DC DEBUT
Award-winning chef Michael Schlow envisioned a stylish, mid-century cocktail party when he conceived The Riggsby, his new restaurant in the Carlyle Hotel. Interiors by Brian Miller of Edit Lab at Streetsense feature an inviting bar, a dining room with leather booths and brass finishes and American fare with a European twist. Think steak frites. 1731 New Hampshire Avenue, NW; 202-787-1500. theriggsby.com
LOVE NOTES
Chocolates from Artisan Confections are sure to kindle Valentine’s Day romance. Launched by Culinary Institute of America graduate Jason Andelman in 2006, the company creates handmade sweets using Valrhona chocolate and other top-flight ingredients—but no preservatives. Virginia locations in Clarendon and Mosaic District; artisanconfections.com
A NEW LOOK
The Source by Wolfgang Puck recently renovated its lounge and dining room with help from L.A. designer Waldo Fernandez. Custom furniture blends mid-century and Asian styles. To go with the new look, executive chef Scott Drewno introduced new menus, including a hot pot experience served at a special table. 575 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW; 202-637-6100. wolfgangpuck.com
Tropical Escape
Set on French St. Martin’s Baie Longue, Belmond La Samanna caters to sun worshippers and active types alike. Those who can tear themselves away from the beach can play tennis, enjoy a spa treatment or embark on a snorkeling trip. Rates from $595 for a standard room to $3,395 for a three-bedroom cottage with private terrace. belmond.com
Austin Getaway
Hotel Ella in the Texas capital has restored the charm of a century-old Greek Revival home that was decorated in 1925 by Stanley Marcus of Nieman Marcus fame. Among its 47 guest rooms are Mansion Petite Suites featuring custom-designed furniture and French doors opening to a veranda. From $219. hotelella.com
Viva Las Vegas
Chef Alain Ducasse’s recently unveiled Rivea restaurant in the Delano Las Vegas serves modern French-Italian fare. Designed by Paris-based Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, the main dining room boasts mahogany banquettes, a chandelier made with 15,000 spheres of hand-blown Murano glass and an illuminated “wave wall” that evokes the Mediterranean Sea. Rates from $200. delanolasvegas.com