Le Diplomate, Washington DC

An homage to French cafe culture, Le Diplomate is SHD's second adaptation of a French classic with Stephen Starr, and the debut SHD project in Washington DC. The “Tour de France” inspired décor – featuring hanging bicycles and framed racing jerseys – is emblematic of the restaurant's raison d'etre: Just as the Tour de France routes through several countries, the population of Washington DC is intersecting and international. While guests immediately take notice of the classic elements of French bistro design – intimate leather banquettes, woven rattan chairs, traditional tile floors, and imported zinc bar – the overall experience is to be transported. Without the subtle clue “Blanchisserie de Chemise” rendered in tile, you would never guess the building's past life as a neighborhood laundromat.