P.J. Clarke’s Patio Opening

P.J. Clarke’s, at the corner of 16th and K Streets, NW, welcomed the start of patio-perfect weather with an outdoor soiree April 9. While the celebration overflowed with the after-work crowd, the wait staff provided quick, consistent service that added to a breezy, relaxed atmosphere. After all, P.J. Clarke’s has been nominated for a RAMMY award as “Power Spot of the Year,” and it wants your vote.

The restaurant also introduced a new signature oyster variety and enlisted the help of guests to name it. The new oyster variety will be called “The Clarke’s Select.” Locally harvested from the Eastern Shore of Virginia and finished in the waters surrounding the Assateague Island, the oysters are a premium “cocktail size” with a robust brininess and a clean, mild and sweet finish. This new menu item comes from the War Shore Oyster Company, which recently partnered with P.J. Clarke’s to provide the freshest possible farm-to-table product. The high-quality taste did not go unnoticed as party-goers went through more than 2,500 oysters.

The oysters are available — while they last — for 50 cents each on Tuesdays, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., paired with a D.C. Brau on special for $3.50.

P.J. Clarke’s is also home to the exclusive basement restaurant and bar, Sidecar. The four locations in Washington, New York, Chicago and Sao Paulo, Brazil, provide members with a cozy, private experience, open only to those with the black embossed membership card. While member identities are mostly kept secret, notable card-holders include Johnny Depp, Keith Richards and Liza Minnelli.

Membership is obtained only by referral by an existing member. When entering by way of secret door to Sidecar, portraits of presidents and white tablecloths await you as well as a preferential menu.

The P.J.’s experience and ambiance caters to whichever is preferred by its customers — be it a lively patio, upstairs bar mixer or a low-key, speakeasy scene below.