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Boasting stunning panoramic views of the Washington skyline via its 13-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace, 12 Stories is hospitality industry leader Gerber Group’s first D.C. property and is located atop The Wharf’s luxurious InterContinental Hotel.
Light-filled tavern with floor-to-ceiling windows, cocktails & a terrace with river & city vistas.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 75 District Square SW 12th floor, Washington, DC 20024
Phone: (202) 257-6121
Website: https://www.12storiesdc.com/
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Reviews
Kaity McMahon
Update: One of the managers reached out with a very kind email and offered to rectify the situation. Although we could not take her up on her offer, I’m confident the issues will be resolved.
Original Post:
If you’re looking for a place that treats itself like an exclusive resort while operating like a mid-tier diner, well have I got the place for you.
I made reservations at 12 Stories this past Saturday night, and my husband and I were looking forward to seeing friends we haven’t seen in months. It was a rare night out without the kids, and we were ready to enjoy our evening.
Upon arrival around 7:15, we were greeted by a bouncer who patted down my husband and took his water bottle. She then asked for my name and radioed upstairs to confirm my reservation.
“Wow,” I thought to myself. “This place must be something with all this fanfare.”
We took the elevator and were greeted by another staff member who took us to our seats but was confused as to why we didn’t have the other two people with us, as if he’d never heard before of two parties arriving separately. Thankfully the other half of our group was there already, and they came over and walked with us to our seats.
We sat in a beautiful corner where we could look out onto the water, and we settled into conversation. The one drink I was looking forward to was the toasted marshmallow old fashioned. It was right at the top of the drink menu. When trying to order it, we learned they did not have it. I then tried ordering a Rum Remedy, but I was told they were not doing frozen drinks that night. Then I asked for a Malibu and Coke, and they did not have Malibu. I settled on another rum.
They did have the food we wanted, which, although a low bar to meet, we were thankful for. I didn’t realize I’d be so relieved for an establishment to actually provide the food they offered on their menu, but since they were having trouble with the drinks, I didn’t hold my breath.
Later on in the evening, the server came over to the table and told us unceremoniously that our reservation was running out and that we needed to put in our last order. I was confused, as I’d never heard of a reservation for four people running out like that, but I guess it was because they were going into club mode? Who knows.
A 20% gratuity was automatically included in our bill, and we left.
In the end, 12 Stories seems far more invested in the appearance of exclusivity than in delivering an experience that actually earns it. From the security theatrics and confusing service to a drink menu that functioned more like a suggestion than a promise, the evening felt disjointed and unnecessarily frustrating. The view was lovely, and the food met expectations—but when a rare night out feels rushed, limited, and oddly restrictive, it’s hard to justify the attitude or the automatic gratuity. If you’re looking for a place to be impressed by the vibe alone, this might do. If you’re hoping for consistency, hospitality, and a relaxed night worth repeating, you may want to look elsewhere.
… moreOriginal Post:
If you’re looking for a place that treats itself like an exclusive resort while operating like a mid-tier diner, well have I got the place for you.
I made reservations at 12 Stories this past Saturday night, and my husband and I were looking forward to seeing friends we haven’t seen in months. It was a rare night out without the kids, and we were ready to enjoy our evening.
Upon arrival around 7:15, we were greeted by a bouncer who patted down my husband and took his water bottle. She then asked for my name and radioed upstairs to confirm my reservation.
“Wow,” I thought to myself. “This place must be something with all this fanfare.”
We took the elevator and were greeted by another staff member who took us to our seats but was confused as to why we didn’t have the other two people with us, as if he’d never heard before of two parties arriving separately. Thankfully the other half of our group was there already, and they came over and walked with us to our seats.
We sat in a beautiful corner where we could look out onto the water, and we settled into conversation. The one drink I was looking forward to was the toasted marshmallow old fashioned. It was right at the top of the drink menu. When trying to order it, we learned they did not have it. I then tried ordering a Rum Remedy, but I was told they were not doing frozen drinks that night. Then I asked for a Malibu and Coke, and they did not have Malibu. I settled on another rum.
They did have the food we wanted, which, although a low bar to meet, we were thankful for. I didn’t realize I’d be so relieved for an establishment to actually provide the food they offered on their menu, but since they were having trouble with the drinks, I didn’t hold my breath.
Later on in the evening, the server came over to the table and told us unceremoniously that our reservation was running out and that we needed to put in our last order. I was confused, as I’d never heard of a reservation for four people running out like that, but I guess it was because they were going into club mode? Who knows.
A 20% gratuity was automatically included in our bill, and we left.
In the end, 12 Stories seems far more invested in the appearance of exclusivity than in delivering an experience that actually earns it. From the security theatrics and confusing service to a drink menu that functioned more like a suggestion than a promise, the evening felt disjointed and unnecessarily frustrating. The view was lovely, and the food met expectations—but when a rare night out feels rushed, limited, and oddly restrictive, it’s hard to justify the attitude or the automatic gratuity. If you’re looking for a place to be impressed by the vibe alone, this might do. If you’re hoping for consistency, hospitality, and a relaxed night worth repeating, you may want to look elsewhere.
DJ Kinney
My experience is different from other reviews because I was there at 3 in the afternoon, alone, and was only there for drinks. The views are excellent and the place has a very upscale club vibe, but in the day it was bright and rather empty.
The entrance is almost hidden. Cool. The security guy asked for my ID, which was unexpected. There is a hallway with an elevator door with only two buttons. This elevator has no stops and opens into a very posh seating area. The bar has no seats, and so I ordered. Service was fine. I say outside on a sunny January day and was warm. There was a birthday party of only about 8-10 people. They were not too crazy and everything was peaceful.
