New Leadership at Waterfront Hotel

InterContinental Washington D.C. The Wharf has appointed Joseph Palminteri as Director of Food and Beverage, tasking the veteran hospitality executive with overseeing the property's culinary, beverage, catering, and banquet operations.

Palminteri arrives from EOS Hospitality, where he served as Corporate Director of Food & Beverage and managed concept development and financial strategy across a portfolio generating more than $140 million in annual revenue. His tenure includes work on the dining program revitalization at L'Ermitage in Beverly Hills, the expansion of Via Sophia in Washington, D.C., and the development of Black Drum Brewing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Timing and Strategic Vision

"I'm excited to join InterContinental Washington D.C. The Wharf at such a pivotal moment for the property, and the destination more broadly, as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary," says Joseph Palminteri. "Since the opening of Willowsong last year, the hotel has solidified its position as a leading dining destination at The Wharf. I look forward to collaborating with the team to create memorable guest experiences and build upon the strong foundation in place at Willowsong and throughout the hotel."

Palminteri will work alongside Executive Chef Jeffrey Williams and General Manager Stefan Mirevski to guide the evolution of the property's dining program. Among planned initiatives are seasonal culinary offerings at Willowsong and the forthcoming introduction of a private chef's tasting experience.

"As we continue to build momentum across our dining program, Joseph's operational expertise, collaborative leadership style and commitment to exceptional guest experiences make him an invaluable addition to our team," Mirevski says.

Property Dining Portfolio

The InterContinental's dining venues include the ground-floor Willowsong restaurant, which focuses on seasonal cuisine inspired by Mid-Atlantic produce and purveyors; The Watering Hole dockside bar; and WAVES rooftop bar and pool. The property opened in 2017 as an anchor tenant in the mixed-use Wharf development.

Why It Matters

The appointment signals continued investment in D.C.'s competitive luxury hotel dining landscape, where properties compete for both overnight guests and local diners. With new culinary initiatives and a dedicated leadership role, InterContinental is positioning its food and beverage program as a revenue driver and destination draw—a strategy increasingly critical for luxury hotels facing post-pandemic competition.

---

For more insights and trends in the food and beverage sector, check out more articles in The Food & Beverage Magazine family of publications.

Written by FBM Publications Editors