Arrels, a new restaurant from chef Pepe Moncayo, has debuted inside the Arlo Hotel in Washington, DC.
Designed by local firm //3877, the concept pays homage to Moncayo’s Catalan roots through a modern Spanish tapas menu and interiors that blend traditional materials with contemporary forms.
A new culinary addition to the Arlo Hotel
Housed in a newly constructed portion of the historically renovated hotel, Arrels layers tactile natural materials—terracotta tile, textured plaster, brick backdrops, and rich wood tones—with sleek metals, sculptural lighting, and contemporary art installations. Meanwhile, foliage and traditional Spanish motifs soften the edges.
Spanish inspiration at Arrels
A sense of culinary theater begins before guests enter. Large street-facing windows frame views of the chef in action, while sightlines from the entryway extend directly to the open kitchen, where charcoal-fired preparation takes center stage. The chef’s counter offers a front-row seat to the action as well.
A vaulted brick archway leads to an intimate dining nook outfitted with layered textures and warm tones. Further inside, a lounge-style bar area pairs relaxed seating with Spanish pots, planters, and a striking light installation, and an adjacent courtyard—covered by an operable glass structure—shifts between indoor and outdoor dining.
Additional offerings include a sidewalk patio and a private dining room for up to 20 guests.
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