Washington, D.C.'s Art And Soul Reopens After Renovation

Noted chef Art Smith (of Atlanta's Southern Art, among others) has reopened Art and Soul, a Southern-inspired eatery, after a one-month renovation of the dining area, bar, and private dining room. The new look features natural and rustic elements. Diners can expect to see classic hand-painted farm signs and traditional folk art that complements the restaurant's farm-to-table menu. Guests can order "soulful" classics, such as fried free-range chicken and waffles, or choose from new sections on the menu, "For the Table" and "Pots," which include appetizers like deviled eggs and pork rinds, as well as entrées like seafood gumbo and a hearty duck and rice bean stew (meant to be shared).

The redesigned lobby, which flows seamlessly into Art and Soul, embodies a modern, urban garden. One highlight of the new space is a mixed-media painting that layers vintage and historical maps of Washington, D.C., with materials from the Library of Congress, including political cartoons, articles from the 1800s, and photographs. The artwork is balanced out by the lobby's centerpiece, an abstract "tree" made from recycled wood that symbolizes the foundation of the nation's capital and its influence on the rest of the world.

Travelers who wish to stay at the hotel and enjoy food at Art and Soul can enjoy The Liaison Capitol Hill's hotel special promotion. The offer is available for guests through Sept. 2 and includes accommodations in a recently renovated guestroom plus a $100 dining and beverage credit per night at Art and Soul.

Teresa Tobat is the Washington, D.C. Travel city editor for The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @ttobat88. View her website at teresaktobat.com.