A Dreamy Getaway at the Inn at Little Washington
A Dreamy Getaway at the Inn at Little Washington: Where Every Detail Steals the Show
Living in the DMV, I'd always heard whispers of the legendary Inn at Little Washington – the crowned jewel of culinary excellence. With a plethora of accolades, including the prestigious title of the best restaurant in America by Travel+Leisure, my curiosity reached its peak. Luckily, my husband decided to surprise me with a birthday getaway to this renowned establishment this fall.
Arriving in September, we found ourselves in the sweet spot of weather – warm enough for an outdoor experience yet cool enough to enjoy a fireside evening. Our adventure began at the newly opened Patty O Café, a more casual gem located just across the street. Lunch was a delightful affair with French onion soup and heavenly sourdough bread.
The afternoon unfolded with a visit to the bakery, where we couldn't resist taking home some of the artisanal bread. With satisfied stomachs, we strolled over to the Inn for check-in.
Our day continued with massages in the nearby artistic village of Sperryville. Nestled in an old historic house, Abracadabra Massage & Wellness worked its magic on us, leaving us rejuvenated. We explored the quaint village, with artisanal pizzas, and coffe shops. We also stopped at a fruit stand for just picked apples and local honey.
Returning to the Inn, we explored the small downtown area, perusing the local shops before settling into our unique room. Each of the 23 rooms at the Inn is named after someone Patrick O'Connell knows or admires, and the personalized touch was evident from the moment we entered. A welcome cocktail, afternoon tea, and house breakfast awaited us, creating an intimate atmosphere that made us feel truly special.
Dinner was a highlight, with a corner table providing a panoramic view of the dining room. The culinary journey was a symphony of flavors, culminating in a cheese course that stole the show. Cameron, the cheese specialist, regaled us with his cow puns, adding a touch of humor to an already exquisite evening.
A backstage pass to the kitchen further deepened our appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each dish. The friendly kitchen staff and state-of-the-art appliances painted a picture of culinary mastery.
Returning to our room after this enchanting dining experience, we discovered a handwritten card from Patrick O'Connell himself and a cherry Sherry, paying homage to the town's namesake, George Washington. The next morning's breakfast, featuring incredible pastries, and handcrafted granola, was a fitting finale to our extraordinary stay.
In conclusion, the Inn at Little Washington surpassed all expectations. It wasn't just about the food – although that was exceptional – but the meticulous attention to detail and the authentic, customized service that made it an unforgettable experience. The Inn truly lives up to the hype, and I can't wait to return for another magical escape.
