Buddha Bar: DC’s Next Nirvana?

Months of waiting for Buddha Bar to open in DC only enhanced its mystique, but attendees at the local grand VIP opening of the international chain (grace à Washington Life) Tuesday night came away with mixed emotions.  


Named for a deity who promotes wisdom, compassion and zen, all Buddha Bars are carbon copies of the Paris original and are most famous for their atmosphere: Buddha-chic decor, low lighting and chillaxed lounge sounds.  

But despite the food and famed beats, the biggest attraction – literally – is the giant Buddha, which our sources tell us was molded in Indonesia, shipped in pieces and assembled on the spot, then blessed to ensure the resto-lounge’s serenity and success. 

So why the faction of feelings?  While you can imitate decor, you can’t copy a crowd.  Local globetrotting loungers who enjoy Buddah Bar’s enlightenment in Paris, London,  Dubai and elsewhere found a distinct vibe in DC.  And it wasn’t sensuality.  

Can DC be bold, business, and still embrace the Buddha?