Aptly named after the Greek words for “beautiful view,” Kalorama is a small, scenic neighborhood with shady tree-lined streets and architecture that will make you stop and admire every building you pass. Once occupied by the wealthy echelons of DC society, today Kalorama’s residents are more diverse, occupied by a mix of diplomats, professionals, families, and young children.  Located in a prime location, Kalorama is easy walking distance to Adams Morgan and, with two metro stops nearby, a quick commute to other hubs in the city.

A History of Notable Residents…

Kalorama was primarily rural until the end of the 19th century when upper class residents decided to use the area as a site for their elaborate dream homes. By 1931, the area was fully developed even after the effects of the Great Depression. Shortly after, the government bought many of the properties and used them as residencies and embassies.

Kalorama was the home of five presidents including Woodrow Wilson, whose house is now a designated historical landmark. William Taft lived in what is now the current Syrian embassy and Franklin D. Roosevelt lived in the current residence of the Ambassador of Mali. Warren Harding lived in what is now the residence of the Ambassador of Monaco and Herbert Hoover resided in what is now the embassy of Burma. Other notable people who have lived in the area include Supreme Court Justices and members of Congress.

… But Not Just for Elites

Though Kalorama has had its share of national and international figures, professionals and families also occupy the neighborhood. The area is mostly large single-family homes, averaging about 4,000 square feet. Closer to Columbia Road there are a few multifamily buildings. Due to the prestigious nature of Kalorama, high prices put the neighborhood out of reach for the average Washingtonian.

Prime Location in the Northwest Quadrant

Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway border Kalorama on the southwest and northwest sectors. To the southeast, it is bound by Florida Avenue and to the east by Connecticut Avenue. Kalorama is accessible from the Woodley Park and Dupont Circle metro stations and also serviced by several bus lines.

Endless Choice of Restaurants

Just steps from Adams Morgan and Dupont Circle, residents of Kalorama are never in danger of being bored with their dining options. Though So’s Your Mom market and deli has a provocative name, it is a favorite among locals. Even people from the bagel mecca of New York give So’s Your Mom’s bagels rave reviews, but if you want to start your day with one, you better get there early or be willing to wait—there is always a line at breakfast time.

For another fantastic dining experience, sushi lovers should definitely check out Perry’s on Columbia Road. A multi-level Japanese restaurant, Perry’s has a bar, a sushi bar, and a rooftop terrace. Serving a wide range of Japanese-inspired cocktails, Perry’s also has happy hour specials.

Nearby on Connecticut Ave is Mourayo, an upscale restaurant that serves traditional and contemporary Greek food. Serving a wide variety of appetizers and meze style dips, entrees are hearty and always satisfying. With entrees ranging from goat, poultry, lamb and legumes, customer favorites include the pork medallions and cuttlefish dish.  Mourayo also has a selection of Greek wines such as Mastiha Rose and Santorini Sidecar.

For a sweet treat with a personalized touch, another local staple is the Kalorama Cookie Company. Owner Patti Greenstein has turned her hobby of making custom-made sugar cookies into a lucrative business. Working with clients to create unique cookie designs, Greenstein has been helping to sweeten up bridal showers, baby showers and birthday parties for years. From simple hearts and flowers to White House themed shapes, anything is possible and everything is delicious.

Outdoor Activities for Everyone

Kalorama Park is a neighborhood staple, offering fun activities for people of all ages. The Park includes a grassy play area for children and a community garden. Residents can enjoy year-round events such as Halloween parties, luncheons and park clean up days. In addition, there are volunteer opportunities to work with children or help out with gardening to maintain the park’s natural beauty.

Everything from Beautiful Streets to Good Eats

Though a smaller neighborhood than most in the district, Kalorama offers its residents the serenity of tree-lined streets with the perks of living minutes away from an active nightlife and a plethora of restaurants. Its enormous houses and striking architecture give off a very regal and impressive air. While it has been home to notables from all over the world, the neighborhood is now more diverse, occupied by professionals and families of all different backgrounds.