Monday, April 20, 2015

Lapis Opens April 23, Bringing DC a Modern Afghan Bistro


From our friends at Lapis...

The Popal family, the restaurateurs behind Café Bonaparte, Napoleon Bistro and Malmaison are proud to announce the opening of Lapis, a modern Afghan bistro. Lapis will take over the location of Napoleon Bistro in Adams Morgan and will open to the public April 23, 2015.

Lapis will offer homemade Afghan recipes prepared by the Popal family’s most prized culinary asset - their mother, Shamim Popal, who will serve as Executive Chef. After years of enjoying her authentic dishes as a family, they decided it was time to share them with D.C, the city they call home.

Nearly three decades ago, the Popal family was forced to flee Afghanistan after the Soviet invasion, leaving family and possessions behind like many refugees before them. The family arrived in the United States with only their memories and recipes from home. Like many immigrants to America, they pursued an entrepreneurial path to channel their creativity and take part in the American dream. With Lapis, the Popal family pays homage to their heritage and invites the nations capital a glimpse into Afghan hospitality and cuisine.

The Afghan cuisine offered at Lapis will reflect the country’s rich history of hospitality and diversity in the heart of Central Asia. At Lapis, guests will enjoy this legacy through a variety of family recipes passed down from generations. The menu will offer a tasting menu that allows you to experience various flavors with each visit. The menu will feature dishes ranging from flatbreads (bolanis) to Afghan dumplings (mantoo/aushak), stews, and popular kebabs and vegetarian dishes that are popular in Afghan households.

The name Lapis evokes the beauty and warmth of Afghanistan’s national gemstone, the Lapis-Lazuli. The deep blue stone has been mined in northeastern Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province for more than five thousand years. Lapis continues to be one of Afghanistan’s most valuable natural resources.

Lapis (www.lapisdc.com) is located at 1874 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC. Lapis will be open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday from 5:30 - 11:00 PM and for brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.