Smoke & Mirrors

Smoke & Mirrors

Smoke & Mirrors logo

✨ Vibe

A sophisticated and vibrant 11th-floor sanctuary that blends sleek, Navy-inspired design with breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the U.S. Capitol and the D.C. skyline.

🍸 Best For

Sunset cocktails, upscale date nights, celebratory group outings, and impressive private events.

🔥 Highlights

  • Unmatched National Vistas: Perched atop the AC Hotel, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind birds-eye view of the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, providing the ultimate backdrop for photos.
  • All-Weather Rooftop Luxury: The expansive outdoor terrace is a year-round destination featuring a retractable canopy, cozy fire pits, and heaters that ensure a comfortable experience in any season.
  • Elevated Craft Program: The menu features high-end American fare by Executive Chef Raymond Melendez—like gold-leaf-topped spicy tuna—paired with a creative cocktail list including smoky Old Fashioneds and the signature Dragon’s Kiss.

ℹ️ Need to Know

  • Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table with full waiter service and prime views of the city.
  • The venue features a live DJ and a high-energy indoor bar area, making it a top choice for those seeking a lively, upscale nightlife atmosphere.

🔄 Weekly Events

🥃 Kindness on the Rocks

Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun

A donation cocktail featuring tequila, Giffard Abricot, passion fruit, and lime. Proceeds benefit Feed the Children.

🌙 Late Night Bites

Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

Enjoy a curated selection of savory late-night dishes from a limited menu.

🥂 Sunday Brunch

Sun

A rooftop brunch experience overlooking the U.S. Capitol Building, featuring seasonal snacks and a wide variety of intoxicating beverages.

Happy Hour

Recognized by The Washington Post as one of the best rooftop happy hours in D.C. Features specialty .75 oz spirit flights (Bourbon, Rye, Tequila) and wine flights (Sparkling Rose, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon).

📰 In the News

Modern Luxury Sep 5, 2025

Navy Yard DC: Top Eats, Stays, & Activities

Smoke & Mirrors is a rooftop bar in the Navy Yard neighborhood that offers panoramic views of the U.S. Capitol and the D.C. cityscape. The venue serves creative cocktails such as the Dragon’s Kiss and the spicy Chica Del Diablo, providing both an outdoor terrace for sunset viewing and a cozy indoor bar area.

Food & Beverage Magazine Jul 24, 2024

AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard Debuts New Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, Smoke & Mirrors

Smoke & Mirrors is a sophisticated rooftop bar and restaurant located atop the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard, offering panoramic views of the U.S. Capitol and the city skyline. The venue features an elevated American menu by Executive Chef Raymond Melendez, creative craft cocktails, and an expansive all-weather patio equipped with fire pits and a retractable canopy. Designed with a sleek aesthetic inspired by the U.S. Navy, the space accommodates both intimate dining and large-scale events for up to 350 guests.

District Fray Feb 23, 2022

​​Beyond Smoke & Mirror​s at D.C.’s New Rooftop Bar​

Smoke & Mirrors is an expansive 11th-floor rooftop bar and restaurant at the Navy Yard AC Hotel, offering panoramic views of the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress. The venue features a sophisticated cocktail program using premium spirits and a refined food menu led by executive chef Raymond Melendez.

Eater DC Feb 10, 2022

An All-Weather Rooftop Bar With Birds-Eye Views Is Opening at D.C.’s New AC Hotel

Smoke & Mirrors is an all-weather rooftop bar located on the eleventh floor of the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard. The venue features unobstructed views of the U.S. Capitol, a retractable roof with fire pits, and a menu highlighting craft cocktails alongside elevated dishes like prime rib and spicy tuna with gold leaf.

PoPville Feb 4, 2022

“New Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, Smoke & Mirrors, officially opening its doors on Thursday, February 17th”

Smoke & Mirrors is a rooftop bar and restaurant located atop the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard, offering panoramic views of the U.S. Capitol and the city skyline. The venue features an elevated menu of American fare by Executive Chef Raymond Melendez alongside a curated craft cocktail program and an all-weather outdoor patio.

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