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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?
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