Introducing Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge: An Elevated Escape in the Heart of D.C.
Sleek new rooftop with breathtaking views, innovative cocktails, and a culinary delight
Washington, D.C. (September 08, 2025) — Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge, a sophisticated new rooftop in Shaw located at 899 O St NW, is set to open its doors next month. Offering panoramic views of the nation’s capital, handcrafted cocktails, and a superb dining experience, Realm is poised to become D.C.’s premier rooftop venue.
The newly reimagined outdoor rooftop features chic, modern seating, ambient lighting, and an energetic yet relaxed vibe. The indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant offers sweeping birds-eye views of Washington D.C. and the bustling city below. Realm has a comfortable range of indoor seating options, and an expansive patio featuring fire pits and modern lounge seating.
General Manager, Donte Johnson expresses his excitement about the concept stating “Realm has been designed to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere with a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe unlike anything else in the city. We can’t wait to welcome guests to what we believe will be D.C.’s premier rooftop destination.”
Executive Chef Keem Hughley introduces a chef-driven perspective with a bold menu that merges French culinary technique with the vibrant, sun-soaked flavors of the Indian Ocean—particularly those rooted in Seychellois Creole cuisine. With over 15 years in the industry, Hughley has built a reputation as a culinary storyteller, and Realm marks the next chapter in his creative journey.
The new menu features vibrant, tropical-forward shareables and small plates with aromatic flavors like coconut, tamarind, citrus, and curry leaf and ingredients rooted in centuries of coastal trade and reinterpreted. Standout dishes include Island Oysters with coconut-lime-ginger mignonette, Tamarind-Glazed Lamb Lollipops, Wagyu Sliders with mango chutney, Coconut Crab Cakes with mango-tamarind chutney, Ginger-Lemongrass Chicken Skewers, Chili Prawns & Curry Mussels, and Truffle & Curry Leaf Fries. These dishes are designed to be both indulgent and refreshing, perfectly aligned with Realm’s elevated yet approachable rooftop vibe.
Conveniently located just steps from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and central to both downtown D.C. and the vibrant Shaw neighborhood, Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge is easily accessible to locals, business travelers, and visitors alike. With its sleek indoor-outdoor layout, curated drink program, and a culinary perspective that is both globally inspired and deeply personal.
For more information on the opening date and event announcements, please visit Realm and follow on social media @realmrooftopdc. For press inquiries and interview opportunities please email Shelby at shelby@lindarothpr.com and all high-res media images will be updated HERE.
About Realm
Located in the heart of Shaw, Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge is a chic rooftop destination offering panoramic views of Washington, D.C., elevated cocktails, and a shareable, chef-driven menu by Executive Chef Keem Hughley. With indoor-outdoor seating, fire pits, and a bold drink program, Realm welcomes guests for after-work drinks, weekend gatherings, and private events and more. Just steps from the Convention Center, Realm brings a fresh perspective to rooftop dining in the District. Follow @realmrooftopdc for more information.
About Donohoe Hospitality Services
Donohoe Hospitality Services, a division of Donohoe, is a leading hotel management company founded in 2005 and built on a 140-year legacy of excellence. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the company manages full-service and premium select-service hotels across top brands like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Choice. Nationally recognized for performance and workplace culture, Donohoe Hospitality is among the top 35 hotel managers by revenue and one of the Washington Business Journal’s Best Places to Work. Learn more at www.donohoe.com/hospitality.