic ambiance was memorable with great views of the Potomac.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

A few reasons I'm not giving 5 stars. The first is my dinner was 'cool'. Not cold but not hot either. Secondly though, it was expensive and there are 'fees' that added up, 20%. While I loved the igloo experience, I reserved it for $235 ($209 + fees) and they applied $150 to my bill. So really, $85 was handed to them. The bill was $188 for 2 of us plus a tip. Just a lot. Also, the mezze menu that is shown on the website for the igloos was not the menu we were ordering food from. Just turned me off. However, food was delicious, view was great. The wind around the front igloos? Not so much. We moved to a side one (no discount because we asked to move, I guess). Not that my review will change anything, it's a cool spot, just be ready to pay more than some other rooftop kinda places. read more

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This place hands down was amazing! Best brunch in town...it's a little pricey, but you get your moneys worth and the atmosphere is amazing!! The servers are all first rate and have great suggestions. If your visiting DC, make this a must stop. read more

La Vie, We'll this is my second year going. It's a nice romantic experience. The food was well seasoned, pricing is a bit too high in my opinion but again we're paying for ambiance as well. The servers are very welcoming and gracious hosts. Drinks are strong which is a plus. You can play whatever music you wish as well. And yes it's warm and they will provide blankets. I say it's worth the experience. read more

Friend and I had brunch here on Sunday and were very impressed. The view is unbeatable, and the decor is so cool. You can sit inside with the doors open or outside on the deck. Sit in the front if you can do it. I had the tiramisu pancakes which were excellent and a side of bacon which was a very large portion. My friend had steak and eggs which she loved. Check out the ladies bathroom! It is pricey but you are paying for the view. Highly recommend, service was great. read more

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My overall experience is positive. Nice outdoors and indoors. Super attentive waitress and person who greets you in the lobby. Not many healthy food options. But view is as expected super beautiful. Will definitely return here. read more

The Penthouse at La Vie - Lounges Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I had pretty low expectations for this place, but dining there was even worse. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I will give 5 stars for the atmosphere though if you want an aesthetic picture.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food was insanely overpriced, not good, and definitely not worth it. My "meal" was about appetizer sized ($30) and the bread was so stale it cut my mouth trying to bite into it. They also cut corners with items that were clearly premade like avocado spread instead of real avocado. Portions were disappointingly small except for the most expensive item ($45) on the menu which was sufficient for a lunch with no leftovers. The steak and eggs is really steak and one egg which wasn't even cooked they way we asked and while the steak was good, I'm not entirely confident it was the cut advertised on the menu. On top of that they add 20% gratuity to your bill along with a 3.5% surcharge and service reflected that as they knew a tip was already guaranteed. (I will give another 5 stars for the staff water refills, our glasses were never empty). [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place was surprisingly empty for peak hours on a weekend so it's clearly not doing well.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I left pretty hungry after spending way too much on a snack I could barely eat. Definitely will not be returning. Save your money and go elsewhere, there's tons of great options at the Wharf and this isn't one of them. read more

My fiancée and I went for brunch and sat there for 15 min waiting for before I had to get up and notify the hostess where we promptly left after that would not go again read more

Nice place to go out and be next to the water. Nice views and great sunsets. Servers are nice and very welcoming. Food is a hit or miss we went for breakfast so it was small portions. read more

Super expensive and not worth it. For the price the portions are small. The ambiance is disruptive. The music was too loud. The bass was uncomfortable. The table setting was cheap. The alcoholic servings were minuscule. The views were bad. Mostly office buildings. The bathroom is behind the bar and next to the kitchen so you always get the staff in your way. The bathroom itself is two stalls one sink and no urinals. One elevator for both the penthouse and restaurant and no staircase is a fire hazard and leads to congestion. read more

I came to this restaurant with my sister and her friends, and the server was very condescending and rude. While I was waiting for the rest of the party to come, he began to interrogate me. When I didn't give him the answers he wanted, he proceeded to give me his definition of how to properly conduct a conversation. The ambiance is nice, but I honestly would not come back here again. read more