Willard or Hay-Adams?

As a surprise for our son%26#39;s 12th birthday, we are planning to take him to DC for a weekend since he loves it there. We%26#39;re debating between the Willard and Hay-Adams because each of them have their good points--the Wall of Presidents vs. the view of the White House. We would expect them to provide a special meal for him so impeccable service is a must.

Any opinions?

Thanks

Willard or Hay-Adams?

Hay Adams is a little better in my opinion, but Willard is more old-fashioned grand hotel style, so that might better capture what your son likes about DC. Neither has a very good restaurant, so you would probably do better picking any of a dozen nice restaurants nearby for a special meal. Bombay Club, for example, is around the corner from Hay Adams, would give you fantastic service with many vegetarian options and could really be a different and special experience for him.

Willard or Hay-Adams?

The Willard Room itself is supposed to be top notch, the food and the service, not so much.

If you want another high end hotel choice with the best dining in the city, you could consider the Mandarin Oriental with Cityzen downstairs - true 4 star dining. While it has a great view of the Jefferson, it%26#39;s in an odd location otherwise.

I think the previous suggestion of picking your hotel and going out for dinner nearby is probably better advised.

This sounds like the best 12th birthday party any kid has ever had...

CityZen would not appeal to many 12-year-old%26#39;s with its very eclectic menu.

I may have read the definition of ';special meal'; incorrectly. Might be good to clarify what you mean, ShoeGal. Are we talking kids meal, or gourmet knock-your-socks off?

Sorry for the confusion. The meal would be geared toward a vegetarian 12 year old%26#39;s taste. However, I would also like to be able to work with the pastry chef for his cake.

I checked out CityZen%26#39;s menu and while it sounds good to me, I%26#39;m not sure it would appeal to him.

THanks

I realize more and more kids are into ethnic food these days (which I think is awesome). If he is, you may want to consider Rasika, modern Indian cuisine, with lots of vegetarian options...and great service and decor to boot.