Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C.

In most cities — and this is no criticism — the local Four Seasons firmly occupies the staid and conservative end of the market. In a town that’s as naturally staid and conservative as Washington D.C., that puts the Four Seasons pretty close to the top of the heap. Its intended audience of functionaries and dignitaries are all extremely well-seasoned travelers, the sort of people who deeply appreciate the traditional hospitality values — and the traditional looks — for which this group is known.

It’s fresh off a massive renovation, which has done a bit more than simply sharpened the edges. Pierre-Yves Rochon has lent his contemporary Parisian perspective to the proceedings, which is fitting, given the distinct strain of architectural Francophilia that runs through this city. The west wing is still classical in character, while the east wing has been subtly updated. It’s still far from avant-garde, but it does show that there’s a taste for a version of luxury that’s newer than Art Deco.

There’s not much that need be said about the services and amenities; when you get to this level, all the boxes are ticked — though it should be said that Michael Mina is, without hyperbole, among America’s most respected chefs. And this Four Seasons’ location, on the edge of Georgetown, is as prime as you could ask for in Washington, whether your intentions lie in business or pleasure.