
Photo courtesy of the Inn at Little Washington
Inn at Little Washington founder and chef Patrick O'Connell with his dog, Luray
The Inn at Little Washington is celebrating its 47th year in business this year by raising $47,000 for the American Humane Society.
Located about an hour-and-a-half west of Alexandria, the Inn has won almost every award there is in the restaurant world, including five James Beard Foundation awards for Best Service, Best Wine List, Restaurant of the Year, Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic and Chef of the Year. The International Herald Tribune rated it as one of the Top 10 Best Restaurants in the World.
With a donation starting at just $4.95, a nostalgic nod to the cost of dinner at the Inn when it opened in 1978, three lucky donors will be selected to enjoy one of three spectacular experiences at the Inn while supporting the American Humane Society's efforts to rescue, care for and protect animals everywhere:
- Fly Away to the Cardinal’s Nest: Stay at The Inn’s newest luxury retreat, a two-
bedroom guest cottage, and indulge in a nine-course caviar tasting menu for four, showcasing the finest Petrossian caviars paired with Champagne and wine selected by The Inn’s Wine Director, Lindsey Fern. In addition, you’ll receive an exclusive gift basket inspired by Chef O’Connell’s beloved rescue Dalmatian, Luray, featuring a selection of charming Dalmatian-themed items and other special surprises. Experience valued at $20,000.
- Dinner in the Kitchen at Table One: Get an insider’s look at the artistry of The
Inn’s world-renowned kitchen with a Kitchen Table experience for four. Top it off with a private drink and conversation with Chef Patrick O’Connell, the James Beard Award-winning visionary behind The Inn’s legendary cuisine. Experience valued at $5,000.
- Rustic Retreat, a Taste of Country Charm: Escape to the countryside for a private tour of the Inn at Little Washington’s campus with Cameron Smith (“Cheez Wiz”) through the Field of Dreams, our formal herb garden and lake, followed by dinner for four at Patty O’s Café, the newest restaurant by Chef Patrick O’Connell. Experience valued at $1,000, weather-dependent and best enjoyed Spring through October.
“As pet lovers we decided to use this milestone anniversary to support American Humane Society’s mission and celebrate the role pets play in our lives,” said Chef Patrick O’Connell, founder of The Inn at Little Washington. “I’ve always shared a deep kinship with Dalmatians. They’ve brought so much joy and personality to The Inn.”
“We are honored to partner with The Inn at Little Washington for this remarkable anniversary celebration,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of the American Humane Society. “Every donation helps us continue our work rescuing animals in crisis, ensuring their safety, and giving them the care they deserve. Together, we’re making a tangible impact on the lives of animals in need, and we are so grateful for The Inn’s generosity and commitment to animal welfare.”
The anniversary fundraiser launched Monday, Feb. 3. Recipients of the three exclusive Inn at Little Washington experiences will be selected at 5 p.m. ET on Feb. 20, National Love Your Pet Day. All proceeds will directly fund rescue efforts, shelter care and advocacy for vulnerable animals. For a donation of just $4.95 you can benefit this worthy cause and have a chance to receive one of three fabulous experiences at The Inn at Little Washington.
Proceeds will support American Humane Society’s mission to rescue, care for, and protect animals in need—including their on-the-ground support during the California wildfires, delivering life-saving resources like food, water, and emergency care to animals.
Each donation makes a real difference:
- $4.95 = a single chance to be selected for an experience at The Inn, and supply training treats for American Humane Society’s Pups4Patriots service dogs.
- $100 donation = 25 chances and provides a bed, collar, bowl, and other basic necessities for an animal in need.
- $1,000 donation = 250 chances and provides 10 large airline crates, ensuring shelter animals can be transported to safety during natural disasters.
- $5,000 donation = 1,500 chances and covers lifesaving vaccinations and medication for 25 dogs and cats at an American Humane Society free pop-up wellness clinic.