Cocktail Spot: Blue Duck Tavern

Spring is in the air, and for Washington that means one thing: patio season. Blue Duck Tavern, which unveils a newly renovated dining terrace this month, is taking it seriously starting with a gorgeous communal table created from a piece of wood derived from a 50,000-year-old slab of an ancient Kauri tree imported from New Zealand. New lighting, furnishings and sleek comfortable seating areas create a chic vibe that is perfect for enjoying cocktails and a bite (executive chef Brian McBride is behind the food). Seasonal spring drinks include the Green Leaf—made with Blue Coat gin, lime juice, simple syrup, a hint of bitters and mint—and the Spritz Milano, which makes use of Maschio prosecco, Aperol, soda and a slice of orange. Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt Washington, 24 and M Sts. NW, 202-419-6755