At the end of a block close to the Potomac River, on a busy street in Georgetown, Malmaison is tucked away on a cobblestone corner. From the outside, the gas-lit lamp gives nothing away except the notion that a secret password or door is probably necessary. Yet, the doorman who greets you is friendly. You then notice the building’s huge glass windows that illuminate the purple light from inside onto the street.
As you enter, a winding stairwell greets you on your left-hand side, which only piques your curiosity of exactly where you might be. A menu awaits inside, welcoming guests to try either an after-hour cocktail or perhaps one of the French pastries created by Chef Serge Torres.
The décor is reminiscent of a French café, but the pulsating music from behind the DJ booth quickly brings you back to reality. Although cloaked in mystery, the flavorful drinks and house music keep you engrossed in a trance.