FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2007

From cool clubs to mod lounges, DC's new and newly-renovated nightlife hotspots are perfect for unwinding over smooth music, interesting conversation and chic cocktails after a long day of sightseeing or business meetings.

The Park at 14th (Downtown, near Franklin Park)
With grand chandeliers gracing each floor and rich, dark wood on the walls, The Park at 14th's recent opening marks DC's official return to classic cool. It is the latest addition to the downtown DC nightlife scene, where the once buttoned-up K Street corridor has let its hair down with an assortment of trendy nightclubs.

The Park is the brainchild of Marc Barnes, best known in DC nightlife circles for creating mega-club LOVE and jazz hotspot Republic Gardens, and Dirk Van Stockum, who was once associated with nightlife fixtures Tao in Las Vegas and BED in New York City. The duo worked together to conceptualize the venue and bring a chic, classy vibe to downtown DC.

Guests at The Park enjoy handcrafted cocktails with recipes as sophisticated as some entrees (and named after First Ladies like the "Jackie O." and the "Betty") and a mix of hip-hop, jazz, world beats and modern dance music.

920 14th St. NW
202-737-PARK

Marvin (U Street Corridor)
You have to be "in" to know about Marvin. There's no big sign that distinguishes the restaurant/lounge from many of the bars that surround it along the U Street Corridor. Instead, there is simply a discreet plaque on the door that lets visitors in on the secret that they've come to the right place.

Marvin is owned by Eric Hilton, one-half of the internationally renowned DJ duo Thievery Corporation and co-founder of two of DC's most celebrated nightlife venues, 18th St. Lounge and Local 16. The name is a nod to DC native Marvin Gaye, whose 1970s-era image adorns one wall. The Belgian cuisine (fused with elements of soul food) and drinks are inspired by the time Gaye spent in Ostend, Belgium, to cope with personal and professional struggles.

The upstairs lounge is homey, and includes a roomy rooftop deck with heat lamps that keep loungers warm in colder weather. It also provides an escape from the crowds that can gather during peak hours. There are thirty Belgian beers available in bottles, and DJs spinning 60s and 70s soul, funk and R&B seven nights a week.

2007 14th St. NW
202-797-7171

Helix Lounge (Logan Circle)
This is one hotel bar where the locals go. Located inside the Hotel Helix, the Helix Lounge recently emerged from a renovation with a fresh new design and lively vibe. A popular neighborhood hangout, the lounge has kept its playful retro-modern décor, while adding a new terrazzo floor and a shimmering, silver-hued ceiling.

Mood lighting, pop-art, creative cocktails and groovy music make for a chill experience, perfect for a little evening lounging with friends. 80's music is popular, especially with the staff, who are known to join in with impromptu song and dance numbers. In warm weather, have (in Helix's words) a "play date" on the patio. The best part? Helix will create a cocktail named after any guest, to really customize the experience.

1430 Rhode Island Ave. NW
202-462-9001

Urbana (Dupont Circle inside Hotel Palomar at 2121 P St, NW)
Urbana is a restaurant/lounge that offers a 21st century take on an old-word Tuscan wine cellar. The name is quite fitting, as there is a distinctly "city" vibe in the newly expanded lounge portion of the venue, which is located in Dupont Circle. A decorative ambient wine display features backlit sepia toned images reminiscent of a wine cave. Set off from the dining room by a centralized ebony bar, featuring an antique lace stencil design, Urbana is adorned with dramatic lighting creating moody shadows that bounce off a mirrored European cityscape.

The music is an eclectic, modern mix, and the wine list is lengthy. In the European tradition, Urbana also offers Apéritif Hourfrom 4-7pm, featuring Italian beer, wines and sparklers, all under $5.

2121 P St. NW
202-956-6650