The Occidental Returns — á la Stephen Starr

James Beard-award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr of STARR Restaurants has another DC power dining spot coming. This time he’s not recreating a Philly favorite or teaming up with a New York restaurant notable; This time, he’s reimagining the iconic Occidental in the Willard.

This popular venue in one of DC’s best hotel addresses once drew the world’s most important politicos, and it is poised to do so again in early 2025.

According to a release: First introduced in 1906 by Henry Willard, founder of the Willard Hotel, the Occidental became a legendary restaurant in the nation’s capital, renowned for walls covered with portraits of every illustrious guest, from presidents to sports stars. The Occidental, just two blocks from the White House with views of the Washington Monument and beyond, even long bore the reputation as the place “Where Statesmen Dine.”

Starr’s version will be two floors and an expansive 11,000-square-feet. Guests will enjoy tableside martini service, white-tablecloth hospitality (with an air of ceremonial pomp), and a menu focused on classic mid-century American dishes.

The Occidental will re-open early 2025, located at 1475 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.