7 Shocking Secrets Behind Kitchen + Kocktails DC’s Extravagant, Social Media-Worthy Design

Step inside the Washington, D.C. location of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley, and you’ll immediately understand why the venue has become one of the nation’s capital’s most talked-about and photographed social destinations. This is not your grandmother’s soul food spot; it's an upscale, meticulously curated experience where modern Southern comfort food meets an atmosphere of extravagant, photo-ready design. As of today, December 10, 2025, the buzz around the 1300 I St NW location in Franklin Square continues to grow, solidifying its status as a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a bold blend of high-energy dining and visual spectacle.

The entire concept, from the menu items like the Fried Lobster Tail Shrimp & Grits to the lavish interior, is deliberately crafted to be "social media-worthy," a philosophy championed by founder Kevin Kelley. This deep dive uncovers the seven core secrets—including the design philosophy, the top menu entities, and the unique ambiance—that make the Kitchen + Kocktails DC photos you see online just the tip of the iceberg.

Kevin Kelley: The Attorney Who Mastered Extravagance and Comfort

The driving force behind the Kitchen + Kocktails empire is Kevin Kelley, a serial entrepreneur who brings a unique background to the hospitality industry. Kelley is a Dallas-based attorney who practiced law for 22 years before transitioning into the restaurant business.

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His journey from the Kelley Law Firm to creating a nationally acclaimed brand began after he found success as a litigation attorney and spent time living abroad in Paris, France. It was this global perspective that inspired him to create his own brand of elevated Southern dining.

The first Kitchen + Kocktails location opened in 2020 in his hometown of Dallas, Texas. The concept quickly expanded, with the Washington, D.C. location joining its sister locations in Dallas and Chicago. As a Black-owned restaurant, the brand is focused on bringing an upscale, vibrant experience to the Southern comfort food scene.

Kelley’s success is rooted in his ability to merge two seemingly disparate worlds: the precision of a legal career and the flair of high-end entertainment, resulting in a dining experience that is both professional and wildly fun.

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The 7 Secrets Behind Kitchen + Kocktails DC’s Viral Visual Appeal

The core of the "Kitchen + Kocktails DC photos" phenomenon lies in a deliberate design strategy that elevates every corner of the 1300 I St NW space. The interior design is not just background; it is a central character in the dining story.

1. The $100,000 Extravagance Budget

Unlike many restaurants that prioritize cost-cutting, Kevin Kelley invested heavily in the visual presentation of the DC location. Reports indicate his team spent a staggering $100,000 on the decor alone. This investment is visible in the materials, the lighting, and the overall feeling of opulence that permeates the dining rooms. The result is an interior that leans towards the extravagant, ensuring every photograph taken by a guest captures a sense of luxury.

2. The Blend of Contemporary and Timeless Design

The decor is meticulously curated, successfully merging contemporary design elements with timeless aesthetics. This prevents the space from feeling like a fleeting trend. Instead, it offers a sophisticated backdrop that remains fresh. From sleek modern furnishings to classic architectural accents, the design appeals to DC’s socialites and trendsetters looking for a magnetic allure in their dining environment.

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3. The Pulse of Hip Hop Energy and Class

The atmosphere is frequently praised as a key differentiator. It's described as a unique blend of "hip hop energy with a touch of class." The presence of a dedicated DJ and enjoyable, vibrant music ensures the energy is always palpable, transforming a simple dinner into a lively social event. This high-energy environment is a major reason why the venue is considered DC's newest socialite hotspot.

4. The Asset Lounge: A Private Photo-Op Sanctuary

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the DC location features a private dining area known as the Asset Lounge. This space, which seats 36, is designed as a sanctuary for private events and reservations. Its dedicated design makes it a perfect, intimate setting for high-end photography and gatherings, adding another layer of visual diversity to the venue.

5. Food as a Visual Art Form

The menu items themselves are designed to be as photogenic as the restaurant’s interior. Kelley’s philosophy extends to the plate, where dishes are presented as visual art. Entrees like the signature Shrimp & Grits are often topped with a dramatic Fried Lobster Tail, creating an immediate wow factor. Another viral favorite is the Mimosa Towers, which are not only delicious but create an instant centerpiece for any brunch or celebration photo.

6. The Allure of Signature Kocktails

The "Kocktails" portion of the name is equally important to the visual narrative. The signature drinks are crafted to be aesthetically pleasing and are a major draw for the Happy Hour crowd. Popular entities like the vibrant Blueberry Lemon Drop and the rich Honey Hennessy Margarita are meticulously garnished and presented, making them essential elements in any guest’s photo gallery.

7. A Full-Service Dining Experience for Every Occasion

The visual appeal is matched by a comprehensive culinary offering, giving guests multiple reasons to return and capture new photos. The menu covers everything from Appetizers and Soups & Salads to a full Wine List and To Go Drinks. The service includes a dedicated Lunch Menu during the week and a popular Saturday + Sunday Brunch, ensuring the atmosphere and photo opportunities are fresh throughout the day and week. Specialty Items and Desserts round out the menu, providing endless content creation possibilities.

The Kitchen + Kocktails DC Menu: A Topical Authority Deep Dive

Beyond the visual spectacle, the foundation of Kitchen + Kocktails DC is its commitment to high-quality, modern Southern comfort food. This focus on flavor and presentation is what keeps the tables full and the reviews glowing.

• The Classics Elevated: The menu features classic soul food entrees, most famously the "America's best fried chicken," a claim the restaurant confidently makes. Other staples include the Southern Fried Catfish and the aforementioned Shrimp & Grits.
• Modern Soul Food Twists: For those seeking a modern interpretation, the menu offers options like the decadent Chicken and Waffles. These dishes honor tradition while adding an upscale, contemporary flair.
• The Drink Program: The comprehensive drinks menu includes not only the famous signature cocktails but also a full Wine List and various To Go Drinks, catering to every preference and making the bar area another visually stunning entity within the restaurant.

The sheer volume of positive reviews and high ratings across multiple platforms confirms that the DC location is delivering on its promise of a BOLD, UNIQUE, and SPECTACULAR dining experience. Whether you are visiting for the ambiance, the food, or the chance to capture your own viral photo, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley offers a feast for both the palate and the camera.