I don’t know how insane this place gets at night. Other reviews make it sound like a serious club. But in the afternoon it seemed like a normal cocktail bar, though relatively expensive(!)
It’s got great waterfront views, though the direction means no views of the iconic things like the Capitol or Washington Monument.
Not sure what else to say here that I’m allowed to say. I recommend it. Don’t complain about the prices. When there’s a bouncer at 3pm, that on you.
… moreThe entrance is almost hidden. Cool. The security guy asked for my ID, which was unexpected. There is a hallway with an elevator door with only two buttons. This elevator has no stops and opens into a very posh seating area. The bar has no seats, and so I ordered. Service was fine. I say outside on a sunny January day and was warm. There was a birthday party of only about 8-10 people. They were not too crazy and everything was peaceful.
I don’t know how insane this place gets at night. Other reviews make it sound like a serious club. But in the afternoon it seemed like a normal cocktail bar, though relatively expensive(!)
It’s got great waterfront views, though the direction means no views of the iconic things like the Capitol or Washington Monument.
Not sure what else to say here that I’m allowed to say. I recommend it. Don’t complain about the prices. When there’s a bouncer at 3pm, that on you.
Margaret Henderson
So.. we arrived and somehow our reservation changed the date when we changed the time. The manager Terrell was still
Able to accommodate us swiftly. All of the staff were very kind and willing to step in to help
Their peers. The music was good. The food was hot and well seasoned. The. Bathroom were clean and well stocked. I would definitely come
Back!! The customer service was definitely top tier !
… moreAble to accommodate us swiftly. All of the staff were very kind and willing to step in to help
Their peers. The music was good. The food was hot and well seasoned. The. Bathroom were clean and well stocked. I would definitely come
Back!! The customer service was definitely top tier !
Koya L
Made a reservation for a table 2 weeks in advance, 30 mins before my scheduled time the establishment canceled it. Got there they said it was a day party going on and reservations were only for people who purchased bottle service, but to accommodate me my party of 3 could enter for free and stand up somewhere – strike 1.
Went to the bar ordered a lemon drop martini it was $33-strike 2. The first bartender (bartender b per receipt ) at least warned us of the price and was friendly so 1 star for that.
Second round my friend ordered us 2 coronas $11 each – came with no lime. I went to the bar to request 2 limes (to go with the $11 beer) and was told there is a limit on limes. I was given one lime only and told my friend would have to order another drink to get her lime. Different bartender (tall guy with dreads and a not so friendly attitude). What a mess!! Prices are beyond ridiculous. DJ was good but overall service didn’t match the excessive prices.
… moreWent to the bar ordered a lemon drop martini it was $33-strike 2. The first bartender (bartender b per receipt ) at least warned us of the price and was friendly so 1 star for that.
Second round my friend ordered us 2 coronas $11 each – came with no lime. I went to the bar to request 2 limes (to go with the $11 beer) and was told there is a limit on limes. I was given one lime only and told my friend would have to order another drink to get her lime. Different bartender (tall guy with dreads and a not so friendly attitude). What a mess!! Prices are beyond ridiculous. DJ was good but overall service didn’t match the excessive prices.
Happy For Life
This spot is so chill and the vibe is amazing! Queen HD the DJ had their spot rocking! It’s a lounge super cute you can wear a cute dress, top, and jeans for ladies , men dressed fresh in their fav button downs, jeans and sunglasses. I would say demographic is upscale and classy 30+. Drinks are lit and food is tasty, front desk was amazing, and service was fast and management was A1. Views of the boats, water and Wharf was breathtaking. They have seating outside, high tables around the bar and VIP seating you can reserve. Will definitely come back. Drove from Baltimore to experience this place and I will be back!
… moreRaff
The two of us went for Saturday brunch and sat at an outdoor table. Our service was great. We had one mix-up with our order which they sorted out quickly. The view is amazing and the prices reflect that. But my bacon, egg and cheese sandwich was worth the price – so good ! Drinks were well done. Would definitely go back.
… moreDarryl Sanders
Great venue.. My cousin’s wedding was here an it beautiful. The service and food was great also those spectacular views of the wharf made this night magical.
… moreThe Traveling Foodie
Great views, great service. Limited menu though, just apps?? Definitely deserves a visit because of the fantastic views, DCA airport as well as the chanel and city views. It’s amazing and worth the visit for a few drinks. The service is excellent, from the hostess to the servers, super attentive and nice. We ordered the grilled chicken wings and shrimp, both were bland. My party did not finish them because they weren’t that good, and for $17 for a few wings, you would think they would be good. Despite that, worth going to just for the views.
… moreBobbi DeAnda
This place has SUCH a cool vibe and is an especially romantic spot to watch the sunset! There’s an elevator that takes you from the entrance at the wharf directly to the 12th floor. The service was amazing. The vibe was cool. The outdoor patio has an amazing sunset view. We got (free) tickets to an “exclusive” event on eventbrite (if you got tix at the door there was a cover). It was empty when we got there and still pretty sparse when we left, but it was cool – there was a dj (but no one dancing). The ONLY issue is drinks are wildly expensive (even wells, even EARLY – like HH time when there was literally one other patron inside). I got a well and my partner got one of the highlighted cocktails and our bill was $50, lol. The tip is automatically included. I’m glad we checked it out but probably wouldn’t go back for drinks unless it’s a special occasion, but that view is worth checking out!
… moreJames Wang
A beautiful rooftop bar on the Wharf with some great views of the sunset. Unfortunately, it is quite expensive with $20 cocktails and appetizers/food starting at $10.
The food did taste really good and I enjoyed the seasoned fries and shrimp/chicken tacos.
… moreThe food did taste really good and I enjoyed the seasoned fries and shrimp/chicken tacos.