Kalorama is a sophisticated neighborhood with a somewhat suburban feel. It is situated near Connecticut Avenue, NW and Rock Creek Park. Bordering Kalorama are the Woodley Park, Adams Morgan, and DuPont Circle neighborhoods. Kalorama’s hallmarks are its manicured gardens, many marble fountains, and the William Howard Taft Bridge with its imposing concrete lions. It is accessible from the DuPont Circle and Woodley Park Metro stations, as well as various bus lines.
Kalorama History
Poet Joel Barlow bought much of the neighborhood’s land in 1808 and named it Kalorama, which is Greek for “beautiful view.” Kalorama has been home to several US presidents, including Presidents Wilson, Taft, Roosevelt, Harding, Hoover, and Obama, along with countless other lawmakers and diplomats.
Kalorama Real Estate
Kalorama boasts countless beautiful estates, grand homes, and embassies. What was once Washington’s Textile Museum has been transformed into residential space and the DC home of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Kalorama home styles include Arts and Crafts, Beaux Arts, and Mediterranean Revival. There are several apartments and condominium buildings here as well.
Kalorama Community
Kalorama offers an international, cosmopolitan vibe thanks to the many embassies situated along Massachusetts Avenue’s Embassy Row (including those of Cameroon, The Netherlands, and Korea, as well as the home of the French ambassador). Kalorama Park is home to the Kalorama Community Garden, which holds an annual lottery for plots for residents to grow flowers and vegetables. The Kalorama Citizens Association is an active force in the community.
Kalorama Entertainment
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has placed The Churchill Hotel on its list of Historic Hotels of America thanks to its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and long history. Be sure to check out its bar’s fabulous martini selection too! The Washington Studio School hosts exhibits for its students, faculty, and guest artists.
Kalorama Favorites
Be sure to check out Sushi Ogawa, where chef-owner Minoru Ogawa uses fish imported from Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market to create his Edo-style sushi. Sample from The Russia House’s vodka collection (one of the largest in the US with about 200 varieties) and many caviar options. For a bottomless brunch and authentic Italian pasta, try Red White & Basil.
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Want to know what it’s like to live in Kalorama? Let’s go on a neighborhood orientation tour!