Tug Rice for Occidental
The Occidental in Washington, DC is a true landmark. Founded in 1906, this classic institution has for over a century hosted world leaders, Washington elites and many a hungry DC local. Recently acquired by Starr Restaurant Group, the latest version of this establishment is on a mission to bring back “the Great American dining experience, with a combination of old-world glamour, traditional craftsmanship, and international intrigue." One of their first steps in the renovation? A call to Tug Rice, who took a jaunt down to the nation’s capital to put a few hand-painted touches on the epic 140-foot mural he created for the restaurant’s new Mural Room, which looks destined to be an immediate icon!
“Earlier this year I wrapped a dream project: painting a restaurant mural. The opportunity to create this custom piece for the new Occidental, in collaboration with Stephen Starr and Ken Fulk, was beyond exciting. I imagined a glamorous, wild DC party that never actually happened — but could have. Over 260 characters fill the walls, from black-tie elegance to late-night debauchery (plus a few presidential pets). It was designed to be playful, cheeky, and just a little scandalous. Can’t wait to visit now that the restaurant is open!” -Tug Rice
(Room photos by Douglas Friedman)
