Meet Michael High: The Dupont Circle's Chef Concierge & DC Pride Expert

The only place in town

Michael High

This June, as Washington, D.C. hosts WorldPride for the first time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride, we’re shining a light on someone who not only knows the city inside and out—but also lives and breathes its Pride spirit: Michael High, Chef Concierge at The Dupont Circle.

A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and a D.C. resident for two decades, Michael has spent the last 16 years welcoming guests, building connections, and curating unforgettable experiences throughout the city. With his signature warmth and deep local knowledge, he helps travelers see a side of D.C. that’s personal, joyful, and full of heart. This month, he’s sharing his reflections on Pride, along with his favorite queer-owned spaces and events around the city.

Q: Tell us a little about your background—how long have you lived in D.C., and what brought you to The Dupont Circle?

I started at The Dupont Circle 16 years ago and never looked back. There’s something special about this place—from the guests to the team. Every day is different, and I love being part of a hotel that celebrates individuality and real connection.

Q: What does Pride Month mean to you personally?

Pride is joy. It’s visibility. It’s remembrance. It’s dancing in the streets with your community and also honoring the people who came before us. I think especially in a city like D.C.—where politics, history, and activism intersect—Pride has such a powerful energy.

Q: You’ve put together a guide to celebrating Pride in D.C. this year.

Can you tell us about a few of your favorite LGBTQIA+-owned businesses or spaces? Absolutely. As You Are is an incredible community space—part bar, part café, part dance floor, and one of the most affirming places I’ve ever been. Little District Books is a queer-owned bookstore I love—it’s small, warm, and full of heart. And then for a more classic night out, you really can’t beat Number Nine or The Dirty Goose. They’re lively, friendly, and right in the heart of it all.

Q: Any can’t-miss events during Pride or WorldPride this year?

The Capital Pride Parade on June 7 is always a highlight—it kicks off close to Dupont Circle, so you can step outside the hotel and be part of the action. I’m also really excited for the WorldPride Festival and the Human Rights Conference later in the month. It’s such an important reminder that Pride is also political.

Q: What do you hope our guests take away from their experience during Pride in D.C.?

That this city is full of pride—year-round. It’s in the bookstores, the bars, the small businesses, and the big parades. I hope they feel welcome, seen, and celebrated here.

Michael High is our Chef Concierge at The Dupont Circle. When he’s not crafting personalized experiences for guests, he’s exploring D.C.’s neighborhoods, supporting LGBTQIA+-owned businesses, and soaking in the vibrant culture of the city he calls home.