This new D.C. rooftop channels resort life in St. Croix
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Croix brings flavors of the U.S. Virgin Islands to D.C. Pictured: A Bois Bandé cocktail with infused bourbon, allspice and coconut foam. Photo: Courtesy Rey Lopez
A new rooftop bar and restaurant near Navy Yard is bringing the feel of a Caribbean resort to D.C.
Why it matters: Restaurateur Keem Hughley is turning D.C.'s rooftops into escapist destinations. After opening the Seychelles-inspired Realm in Shaw last year, he's now looking to transport diners to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Driving the news: Caribbean restaurant Croix, its adjoining Botanic Bar and the open-air Croix Veranda open Friday atop the Cambria Hotel near Navy Yard.
- All three are themed around St. Croix, where Hughley's family has roots.
Dig in: Chef Malika King's menu blends Crucian and modern Caribbean flavors and ingredients.
- Test-run favorites include callaloo —the USVI's national dish — a conch ceviche arepa, spiced lamb ribs and rum-soaked black cake.
- The Botanic Bar features house infusions made with Caribbean botanicals, from sorrel and soursop to guavaberry and pimento leaf, alongside rum-forward cocktails and frozen drinks.
Don't miss: Hughley's favorite: casabes.
- The shareable bites swap taco shells for crisp cassava discs filled with options like jerk chicken and goat pepperpot.
What's next: The outdoor Veranda will host a rotating lineup of DJs.
- Expect open-format sets from local favorites, plus visiting DJs from Paris and London.
- "It's not a club — more like an outdoor resort lounge," says Hughley. "You're well fed, you've had a couple drinks, you want to feel some bass in your stomach."
The intrigue: Croix lands in one of D.C.'s developing neighborhoods, close to Audi Field and Buzzard Point.
- While the area has added apartments and restaurants in recent years, there aren't many rooftop destinations nearby — making Croix a prime sunset drink destination.
If you go: Croix. 69 Q Street, SW.