Masaoki Bar: A Cherry Blossom Sushi Pop-Up

Masaoki Bar: A Cherry Blossom Sushi Pop-Up

Available Friday through Sunday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., March 13 through April 26, Masaoki Bar presents a relaxed counter-style sushi experience in one of the hotel’s most distinctive historic spaces. Guests may enjoy freshly prepared sushi, nigiri, specialty rolls, and Japanese beverages while surrounded by the elegance and history of the Lincoln Library at Willard InterContinental.

Inspired by the Historic 1860 Japanese Delegation

In 1860, Japan’s first diplomatic delegation traveled to Washington following the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. The delegation stayed at Willard’s Hotel, marking an important chapter in the relationship between Japan and the United States. Masaoki Bar honors this legacy through a contemporary culinary experience that celebrates Japanese tradition during Washington’s most beloved season.

Sushi, Nigiri, and Seasonal Japanese Specialties

• Signature Nigiri
  Selections may include tuna, salmon, yellowtail, eel, shrimp, and tamago, prepared to order.


• Specialty Rolls
  Guests may enjoy favorites such as the Sakura Roll, shrimp tempura roll, California roll, and other seasonal creations.

Curated Japanese Beverage Program

Step into an intimate evening where precision meets purity. Our pop-up sushi experience pairs masterfully crafted nigiri with a curated sake journey — ranging from bold Junmai to ultra-refined Junmai Daiginjo:

• Junmai – Full-bodied and rice-forward, with earthy depth and umami structure. Perfect alongside richer cuts like tuna or seared selections.


• Junmai Daiginjo – The pinnacle of refinement. Highly polished rice creates a silky, complex, and beautifully layered sake experience — designed to complement pristine, minimalist sushi preparations.

Each pour is intentionally paired to highlight the balance of texture, acidity, and umami in every bite. Guests may also enjoy Japanese beer, specialty cocktails, and traditional buckwheat tea.

Visit Masaoki Bar During Washington’s Cherry Blossom Season

Dates & Hours
Friday – Sunday
4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
March 13 – April 26

Location
Lincoln Library
Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.

Reservations are not required. Questions? Please send us an email or call +1 202 568 2113.